Appendix G Biodiversity impact assessment

Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening Biodiversity Impact Assessment

4 December 2014

Document information Client: Roads and Maritime Services Title: M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening Biodiversity Impact Assessment Document No: 2113226A-ENV-REP-001 RevD Date: 4 December 2014

Rev Date Details

A 29/09/2014 Draft

B 21/10/2014 Amended as per client comments

C 27/11/2014 Amended as per client comments

D 04/12/2014 Final

Author, Reviewer and Approver details

Prepared by: Kim Lentz; Deb Landenberger Date: 04/12/2014 Signature:

Reviewed by: Toby Lambert; Alex Cockerill Date: 04/12/2014 Signature:

Approved by: Alex Cockerill Date: 04/12/2014 Signature:

Distribution

Roads and Maritime Services, Parsons Brinckerhoff file

©Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Limited 2014

Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded in this document (the information) is the property of Parsons Brinckerhoff. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that for which it was supplied by Parsons Brinckerhoff. Parsons Brinckerhoff makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the information.

Document owner Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Limited ABN 80 078 004 798 Level 3 51-55 Bolton Street Newcastle NSW 2300 PO Box 1162 Newcastle NSW 2300 Australia Tel: +61 2 4929 8300 Fax: +61 2 4929 8382 www.pbworld.com Certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001

Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Contents

Page number

Glossary vi

1. Introduction 1

1.1 Background 1 1.2 Study objectives 1

2. Methodology 3

2.1 Definitions 3 2.2 Personnel 3 2.3 Nomenclature 4 2.4 Literature and database assessment 4 2.5 Field survey 5 2.6 Likelihood of occurrence 24 2.7 Impact assessments 25 2.8 Limitations 25

3. Existing environment 27

3.1 Landscape context 27 3.2 Vegetation communities 31 3.3 Plant species recorded 48 3.4 Animal species recorded 48 3.5 Fauna habitats 49 3.6 Fauna microhabitats 51

4. Threatened biodiversity recorded 60

4.1 Threatened ecological communities 60 4.2 Threatened populations 61 4.3 Threatened species 61 4.4 Migratory species 74 4.5 Groundwater dependent ecosystems 75

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD i Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Contents (Continued) Page number

5. Impacts of the proposal 78

5.1 Vegetation and habitat clearing 78 5.2 Hydrogeological changes 80 5.3 Aquatic disturbance 80 5.4 Fragmentation and connectivity 80 5.5 Noise and vibration impacts on fauna 81 5.6 Weeds 81 5.7 Edge effects 82 5.8 Potential impacts on groundwater dependent ecosystems 82 5.9 Direct fauna mortality 83 5.10 Key threatening processes 83

6. Mitigation 85 7. Impact assessment 88 7.1 Impacts to threatened biodiversity 88

8. Conclusion 100

9. References 102

ii 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

List of tables Page number

Table 2.1 Contributors and their roles 3 Table 2.2 Database searches 4 Table 2.3 Weather conditions 5 Table 2.4 Summary of threatened fauna survey effort 6 Table 2.5 Threatened flora survey effort 16 Table 2.6 Location of flora quadrats 21 Table 2.7 BioBanking quadrat/transect survey effort 22 Table 2.8 Likelihood of occurrence of threatened species 24 Table 3.1 Survey area locality 27 Table 3.2 Vegetation communities identified in the survey area 31 Table 3.3 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant 33 Table 3.4 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant 35 Table 3.5 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant 37 Table 3.6 Characteristics of Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open forest 38 Table 3.7 Characteristics of Scribbly Gum - Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland 40 Table 3.8 Characteristics of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath 42 Table 3.9 Characteristics of regrowth and native planted vegetation 44 Table 3.10 Characteristics of exotic grassland 46 Table 3.11 Characteristics of constructed dams 47 Table 3.12 Noxious weeds recorded within the survey area 48 Table 3.13 Species of animal recorded 48 Table 3.14 Fauna habitat with corresponding habitat description 49 Table 3.15 Fauna microhabitats 52 Table 4.1 Threatened ecological communities recorded in the survey area 60 Table 4.2 Threatened flora species recorded within the ecological survey area 62 Table 4.3 Threatened fauna species recorded during the current field surveys 72 Table 4.4 Threatened fauna species assessed to have a moderate or greater likelihood of occurrence in the survey area 72 Table 4.5 Migratory fauna species assessed to have a moderate or greater likelihood of occurrence in the survey area 74 Table 4.6 Plant community types dependency upon ground water 77 Table 5.1 Potential impacts of the proposal on biodiversity 78 Table 5.2 Potential loss of vegetation within the proposal area 79 Table 5.3 Vegetation community dependency on groundwater 82 Table 6.1 Proposed mitigation measures 86 Table 7.1 Summary of likely impacts to threatened ecological communities 89 Table 7.2 Summary of likely impacts to threatened flora species 90 Table 7.3 Summary of likely impacts to threatened terrestrial and aquatic fauna 91

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD iii Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

List of figures Page number

Figure 1.1 Proposal locality and survey area 2 Figure 2.1a Flora and fauna survey effort 8 Figure 2.1b Flora and fauna survey effort 9 Figure 2.1c Flora and fauna survey effort 10 Figure 2.1d Flora and fauna survey effort 11 Figure 2.1e Flora and fauna survey effort 12 Figure 2.2 Schematic diagram illustrating the layout of the nested 20 m x 50 m and 20 m x 20 m quadrats used for the assessment of condition attributes at each site 20 Figure 3.1a Vegetation communities 54 Figure 3.1b Vegetation communities 55 Figure 3.1c Vegetation communities 56 Figure 3.1d Vegetation communities 57 Figure 3.1e Vegetation communities 58 Figure 3.2 Vegetation communities – ancillary sites 59 Figure 4.1a Threatened flora and fauna 67 Figure 4.1b Threatened flora and fauna 68 Figure 4.1c Threatened flora and fauna 69 Figure 4.1d Threatened flora and fauna 70 Figure 4.1e Threatened flora and fauna 71 Figure 4.2 Conceptual biophysical model of groundwater dependent ecosystems 76

List of photographs Page number

Photo 3.1 Good Condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant 34 Photo 3.2 Moderate Condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant 34 Photo 3.3 Good condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant 36 Photo 3.4 Moderate condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant 36 Photo 3.5 Good condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant adjoining Piles Creek 37 Photo 3.6 Good condition Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open forest 39 Photo 3.7 Good condition Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland 41 Photo 3.8 Moderate condition Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland 41 Photo 3.9 Good condition Needlebush – Banksia wet heath 43 Photo 3.10 Moderate condition Needlebush – Banksia wet heath 43 Photo 3.11 Regrowth and native vegetation within the median strip 45 Photo 3.12 Regrowth native vegetation on batter of southbound lanes 45 Photo 3.13 Exotic grassland within median strip 46 Photo 3.14 Constructed dam on Piles Creek at the Somersby Interchange 47 Photo 4.1 Darwinia glaucophylla growing on sandstone outcropping 63 Photo 4.2 Darwinia glaucophylla growing on high wall on the north bound Gosford off ramp 63 Photo 4.3 Hibbertia procumbens 64 Photo 4.4 Prostanthera junonis 65 iv 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

List of appendices Appendix A Species of plant recorded Appendix B Species of animal recorded Appendix C Threatened species of plant Appendix D Threatened species of animal Appendix E Bat call sonograms Appendix F Survey effort Appendix G Significance assessments

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD v Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Glossary

AWS All weather station

BBAM BioBanking Assessment Methodology

BIA Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Biodiversity The biological diversity of life is commonly regarded as being made up of the following three components:

 Genetic diversity — the variety of genes (or units of heredity) in any population.  Species diversity — the variety of species.  Ecosystem diversity — the variety of communities or ecosystems.

Bioregion (region) A bioregion defined in a national system of bioregionalisation. The Study Area is in the Sydney Basin bioregion as defined in the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (Thackway & Cresswell 1995).

CAMBA China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan CMA Catchment Management Area Critical Habitat The whole or any part or parts of an area or areas of land comprising the habitat of an Endangered species, an Endangered population or an Endangered Ecological Community that is critical to the survival of the species, population or ecological community (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004). Critical habitat is listed under either the TSC Act or the EPBC Act and both the state (Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water) and Federal (Department of the Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities) Directors-General maintain a register of this habitat. Capitalisation of the term ‘Critical Habitat’ in this report refers to the habitat listed specifically under the relevant state and Commonwealth legislation.

Department of the The department develops and implements national policy, programs and Environment (DoE) legislation to protect and conserve Australia’s natural environment and cultural heritage and administers the EPBC Act. The Commonwealth Department of the Environment was previously known as:

 Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPAC).  Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA).  Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH).  Department of the Environment and Water Resources (DEWR).

Ecological community An assemblage of species occupying a particular area.

EEC Ecologically Endangered Community

Environmental weed Any plant that is not native to a local area that has invaded native vegetation.

vi 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Exotic Introduced from outside the area (Royal Botanic Gardens 2011). Used in the context of this report to refer to species introduced from overseas.

FM Act Fisheries Management Act 1994

GDEs Groundwater dependant ecosystems

GPS Global Positioning System – a navigational tool which uses radio receivers to pick up signals from four or more special satellites to provide precise determination of location.

Habitat An area or areas occupied, or periodically or occasionally occupied, by a species, population or ecological community, including any biotic or abiotic components.

Indigenous Native to the area: not introduced (Royal Botanic Gardens 2011).

Introduced Not native to the area: not indigenous (Royal Botanic Gardens 2011). Refers to both exotic and non-indigenous Australian native species of plants and animals.

JAMBA Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

Key Threatening A process that threatens, or could threaten, the survival, abundance or Processes evolutionary development of native species, populations or ecological communities (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004). Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act, the FM Act and the EPBC Act. Capitalisation of the term ‘Key Threatening Processes’ in this report refers to those processes listed specifically under the relevant state and Commonwealth legislation.

LGA Local Government Area

LHCCREMS Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy

Likely Taken to be a real chance or possibility (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004).

Local population The population that occurs within the site, unless the existence of contiguous or proximal occupied habitat and the movement of individuals or exchange of genetic material across the boundary can be demonstrated as defined by Department of Environment and Climate Change (2007a).

Locality The area within a 10 km radius of the site.

Migratory species Species listed as Migratory under the EPBC Act relating to international agreements to which Australia is a signatory. These include Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement, Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement and the Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. Capitalisation of the term ‘Migratory’ in this report refers to those species listed as Migratory under the EPBC Act.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD vii Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance

Noxious weed An introduced species listed under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. Under the Act, noxious weeds have specific control measure and reporting requirements.

NSW New South Wales

Office of Environment Following the 2011 NSW elections, the Department of Environment, Climate and Heritage Change and Water was abolished as a Division of the Government Service and was added to the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, as the Office of Environment and Heritage. Broadly, the Office of Environment works towards a healthy environment cared for and enjoyed by the whole NSW community: manages the state’s natural resources, including biodiversity, soils and natural vegetation: manages natural and cultural heritage across the state’s land: acts to minimise the impacts of climate change: promotes sustainable consumption, resource use and waste management: regulates activities to protect the environment: and conducts biodiversity, plant, environmental and cultural heritage research to improve decision making. Previously known as:

 Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW).  Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC).

PEI Preliminary Environmental Assessment Protected species Those species defined as protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Includes all native animals, as well as all native plants listed on Schedule 13 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

Recovery plan A plan prepared under the TSC Act, FM Act or the EPBC Act to assist the recovery of a Threatened species, population or ecological community.

REF Review of Environmental Factors

Roads and Maritime NSW Roads and Maritime Services

RoKAMBA Republic of Korea- Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

RTA Roads and Traffic Authority

SAT Spot Assessment Technique

SEPP 44 State Environmental Planning Policy 44 – Koala habitat protection

Significant Important, weighty or more than ordinary as defined by Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (2007a).

Species richness Species richness is simply the number of species present in a sample, community, or taxonomic group. Species richness is one component of the concept of species diversity, which also incorporates evenness, that is, the relative abundance of species (McGinley 2011).

Survey area Defined as the proposal area and those proximate habitats within 50 m of the proposal considered to have the potential to be directly or indirectly impacted by the proposal (refer to Figure 1.1).

viii 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

The motorway M1 Pacific Motorway

The proposal Proposed upgrade of the Kariong Interchange ramps, and the widening of approximately eight km of the Motorway from two lanes to three lanes in each direction, between Kariong and Somersby along the existing M1 Motorway.

Threatened biodiversity Threatened species, populations or ecological communities as listed under the TSC Act, FM Act or the EPBC Act.

Threatened species, Species, populations and ecological communities listed as Vulnerable, populations and Endangered or Critically Endangered (collectively referred to as Threatened) ecological communities under the TSC Act, FM Act or the EPBC Act. Capitalisation of the terms ‘Threatened’, ‘Vulnerable’, ‘Endangered’ or ‘Critically Endangered’ in this report refers to listing under the relevant state and/or Commonwealth legislation.

TSC Act NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

Viable local population A population that has the capacity to live, develop and reproduce under normal conditions, unless the contrary can be conclusively demonstrated through analysis of records and references (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007a).

Weed A plant growing out of place or where it is not wanted: often characterized by high seed production and the ability to colonise disturbed ground quickly (Royal Botanic Gardens 2011). Weeds include both exotic and Australian native species of plant naturalised outside of their natural range.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD ix

Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

1. Introduction

Parsons Brinckerhoff has been engaged by Roads and Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) to undertake a biodiversity impact assessment (BIA) for the proposed upgrade of the M1 Pacific Motorway (the Motorway) from Kariong to Somersby. It is proposed to upgrade the Kariong Interchange ramps, and the widening of approximately eight kilometre (km) of the Motorway from two lanes to three lanes in each direction, between Kariong and Somersby (the proposal). The locality of the proposal is provided in Figure 1.1.

This BIA assesses potential ecological impacts of the proposal and will form part of a review of environmental factors (REF).

1.1 Background

Desktop biodiversity investigations undertaken for the proposal were previously undertaken as part of a preliminary environmental investigation (PEI) for the proposal (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2013). The PEI recorded potential threatened species and vegetation communities listed under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and/or the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) within the survey area. Recommendations relevant to the development of the proposal were made in the PEI, including the need for a detailed ecological assessment.

This BIA provides an assessment of potential ecological impacts associated with the proposal utilising information gathered from ecological surveys conducted for this assessment and previous targeted threatened species surveys (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

1.2 Study objectives

The objectives of this BIA are to:

 describe the existing environment, including vegetation communities, terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna habitats  describe ecological constraints and provide recommendations for the proposal, with particular reference to species, populations and communities, listed under the TSC Act and/or the EPBC Act  prepare significance assessments for the proposal’s potential impacts, where required, on locally occurring threatened species, populations and ecological communities listed under the TSC Act and/or the EPBC Act  develop mitigation measures appropriate for the proposal relating to biodiversity protection.

The report has been prepared according to the requirements of the Roads and Maritime Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note: Biodiversity Assessment (NSW Roads and Maritime Services 2012). The Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects (NSW Roads and Maritime Services 2011) have also guided biodiversity management outcomes where appropriate.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 1 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 1.1 Proposal locality and survey area

2 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2. Methodology

2.1 Definitions

For the purpose of this report the following definitions apply:

 Proposal area is defined as the proposal’s design footprint and the direct impacts associated with the upgrade of the Kariong Interchange Ramps, and the widening of approximately eight km of the Motorway from two lanes to three lanes in each direction, between Kariong and Somersby (refer to Figure 1.1).

 Survey area is defined as the proposal area and those proximate habitats within 50 m of the proposal considered to have the potential to be directly or indirectly impacted by the proposal (refer to Figure 1.1).

 Locality is defined as an approximate 10 km radius around the proposal area.

 Region is a bioregion defined in a national system of bioregionalisation. For this study this is the Sydney Basin bioregion as defined in the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation for Australia (Thackway & Cresswell 1995).

2.2 Personnel The contributors to the preparation of this report, their qualification and roles are provided in Table 2.1. Table 2.1 Contributors and their roles

Name Qualifications Role

Alex Cockerill BSc (Hons) Lead Ecologist – Project manager

Toby Lambert BEnvSc Principal Ecologist – Report review

Mark Stables BSc (Hons) Senior Ecologist – Flora surveys and reporting

Allan Richardson BEnvSc (Hons) Senior Ecologist – Fauna survey, report preparation

Nathan Cooper BEnvSc, Grad Dip Ornith Senior Ecologist – Anabat analysis, report preparation

Deborah Landenberger BSc (Hons) Senior Ecologist – Flora surveys and reporting

Kim Lentz BSc Ecologist – Fauna and flora survey, report preparation

Emily Mitchell Bachelor of Development Studies Mapping and Data Management – GIS operator Cert 4 in Spatial Information Services

All work was carried out under the appropriate licences, including a scientific licence as required under Clause 22 of the National Parks and Wildlife Regulations 2002 and Section 132C of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, Animal Research Authority issued by the Department of Industries and Investment NSW (Agriculture).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 3 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.3 Nomenclature

Names of plants used in this document follow Harden (Harden 1992, 1993, 2000, 2002) with updates from PlantNet (Royal Botanic Gardens 2012). Scientific names are used in this report for species of plant followed by the common names in brackets. Scientific and common names of plants are listed in Appendix A and C. Introduced species are identified within the text with an asterisk following the name, for example Lantana camara*.

Vegetation community names have followed that of the Office of Environment and Heritage vegetation types database (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012) as used in BioMetric 2.0 (Gibbons et al. 2008). Corresponding vegetation community names from the local broad scale vegetation mapping projects (Bell, S. 2009; Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy 2003) has been provided in section 3.2.

Names of vertebrates follow the Australian Faunal Directory (2012) maintained by the Commonwealth Department of the Environment (DoE). Common names are used in the report for species of animal. Scientific names are included in species lists found in Appendix B and C.

2.4 Literature and database assessment

2.4.1 Database searches

Records of threatened species known or predicted to occur in the locality of the proposal were obtained from a range of databases as detailed in Table 2.2. Table 2.2 Database searches

Database Searches Area searched Reference

Atlas of NSW Wildlife 2 May 2014 (flora and 10 km buffer around the Office of Environment and (BioNet) fauna) proposal Heritage (2013, 2014a) 25 November 2013

NSW Department of 2 May 2014 (flora and Hunter/Central Rivers and NSW Department of Primary Industries (Fishing fauna) Hawkesbury/Nepean Primary Industries (2014; and Aquaculture) Catchment Management 2013) 3 September 2013 threatened Aquatic Fauna Authority areas Database

PlantNet 2 May 2014 10 km buffer around Royal Botanical Gardens, Somersby Sydney (2013, 2014b) 3 September 2013

Protected Matters Search 2 May 2014 (flora and 10 km buffer around Department of Tool fauna) proposal Environment (2014; 2013) 4 September 2013

2.4.2 Previous survey and assessments

 Targeted Ecological Surveys for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby widening of the M1 (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

 Preliminary Environmental Investigation (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2013).

 Intersection Upgrade Wisemans Ferry Rd and Central Coast Hwy Review of Environmental Factors ­ Flora and Fauna Investigation (Hill 2011).

4 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Furthermore, field surveys completed by Parson Brinckerhoff that inform other projects in the locality, provide important knowledge of species distribution and habitat occurrence, particularly as it applies to threatened communities and species of plant and animal.

2.5 Field survey

Targeted threatened flora surveys were undertaken in the survey area during 10–11 and 16–18 December 2013. Fauna survey and trapping was undertaken on 7–11 April 2014 and flora surveys and vegetation mapping on the 6–9 and 22–23 May 2014. Field surveys were also undertaken at the ancillary sites during 15–16 September 2014. Survey methodology and effort for flora and fauna survey is described below and mapped in Figure 2.1.

2.5.1 Weather conditions

The weather conditions during the surveying period were generally consisted of mild temperatures and slight rainfall to fine weather (refer to Table 2.3).

Table 2.3 Weather conditions

Date Temperature °C Temperature °C Rain (mm)1 Wind (max speed (min)1 (max)1 (km/ph)/direction)1

10 December 2013 21.7 32.8 0 50/WSW

11 December 2013 16.1 30.8 0 28/WNW 16 December 2013 15.8 25.5 0 30/E 17 December 2013 12.9 27.1 0 33/ENE

18 December 2013 15.1 26.5 0 28/ESE

7 April 2014 12.6 20.0 0.4 26/SSE

8 April 2014 14.0 22.3 0.4 19/NNE

9 April 2014 13.3 22.7 0.2 20/E

10 April 2014 13.9 21.3 0.8 17/ENE

11 April 2014 17.0 25.8 0.8 28/NW

6 May 2014 5.2 19.6 0 17/W

7 May 2014 8.5 17.9 0 22/SW

9 May 2014 9.0 19.1 2.8 17/NNE

22 May 2014 9.3 23.1 0.2 19/SSE

23 May 2014 11.2 23.9 0 22/NW

15 September 2014 9.5 21.8 0 26/E

16 September 2014 12.6 24.3 0 13/NW

1 Data obtained from Bureau of Meteorology Mangrove Mountain AWS Station (Station 061375).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 5 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.5.2 Fauna

Terrestrial vertebrate surveys completed within the survey area were carried out as described below and where applicable, consider the methodology detailed in the NSW Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities (Working Draft) (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004), the Threatened Species survey and assessment guidelines: field survey and methods for fauna-Amphibians (NSW Department of Environment 2009) and the Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened frogs (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts 2010b).

The fauna survey methodology involved surveys at ‘standard fauna survey sites’ and supplementary sites. Standard trapping sites were established to survey broad habitat types within the survey area and consisted of site 1, site 2, site 3 and site 4 (refer to Figure 2.1).

At each standard fauna survey site the following methodologies were used:

 terrestrial mammal trapping  remote camera trapping  diurnal bird surveys  microchiropteran bat surveys  spotlighting  call playback  herpetofauna active searches  fauna habitat assessment.

Supplementary sites were selected to target specific habitat features likely to be used by threatened species of fauna. Supplementary surveys included:  targeted Koala habitat searches  targeted threatened frog surveys.

A summary of fauna survey effort for threatened species is provided in Table 2.4, whilst detailed survey effort is provided in Appendix F. All fauna species observed during field surveys were documented and combined into a total species list (refer to Table 3.13 and Appendix B).

Table 2.4 Summary of threatened fauna survey effort

Species targeted Survey type Survey effort and Dates Habitat type surveyed searched in survey area

Threatened small Terrestrial mammal 512 trap nights 8–11 April Woodland, heath, terrestrial mammals trapping 2014 hanging swamp and plantings Spotlight surveys 8 hours Camera traps 16 trap nights

Spotted-tailed Quoll Camera traps 16 trap nights 8–11 April Woodland, heath, 2014 hanging swamp Spotlight surveys 8 hours and plantings

Large forest owls Call playback 2 hours 8–11 April Woodland, heath, 2014 hanging swamp Spotlight surveys 8 person hours and plantings

Threatened diurnal Standard 20 minute, 2 ha 10.5 person hours 8–11 April Woodland, heath, birds area search 2014 hanging swamp and plantings

6 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Species targeted Survey type Survey effort and Dates Habitat type surveyed searched in survey area

Threatened Active ultrasonic bat 8 hours during spotlight 8–11 April Woodland, heath, microchiropteran bats detection events 2014 hanging swamp and plantings Passive ultrasonic bat 4 nights full recording detection

Koala Scat searches 4 person hours 8–11 April Habitat and 2014 woodlands Spotlight surveys 8 person hours containing Koala feed tree species

Threatened frogs Diurnal and nocturnal 2.5 person hours 8–11 April Ephemeral pools, searches 2014 ponds, creeks and drainage lines

All threatened species Opportunistic sightings 5 days 8–11 April Woodland, heath, 2014 hanging swamp and plantings

Note: Full details of fauna survey effort is provided in Appendix F.

2.5.2.1 Fauna habitats

Fauna habitat assessments were completed to assess the likelihood of threatened species of animal occurring in the survey area. Habitat assessments included the assessment and identification of habitat features through targeted meander surveys.

During habitat assessments and targeted meander surveys, opportunistic recordings of species were made through incidental sightings, aural recognition of calls and observations of indirect evidence of species’ presence (such as Glossy-black Cockatoo chewed cones, nests/dreys, whitewash, burrows and scats). This provided supplementary information on faunal species presence.

Fauna habitats were assessed generally by examining characteristics such as the structure and floristics of the canopy, understorey and ground vegetation, the structure and composition of the litter layer, and other habitat attributes important for feeding, shelter roosting and breeding. The following criteria were used to evaluate habitat values:

 Good: A full range of fauna habitat components are usually present (for example, old-growth trees, fallen timber, feeding and roosting resources) and habitat linkages to other remnant ecosystems in the landscape are intact.

 Moderate: Some fauna habitat components are missing (for example, old-growth trees and fallen timber), although linkages with other remnant habitats in the landscape are usually intact, but sometimes degraded.

 Poor: Many fauna habitat elements in low quality remnants have been lost, including old growth trees (for example, due to past timber harvesting or land clearing) and fallen timber, and tree canopies are often highly fragmented. Habitat linkages with other remnant ecosystems in the landscape have usually been severely compromised by extensive past clearing.

Specific fauna habitat features were assessed at each standard fauna survey site (refer to Figure 2.1) in the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 7 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 2.1a Flora and fauna survey effort

8 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 2.1b Flora and fauna survey effort

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 9 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 2.1c Flora and fauna survey effort

10 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 2.1d Flora and fauna survey effort

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 11 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 2.1e Flora and fauna survey effort

12 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.5.2.2 Microchiropteran bat surveys

Ultrasonic Anabat Bat detection (Anabat SD1 CF Bat Detector – Titley Electronics, Ballina) was used to record and identify the echolocation calls of microchiropterans foraging in the survey area. Standard fauna survey locations (site 1 to site 4) were surveyed using both passive and active methodologies, whilst one supplementary site was surveyed using the active monitoring technique. Passive monitoring of survey sites was achieved by setting Anabat bat detectors to record throughout the night. Active monitoring was completed during spotlight events, whereby an Anabat detector was used to track the animals and record their calls while actively spotlighting.

Bat call analysis was undertaken by Nathan Cooper (Parsons Brinckerhoff) with the presentation of data (refer to Appendix E) considering the guidelines of the Australasian Bat Society (2007). Bat calls of New South Wales (Pennay et al. 2004) was used as a reference collection for bat call identification.

2.5.2.3 Diurnal bird surveys

Sixteen diurnal bird surveys were completed at standard fauna survey locations (site 1 to site 4) within the survey area (refer to Figure 2.1). Bird surveys were completed by actively walking through the nominated site (transect) over a period of 20 minutes. All birds were identified to the species level, either through direct observation or identification of calls. Bird surveys were completed during different times of the day, but generally occurred in the morning. Birds were also recorded opportunistically during all other surveys.

2.5.2.4 Targeted Koala surveys – SEPP 44

Targeted searches for the Koala were completed at four locations in the survey area (Figure 2.1) and consisted of inspecting feed trees for signs of usage including scratching and scat searches. Koala feed tree species identified in the survey area that are consistent with State Environmental Planning Policy 44 – Koala habitat protection (SEPP 44) included, Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata), Broad Leaved Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma), Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus signata) and Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta). At each survey location the Spot Assessment Technique (SAT) methodology was employed, which involved actively searching the ground between the dripline of the canopy and the trunk of 30 trees; specifically targeting feed tree species where possible.

2.5.2.5 Targeted Giant Burrowing Frog and Red-crowned Toadlet surveys

Targeted surveys for threatened species of frog were completed four sites in the survey area (refer to Figure 2.1). Spotlighting and call playback was utilised to target the threatened amphibian species in key habitats such as ephemeral pools, ponds, creeks and drainage lines. Surveys were completed on foot with vari-beam headlamps.

Call playback was also used for the Red-crowned Toadlet and Giant Burrowing Frog during nocturnal watercourse searches. Calls were imitated by experienced surveyors while actively searching for frogs.

Frog surveys were conducted in accordance with Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened frogs (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts 2010a) and the Hygiene protocol for the control of disease in frogs (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2008).

2.5.2.6 Spotlighting

Spotlighting was used to target arboreal, flying and ground-dwelling mammals, as well as, nocturnal birds, reptiles and amphibians. Spotlighting was completed after dusk generally following the targeted nocturnal search transect, as shown in Figure 2.1. Surveys were completed on foot using headlamps and 100 watt vari-beam spotlights. Sighted animals were identified to the species level.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 13 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.5.2.7 Call playback

Call playback was used to survey for the Barking Owl, Masked Owl, Powerful Owl and Sooty Owl using standard methods (Debus 1995; Kavanagh & Debus 1994). Call playback was completed after dusk at four locations in the survey area (refer to Figure 2.1).

For each survey, an initial listening period of 10 to 15 minutes was undertaken, followed by a spotlight search for 10 minutes to detect any animals in the immediate vicinity. The calls of the target species were then played intermittently for five minutes followed by a 10 minute listening period. After the calls were played, another 10 minutes of spotlighting was done in the vicinity to check for animals attracted by the calls, but not vocalising. Calls from Stewart and Pennay (Pennay et al. 2004; Stewart 1998) were broadcast using a portable media player.

Call playback was also used for the Red-crowned Toadlet and Giant Burrowing Frog during nocturnal watercourse searches.

2.5.2.8 Herpetofauna active searches

Herpetofauna active searches involved looking for active specimens and eye shine, turning over suitable ground shelter, such as fallen timber, sheets of iron and exposed rocks, racking debris, and peeling decorticating bark. Specimens were either identified visually, by aural recognition of call (frogs only) or were collected and identified using nomenclature outlined in A Field Guide to Reptiles of New South Wales (Swan et al. 2004).

Herpetofauna surveys were completed by two persons over a 30 minute period with all ground shelter returned to their original position. Herpetofauna active searches were completed in conjunction with diurnal and nocturnal surveys (refer to Figure 2.1). Frogs and reptiles were also surveyed opportunistically across the survey area. Reptiles were surveyed in reference to Threatened species survey and assessment guidelines: field survey methods for fauna (reptiles) (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009). Herpetofauna was also recorded opportunistically during all other surveys.

2.5.2.9 Terrestrial trapping

Small to medium sized terrestrial mammals were surveyed using a number of live trapping methods. Live capture/release methods included Elliott Type A, Type B and Type E traps. Spotted-tailed Quoll (and other terrestrial mammals) were targeted using remote sensing camera traps.

Each of the standard fauna survey locations (site 1 to site 4) were targeted for small to medium sized terrestrial mammals. Trapping effort consisted of one 200 m transect at 20 m spacing, utilising 15 Elliott Type A traps, five Elliott Type B traps and 12 Elliott Type E traps. Each trap was baited with a suitable food source with honey, and each trap and immediate location was sprayed with an attractant of honey water mix. Traps were checked at dawn each morning with captured animals identified to species level and released. All live trapping followed guidelines and policies for wildlife research in accordance with animal ethics protocols.

2.5.2.10 Remote camera

A remote motion sensing infra-red camera was utilised at each standard fauna survey site (site 1 to site 4) with a bait to survey for terrestrial mammals. Suitable meat bait was used as an attractant for the target species Spotted-tailed Quoll in appropriate micro-habitats at each site in the survey area (refer to Figure 2.1). These cameras were also used to identify any other animal recorded.

14 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.5.3 Flora

The floristic diversity and possible presence of threatened species was assessed using a combination of random meander and plot-based (quadrat) surveys in accordance with the NSW Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities (Working Draft) (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004).

Due to the linear nature of the proposal, random meander surveys were completed along the entire length of the proposal area. Random meander surveys are a variation of the transect type survey and were completed in accordance with the technique described by Cropper (1993), whereby the recorder walks in a random meander throughout the site recording all species observed, boundaries between various vegetation communities and condition of vegetation. The time spent in each vegetation community was generally proportional to the size of the community and its species richness.

2.5.3.1 Desktop analysis of vegetation

The vegetation community boundaries were assessed using aerial photo interpretation. Analysis of the aerial photographs identified past land use practices, disturbance and native vegetation regrowth, changes in vegetation structure and floristics throughout the survey area. This provided an initial split of vegetation communities into simple structural and disturbance classifications.

2.5.3.2 Field verification of existing vegetation mapping

Vegetation within the survey area and locality has been mapped the regional scale by Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy (LHCCREMS) (2003) and the Vegetation of Gosford LGA (Bell, S. 2009). Field validation (ground-truthing) of the initial vegetation classification identified from aerial photograph interpretation and existing vegetation mapping (Bell, S. 2009; Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy 2003) was undertaken to determine the site specific classification of the vegetation structure, dominant canopy species, native diversity and condition.

2.5.3.3 Targeted surveys for threatened flora

Targeted surveys were conducted by two botanists during a previous survey on 10, 11 and 16–18 December 2013 by Parsons Brinckerhoff. These surveys were undertaken for threatened plants that were assessed as having a moderate or greater chance of occurrence, based on known distributions and habitat types present within the survey area (Section 4). Targeted surveys were undertaken for nine threatened plants, listed below, for which potential habitat occurs within the survey area, using the random meander technique and parallel transects as described by Cropper (1993). Due to the relatively large size of the survey area, key habitats contained within the survey area were surveyed for threatened plants.

The following threatened flora species were specifically targeted, due to known records for the species within the Somersby and Kariong area, as follows:

 Baloskion longipes  Melaleuca deanei  Darwinia glaucophylla  Prostanthera askania  Cryptostylis hunteriana  Prostanthera junonis  Hibbertia procumbens  Tetratheca glandulosa  Melaleuca biconvexa

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 15 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Targeted flora survey effort

Table 2.5 below outlines the survey effort conducted for the threatened flora species targeted during the targeted flora surveys. Figure 2.1 shows the location of the random meander searches conducted for the threatened flora species throughout the survey area. Flora species that have year round in the flowering season are threatened species that are easily detected outside of the flowering period via vegetative characteristics.

Table 2.5 Threatened flora survey effort

Species targeted Flowering period of Dates of targeted survey Plant community type Survey effort and type of survey Total survey target species/optimal searched within survey area effort effort survey time

Baloskion longipes February to April 10, 11, 17 December 2013 Needlebush – Banksia wet 8 random meanders of 30 minutes 5.5 hours heath each Year round 6, 9 23 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Cryptostylis hunteriana November to February 10, 18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.0 hours heathy woodland – Silvertop ash each 6, 22, 23 May 2014 variant 4 transects of 30 minutes each 10, 11, 16–18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 17 random meanders of 18 hours heathy woodland – atypical and 30 minutes each 6, 7, 9, 22, 23 May 2014 fernland variant) 11 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland each 7, 9 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Darwinia glaucophylla June to November 10, 18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.0 hours heathy woodland - Silvertop ash each Year round 6, 22, 23 May 2014 variant 4 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16–18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 17 random meanders of 18 hours heathy woodland – atypical and 30 minutes each 6, 7, 9, 22, 23 fernland variant) 11 transects of 30 minutes each

16 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Species targeted Flowering period of Dates of targeted survey Plant community type Survey effort and type of survey Total survey target species/optimal searched within survey area effort effort survey time

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland each 7, 9 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Hibbertia procumbens November to January 10, 18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood - scribbly gum 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.0 hours heathy woodland - Silvertop ash each Year round 6, 22, 23 May 2014 variant 4 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16-18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood - scribbly gum 17 random meanders of 18 hours heathy woodland – atypical and 30 minutes each 6, 7, 9, 22, 23 May 2014 fernland variant) 11 transects of 30 minutes each 10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland each 7, 9 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16–18 December 2013 Regrowth and Planted 10 random meanders of 6.5 hours Vegetation 30 minutes each 6, 22, May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 17 December 2013 Exotic grassland 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 2 hours each 6, 23 May 2014

Melaleuca biconvexa October to November 10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each Year round 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 17 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Species targeted Flowering period of Dates of targeted survey Plant community type Survey effort and type of survey Total survey target species/optimal searched within survey area effort effort survey time

10, 11, 17 December 2013 Needlebush – Banksia wet 8 random meanders of 30 minutes 5.5 hours heath each 6, 9 23 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Melaleuca deanei December to February 10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each Year round 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 17 December 2013 Needlebush – Banksia wet 8 random meanders of 30 minutes 5.5 hours heath each 6, 9 23 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Prostanthera askania September to November 10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each Year round 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each 10, 11, 17 December 2013 Needlebush – Banksia wet 8 random meanders of 30 minutes 5.5 hours heath each 6, 9 23 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

Prostanthera junonis October to December 10, 18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.0 hours heathy woodland – Silvertop ash each 6, 22, 23 May 2014 variant 4 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16-18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 17 random meanders of 18 hours 30 minutes each 6, 7, 9, 22, 23 May 2014 heathy woodland – atypical and fernland variant) 11 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland each 7, 9 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each

18 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Species targeted Flowering period of Dates of targeted survey Plant community type Survey effort and type of survey Total survey target species/optimal searched within survey area effort effort survey time

Tetratheca glandulosa July to December 10, 18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 4 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.0 hours heathy woodland – Silvertop ash each 6, 22, 23 May 2014 variant 4 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16-18 December 2013 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum 17 random meanders of 18 hours heathy woodland – atypical and 30 minutes each 6, 7, 9, 22, 23 May 2014 fernland variant) 11 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland each 7, 9 May 2014 3 transects of 30 minutes each

10, 11, 16, 18 December 2013 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney 6 random meanders of 30 minutes 4.5 hours Peppermint – Turpentine heathy each 6, 22 May 2014 open Forest 3 transects of 30 minutes each Total Survey effort 199 hours

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 19 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.5.3.4 Quadrats

Thirty-one quantitative (quadrat/transect) site surveys (refer to Table 2.6 and Figure 2.1) were completed as outlined in the methodology contained in the BioBanking Operation Manual (Seidel & Briggs 2008) and described below Figure 2.2 illustrates the plot layout that was used at each site.

Reference point 20 m

20 m 50 m line transect

50 m

Figure 2.2 Schematic diagram illustrating the layout of the nested 20 m x 50 m and 20 m x 20 m quadrats used for the assessment of condition attributes at each site

The following site attributes were recorded at each site:

 Location (easting – northing grid type MGA 94, Zone 56).

 Vegetation structure and dominant species and vegetation condition. 2  Native and exotic species richness (within a 400 m quadrat): this consisted of recording all species by systematically walking through each 20 m x 20 m quadrat. The cover abundance of each species was estimated. 2  Number of trees with hollows (1,000 m quadrat): this was the frequency of hollows within living and dead trees within each 50 m x 20 m quadrat. A hollow was only recorded if:  the entrance could be seen  the estimated entrance width was at least 5 cm across  the hollow appeared to have depth  the hollow was at least 1 m above the ground  the centre of the tree was located within the sampled quadrat. 2  Total length of fallen logs (1,000 m quadrat): this was the cumulative total of logs within each 50 m x 20 m quadrat with a diameter of at least 10 cm and a length of at least 0.5 m.

 Native over-storey cover: this consisted of estimating the percentage cover of the tallest woody stratum present (>1 m and including emergents). The woody stratum included species that were native to NSW and not necessarily those that were locally endemic.

 Native mid-storey cover: this involved estimating the cover of vegetation between the over-storey stratum and a height of one m (i.e. tall shrubs, under-storey trees and tree regeneration).

20 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

 Ground cover: this comprised estimating the cover of plants below 1 m in height. The following categories of plants were recorded:  native ground cover (grasses): native grasses (Poaceae family native to NSW)  native ground cover (shrubs): all woody vegetation below one m in height and native to NSW  native ground cover (other): non-woody vegetation (i.e. vascular plants–ferns and herbs) below one m in height and native to NSW  exotic plant cover: vascular plants not native to Australia.

 Evaluation of regeneration: this was estimated as the proportion of over-storey species present at the site that was regenerating (i.e. saplings with a diameter at breast height ≤5 cm). The maximum value for this measure was one.

Table 2.6 Location of flora quadrats

BioBanking Plant community type (vegetation condition Easting1 Northing1 Transect quadrat/ class) orientation transect ID

Q1 Red Blood wood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 342630 6306327 E 60o Silvertop Ash Variant (Good)

Q2 Regrowth and planted vegetation 342283 6305815 S 210o

Q3 Needlebush – Banksia wet heath (Good) 342271 6305702 S 140o

Q4 Red Blood wood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 342264 6305731 S 150o atypical variant (Good)

Q5 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – 341402 6305882 S 190o Turpentine heathy open Forest (Good)

o Q6 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – 342056 6305465 E 60 Turpentine heathy open Forest (Good)

Q7 Red Blood wood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341867 6305106 W 270o atypical variant (moderate)

Q8 Red Blood wood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341720 6303994 E 80o Silvertop Ash Variant (moderate)

Q9 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341662 6303191 E 80o Atypical variant (Good)

Q10 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341706 6302922 E 90o Atypical variant (Moderate)

Q11 Regrowth and planted vegetation 341815 6302277 E 90o

Q12 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 340391 6300271 E 90o Atypical variant (Good)

Q13 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple 339930 6300116 N 0o Heathy Woodland (Moderate)

Q14 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341704 6301644 W 210o Atypical variant (Good)

Q15 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341674 6301349 E 90o Atypical variant (Moderate)

Q16 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 340467 6300456 E 80o Atypical variant (Good)

Q17 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple 340308 6300420 E 90o Heathy Woodland (Good)

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 21 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

BioBanking Plant community type (vegetation condition Easting1 Northing1 Transect quadrat/ class) orientation transect ID

Q18 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple 340775 6300337 N 0o Heathy Woodland (Good)

Q19 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 340907 6300860 S 180o Atypical variant (Moderate)

Q20 Needlebush – Banksia wet heath (Good) 341716 6304415 W 270o

Q21 Regrowth and planted vegetation 340101 6300162 E 60o

Q22 Regrowth and planted vegetation 340651 6300496 E 60o

Q23 Regrowth and planted vegetation 341551 6301224 E 60o

Q24 Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 341770 6302323 N 0o Atypical variant (Moderate)

Q25 Regrowth and planted vegetation 341689 6304022 N 0o

Q26 Regrowth and planted vegetation 341855 6305196 N 0o

Q27 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – 341779 6305084 N 0o Turpentine heathy open Forest (Good)

Q28 Needlebush – Banksia wet heath (Good) 342063 6305628 S 180o

Q29 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum heathy woodland – 342161 6305716 S 180o Silvertop Ash Variant (Good) Q30 Red Bloodwood – scribbly gum heathy woodland – 342519 6306217 N 0o Silvertop Ash Variant (Moderate)

Q31 Red Blood wood–- Scribbly gum heathy woodland – 340989 6300773 S 180o – Fernland variant (Good)

Note: (1) GDA 94: Zone 56.

2.5.3.5 BioBanking quadrat/transect survey effort

Table 2.7 below outlines the survey effort for the BioBanking plots in each plant community type and their condition.

Table 2.7 BioBanking quadrat/transect survey effort

Plant community type (vegetation condition class) Number of Survey effort quadrats (person hours)

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash Variant 2 3 (Good)

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash Variant 2 3 (moderate)

Needlebush – Banksia wet heath 3 4.5

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant (Good) 5 7.5

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant 5 7.5 (moderate)

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant 1 1.5 (Good)

22 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Plant community type (vegetation condition class) Number of Survey effort quadrats (person hours)

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland (Good) 2 3

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland 1 1.5 (Moderate)

Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open 3 4.5 Forest (Good)

Regrowth and planted vegetation 7 10.5

Totals 31 46.5

2.5.3.6 Condition and quality assessment of vegetation communities

The overall condition of vegetation was assessed through general observation and comparison against the biobanking benchmark data (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014b) and the vegetation condition definition as set out in the Biobanking Assessment Methodology (BBAM) operations manual (Seidel & Briggs 2008) The moderate to good condition classes have been separated in as the parts of the vegetation within the study area has been subject to disturbance in the understorey, but had native regrowth vegetation occurring.

Three categories were used to describe the condition of the vegetation communities are set out below.

 Good condition: vegetation still retains the species complement and structural characteristics of the pre- European equivalent. Such vegetation has usually changed very little over time and displays resilience to weed invasion due to intact groundcover, shrub and canopy layers. This vegetation will be at or above the BioBanking benchmarks (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014b). This condition equates to BBAM Moderate to Good condition (Seidel & Briggs 2008).

 Moderate condition: vegetation has retained a native canopy and has a native understorey of greater than 50%. This condition class can include derived native grasslands and can have minor weed incursions with some patches being subject to grazing. This condition equates to BBAM moderate to good condition (Seidel & Briggs 2008).

 Low condition: vegetation has a native canopy less than 50% of the lower benchmark. The understorey is generally dominated by exotic species being greater than 50% exotic cover. The shrub layer was generally absent from this condition class. Weed invasion can be significant in such remnants. This condition class equates to BBAM low condition (Seidel & Briggs 2008).

Following the biobanking methodology (NSW Department of Environment and Conservation 2007; Seidel & Briggs 2008), woody vegetation, is considered as low condition vegetation when:

 over-storey per cent foliage cover is <25% of the lower values of the over-storey per cent foliage cover benchmark for that vegetation type, and either:  less than 50% of vegetation in the ground layer is indigenous species  greater than 90% is cleared.

2.5.3.7 Rapid assessment of potential construction compound sites

A total of five potential construction compound sites (ancillary sites) were assessed. These sites are referred to as:

 Somersby Interchange: Former construction compound area within Somersby Interchange (held by RMS).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 23 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

 Southbound Motorway: Existing small compound site located adjacent to southbound section of Motorway (being used for culvert works).  Somersby Central Industrial Park: Currently available lots at Somersby Central Industrial Park – excluding Lots 18 and 19.  Wisemans Ferry Road: Lot 2, DP730196 (Wisemans Ferry Road).  Kangoo Road: Lot 101, DP1120709 (Wisemans Ferry Road/Kangoo Road).

Due to the highly disturbed nature of these sites, rapid assessments were conducted that comprised of random meander surveys targeting threatened species, potential habitat for threatened species and identification of any listed threatened ecological communities. These surveys were conducted by one ecologist on the 15 and 16 September 2014.

In addition to field based rapid assessment, a review of the Somersby Industrial Park Plan of Management and approved development applications for the potential compound sites were also undertaken.

2.6 Likelihood of occurrence

For this study, likelihood of occurrence of threatened species within the survey area for species recorded or predicted to occur in the locality is defined in Table 2.8.

Table 2.8 Likelihood of occurrence of threatened species

Likelihood Description

Low Species considered to have a low likelihood of occurrence include species not recorded during the field surveys that fit one or more of the following criteria:  have not been recorded previously in the survey area and surrounds and for which the survey area is beyond the current distribution range

 rely on specific habitat types or resources that are not present in the survey area

 are considered locally extinct

 are a non-cryptic perennial flora species that were specifically targeted by surveys and not recorded.

Moderate Species considered to have a moderate likelihood of occurrence include species not recorded during the field surveys that fit one or more of the following criteria:

 have infrequently been recorded previously in the survey area and surrounds

 use habitat types or resources that are present in the survey area, although generally in a poor or modified condition

 are unlikely to maintain sedentary populations, however, may seasonally use resources within the survey area opportunistically during variable seasons or migration

 are cryptic flowering flora species that were not seasonally targeted by surveys and that have not been recorded.

High Species considered to have a high likelihood of occurrence include species not recorded that fit one or more of the following criteria:

 have frequently been recorded previously in the survey area and surrounds

 use habitat types or resources that are present in the survey area, that are abundant and/or in good condition within the survey area

 are known or likely to maintain resident populations surrounding the survey area

 are known or likely to visit the site during regular seasonal movements or migration.

Recorded Any threatened species recorded during field surveys.

24 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.7 Impact assessments

The impact assessments will be based upon the proposal description provided in Section 1. Tests for significance will be completed for threatened species, populations or ecological communities recorded and/or considered to have a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence.

Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) covers development by public authorities which does not require development consent under the Part 4 of that Act. The purpose of the Part 5 system is to ensure public authorities fully consider environmental issues before they undertake or approve activities that do not require development consent. Under Part 5 of the EP&A Act a REF is required to determine if the proposed activity is likely to have a significant effect on NSW State threatened biodiversity as listed under the TSC Act. The factors for consideration under this assessment address the likelihood and significance of potential impacts on threatened species’ life cycle, habitat and recovery.

Under Part 5 of the EP&A Act a seven part test is undertaken to assess the likelihood of significant impact upon any threatened species, populations or ecological communities. The outcomes of these assessments are therefore used to determine the level of significance of the impacts. If a significant impact is found to occur this may trigger the need for further studies in the form of a species impact statement (SIS). If an SIS finds that the activity will represent a significant impact then assessment will be required within an EIS under Part 5.1 of the EP&A Act.

Threatened biodiversity listed under the EPBC Act require assessment in accordance with the EPBC Act Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). The factors for consideration under this assessment include considerable overlap with the state significance assessments.

This assessment, however, also addresses conservation status, population size and area of occupancy, likelihood of the establishment of invasive species and introduction of disease, in addition to species life cycle, habitat and recovery. Specific biodiversity elements, such as species or communities, are sometimes assessed under the EPBC Act through assessment against a list of specific ecological impact criteria.

Where species, populations or communities are listed under both the TSC and EPBC Acts, both assessments will be completed.

Significance assessments have been completed for 44 species and two endangered communities, full assessments are provided in Appendix G, a summary of the assessment findings are provided in Section 7.1.

2.8 Limitations

2.8.1 Reliance on externally supplied information

In preparing this study, Parsons Brinckerhoff has relied upon data, surveys, analyses, designs, plans and other information provided by the client and other individuals and organisations. Except as otherwise stated in the study, Parsons Brinckerhoff has not verified the accuracy or completeness of the data. To the extent that the statements, opinions, facts, information, conclusions and/or recommendations in this study (conclusions) are based in whole or part on the data, those conclusions are contingent upon the accuracy and completeness of the data. Parsons Brinckerhoff will not be liable in relation to incorrect conclusions should any data, information or condition be incorrect or have been concealed, withheld, misrepresented or otherwise not fully disclosed to Parsons Brinckerhoff.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 25 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

2.8.2 Study for benefit of client

This BIA has been prepared for the exclusive benefit of the client and no other party. Parsons Brinckerhoff assumes no responsibility and will not be liable to any other person or organisation for or in relation to any matter dealt with in this study, or for any loss or damage suffered by any other person or organisation arising from matters dealt with or conclusions expressed in this study (including without limitation matters arising from any negligent act or omission of Parsons Brinckerhoff or for any loss or damage suffered by any other party relying upon the matters dealt with or conclusions expressed in this study). Other parties should not rely upon the study or the accuracy or completeness of any conclusions and should make their own inquiries and obtain independent advice in relation to such matters.

2.8.3 Field survey limitations

No sampling technique can totally eliminate the possibility that a species is present on a site. For example, some species of plant may be present in the soil seed bank and some fauna species use habitats on a sporadic or seasonal basis and may not be present on site during surveys. The conclusions in this report are based upon data acquired for the site and the environmental field surveys and are, therefore, merely indicative of the environmental condition of the site at the time of preparing the report, including the presence or otherwise of species. It should be recognised that site conditions, including the presence of threatened species, can change with time.

Fieldwork for this study was completed during over a number of seasons including Autumn, Spring and summer with cool to moderate overnight temperatures and light rainfall recorded. This may have impacted the activity (and therefore detectability) of some nocturnal species of frogs, reptiles, and small mammals. However, if suitable habitat was observed, a precautionary approach was taken and it was assumed that the species was present (refer Appendix C and Appendix D for likelihood of occurrence assessment of all threatened species). Furthermore, targeted searches for the Red-Crowned Toadlet and Giant Burrowing Frog were completed during optimal conditions in April 2014.

Targeted flora surveys have been conducted in December 2013, for cryptic flora species that may occur within the survey area. The daytime temperatures during these surveys recorded were moderate to high with low humidity. Methodologies for these surveys are outlined in Section 2.5.3, whilst the results are summarised in Section 4.

2.8.4 Other limitations

To the best of Parsons Brinckerhoff’s knowledge, the proposal presented and the facts and matters described in this study reasonably represent the client’s intentions at the time of preparation of the study. However, the passage of time, the manifestation of latent conditions or the impact of future events (including a change in applicable law) may have resulted in a variation of the proposal and of its possible environmental impact.

Parsons Brinckerhoff will not be liable to update or revise this BIA to take into account any events or emergent circumstances or facts occurring or becoming apparent after the date of the BIA.

26 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3. Existing environment

3.1 Landscape context

The survey area occurs predominantly on the Somersby Plateau along the existing M1 alignment, between the Gosford/Kariong Interchange and the Somersby Interchange. The survey area and surrounding land has been utilised predominantly for road infrastructure, industrial estate development, private residential land and grazing. As a result, the soils and vegetation in the survey area are relatively disturbed, particularly immediately adjacent to the motorway, of which are comprised of regrowth and planted vegetation. Where the landscape and soil profile hasn’t been significantly modified however, the original vegetation is relatively intact or regenerating from a soil stored seed bank.

A summary of the survey area locality is provided in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1 Survey area locality

Criteria Location

Council Gosford City Council

Bioregion Sydney Basin Pittwater and Wyong Sub regions

Catchment management areas (CMA) Hunter Central Rivers (Brisbane Water Catchment) Brisbane Waters sub-catchment Hawkesbury-Nepean (Hawkesbury River Catchment) Mooney Mooney Creek sub-catchment

Botanical subdivision Central Coast

Mitchell Landscape Gosford – Cooranbong Coastal Slopes and Somersby Plateau

Noxious Weed Control Area Gosford City Council

3.1.1 Bioregion

The survey area is within the Sydney Basin bioregion. This region covers about 3,624,008.00 ha (4.53% of NSW). The bioregion is on the coast and extends from just north of Batemans Bay to Nelson Bay on the central coast, and almost as far west as Mudgee. As well as Sydney itself, the Sydney Basin bioregion encompasses the towns of Wollongong, Nowra, Newcastle, Cessnock, Muswellbrook and Blue Mountains towns such as Katoomba and Mt. Victoria.

It includes a significant proportion of the catchments of the Hawkesbury-Nepean, Hunter and Shoalhaven river systems, all of the smaller catchments of Lake Macquarie, Lake Illawarra, Hacking, Georges and Parramatta Rivers, and smaller portions of the headwaters of the Clyde and Macquarie rivers.

The Sydney Basin bioregion has the third highest area of conservation-oriented tenures of the NSW bioregions, with conservation areas occupying about 1,384,418.33 ha (equivalent to 38.2% of the bioregion). This includes the Greater Blue Mountains, which is one of four World Heritage areas within NSW.

It is a highly variable region with variation in geology, topography and climate resulting in one of the most species diverse areas in Australia.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 27 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

The survey area is within the Pittwater and Wyong subregions, characterised by:

 Hawkesbury Sandstone with thin ridge cappings of Ashfield Shale  sandstones exposed in valleys and along the coast  Triassic Narrabeen sandstones, Quaternary estuarine fills, and coastal barrier complexes  a variety of vegetation types including:  Sydney peppermint, smooth-barked apple, scribbly gum, red bloodwood, yellow bloodwood, with diverse shrubs and patches of heath  Blackbutt, turpentine, coachwood and water gum in deep sheltered gullies  Brown stringybark, gum, bastard mahogany, northern grey ironbark and grey gum on hills and slopes  Prickly-leaved tea-tree and other shrubs with swamp mahogany, swamp oak, sedges and common reed on swampy creek flats  open heath with banksia, tea-tree, coastal wattle, black she-oak and smooth-barked apple on barrier dunes.

3.1.2 Landscape

Landscapes (Mitchell) of NSW (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002) outlines a system of ecosystem classification mapped at the 1:250,000 scale, based on a combination of soils, topography and vegetation.

The survey area falls predominantly within the Somersby Plateau landscape and to a lesser extent the Gosford – Cooranbong Coastal Slopes landscape. The following descriptions have been taken from the Landscapes (Mitchell) of NSW (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002) to describe each of the landscapes that have been mapped within the study area. Somersby Plateau landscape

The Somersby Plateau landscape consists of plateaus of quartz sandstone with occasional shale caps with a general elevation of 200 m to 250 m and local relief to 30 m. This landscape comprises horizontal Triassic quartz sandstone with thin conglomerates and shale ridge caps, with older Triassic lithic and quartz sandstones exposed in valleys and along the coast. On the plateau tops the soil is composed of deep yellow earths and/or contain rocky outcrops There are uniform and texture-contrast soils on sandstones and shale slopes and loamy sand in alluvium along creeks.

The shale caps substrates support Blue Gum and Blackbutt tall open forest, with dominant canopy species of Sydney blue gum (Eucalyptus saligna) and Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis) with turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) and grey ironbark (Eucalyptus paniculata) being co-dominant on the moist lower slopes.

On the Sandstone Plateau landscape Sydney Peppermint Apple Forest, Scribbly Gum shrubby/grassy open forest and Yellow Bloodwood Forest and occurs. Dense sandstone heaths occur on the more exposed portions of the plateaus, with Sandstone hanging swamps occurring within depressions which are feed by groundwater seeps. Dominant canopy species within the open forest communities include; Sydney peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita), smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata), scribbly gum (Eucalyptus haemastoma), red bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), yellow bloodwood (Corymbia eximia), with diverse shrubs and patches of heath. The main dominant species within the heath being Banksia ericifolia (Candlestick Banksia).

In the deep sheltered gullies moist Open Forest occur with differing species dominating depending upon the soil type and aspect. Species within these moist communities include community include; Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis), turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera), coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum) and water gum (Tristaniopsis laurina). Whilst on the moist lower slopes species such as spotted gum (Corymbia

28 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

maculata), round-leaved gum (Eucalyptus deanei), bangalow palm (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana), and forest oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) dominate.

Gosford – Cooranbong Coastal Slopes landscape

The Gosford – Cooranbong Coastal Slopes landscape is consistent with the coastal fall of the Sydney Basin, rolling hills and sandstone plateau outliers of the Triassic Narrabeen sandstones The Narrabeen sandstone contain extensive rock outcrops, low cliffs along ridge margins, which have a general elevation of 0 to 75 m. This landscape comprises texture-contrast soils on lithic sandstones and shales, loamy sand alluvium along creeks and organic sand and mud in lagoons and swamps.

Open forest and woodland of Scribbly Gum Smooth-barked Apple Forest occur on the hills whilst Spotted Gum Ironbark Moist forests occur on the slopes. Dominant species that are associated with these communities include; smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata), red bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), brown stringybark (Eucalyptus capitellata), Sydney peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita), spotted gum (Corymbia maculata), bastard mahogany (Eucalyptus carnea), northern grey ironbark (Eucalyptus siderophloia) and grey gum (Eucalyptus punctata).

Small areas of tall closed forest are located within the gullies under cliff lines at higher elevations. Dominant species that occur within these forests are; turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera), lilly pilly (Acmena smithii), mountain cedar wattle (Acacia elata), coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum), sassafras (Doryphora sassafras) and water gum (Tristaniopsis laurina).

Prickly-leaved tea-tree (Melaleuca styphelioides), Broad-leaved Paperbark (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and other paperbarks with swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta), swamp oak (Casuarina glauca), sedges and common reed (Phragmites australis) are located on swampy creek flats. 3.1.3 Surrounding land uses

Land surrounding the proposal generally consists of remnant bushland and rural residential and grazing lands. To the south-east of the proposal lies Kariong and the major hub of Gosford, and to the north-west, the township of Somersby. The Kariong Industrial Estate is located in the south of the proposal immediately adjacent to the M1 at the Kariong interchange. The industrial park consists of numerous large to medium sized industries including the Gosford Quarry and Australian Reptile Park. Numerous residential properties and community areas such as the Mt. Penang Parklands are also located approximately 300 m to the south east of the Kariong Interchange in the south of the study area.

The remaining areas along the proposal consist of intact remnant vegetation, moderately disturbed vegetation and rural lands. Strickland State Forest adjoins the south bound lanes of the M1 motorway to the north of the Peats Ridge interchange, which is outside of the study area. Further south where the M1 crosses Narara Creek, Strickland State Forest is located to the east approximately 300 m from the M1. In the south of the study area Brisbane Water National Park is traversed by the M1 being immediately adjacent (within 10 m) to the proposal in the south of the Kariong Interchange.

3.1.4 Corridors and connectivity

Wildlife corridors can be defined as ‘retained and/or restored systems of (linear) habitat which, at a minimum enhances connectivity of wildlife populations and may help them overcome the main consequences of habitat fragmentation’ (Wilson & Lindenmayer 1995). Corridors can provide ecological functions at a variety of spatial and temporal scales from daily foraging movements of individuals, to broad-scale genetic gradients across biogeographical regions.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 29 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Corridors serve a number of different functions in terms of conservation including:

 providing increased foraging area for wide-ranging species  providing cover for movement between habitat patches, and enhancing the movement of animals through sub-optimal habitats  reducing genetic isolation  facilitating access to a mix of habitats and successional stages to those species which require them for different activities (for example, foraging or breeding)  providing refuge from disturbances such as fire  providing habitat in itself  linking wildlife populations and maintaining immigration and recolonisation between otherwise isolated patches. This in turn may help reduce the risk of population extinction.

One wildlife corridor mapped by the Office of Environment and Heritage traverses the survey area, connecting remnant vegetation within Brisbane Water National Park west of the M1 with Strickland State Forest on the eastern side of the M1. Such vegetation provides some connectivity, via a ‘stepping stone’ pattern, to coastal remnants in the east of the survey area. This remnant vegetation is likely to be important for more mobile species such as microbats and birds.

Immediately south of the survey area is the Brisbane Water National Park which also extends northerly, parallel to the existing M1. A series of nature reserves including Strickland State Forest, Somersby Recreational Reserve and the Australian Rainforest Sanctuary are located on the eastern boundary of the survey area.

The contribution of the survey area to local connectivity is limited by the fragmented nature of the remnant vegetation remaining between the existing large vegetation stands given the presence of the existing M1. Remnant vegetation adjacent to the survey area will remain largely intact with minimal disturbance. Given the existing M1 motorway currently traverses the corridor, and the limited extent of disturbance associated with the proposal, it is not expected that the proposal will result in significant changes to the existing biodiversity corridor.

30 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2 Vegetation communities

Desktop analysis of the vegetation mapping for Wyong and Gosford (Bell, S. 2002, 2009) and ground-truthing during surveys found eight communities present within the survey area (refer to Table 3.2, Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2). A small portion at the southern end of the study has not been groundtruthed and the broad scale vegetation mapping (Bell, 2009) has been provided in lieu of detailed field surveys.

Table 3.2 Vegetation communities identified in the survey area

Parsons Brinckerhoff Plant community types Plant community types Vegetation of LHCCREMS broad Threatened ecological identified vegetation Hunter Central Rivers CMA1 Hawkesbury Nepean Gosford LGA scale vegetation community on the TSC community CMA1 Vegetation mapping3 Act community type2

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HU595 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HN566 Red Bloodwood – E26d Somersby MU26 Exposed Duffy’s Forest Ecological gum heathy woodland – gum heathy woodland on Scribbly gum heathy Plateau Forest Hawkesbury Woodland Community in the Sydney Silvertop Ash variant sandstone plateau of the Sydney woodland on sandstone Basin Bioregion Basin plateau of the Sydney Basin Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HU595 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HN566 Red Bloodwood – E26f Somersby Plateau MU26 Exposed – gum heathy woodland – gum heathy woodland on Scribbly gum heathy Fernland Woodland Hawkesbury Woodland Fernland variant sandstone plateau of the Sydney woodland on sandstone Basin plateau of the Sydney Basin

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HU595 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly HN566 Red Bloodwood – E26 Exposed MU26 Exposed – gum heathy woodland – gum heathy woodland on Scribbly gum heathy Hawkesbury Woodland Hawkesbury Woodland Atypical variant sandstone plateau of the Sydney woodland on sandstone Basin plateau of the Sydney Basin

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin HU609 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin HN582 Scribbly Gum – E29 Hawkesbury MU29 Hawkesbury – Banksia – Dwarf Apple Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Banksia scrub – Coastal Banksia Heathy Woodland woodland on hinterland Apple heathy woodland on woodland. Woodland sandstone plateau of the Central hinterland sandstone plateau Coast, Sydney Basin of the Central Coast, Sydney Basin

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 31 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Parsons Brinckerhoff Plant community types Plant community types Vegetation of LHCCREMS broad Threatened ecological identified vegetation Hunter Central Rivers CMA1 Hawkesbury Nepean Gosford LGA scale vegetation community on the TSC community CMA1 Vegetation mapping3 Act community type2

Smooth-barked Apple – HU622 Smooth-barked Apple – HN587 Smooth-barked E25 Hawkesbury MU11 Coastal – Sydney Peppermint – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine Apple – Sydney Peppermint Peppermint Apple Sheltered Apple Turpentine heathy open heathy open Forest on plateau – Turpentine heathy open Forest. Peppermint Forest forest areas of the southern Central Forest on plateau areas of Coast, Sydney Basin the southern Central Coast, Sydney Basin

Needlebush – Banksia wet HU579 Needlebush – Banksia HN560 Needlebush – E54 Sandstone MU54 Sandstone Coastal Upland Swamp in heath wet heath on coastal sandstone banksia wet heath on Hanging Swamps Hanging Swamps and the Sydney Basin plateaux, Sydney Basin sandstone plateaux of the heaths Bioregion listed as Sydney Basin endangered on the TSC Act and the EPBC Act (as of 17 July 2014)

Regrowth and Planted – – Xs Regrowth – – Vegetation Exotic Grassland – – Xx Exotic Vegetation – –

Constructed dams – – – – –

Notes: (1) Office of Environment and Heritage vegetation types database (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012) as used in BioMetric 2.0 (Gibbons et al. 2008) (2) The Native Vegetation of the Gosford LGA and Wyong LGA (Bell, S. 2002, 2009) (3) Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy (2003)

32 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.1 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant

The broad scale vegetation mapping of the survey area identified the presence of E26d Somersby Plateau Forest (Bell, S. 2009) within the survey area. This was confirmed during the field surveys (Figure 3.1) and covers 7.60 ha equivalent to 7.1% of the survey area. This community occurred in the north of the survey area near Somersby on ridgetops and cuttings. This community was mapped as two condition classes good (4.29 ha) (Photo 3.1) and moderate (3.31 ha) (Photo 3.2). The good condition occurred generally adjoining the road corridor fence and on the top of road cuttings and in areas of minimal disturbance (Figure 3.1). The moderate condition is regrowth vegetation along the cuttings and consisted of juvenile eucalypt species and a good diversity of native understorey species representative of this community. The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.3.

Table 3.3 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant

Conservation High: This community is potentially commensurate with Duffys Forest Ecological Community in significance the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Bell (2009) suggests that this community exhibits strong similarities to Duffy’s Forest although recommends further detailed floristic analysis is required. The final determination for Duffys Forest states that this community has been reported from the Warringah, Pittwater, Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and Manly Local Government Areas (LGA), although indicates that it may occur elsewhere in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2011). Taking a precautionary approach this community will be treated as representative of Duffy’s Forest for this assessment. Condition This vegetation community occurred as two variants within the survey area and as such has two condition classes, as follows:

 Good – The type variant of this community is in good condition with high diversity of native species recorded, with little weed incursions. This condition class generally occurred where no previous clearing has been undertaken as a result of the construction of the M1 Pacific Motorway.

 Moderate – This condition class generally occurred on the side of the cuttings where previous clearing has occurred for the construction of the M1 Pacific Motorway. The canopy layer contained juvenile Eucalypt species and the understorey had a moderate diversity of native species representative of this community. This condition class is also associated with highly disturbed isolated patches in the Somersby Central Industrial Park potential compound sites. These patches generally comprise of scattered remnant canopy trees with sparse regrowth understorey. Patches are highly fragmented and exhibit significant exotic weed incursions.

Location This community occurred adjoining both the north and south bound lanes of the M1 Pacific Motorway in the north of the survey area.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range cover (m) (%)

Canopy 6–12 0–40 Eucalyptus sieberi, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus haemastoma and occasional occurrences of Eucalyptus piperita

Sub-canopy 3–6 0–20 Juvenile Eucalyptus sp., Allocasuarina littorals and Banksia ericifolia

Shrub 0.9–2.5 0–60 Philotheca buxifolia, Petrophile pulchella, Conospermum longifolium, Hakea teretifolia, Persoonia levis, Hakea sericea, Leptospermum polygalifolium Acacia longissima, Grevillea buxifolia, Acacia ulicifolia and Phebalium squarrosum

Ground cover 0.1–0.9 0–50 Entolasia stricta, Actinotus minor, Anisopogon avenaceus, Patersonia sericea, Lepyrodia scariosa, Billardiera scandens, Lepidosperma laterale, Caustis flexuosa, Lomandra obliqua, Euryomyrtus ramosissima subsp. ramosissima, Doryanthes excelsa

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 33 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.1 Good Condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant

Photo 3.2 Moderate Condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant

34 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.2 Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant

The broad scale vegetation mapping projects (Bell, S. 2009) of the survey area identified the presence of this community (E26 Exposed Hawkesbury Woodland) within the survey area. This was confirmed during the field surveys (Figure 3.1) and covers 26.1 ha equivalent to 24.5% of the survey area. This community occurred on the exposed ridgetops and north facing cuttings within the survey area. This community was mapped as two condition classes good (17.08 ha) (Photo 3.3) and moderate (9.02 ha) (Photo 3.4). The good condition occurred generally adjoining the road corridor fence and on the top of road cuttings and in areas of minimal disturbance (Figure 3.1). The moderate condition is regrowth vegetation along the cuttings and consisted of juvenile eucalypt species and a good diversity of native understorey species representative of this community. The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.4.

Table 3.4 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant

Red Bloodwood - Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant

Conservation Moderate: This community is not listed as threatened; however it is listed as regionally significant significance within the Lower Hunter & Central Coast region due to being identified as providing habitat for threatened species (Bell, A. J. 2013).

Condition This vegetation community occurred as two variants within the survey area and as such has two condition classes, as follows:

 Good – The type variant of this community is in good condition with high diversity of native species recorded, with little weed incursions (17.08 ha). This condition class generally occurred where no previous clearing has been undertaken as a result of the construction of the M1 Pacific Motorway.

 Moderate – the regrowth variant of this community is in moderate condition containing low to moderate weeds incursions, and occurred on the side of the road cuttings (9.02 ha). Location This community occurred adjoining both the north and south bound lanes of the M1 Pacific Motorway throughout the survey area. This community was the most common and widespread within the survey area.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Canopy 8–12 0–20 Eucalyptus haemastoma, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata and Eucalyptus capitellata.

Sub-canopy 3–8 0–50 Banksia ericifolia, Acacia elata, Leptospermum polygalifolium and Allocasuarina littoralis

Shrub 0.9–2.5 0–30 Grevillea buxifolia, Persoonia levis, Acacia oxycedrus, Leptospermum trinervium, Platysace linearifolia, and Boronia ledifolia

Ground cover 0.3–1 20–80 Xanthorrhoea resinifera, Lomandra longifolia, Anisopogon avenaceus, Poa labillardierei, Pultenaea rosmarinifolia, Entolasia stricta and Actinotus minor.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 35 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.3 Good condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant

Photo 3.4 Moderate condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – atypical variant

36 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.3 Red Bloodwood Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant

The broad-scale vegetation mapping of the survey area identified the presence of E26f Somersby Plateau Fernland Woodland which is commensurate with this community within the vicinity of the survey area. This was confirmed during the site surveys (Figure 3.1 and Photo 3.5) and covers 2.24 ha equivalent to 2.1% of the survey area. This community occurred on the more sheltered slopes and in some of the gullies in the survey area. This community was mapped as one condition classes good. This community occurred in moister areas as riparian vegetation adjoining creek-lines (e.g. Piles Creek). The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.5.

Table 3.5 Characteristics of Red Bloodwood Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum – heathy woodland – Fernland variant

Conservation Moderate. While not listed as an endangered ecological community, however this community significance does provide habitat for a number of threatened flora and fauna species.

Condition Good. This community had a high diversity of native species with minor weed incursions. A dense layer of Pouched Coral Fern occurred in the understorey.

Location Occurred in three patches adjoining the north bound lanes, at Piles Creek and to the north of Gindurra Road.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Canopy 8–12 0–30 Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus haemastoma, Angophora costata and Eucalyptus punctata Sub-canopy 3–8 0–20 Callicoma serratifolia and Acacia elata Shrub 1.5–3 0–30 Leptospermum polygalifolium and Banksia ericifolia

Ground cover 0.4–1.5 60–100 Gleichenia dicarpa, Pteridium esculentum and Gahnia clarkei

Photo 3.5 Good condition Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant adjoining Piles Creek

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 37 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.4 Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open forest

The broad-scale vegetation mapping of the survey area identified the presence of E25 Hawkesbury Peppermint Apple Forest within the survey area. This was confirmed during the site surveys (Figure 3.1 and Photo 3.6) and covers 6.35 ha equivalent to 6% of the survey area. This community occurred on the more sheltered slopes and in some of the gullies in the survey area on the road cuttings adjoining the M1 Pacific Motorway. This community was mapped as good condition throughout the entire survey area. This community had a good diversity of native species and all of the floristic structural layers present. The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.6.

Table 3.6 Characteristics of Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open forest

Smooth- barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint Turpentine heathy open forest

Conservation Moderate: This community is not listed as threatened; however it is listed as regionally significant significance within the Lower Hunter & Central Coast region due to being identified as providing habitat for threatened species (Bell, A. J. 2013).

Condition Good. This community recorded high biodiversity with 40 native species recorded within a 20 m x 20 m plot. The canopy was dominated by mature and immature eucalypts representative of this community. The sub-canopy contained a high diversity of Proteaceae species which have high nectar content. The shrub stratum contained a dense layer of Acacias and Fabaceae species. With the ground layer being very dense mixture of Rutaceae, Poaceae, sedges and herb species.

Location This community mainly occurred on the sheltered south facing slopes and in gullies. It occurred mainly adjoining the south bound lanes, with one patch recorded adjoining the north bound lanes in the north of the survey area.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Canopy 12–15 20–40 Eucalyptus piperita, Angophora costata, Corymbia gummifera and scattered individuals of Syncarpia glomulifera

Sub-canopy 5–8 20–30 Juvenile Eucalyptus spp., Persoonia linearis, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Leptospermum trinervium, Hakea sericea

Shrub stratum 2–4 5–50 Grevillea sericea, Persoonia levis, Acacia suaveolens, Acacia oxycedrus, Dillwynia floribunda, Acacia ulicifolia, Petrophile pulchella and Lomatia silaifolia.

Ground cover 0–2 50–90 Lomandra filiformis, Doryanthes excelsa, Lomandra longifolia Entolasia stricta, Boronia ledifolia, Platysace linearifolia, Actinotus minor, Dianella spp., Epacris pulchella, Lepidosperma laterale, Billardiera scandens and Pteridium esculentum.

38 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.6 Good condition Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine heathy open forest

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 39 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.5 Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland

The broad scale vegetation mapping of the survey area identified the presence of E29 Hawkesbury Banksia scrub woodland (Bell, S. 2009) within the survey area. This was confirmed during the site surveys (Figure 3.1) and covers 10.54 ha equivalent to 10% of the survey area. This community occurred on the more exposed ridge tops on the Hawkesbury sandstone in the survey area. This community was mapped as two condition classes good (8.7 ha) (Photo 3.7) and moderate (1.84 ha) (Photo 3.8). The good condition occurred generally adjoining the road corridor in the south east of the survey area. The moderate condition consisted of regrowth vegetation along the cuttings and consisted of juvenile eucalypt species and a good diversity of native understorey species representative of this community. The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.7.

Table 3.7 Characteristics of Scribbly Gum - Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland

Conservation Moderate: This community is not listed as threatened; however it is listed as regionally significant significance within the Lower Hunter & Central Coast region due to being identified as providing suitable habitat for a range of threatened flora and fauna species ((Bell, A. J. 2013)).The threatened flora species Darwinia glaucophylla was recorded within this community.

Condition This vegetation community occurred as two variants within the survey area and as such has two condition classes, as follows:

 Good – The type variant of this community is in good condition with high diversity of native species recorded, with little weed incursions (8.7 ha). This condition class generally occurred where no previous clearing has been undertaken as a result of the construction of the M1 Pacific Motorway.

 Moderate – the regrowth variant of this community is in moderate condition containing low to moderate weeds incursions, and occurred on the side of the road cuttings (1.84 ha). Location This community occurred on the ridgetops in the south of the survey area, at the Kariong interchange.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Canopy 6–10 0–10 Eucalyptus haemastoma, Eucalyptus piperita and Angophora costata

Sub-canopy 3–6 0–80 Banksia ericifolia, Allocasuarina littoralis and Leptospermum polygalifolium

Shrub 1–3 0–50 Angophora hispida, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Leptospermum trinervium, Acacia oxycedrus and Hakea teretifolia

Ground cover 0.2–1 0–60 Xanthorrhoea media, Pultenaea rosmarinifolia, Patersonia sericea, Cyathochaeta diandra, Ptilothrix deusta and Leucopogon microphyllus

40 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.7 Good condition Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland

Photo 3.8 Moderate condition Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple heathy woodland

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 41 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.6 Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

The broad-scale vegetation mapping of the survey area identified the presence of E54 Sandstone Hanging Swamps (Bell 2009) which is commensurate with this community within the survey area. This was confirmed during the site surveys (Figure 3.1) and covers 2.62 ha equivalent to 2.5% of the survey area. This community occurs in depressions within the sandstone where there is impeded drainage and the groundwater aquifers occur at the surface of the Hawkesbury sandstone. This community occurred as the Leptospermum-Gleichenia Hanging Swamp variant (E54a) described by Bell (2009) and was mapped as two condition classes good (1.79 ha) (Photo 3.9) and moderate (0.83 ha) (Photo 3.10). The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.8.

Table 3.8 Characteristics of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

Conservation High – This community is commensurate with Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin significance Bioregion listed as endangered on the TSC Act. This community appears consistent with the threatened ecological community Coastal Upland Swamp listed under the EPBC Act.

Condition Good – This community is relatively undisturbed and only exhibits minor weed incursions. A dense layer of Pouched Coral Fern occurred in the understorey, with little or no over-storey present within the community. Moderate – This condition class is associated with a highly disturbed sandstone rock pavement area in the western portion of the Somersby Falls Road potential compound site. A mixed variety of sedges and herbs make up this variant. The vulnerable listed flora species Darwinia glaucophylla was also recorded from this community.

Location This community occurred in isolated patches adjoining both the south bound and north bound lanes. It occurred where the groundwater occurred at the surface from underground aquifers associated with the Hawkesbury sandstone. Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Shrub 2–4 0–5 Leptospermum juniperinum, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Hakea teretifolia and scattered individuals of Banksia ericifolia

Ground cover 1–1.5 60–100 Gleichenia dicarpa, Empodisma minor, Lepyrodia scariosa, Bauera rubioides and Gahnia sieberiana

42 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.9 Good condition Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

Photo 3.10 Moderate condition Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 43 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.7 Regrowth and native planted vegetation

The regrowth and native planted vegetation is the most common vegetation within the survey area, covering 31.98 ha, equivalent to 30% of the survey area (Figure 3.1). This area included the majority of the median strip and on the steep banks of road cuttings. This vegetation is not consistent with a native vegetation community as it is a mixture of exotic species and native species that have regenerated from the soil seed bank (Photo 3.11 and Photo 3.12). The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.9.

Table 3.9 Characteristics of regrowth and native planted vegetation

Regrowth and native planted vegetation

Conservation Low – This community is disturbed, however it does contain a number of native species that significance would provide habitat for commonly occurring fauna and flora species.

Condition Low – This community is not representative of any of the vegetation within the survey area. It contains native plantings, exotic species and regenerating vegetation from the soil seed bank.

Location This community occurs on both the north and south bound lanes road verges and within the median strip of the survey area.

Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%)

Canopy 3–6 0–60 Allocasuarina littoralis, Acacia irrorata, Banksia ericifolia, Kunzea ambigua and Acacia decurrens

Shrub 1–2.5 0–40 Leptospermum polygalifolium, Kunzea ambigua, Acacia falcata, Acacia implexa, Acacia longifolia, Pultenaea villosa, Lantana camara* and Dodonaea triquetra.

Ground cover 0.1–0.9 0–30 Eragrostis curvula*, Paspalum dilatum*, Pennisetum clandestinum*, Setaria gracilis*, Chloris gayana* and Hyparrhenia hirta*

44 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 3.11 Regrowth and native vegetation within the median strip

Photo 3.12 Regrowth native vegetation on batter of southbound lanes

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 45 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.8 Exotic grassland

The exotic grassland occurs along the road verges and areas which have been cleared as a result of the construction of the M1 Pacific Motorway and for maintenance activities (Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2). This community encompasses 18.86 ha, equivalent to 17.6% of the survey area. This vegetation is not consistent with a native vegetation community and is unlikely to regenerate due to modification high level of pasture weed incursions (Photo 3.13). The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.10.

Table 3.10 Characteristics of exotic grassland

Exotic Grassland Conservation Low – Not consistent with a native vegetation community. significance Condition Low – Had less than 25% of benchmark canopy cover and has less than 50% native ground cover. Unlikely to regenerate due to disturbance of soil profile and native seedbank. Native species recorded were colonising species are likely to have germinated as a result of wind- dispersed seed. Location This vegetation generally occurred on the road verges and where clearing had occurred for road signs and general road maintenance works. A heavily weed infested area was also identified fringing the potential Somersby Interchange compound site. Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range cover (m) (%) Shrub 0.3–2 5–20 Rubus fruticosus*, Acacia longifolia, Lantana camara* and Acacia falcata. Ground cover 0–1.5 50–90 Chloris gayana*, Melinis repens*, Eragrostis curvula*, Verbena bonariensis*, Coreopsis lanceolata* Paspalum urvillei*, Trifolium repens*, Plantago lanceolata*, Hypochaeris radicata*, Paspalum dilatum*, Pennisetum clandestinum* and Ehrharta erecta*.

Photo 3.13 Exotic grassland within median strip

46 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.2.9 Constructed dams

The constructed dams occurred along Piles Creek and adjoining the Somersby Industrial Estate (Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2). This community encompasses 0.32 ha, equivalent to 0.3% of the survey area. This vegetation is not consistent with a native vegetation community, although it does contain native emergent aquatic flora species which would provide habitat for commonly occurring waterfowl and herpetofauna (Photo 3.14). The vegetation characteristics of this community are summarised in Table 3.11.

Table 3.11 Characteristics of constructed dams

Constructed dams Conservation Low – These are constructed dams generally to collect runoff from either the existing M1 Pacific significance Motorway or for existing industrial uses. The dams provide habitat for commonly occurring fauna species such as waterfowl and herpetofauna. Condition Low – The general condition of the dams is low due to high sediment build up and the poor quality of the water. The vegetation would provide habitat for commonly occurring fauna species. Location There are five dams throughout the survey area, one adjoining Piles Creek at the Somersby interchange to the east of the south bound lanes. The second dam occurs on Piles Creek adjoining the north bound lanes next to a sand quarry. The third dam occurs adjoining the north bound lanes just south of Gindurra Road. The remaining two dams are located within the Somersby Central Industrial Park potential compound site. Strata Height Foliage Dominant species range (m) cover (%) Emergent 0.9–2 0–20 Typha orientalis, Baumea articulata and Juncus ustiatus Aquatic Terrestrial 0.1–0.8 0–40 Persicaria decipiens, Verbena bonariensis*, Pennistium clandestinum* ground layer and Ageratina adenophora*

Photo 3.14 Constructed dam on Piles Creek at the Somersby Interchange

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 47 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.3 Plant species recorded

A total of 261 plant species were recorded in the survey area during field surveys of which 221 species (85%) were native and 39 species (15%) were exotic (refer to Appendix A). The most diverse family recorded was Fabaceae with 34 species, followed by Poaceae (grasses) with 28 species and Myrtaceae with 27 species (Appendix A).

Three threatened species of plant were recorded, these included Darwinia glaucophylla, Hibbertia procumbens and Prostanthera junonis. These species are discussed further in Section 4.3.1.

3.3.1 Noxious weeds

Of the 39 exotic species that were recorded in the survey area, five species of plant are listed under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for the Gosford City Council noxious weed control area (refer to Table 3.12). Of these three species, Lantana camara*, Rubus fruiticosus* Senecio madagascariensis* are listed as a Weeds of National Significance (Australian Weeds Committee 2012). Other highly invasive species occurred abundantly, particularly along the road verges within the survey area and included: Hyparrhenia hirta *, Chloris gayana*, Bidens pilosa*, Sida rhombifolia and Coreopsis lanceolata*.

Table 3.12 Noxious weeds recorded within the survey area

Name Noxious Weeds Act 1993 control category1

Cortaderia selloana (Pampas Grass) Class 3 – The plant must be fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed and the plant must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed. Ageratina adenophora* (Crofton Weed) Lantana camara* (Lantana) Class 4 – The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a Rubus fruiticosus* (Blackberry) management plan published by the local control authority.

Senecio madagascariensis* (Fireweed)

Note: (1) Classes of noxious weed and control requirements under the Noxious Weed Act 1993; * – denotes an introduced species.

3.4 Animal species recorded

A total of 57 species of animal were recorded during field surveys (refer to Table 3.13, and Appendix B), including three threatened species; Eastern Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus orianae oceanensis), Little Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus australis) and Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) (refer to Figure 3.2). A total of 13 native mammal species were recorded. Two introduced species were also recorded, including the House Mouse* (Mus musculus) and Black Rat* (Rattus Rattus).

Table 3.13 Species of animal recorded

Group Introduced Native Total

Birds – 34 34

Mammals 2 13 15

Frogs – 3 3

Reptiles – 5 5

Total 2 55 57

48 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.5 Fauna habitats

The suitability, size and configuration of the fauna habitats correlated broadly with the vegetation communities, as summarised in Table 3.14. These areas provided habitat for a range of birds, herpetofauna and mammals, and were in good to moderate condition.

Habitat features recorded in the survey area generally included those associated with woodland, hanging swamp and planted vegetation. Specific habitat attributes of each habitat type are described in further detail in Table 3.14.

Table 3.14 Fauna habitat with corresponding habitat description

Fauna habitat description Corresponding vegetation community (refer to Section 3.2)

Woodland/open forest Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine Heathy Open Forest, Red Bloodwood –Scribbly Gum Heathy Woodland – Silvertop Ash Variant Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Fernland variant

Hanging swamp Needlebush – Banksia wet heath

Heath (variant of woodland) Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical, Red Bloodwood Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland

Aquatic habitat Constructed dams, freshwater streams/creek lines and drainage lines

Regrowth Regrowth and planted vegetation Cleared land Exotic grassland 3.5.1 Woodland/open forest

The survey area contained woodland and open forest habitat in the form of Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney Peppermint – Turpentine Heathy Open Forest and Red Bloodwood –Scribbly Gum Heathy Woodland – Silvertop Ash variant (refer to Photo 3.6). Woodland/open forest communities occurred along the length of the survey area and included species such as Eucalyptus sieberi, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera and Banksia ericifolia

Woodland/open forest within the survey area provided a range of fauna microhabitats, including various sized tree hollows, leaf litter, fallen timber, rocky shelves/ledges and a moderate shrub layer that would support a potentially diverse fauna. The condition of this habitat is considered to be good due to the variety of fauna habitat present (rock shelves, hollow trees, fallen timber and blossom resources). Mammal species recorded in this habitat included, Bush Rat, Brown Antechinus, Land Mullet and the threatened Grey-headed Flying-fox. Common bird species included New Holland Honeyeater, Silvereye, Little Wattlebird, Rainbow Lorikeet, White-browed Scrubwren and Grey Fantail.

3.5.2 Hanging swamp

Hanging Swamp habitat was identified at various locations along the survey area in the form of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath and was associated with sandstone outcrops and groundwater seeps (refer to Photo 3.9). This habitat included dense ground cover of Pouched Coral Fern (Gleichenia dicarpa) and scattered Leptospermum juniperinum, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Hakea teretifolia and Banksia ericifolia. Hanging Swamps provided moderate habitat complexity for fauna species including dense undergrowth, fallen timber and low density of tree hollows. Thus, it is considered that the hanging swamp habitat was in moderate condition. Species recorded within hanging swamp habitats included: Swamp Rat, Black Rat, Eastern Water Skink, Red-bellied Black Snake, Brown Antechinus, Brown Thornbill, Grey Fantail, Red­ browed Finch, White-browed Scrubwren.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 49 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

3.5.3 Heath

The survey area heath habitat in the form of Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland, Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant and Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland –-fernland variant (refer to Photo 3.7). Heath woodland habitat in the study area was considered to be of good value for fauna, due to the relatively intact character of this community and its contiguous nature with large expanses of habitat associated with Brisbane Water National Park in the south and Strickland State Forest in the north of the study area.

Heath communities occurred along the ridge tops and exposed slopes of the survey area and included species such as Eucalyptus haemastoma, Eucalyptus piperita and Angophora costata, and scrub layer of Banksia ericifolia, Angophora hispida, and Grevillea buxifolia. This habitat occurred with patches of dense low understorey of shrubs; particularly including high densities of members from the Proteaceae and Fabaceae families. Such microhabitat features provided potential habitat for a range of insectivorous and nectivorous birds (particularly honeyeaters) and mammals, although not recorded, including the threatened Eastern Pygmy Possum and the threatened blossom nomad of Little Lorikeet. The threatened species Grey- headed Flying Fox was recorded within this habitat at site 2. A moderate to sparse groundcover was recorded throughout with a moderate leaf litter and a moderate amount of fallen timber. Friable and non- friable sandstone rock outcropping (with varying degrees of weathering) provided ideal basking, sheltering and foraging habitat for a range of herpetofauna species, including the threatened Broad-headed Snake and Red-crowned Toadlet.

Species recorded within the heath habitat include the Bush Rat, Common Ringtail Possum, Grass Skink, Striped Marsh Frog, Brown Thornbill, Eastern Whip bird, Eastern Yellow Robin, Golden Whistler, Little Wattlebird, New Holland Honeyeater, Rufous Fantail and Yellow-faced Honeyeater. The pest fauna species of Black Rat and House Mouse were recorded in this habitat. 3.5.4 Aquatic

The survey area contained restricted areas of aquatic habitat in the form of constructed dams, freshwater streams/creek lines and drainage lines largely in the southern parts of the survey area (refer to Photo 3.14). These habitats were mostly related to the drainage controls constructed as part of the existing M1. Emergent aquatic vegetation within this habitat provided sheltering and foraging habitat for commonly occurring aquatic birds, terrestrial mammals and herptofauna. This habitat was in moderate to poor condition with species recorded in this habitat including Common Eastern Froglet, Brown Striped Frog, Eastern Water Dragon, Bush Rat, Swamp Rat, Land Mullet, Pacific Black Duck, Red-bellied Black Snake and Bush Rat.

3.5.5 Regrowth

The survey area contained a large area of regrowth and planted vegetation communities which are resultant of past disturbance during the construction of the current M1. Regrowth vegetation predominantly occurred as linear strips along the road verge of the existing M1 and within the median strip, and often lacked a suitable canopy layer. This habitat included; Allocasuarina littoralis, Banksia ericifolia, Kunzea ambigua and Acacia decurrens Leptospermum polygalifolium, Acacia implexa, and Acacia longifolia.

This habitat provided poor habitat complexity for fauna species due to lack of fallen timber, old growth hollow trees and a sparse understorey dominated by exotic species. Regrowth within the median strip experiences significant fragmentation and isolation from adjacent vegetation due to the presence of the motorway and high volumes of traffic. Utilisation of this habitat by fauna species was observed to be minimal, with the exception of highly mobile bird species.

Regrowth habitat was observed to contain a higher proportion of invasive species, including Lantana camera*. The ground cover was dominated by exotic species such as: Eragrostis curvula*, Paspalum

50 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

dilatum*, Pennisetum clandestinum*, Setaria gracilis*, Chloris gayana* and Hyparrhenia hirta*. Minimal fallen timber and woody debris was observed within this habitat.

Species recorded within this habitat included Grass Skink, Silvereye, Superb Fairy-wren and Willie Wagtail.

3.5.6 Cleared land

Cleared land areas provided limited habitat for fauna and essentially occurred as maintained road corridor easements and paddocks. Cleared land lacked a range of fauna habitat features such as tree hollows, leaf litter, fallen timber and a moderate shrub layer that would support potentially diverse fauna. The condition of this habitat was considered poor due to the removal of microhabitat structures through clearing and maintenance practices. Fauna species recorded in this habitat include the Grass Skink, Willie Wagtail and Australian Magpie.

3.6 Fauna microhabitats

Table 3.15 describes fauna microhabitats recorded during habitat assessments in each fauna stratification unit.

3.6.1 Hollow tree resources

Sixteen of the 41 threatened fauna species that are considered to have potential habitat in the survey area use hollow tree resources for breeding and roosting. While many attributes of tree hollows may be selected by hollow using species, such as hollow depth, entrance size and hollow type (Goldingay 2009), hollows are more likely to occur and be used by wildlife in large trees that are many decades or even centuries old (Goldingay 2009). Within the survey area there was a relatively low density of trees with hollows. Both dead trees and living trees within the survey area contained small to medium sized hollows that may be used as roosting or maternity sites by hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats, possums and birds.

3.6.2 Feeding resources

Fauna occurring in the locality are likely to use a range of foraging resources. Flora species in the survey area provided a variety of foraging resources from a range of species that together would flower throughout the year. However, at the time of the survey, few species showed significant flowering. Given the relatively large tracts of native vegetation adjacent to the proposal area, feeding resources contained within the proposal area would only provide a small proportion of that available to fauna in the proposal locality.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 51 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 3.15 Fauna microhabitats

Microhabitat Fauna habitat stratification attributes Woodland/open forest Heath Hanging swamp Aquatic habitat Regrowth Cleared land

Upper canopy Included Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus haemastoma, Absent Absent Allocasuarina littoralis, Absent Corymbia gummifera, Corymbia gummifera, Banksia ericifolia, Angophora costata, Angophora costata Kunzea ambigua and Syncarpia glomulifera Eucalyptus piperita and Acacia decurrens Eucalyptus capitellata. Banksia ericifolia, Acacia elata, Leptospermum polygalifolium and Allocasuarina littoralis

Shrub layer Included Banksia ericifolia, Grevillea buxifolia, Leptospermum Absent Leptospermum Rubus fruticosus*, Philotheca buxifolia, Persoonia levis, Acacia juniperinum, polygalifolium, Kunzea Acacia longifolia, Petrophile pulchella, Hakea oxycedrus, Leptospermum Leptospermum ambigua, Acacia Lantana camara* and teretifolia, Persoonia levis, trinervium, Platysace polygalifolium, falcata, Acacia Acacia falcata. Hakea sericea, linearifolia, Hakea Hakea teretifolia implexa, Acacia Leptospermum teretifolia and Boronia and scattered longifolia, Pultenaea polygalifolium Acacia ledifolia, Angophora individuals of villosa, Lantana longissima, Grevillea hispida, Banksia ericifolia camara* and buxifolia, Acacia ulicifolia Dodonaea triquetra.

Grasses, herbs, Entolasia stricta, Actinotus Xanthorrhoea resinfera, Gleichenia dicarpa, Typha orientalis, Eragrostis curvula*, Chloris gayana*, forbs, sedges, and minor, Lepyrodia scariosa, Lomandra longifolia, Empodisma minor, Baumea articulata and Paspalum dilatum*, Melinis repens*, rushes Billardiera scandens, Anisopogon avenaceus, Lepyrodia scariosa, Juncus ustiatus Pennisetum Eragrostis curvula*, Lepidosperma laterale, Pultenaea rosmarinifolia, Bauera rubioides clandestinum*, Setaria Verbena bonariensis*, Caustis flexuosa, Lomandra Entolasia stricta and and Gahnia gracilis*, Chloris Coreopsis lanceolata* obliqua, Euryomyrtus Actinotus minor. sieberiana gayana* and Paspalum urvillei*, ramosissima subsp. Hyparrhenia hirta* Trifolium repens*, ramosissima, Doryanthes Plantago lanceolata*, excelsa Hypochaeris radicata*, Paspalum dilatum*, Pennisetum clandestinum* and Ehrharta erecta*.

Leaf litter 50–75% 30–50% <5% Absent Generally absent Absent

Fallen timber Present Present Present Present Generally absent Absent

52 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Microhabitat Fauna habitat stratification attributes Woodland/open forest Heath Hanging swamp Aquatic habitat Regrowth Cleared land

Tree hollows and Present Present Generally absent Absent Absent Absent stags

Rocks and rock Present Present Present Present Present Absent shelves

Drainage lines Generally occurred as Absent Occurred as Present in the form of Absent Absent and water bodies ephemeral and intermittent groundwater a man made dam/weir freshwater creeks and seeps/soaks on which fed a creek line drainage lines, often edges of sandstone passing through the associated with the drainage cuttings or on survey area. for the M1. sandstone ridges.

Overall Good Good Moderate Poor Poor Poor condition

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 53 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.1a Vegetation communities

54 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.1b Vegetation communities

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 55 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.1c Vegetation communities

56 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.1d Vegetation communities

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 57 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.1e Vegetation communities

58 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 3.2 Vegetation communities – ancillary sites

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 59 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

4. Threatened biodiversity recorded

4.1 Threatened ecological communities

Threatened ecological communities (critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable) are listed under the TSC Act and EPBC Act. No threatened communities under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) have been recorded within the Hunter Central Rivers or Hawkesbury-Nepean CMAs.

Results from the database searches indicated that 16 threatened communities were predicted to occur within the survey area. Two of the identified plant community types within the survey area are considered to be commensurate with threatened ecological communities and are outlined in Table 4.1 and their location is shown on Figure 3.1.

Table 4.1 Threatened ecological communities recorded in the survey area

Plant community type Threatened ecological community TSC Act EPBC Act

Needlebush – Banksia wet heath Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Endangered Endangered Basin Bioregion

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Endangered – woodland – Silvertop Ash variant Sydney Basin Bioregion 4.1.1 Coastal Upland Swamp

Coastal Upland Swamp is a threatened ecological community listed as endangered under both State and Commonwealth legislation. This vegetation type is typically an open heath, sedgeland with tall scrub associated with periodically waterlogged acidic soils (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007b)

Within the Gosford Local Government Area (LGA), Coastal Upland Swamps have been mapped collectively as Map Unit E54 Sandstone Hanging Swamp (Bell 2009). Of this vegetation type four distinct variants have been identified that include:

 E54a – Leptospermum – Gleichenia hanging swamp  E54b – Gymnoschoenus – Banksia – Sprengelia hanging swamp  E54c – Banksia – Hakea – Gleichenia – Callistemon hanging swamp  E54d – Lepyrodia – Schoenus – Lepidosperma hanging swamp.

Coastal Upland Swamp vegetation was identified at various locations along the survey area in the form of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath and is generally associated with sandstone outcrops and groundwater seeps. The dominant ground layer species recorded is Gleichenia dicarpa that in many patches forms a dense mono specific cover. A sparse shrub layer of Leptospermum juniperinum, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Hakea teretifolia and scattered individuals of Banksia ericifolia were recorded.

The Coastal Upland Swamp vegetation within the survey area is generally consistent with E54a – Leptospermum – Gleichenia hanging swamp as described by Bell (2009). Within the Somersby region threats to this community have been identified to include land clearing, weed invasion and alteration of hydrology due to road building (Bell 2005).

60 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Collectively a total extant area of 360.69 ha of E54 Sandstone Hanging Swamp has been recorded within the Gosford LGA (Bell 2009). Of this, approximately 200 ha has been recorded within national park, state forest and crown land estates. A total of 5,360 ha of Coastal Upland Swamp has been mapped within the greater Sydney Basin bioregion {NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, 2014 #3782}.

Whilst, this endangered ecological community will not be directly impacted upon, a significance assessment has been prepared for this community for indirect impacts that may occur, as this community is groundwater dependant and any impacts to groundwater may impact this community. This assessment is provided in Appendix G.

4.1.2 Duffys Forest

The final determination for Duffys Forest states that this community has been reported from the Warringah, Pittwater, Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and Manly LGAs, although indicates that it may occur elsewhere in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2011). The Study area is located within the Sydney Basin bioregion and the Gosford LGA, Bell (2009) identifies vegetation community E26d Somersby Plateau Woodland as exhibiting strong similarities to the endangered community Duffys Forest although clearly states that ‘without a more comprehensive analysis of sample data from both the Somersby and northern Sydney areas, it is difficult to be certain of the true relationships between the two areas’

Notwithstanding the uncertainty over the presence of Duffy Forest within the Gosford LGA, the floristic composition of the Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant along with underlying soils and geology indicate a high probability that this community is representative of Duffys Forest. In this case a precautionary measure has been taken and for the purpose of this study it has been identified as being commensurate with this threatened ecological community.

A significance assessment has been prepared for this community and is provided in Appendix G.

4.2 Threatened populations

Two endangered populations are listed to occur within the survey area: Eucalyptus oblonga population at Bateau Bay, Forresters Beach and Tumbi Umbi in the Wyong LGA and Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis in Wyong and Lake Macquarie local government areas. However neither of these species were recorded during surveys, nor have habitat identified within the survey area. No other endangered populations are considered to occur within the survey area.

4.3 Threatened species

4.3.1 Flora

The field surveys identified three threatened flora as being recorded within the ecological survey area and within the vicinity of the proposal area. These threatened species are outlined in Table 4.2 below and shown in Figure 4.1. Whilst further threatened species of flora had habitat within the survey area these species were not recorded despite targeted surveys being undertaken within the flowering period (refer Appendix C).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 61 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 4.2 Threatened flora species recorded within the ecological survey area

Scientific name Common name TSC act status2 EPBC act status1

Darwinia glaucophylla – Vulnerable –

Hibbertia procumbens Spreading Guinea Flower Endangered –

Prostanthera junonis Somersby Mintbush Endangered Endangered

Note: (1) Listed as vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the EPBC Act. (2) Listed as an endangered population (EP), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the TSC Act.

4.3.1.1 Darwinia glaucophylla

This species was located at Kariong on the ridgetops of the cuttings of the Kariong Interchange exit ramp (Figure 3.2 and Photo 4.1). The species was recorded on the western side of the north bound Kariong Interchange exit ramp and in native vegetation between the northbound Kariong Interchange exit ramp and the north bound lanes of the Motorway. Some of the plants were growing on sandstone outcrops on the edge of the cuttings high walls (Photo 4.2). Several individuals were recorded growing on top of the cement drain adjoining the Motorway.

A specimen of this species was forwarded to the Royal Botanical Gardens for confirmation of identification and was confirmed as being Darwinia glaucophylla. A total of 172 plants were identified during the survey from 52 GPS points. This species was observed generally growing on rock outcrops in mats (Photo 4.1). This species is known to hybridise with a similar species Darwinia fascicularis and hybrid individuals are identified by their erect habit (Harden 2002; Royal Botanic Gardens 2014a). Erect individuals were not included in the Darwinia glaucophylla counts with only the stunted glaucous individuals counted as Darwinia glaucophylla. The plant community types that contained habitat for this species consisted of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant and Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland as mapped throughout the survey area.

Raw data for GPS points and further information can be found in the targeted ecological surveys report for the proposal (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

An additional recording of this species was identified within Needlebush – Banksia wet heath (Moderate) vegetation in the central portion of the potential compound site on Lot 2, DP730196 (Wisemans Ferry Road. No additional survey or assessment of this species was undertaken for Lot 2 DP730196 as the land is subject to an assumed concurrence issued by the former NSW Department of Environment and Conservation that allows for the removal of this species from this site. In addition, it is assumed for the purpose of this assessment that construction compound sites will be established within existing cleared land and will not result in the removal of any additional native vegetation, threatened species or their habitats.

A total of 13 individuals of this species will be removed as part of the proposal. A further 160 will be retained within the survey area. A significance assessment for this species is provided in Appendix G.

62 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Photo 4.1 Darwinia glaucophylla growing on sandstone outcropping

Photo 4.2 Darwinia glaucophylla growing on high wall on the north bound Gosford off ramp

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 63 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

4.3.1.2 Hibbertia procumbens

This species was recorded at three locations within the survey area (Figure 3.2 and Photo 4.3). A total of 27 individuals were recorded during the field survey from 16 GPS points. A total of 13 individuals were identified within an electricity easement adjoining the south bound Somersby Interchange exit ramp. A further 12 were recorded adjoining the south bound lanes, within an electricity easement, of the Motorway to the south of Stoney Creek. One individual was recorded at the Kariong Interchange on an unformed track between the south bound lanes of the Motorway and the south bound Kariong Interchange exit ramp. One individual was recorded within the regrowth and planted vegetation within the median strip.

This species was found on tracks and within electricity easements adjoining the forested areas on sandy substrates. The main plant community types associated with Hibbertia procumbens included Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash Variant, Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant, Regrowth and Planted Vegetation and Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland as mapped within the survey area.

Raw data for GPS points and further information can be found in the Targeted Ecological Surveys Report for the proposal (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

It should be noted that this species is included within the assumed concurrence issued by the former NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, now NSW OEH, that exists over the entire Somersby Industrial Estate. Given all potential construction compound sites identified within the Somersby Industrial Estate lands will be positioned outside identified management zones and restricted to existing cleared areas no further consideration of this species is warranted for the Somersby Central Industrial Park and Wiseman Ferry Road construction compound sites. One individual of this species will be removed within the median strip of the M1 as part of the proposal. A significance assessment for this species has been completed in Appendix G.

Photo 4.3 Hibbertia procumbens

64 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

4.3.1.3 Prostanthera junonis

Prostanthera junonis was recorded at two locations within the survey area (Photo 4.4).

A total of two individuals were recorded (Figure 3.2) on the top of cuttings approximately 1 km south of Peats Ridge Road, adjoining both the south and north bound lanes of the Motorway (Figure 3.2).

This species was identified from the similar species Hemigenia purpurea by the two lipped calyx, opposite leaves and widely spaced leaf arrangement. A specimen of this Prostanthera junonis was forwarded to the Royal Botanical Gardens for confirmation of identification and was confirmed as being Prostanthera junonis (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

Photo 4.4 Prostanthera junonis

The individual of this species adjoining the south bound lanes of the Motorway was recorded within an unformed track and is currently being affected by vehicle traffic from the adjoining electricity easement. The specimen adjoining the north bound lanes of the Motorway was growing on the top of a cement drain installed for the cutting. Neither specimen will be impacted by the proposal.

This species was growing on sandy soil within the vegetation community of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant as mapped within the survey area. Further information can be found in the targeted ecological surveys report for the proposal (Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014).

It should be noted that this species is included within the assumed concurrence issued by the former NSW Department of Environment and Conservation that exists over the entire Somersby Industrial Estate. Given all potential construction compound sites identified within the Somersby Industrial Estate lands will be positioned outside identified management zones and restricted to existing cleared areas no further consideration of this species is warranted for the Somersby Central Industrial Park and Wiseman Ferry Road construction compound sites.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 65 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

The two individuals of this species recorded within the survey area will be retained as part of the proposal. Unoccupied habitat for this species will be removed as part of the proposal and therefore a significance assessment has been undertaken in Appendix G.

Impact assessments have been prepared for these three threatened species and are provided in Appendix G.

66 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.1a Threatened flora and fauna

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 67 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.1b Threatened flora and fauna

68 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.1c Threatened flora and fauna

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 69 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.1d Threatened flora and fauna

70 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.1e Threatened flora and fauna

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 71 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

4.3.2 Fauna

Three threatened species; Grey-headed Flying-fox, Little Bent-wing Bat and Eastern Bent-wing Bat were recorded during the field surveys (refer to Figure 3.2 and Table 4.3). Two Grey-headed Flying-foxes were observed feeding in vegetation adjacent to the survey area. Little Bent-wing Bat and Eastern Bent-wing Bat were recorded via Anabat detection. The three bat species utilise large areas for foraging and are unlikely to rely upon resources contained within the survey area.

Although not recorded during surveys informing this report, the Square-tailed Kite (Hill 2011), Eastern False Pipistrelle, Glossy-black Cockatoo, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Giant Burrowing Frog, Red-crowned Toadlet and Koala have been previously recorded within, or in the immediate vicinity of the survey area (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014a).

Table 4.3 Threatened fauna species recorded during the current field surveys

Common name Scientific name EPBC TSC Act2 Act1

Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus V V

Little Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus australis – V

Eastern Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis – V

Note: (1) Listed as migratory (M), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the EPBC Act. (2) Listed as an endangered population (EP), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the TSC Act.

An additional 38 threatened fauna species (Table 4.4) are recognised to have moderate or high likelihood of occurrence but were not recorded during the current surveys, within the survey area. Significance assessments have been prepared for a total of 41 threatened species recorded, or with or moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the survey area, full assessments are provided in Appendix G.

Table 4.4 Threatened fauna species assessed to have a moderate or greater likelihood of occurrence in the survey area

Common name Scientific name EPBC TSC FM Act3 Act1 Act2

Frogs

Giant Burrowing Frog* Heleioporus australiacus V V –

Littlejohn's Tree Frog, Heath Frog Litoria littlejohni V V –

Stuttering Frog Mixophyes balbus V E –

Giant Barred Frog Mixophyes iteratus E E –

Red-crowned Toadlet* Pseudophryne australis – V –

Birds of prey

Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides – V –

Square-tailed Kite* Lophoictinia isura – V –

Birds – Forest owls

Barking Owl Ninox connivens – V –

Powerful Owl Ninox strenua – V –

Masked Owl (southern mainland) Tyto novaehollandiae novaehollandiae – V –

Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa – V –

72 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Common name Scientific name EPBC TSC FM Act3 Act1 Act2

Birds – Woodland

Black-chinned Honeyeater (eastern Melithreptus gularis gularis – V – subspecies)

Scarlet Robin Petroica boodang – V –

Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera – V –

Birds – Cockatoos

Gang-gang Cockatoo Callocephalon fimbriatum – V –

Glossy Black-Cockatoo* Calyptorhynchus lathami – V –

Opportunistic Blossom Nomads

Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla – V –

Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor E E –

Regent Honeyeater Anthochaera phrygia EM CE –

Invertebrates

Adam's Emerald Dragonfly Archaeophya adamsi – – E

Giant Dragonfly Petalura gigantea – E E

Mammals Eastern Pygmy-possum Cercartetus nanus – V – Spotted-Tailed Quoll (Southern Dasyurus maculatus maculatus E V – Subspecies)*

Squirrel Glider Petaurus norfolcensis – V –

Koala (NSW, ACT & QLD ­ Phascolarctos cinereus V V – excluding SE QLD)*

Common Planigale Planigale maculata – V –

Long-nosed Potoroo (SE mainland) Potorous tridactylus tridactylus V V –

Microchiropteran bats

Large-eared Pied Bat Chalinolobus dwyeri V V –

Eastern False Pipistrelle* Falsistrellus tasmaniensis – V –

Eastern Freetail-bat Micronomus norfolkensis (syn. – V – Mormopterus norfolkensis)

Southern Myotis Myotis macropus – V –

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat Saccolaimus flaviventris – V –

Greater Broad-nosed Bat Scoteanax rueppellii – V –

Eastern Cave Bat Vespadelus troughtoni – V –

Reptiles

Pale-headed Snake Hoplocephalus bitorquatus – V –

Broad-headed Snake Hoplocephalus bungaroides V E1 –

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 73 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Common name Scientific name EPBC TSC FM Act3 Act1 Act2

Stephen's Banded Snake Hoplocephalus stephensii – V –

Heath Monitor (Rosenberg's Varanus rosenbergi – V – Goanna)

Note 1: Listed as migratory (M), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the EPBC Act. 2: Listed as an endangered population (EP), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the TSC Act. 3. Listed as (E) Endangered under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) * Species previously recorded within or in immediate vicinity of the survey area (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014a) and (Hill 2011).

4.4 Migratory species

Migratory species are protected under international agreements, to which Australia is a signatory, including JAMBA, CAMBA, RoKAMBA and the Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. Migratory species are considered Matters of NES and are protected under the EPBC Act.

One migratory species listed under the EPBC Act, Rufous Fantail, was recorded in the survey area during field surveys (Appendix B and Figure 3.2). However, this individual was considered to be a passage migrant given that this species breeds in wet sclerophyll forests, which did not form part of the habitats contained in the survey area. A further five species listed as migratory under the EPBC Act were identified with a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the survey area (refer to Table 4.5).

Of the six migratory birds species listed in Table 4.5 as having a moderate or greater chance of occurrence within the survey area, two (Fork-tailed Swift and White-throated Needletail) are not considered likely to use the site, but may occur intermittently in the airways over the survey area during broad foraging movement throughout the region.

Table 4.5 Migratory fauna species assessed to have a moderate or greater likelihood of occurrence in the survey area

Common Name Scientific name EPBC Act1 TSC Act2

Fork-tailed Swift Apus pacificus M –

White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus M –

Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus M –

Black-faced Monarch Monarcha melanopsis M –

Satin Flycatcher Myiagra cyanoleuca M –

Rufous Fantail Rhipidura rufifrons M –

Note: 1: Listed as migratory (M), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the EPBC Act 2: Listed as an endangered population (EP), vulnerable (V), endangered (E) or critically endangered (CE) under the TSC Act.

While some migratory bird species may use habitat within the survey area, the site cannot be classed as ‘important habitat’ as defined by the EPBC Act Policy Statement 1.1 Significant Impact Guidelines ((Department of Environment 2013)) as the site did not contain:

 habitat utilised by a migratory species occasionally or periodically within a region that supports an ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species  habitat that is of critical importance to the species at particular life-cycle stages  habitat utilised by a migratory species which is at the limit of the species range  habitat within an area where the species is declining.

74 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

As such, it is not likely that the proposal would significantly affect terrestrial migratory species and this group is not considered further.

4.5 Groundwater dependent ecosystems

Groundwater dependant ecosystems (GDEs) are communities of plants, animals and other organisms whose extent and life processes are dependent on groundwater (Department of Land and Water Conservation 2002). When considering GDEs, groundwater is generally defined as the saturated zone of the regolith (the layer of loose rock resting on bedrock, constituting the surface of most land) and its associated capillary fringe, however it excludes soil water held under tension in soil pore spaces (the unsaturated zone or vadose zone) (Eamus et al. 2006).

GDEs include a diverse range of ecosystems as shown in Figure 4.2. These ecosystems range from those entirely dependent on groundwater to those that may use groundwater while not having a dependency on it for survival (i.e. ecosystems or organisms that use groundwater opportunistically or as a supplementary source of water) (Hatton & Evans 1998). Serov et al. (2012) considers the following broad classes of these ecosystems:

 Subsurface Ecosystems, which include the following:  Karst and cave ecosystems, where stygofauna (groundwater-inhabiting organisms) may reside within the groundwater resource.  Subsurface phreatic aquifer ecosystems, ecosystems which support invertebrate, microbial species and occasionally vertebrate species. These hypogean species exist in a continuum of different types of aquifers including kartic, cave, porous and fissued aquifers, and can exist been the subsurface and surface water.  Subsurface baseflow streams or hyporheic zones (see ecosystem 5 in Figure 4.2) of rivers and floodplains are also included in this category because these ecotones often support stygobites (obligate groundwater inhabitants).

 Surface Ecosystems, which include the following:  Groundwater dependant wetlands – these wetlands exist at the boundary of the surface water and groundwater systems.  Baseflow streams (surface water ecosystems).  Estuarine and near shore marine ecosystems.  Phreatophytes – Groundwater dependent terrestrial ecosystems, these GDEs can be dependent upon groundwater intermittently or permanently depending upon the groundwater table level. Groundwater is often accessed via the capillary fringe (non-saturated zone above the saturated zone of the water table) when roots penetrate this zone. Roots can be shallow or deep (eg River Red Gum) Forest on the Murray–Darling basin (see ecosystems 1 and 4 in Figure 4.2). No surface expression of groundwater is required in this class of groundwater dependant ecosystems.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 75 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Figure 4.2 Conceptual biophysical model of groundwater dependent ecosystems

GDEs possess a range of values, including being important and sometimes rare ecosystems in themselves, as well as providing important ecosystem services such as water purification (Department of Land and Water Conservation 2002). Groundwater is also an increasingly important resource for human uses in Australia (there was a 90 per cent increase in groundwater extraction between 1985 and 1997 (National Land and Water Resources Audit 2001). Nationally groundwater is extracted for uses including irrigation (48%), urban and industrial use (33%) and stock watering and rural use (19%) (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2001).

The potential for groundwater extraction to exceed recharge has resulted in awareness of the effects of groundwater availability or regimes that may result in adverse impacts to groundwater dependent ecosystems (2003), and thereby threaten the values they provide.

4.5.1 Legislation

Due to the concern of the impacts upon groundwater dependent ecosystems several levels of legislation have been developed. These include state legislation and state planning polices and these include the following:

 Water Management Act 2000 in which the Minister for Land and Water Conservation manages and controls the extraction of groundwater. Section 5(2)a of the Act relates to protection of water source: and Section 5(2)c relates to water quality. Both of these sections of the Act would directly relate to GDEs as both water quality and quantity would impact upon these ecosystems.

 The NSW State Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Policy (2002) has been developed to protect ecosystems which have a reliance on groundwater for survival. This document outlines a rapid assessment process which is used for identifying and valuing GDEs which assists in the management of GDEs at a state level.

 Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems Assessment, Registration and Scheduling of High Priority (Department of Land and Water Conservation 2006). This document was written by Department of Land and Water Conservation and was developed to classify GDEs in order of priority of protection.

76 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

 Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems, consisting of four volumes (Kuginis et al. 2012a; Kuginis et al. 2012b; Serov et al. 2012; Williams et al. 2012). These documents were commissioned by the Department of Primary Industries – Office of Water as part of the National Water Commission Coastal Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Project. This project was commissioned to gain further information on the Coastal GDE environment to support ecological and dependency evaluations for GDEs.

The above documents have been used in this report to assist in the identification and will in future be used to assess of the impacts upon GDEs within the survey area.

4.5.2 Aquifer type present within the survey area

The geology of the survey area consists of Hawkesbury Sandstone which is highly porous. The Hawkesbury Sandstone is part of a large sedimentary basin of sandstone which is interspersed with beds of shale, siltstone and coal with consolidated sand. Therefore the aquifer type is classified as a Consolidated Porous Sedimentary Sandstone Aquifer as outlined in Volume 1 of the Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems (Serov et al. 2012).

4.5.3 GDEs in the survey area

Whether or not ecosystems show some level of groundwater dependence will depend, in part, on their location in the landscape relative to the level of groundwater. Within the survey area, the groundwater level is likely variable as a result of sedimentary rock groundwater systems which is associated with the Hawkesbury sandstone.

Dependence (or interaction) of the vegetation communities identified in the survey area on groundwater was determined by aligning them with the groundwater dependant ecosystem types identified by the Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems, Volume 1 (Serov et al. 2012).

Two plant community types have been determined as being groundwater dependent that occur within the survey area.

Table 4.6 Plant community types dependency upon ground water

Plant community type1 (Bell, GDE type Subtype 1 Subtype 2 Dependency 2009 equivalent) on Groundwater2

Needlebush – Banksia wet heath Groundwater Upland Upland Known (Sandstone Hanging Swamp) Dependant Wetlands Environments Hanging Swamps

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Phreatophytes – Not Identified Not Identified Intermittently Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland Groundwater (Hawkesbury Banksia Scrub – Dependant terrestrial Woodland) vegetation

1) Vegetation Communities as per Parsons Brinckerhoff Vegetation communities described in Section 3.2 of this report. 2) Known groundwater dependency as per (Eamus et al. 2006).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 77 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

5. Impacts of the proposal

The proposal would be likely to have both direct and indirect impacts on biodiversity during both the construction and operation phases (refer to Table 5.1). These impacts are described in more detail below.

Table 5.1 Potential impacts of the proposal on biodiversity

Impacts of the proposal on biodiversity Construction Operation

Vegetation/habitat clearing •

Fragmentation and connectivity • •

Noise impacts on fauna • •

Weed invasion • •

Increase in edge effects •

Hydrological changes • •

Increased erosion and sedimentation of water bodies • •

Aquatic disturbance • •

Increase in fauna mortality • • Increase in key threatening processes • •

5.1 Vegetation and habitat clearing

Clearing of native vegetation is listed as a key threatening process under both the NSW TSC Act and the Commonwealth EPBC Act. Under the TSC Act, native vegetation is made up of plant communities, comprising primarily indigenous species. Clearing is defined as the destruction of a sufficient proportion of one or more strata layers within a stand or stands of native vegetation so as to result in the loss, or long-term modification, of the structure, composition and ecological function of a stand or stands (NSW Scientific Committee 2001).

Construction of the proposal will require the clearing of vegetation and habitats as summarised in Table 5.2. This includes a loss/disturbance of habitat features, such as hollow bearing trees, fallen timber and aquatic habitats. The remaining vegetation within the survey area consists of disturbed vegetation and the loss of this vegetation would only be minor due to a general lack of fauna microhabitats recorded in the survey area. The estimates of vegetation clearing provided below are based on the proposal’s concept design, which has been modified and refined to reduce impacts where practicable.

Impacts of the proposal include the likely loss of a relatively small number of hollow-bearing trees. It is considered that the proposal’s impacts are not likely to represent a significant loss of hollow-bearing trees, due to the linear strip of habitat to be removed and the likely abundance of similar or better quality habitat adjacent to the proposal area; particularly including Strickland State Forest and Brisbane Water National Park.

Approximately 12.49 ha of native vegetation (not including exotic grassland) will be impacted by the proposal, including approximately 0.01 ha of Duffy’s Forest EEC (Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop ash variant).

78 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 5.2 Potential loss of vegetation within the proposal area

Vegetation community/Fauna Extent Vegetation Vegetation Percentage Percentage habitat within clearing extent within clearing as clearing as per survey (ha) Gosford per OEH OEH database area (ha) (extent in Local database type in the proposal Government type in the Hunter Central area) Area Bell Hawkesbury- Rivers 2009 (ha) Nepean Catchment (%) Catchment (%)

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Silvertop ash 7.60 0.01 574.66 25 25 variant (Duffy’s Forest EEC)1

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum 26.1 0.22 19,068.86 25 25 heathy woodland – Atypical variant

Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum 2 2.24 0.01 – 25 25 heathy woodland – Fernland variant

Smooth-barked Apple – Sydney peppermint – Turpentine heathy 6.35 0.07 11,925.33 30 30 open forest

Scribbly Gum – Hairpin banksia – 10.54 0.11 4,330.01 30 30 Dwarf apple heathy woodland

Needlebush – Banksia wet heath 1 2.62 – 360.69 10 10 (Coastal upland swamp EEC)

Regrowth and native planted 31.98 12.10 622.26 – – vegetation

Exotic grassland 18.86 14.83 3,390.32 – –

Constructed dams 0.32 – – – –

Total 106.61 27.35 – – –

Total area of EEC 10.22 0.01 – – –

Woodland 13.95 0.08 – – –

Hanging swamp 2.62 – – – –

Heath 38.89 0.34 – – –

Aquatic 0.32 – – – –

Regrowth 31.98 12.10 – – –

Cleared land (exotic grassland) 18.86 14.83 – – –

Total Fauna Habitat 106.61 27.35 – – –

(1) Endangered Ecological Community as listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. (2) Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland –Fenland Variant has not been assigned an extant area as insufficient data is available for this community Bell 2009.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 79 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

5.1.1 Indirect impacts to retained vegetation

In addition to the direct loss of vegetation through clearing, indirect impacts that may result to vegetation to be retained include:

 unintentional damage or removal during tree trimming and clearing or movement of plant and equipment  the introduction of noxious weed species not currently known from the locality on construction plant and equipment. In particular, the introduction of Class 1 or Class 2 noxious weeds  the introduction of soil pathogens  soil contamination resulting from fuel spills or other sources of contamination.

5.2 Hydrogeological changes

Modifications to existing drainage lines and waterway crossings, such as culverts, could modify the natural and constructed hydrology of existing seeps, creeks and drainage lines, which have formed around batters and along linear infrastructure in the survey area. Changes to these existing habitats could ultimately affect the aquatic assemblages that use the area (Fairfull & Witheridge 2003). The proposal will not require the installation of additional culverts or water crossings, rather existing stormwater drainage would be improved to provide greater wet weather safety. Sediment runoff during construction has the potential to introduce storm flow and increase suspended solids in adjacent streams and drainage lines. Further, it is likely that roadway runoff intensity would increase and any drainage design or improvements to existing structures would need to consider the existing receiving environment. 5.3 Aquatic disturbance Within the proposal area, the existing M1 Motorway traverses two creek lines (Narara Creek and Piles Creek) while several other creek lines (Stoney Creek, Fountain Creek and Hunter Creek) have their head waters adjacent to the proposal area (refer Figure 1.1). Indirect impacts would be associated with these crossings. Other aquatic habitats in the survey area consisted of constructed dams, which largely occurred in the southern portion of the survey area. These habitats were often largely related to the drainage controls constructed as part of the existing M1.

During construction, run-off from disturbed surfaces could potentially affect water quality in adjacent creeks and drainage lines due to sedimentation. In addition, there is the potential for accidental spillage/leakage of road construction materials including fuels, lubricants and hydraulic oils from construction plant and equipment.

During operation, increased paved surfaces associated with the proposal would likely result in an increase in stormwater run-off volumes and flows. This could potentially increase flow velocities in drainage lines downstream of the Motorway, although this is not likely to be significant.

5.4 Fragmentation and connectivity

Habitat fragmentation is the division of a single area of habitat into two or more smaller areas, with the occurrence of a new habitat type in the area between the fragments. This new dividing habitat is often artificial and inhospitable to the species remaining within the fragments ((Bennett 1990),(Johnson et al. 2007)). Although newly created habitat is generally used by some species, those species are usually generalists and are often aggressive (i.e. Noisy Miners (Grey et al. 1998)), further decreasing population levels of the species remaining in the fragments. Habitat fragmentation can result in a number of impacts including, barrier effects to the movement of small and sedentary fauna such as ground-dwelling mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Habitat fragmentation can also create barriers to the movement of pollinator vectors, such as insects, thereby affecting the lifecycle of both common and threatened flora.

80 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Within the proposal locality, key wildlife corridors are associated with the large contiguous tracts of native vegetation of Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Land immediately to the west of the survey area is highly fragmented due to historical clearing for agricultural tenures/rural blocks and industrial developments; although a number of native vegetation remnants therein provide small wildlife corridors from the western extent of the survey area to Brisbane Water National Park in the west. Land occurring to the east of the survey area is somewhat more heavily vegetated and is associated with Strickland State Forest and bushland reserves in the north and Brisbane Water National Park in the south (Kariong Interchange).

Small ground-dwelling mammals, gliding mammals, reptiles and amphibians are species likely to occur in proposal’s survey area that may be affected by fragmentation and loss of connectivity. The proposal would remove about 12.5 ha of native vegetation (including 12.1 ha of regrowth and native planted vegetation) along the proposal’s approximate 8 km alignment. Thus, due to the linear nature of the proposal, the proposal essentially encroaches on vegetation at the interface of the existing M1 Motorway; with the majority of native vegetation to be impacted occurring within the median strip of the existing M1 Motorway.

Vegetation in the survey area is already fragmented by the existing M1 Motorway, clearing for surrounding agricultural tenures and industrial developments (particularly in the southern portion of the survey area). Due to the disturbed nature of the survey area, the construction and operation of proposal would not fragment or sever connectivity of habitats in the locality any more than that which currently exists. However, the proposal would add to the existing barrier (existing M1 Motorway) in the landscape, adding incrementally to isolation of habitat.

5.5 Noise and vibration impacts on fauna It is likely that the existing M1 Motorway and its high traffic volumes would already impact background levels of noise in the survey area. Further, industrial operations that largely occur in the southern portion of the survey area would also add to background levels of noise. Notwithstanding this, construction phases of the proposal (along with its ancillary activities) may cause temporary disturbance to animals. The impacts from noise emissions are likely to be localised close to the proposal (up to 100 m) and are not likely to have a significant long-term impact on wildlife populations, given that populations are already exposed to noise associated with the existing M1. Furthermore, it is considered likely that most animal species will habituate to periodic noise disturbance from regular maintenance activities (Forman et al. 2000; Larkin 2005).

5.6 Weeds

The proposal has the potential to further disperse weeds into areas of native vegetation within the survey area, particularly adjacent to cleared areas and the road corridor. The existing exotic grassland community had a high diversity of exotic species.

The survey area also includes five weed species listed under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for the Gosford City Council noxious weed control area (see Section 3.3): Ageratina adenophora*, Cortaderia selloana*, Lantana camara*, Rubus fruiticosus* and Senecio madagascariensis*. The latter three are also recognised as Weeds of National Significance.

Invasion of exotic perennial grasses, such as Hyparrhenia hirta* and Chloris gayana* that were recorded abundantly within the survey area, is recognised as a key threatening process under the TSC Act. The invasion of the exotic vine species Ipomoea cairica* is recognised as a Key Threatening Process under the TSC Act. The exotic weed species Arundo donax* is recognised as a key threatened process under the EPBC Act (see Section 5.10).

Other highly invasive species occurred abundantly, particularly along the road verges within the survey area and included: Bidens pilosa*, Sida rhombifolia and Coreopsis lanceolata*.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 81 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

The most likely causes of weed dispersal associated with the proposal would include earthworks, movement of soil and attachment of seed (and other propagules) to vehicles and machinery.

Existing disturbed vegetation (Exotic grassland and Planted Vegetation) within the survey area, however, has considerable weed growth already. Therefore, the overall extent of weed invasion is not likely to increase significantly, so long as the mitigation measure outlined in Section 6 of this report are implemented.

5.7 Edge effects

Edge effects are zones of changed environmental conditions (i.e. altered light levels, wind speed and/or temperature) occurring along the edges of habitat fragments. These new environmental conditions along the edges can promote the growth of different vegetation types and allow invasion by pest animals specialising in edge habitats and/or change the behaviour of resident animals. Edge zones can be subject to higher levels of predation by introduced mammalian predators and native avian predators. Edge effects have mainly been recorded adjacent to roads and at distances greater than 1,000 m from the road surface (Forman et al. 2000). However, Bali (2005), in a comparison of edge effects in a variety of different habitat types, estimated that average edge effects generally occur up to 50 m away from the road edge.

The planted vegetation and exotic grassland vegetation communities occurring in survey area have been extensively cleared, with remnant vegetation essentially occurring as thin linear strips adjacent to the existing road corridor. As this vegetation is already highly disturbed it is unlikely that the proposal will increase existing edge effects any more than is already occurring within the survey area.

Habitats within the proposal area that will be directly impacted by the proposal include heaths, woodlands and exotic/regrowth vegetation. However these habitats are currently being impacted upon by edge effects from the existing road corridor and exotic pasture weeds. Thus, removal of these sections of the vegetation is not likely to result in a significant increase in edge effects than is already occurring.

5.8 Potential impacts on groundwater dependent ecosystems

Dependence (or interaction) of the vegetation communities identified in the survey area on groundwater was determined by aligning them with the groundwater dependant ecosystem types identified by the Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems Assessment, Registration and Scheduling of High Priority (Department of Land and Water Conservation 2006).

Two of the native vegetation communities contained within the survey area were identified as being groundwater dependent (Table 5.3). These vegetation communities were found to occur in the survey area which would be linked to consolidated porous sedimentary sandstone aquifer groundwater systems associated with the Hawkesbury Sandstone. No groundwater aquifer or cave systems, or other potential groundwater dependant ecosystems were identified within the survey area from the field surveys and desktop assessment.

Table 5.3 Vegetation community dependency on groundwater

Plant community type1 (Bell, GDE type Class Description of Habitat2 2009 equivalent) Class1 Needlebush – Banksia wet heath Wetlands (W) W10 Hanging Swamp Epigean (Coastal Upland Swamp) Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum Riparian and terrestrial T1 Riparian vegetation Terrestrial heathy woodland – Fernland variant vegetation (T) community

1) Vegetation Communities as per Parsons Brinckerhoff Vegetation communities described in Section 3.2 of this report. 2) Known groundwater dependency as per (Eamus et al. 2006).

82 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

The survey area sits partly within Zone 1 of the Water Sharing Plan for the Kulnura Mangrove Mountain Groundwater Sources. All flows within this zone are allocated for environmental purpose.

The proposal will not require extraction of groundwater from existing alluvial aquifers: however, the proposal will require the disturbance of Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum woodland – Fernland variant (approximately 0.01 ha), which is groundwater dependent. The NSW Groundwater Dependant Policy (Department of Land and Water Conservation 2002) has five management principles to manage groundwater systems to ensure that the ecological process and biodiversity of their ecosystems are maintained or restored for the future. The proposal will result in the removal of 0.01 ha of groundwater dependent ecosystems within the proposal area, which is not in keeping with the five management principles. However, this is a small area and existing impacts are occurring as a result of the existing M1. Therefore the removal of a small area of this community is unlikely to have significant impacts upon the GDEs in the locality or the wider region.

5.9 Direct fauna mortality

Fauna injury or death could occur as a result of the proposal’s construction phase when vegetation and habitats are being cleared. Fauna injury or mortality also has the potential to occur as a result of collision with road traffic.

While some mobile species, such as birds and fish, have the potential to move away from the path of clearing, other species that are less mobile, or those that are nocturnal and restricted to tree hollows, may have difficulty moving over relatively large distances. Threatened species that may be affected by vegetation clearing include microchiropteran bats, amphibians and small mammals.

The proposal would increase the width of the existing linear road corridor generally within previously disturbed communities. This would increase the distance and area for animals to cross and negotiate, potentially increasing the extent of vehicle strikes. It is not likely that the proposal would significantly add to direct fauna mortality, which currently occurs in the existing road corridor.

5.10 Key threatening processes

Under the TSC Act and EPBC Act, a key threatening process (KTP) is defined as a process that threatens, or could threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. That is, something can be a threatening process if it:

 causes a native species or ecological community to become eligible for inclusion in a threatened species list (other than the conservation dependent category)  causes an already listed threatened species or threatened ecological community (TEC) to become more endangered  adversely affects two or more listed threatened species or TECs.

Under the FM Act, a threatening process is one that, in the opinion of the Fisheries Scientific Committee, adversely affects threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or could cause species, populations or ecological communities that are not threatened to become threatened.

The following key threatening processes are likely to be relevant to the proposal:

 Land clearance – EPBC Act, TSC Act  Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers and streams – TSC Act  Bushrock removal – TSC Act  Invasion and establishment of exotic vines and scramblers – TSC Act  Invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana camara – TSC Act  Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses – TSC Act

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 83 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

 Loss of hollow-bearing trees – TSC Act  Removal of dead wood and dead trees – TSC Act  Instream structures and other mechanisms that alter natural flow – FM Act  Degradation of native riparian vegetation along NSW water courses – FM Act.

These key threatening processes have been a key consideration during development of environmental safeguards for the proposal (refer Table 6.1). Specific safeguards would be developed to mitigate the potential impact of relevant key threatening processes, including weed management procedures and site rehabilitation. The minimisation of native vegetation clearing was also considered in the options development process for the proposal. Further details of the impact of these key threatening processes are provided in Appendix G.

84 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

6. Mitigation

The general principle to minimise impacts to biodiversity as outlined in the RMS Biodiversity Guidelines (RTA Environment Branch 2011), should in order of consideration, endeavour to:

 avoid impacts on habitat, through the planning process  minimise impacts on habitat, through the planning process  mitigate impacts on habitat, though the use of a range of mitigation measures  offset where residual impacts cannot be avoided.

The avoidance of impacts can be achieved through the planning process. This process involves a preliminary examination of a number of possible route options and their potential impacts on the environment and other factors (for example, economic and social considerations). Those potential routes that best fit the environmental, social and economic criteria are then short-listed. This was conducted for the proposal through the early examination of options prior to selection of the preferred design, and where practical the alignment was moved to avoid sensitive ecological features within the survey area.

Minimising impacts involves reducing the loss of habitat or significant species as far as practicable. Through detailed surveys, it is usually possible to fine-tune the final alignment and the width of the footprint to minimise loss of important vegetation communities or habitats and avoid significant plant species or habitat features. The final alignment and proposal area are also subject to engineering constraints and safety standards. Residual impacts that cannot be avoided or minimised are mitigated wherever possible. The Roads and Maritime Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note: Biodiversity Assessment (NSW Roads and Maritime Services 2012) and the Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects (RTA Environment Branch 2011) have guided biodiversity management outcomes where appropriate. The following guides from the Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity of RTA projects have been considered:

 Guide 1: Pre-clearing process  Guide 2: Exclusion zones  Guide 3: Re-establishment of native vegetation  Guide 4: Clearing of vegetation and removal of bushrock  Guide 5: Re-use of woody debris and bushrock  Guide 6: Weed management  Guide 7: Pathogen management  Guide 8: Nest boxes  Guide 9: Fauna handling  Guide 10: Aquatic habitats and riparian zone.

In order to address the potential impacts of the proposal on biodiversity, procedures included in the above guidelines should be implemented during all phases of the proposal (i.e. pre-construction, construction and post construction) the following mitigation measures are recommended (refer Table 6.1).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 85 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 6.1 Proposed mitigation measures

Impact RMS guideline to Mitigation be adhere to

General  Incorporate all  Ensure all workers are provided an environmental induction prior to starting guides into Flora work on site. This would include information on the ecological values of the and Fauna site, protection measures to be implemented to protect biodiversity, and Management penalties for breaches. Plan  Prepare a flora and fauna management plan as part of the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

Vegetation  Guide 1 Pre­  Limit disturbance of vegetation to the minimum necessary to construct and habitat clearing Process works. loss  Guide 2  Implement clearing protocols, including: Exclusion Zones  Marking trees to be removed and preparing an inventory of trees and  Guide 4 Clearing hollows (if observed) to be removed. of native  If hollows are removed then nest boxes or salvage tree hollows should vegetation and be provided in nearby bushland for relocated animals. bushrock  Pre-clearance surveys to be completed by an appropriately qualified  Guide 5 Re-use ecologist. of woody debris  Exclusion zones should be established around retained areas of and bushrock threatened and environmentally sensitive vegetation such as Duffys Forest and Coastal Upland Swamps.  Guide 8 Nest  Check trees for the presence of bird nests and potentially arboreal Boxes mammals and microbats prior to felling.  Guide 9 Fauna  As far as practicable, animals found to be occupying trees would be handling allowed to leave before clearing.  Any bushrock required to be removed be placed in adjoining bushland to provide habitat for ground dwelling fauna.  Where practicable, restrict equipment storage and stockpiling of resources to d esignated areas in cleared land. Threatened  Guide 1 Pre­  Environment induction training for all construction staff on threatened fauna fauna clearing Process and flora species likely to be encountered.

 Guide 5 Re-use  Site hygiene management to prevent the spread of Chytrid Fungus. of woody debris  Undertake pre-clearing surveys for threatened species, particularly and bushrock amphibians on the morning (24 hours) before clearing works commence.  Guide 7  If threatened amphibians are recorded during pre-clearing surveys, frog Pathogen exclusion fencing will be required where suitable habitat adjoins the management proposal area.  Guide 8 Nest  Threatened amphibian tadpole surveys to be undertaken prior to de- Boxes watering of any water bodies to relocate any threatened tadpoles to  Guide 9 Fauna adjoining habitats. handling  If hollows are removed for threatened arboreal fauna (eg Microbats, Eastern Pygmy Possum), appropriate species specific nest boxes should be provided in the adjoining bushland.

 If threatened amphibians are recorded during pre-clearing surveys, a specific frog management plan (FMP) developed by a frog expert with at least 5 years’ experience in behavioural ecology of frogs will be required. A requirement of the FMP will be the identification of potential relocation areas for threatened frogs.

Threatened  Guide 1 pre­  Exclusion zones should be set up around retained threatened flora species flora clearing survey of Darwinia glaucophylla, Hibbertia procumbens and Prostanthera junonis.

 Guide 2  These areas should be signed as environmentally sensitive. Exclusion zone  All construction staff working in the vicinity of these threatened species should be informed of the location of these threatened flora species.

86 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Impact RMS guideline to Mitigation be adhere to

Weeds  Guide 6: weed A weed management plan would be developed to manage weeds during the management construction phase of the proposal. It would include (but not necessarily be  Guide 7 limited to): Pathogen  Hygiene protocols management  Induction materials  Chemical and physical control methods.

Revegetation  Guide 3 Re­  Where possible native vegetation to be used on any areas of batters etc to establishment of recreate habitat for native flora and fauna. native vegetation

Interrupted  Guide 10 Aquatic  Although the proposal will make every endeavour to avoid the interruption of fish passage habitats and fish passage if this is unavoidable a permit from the DPI will be required. riparian zones

Aquatic  Guide 10 Aquatic  Incorporate existing drainage channels into design of proposal drainage disturbance habitats and channels where practicable. riparian zones  Erosion and sediment controls should be implemented in accordance with Volume 2D of Managing Urban Stormwater : soils and construction (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

 Control and manage potential contaminants (fuels, oils, lubricants) from construction activities.

Erosion and  Guide 10 Aquatic  Erosion and sediment controls should be implemented in accordance with sediment habitats and Volume 2D of Managing Urban Stormwater : soils and construction control riparian zones (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

 RMS Erosion  Use appropriate erosion and sediment controls to ensure runoff from and stockpiles and work areas does not enter any drainage lines, creeks or Sedimentation waterways.

Management  Minimise bridge runoff into waterways by incorporating runoff design and Procedure containment design process.

Hydrological  Guide 10 Aquatic  There will be no changes to any discharge locations with existing discharge changes habitats and locations being used for the proposal. riparian zones  Existing structures and the location of the existing receiving environment should be considered pertaining to the likely increase in roadway runoff intensity.

 Care must be taken to ensure that no changes in groundwater occur and discharge into groundwater aquifers are avoided, as this may impact upon the groundwater dependent ecosystem of Sandstone Hanging Swamp identified within the study area.

In addition to the site management and mitigation measures identified above the proposed removal of 12.43 hectares of potential habitat for threatened plants (Darwinia glaucophylla and Hibbertia procumbens) triggers the requirement for RMS to consider offsetting (in accordance with RMS Guideline for Biodiversity Offsetting).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 87 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

7. Impact assessment

This chapter summarises the assessment of significance of the potential impacts following the requirements of the Part 5 of the EP&A Act and the EPBC Act.

7.1 Impacts to threatened biodiversity

Two threatened ecological communities, three threatened species of plant and ten threatened species of animal listed under the TSC Act and/or the EPBC Act were recorded in the survey area by this study or previous studies. These include:

 Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion  Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion  Darwinia glaucophylla  Spreading Guinea Flower (Hibbertia procumbens)  Somersby Mintbush (Prostanthera junonis)  Grey-headed Flying-fox  Little Bent-wing Bat  Eastern Bent-wing Bat  Square-tailed Kite (Hill 2011)  Eastern False Pipistrelle (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)  Glossy-black Cockatoo (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)  Spotted-tailed Quoll (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)  Giant Burrowing Frog (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)  Red-crowned Toadlet (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)  Koala (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

A further 31 threatened species of animal including two species of invertebrate, have the potential to use the survey area (Table 7.3).

Significance assessments for species recorded or with a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence were completed (Appendix G). The impacts to threatened biodiversity are summarised in Table 7.1, Table 7.2 and Table 7.3. This assessment was based on a broad corridor assessment and as such takes a precautionary approach to estimating the area of vegetation and habitats to be cleared. The impact of the proposal is likely to be less than the areas assessed, as the detailed design is likely to result in a reduction of the amount of native vegetation to be cleared.

Significance assessments concluded that the proposal is not likely to result in any significant impact to threatened biodiversity. This was derived from the existing disturbed nature of the proposal area and the relatively small area (12.5 ha) of native vegetation, which includes 12.1 ha of regrowth and native planted vegetation.

88 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 7.1 Summary of likely impacts to threatened ecological communities

Threatened TSC EPBC Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 in survey area (Y/N) Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be changes clearing the pests/ current significantly lifecycle disease disturbance affected regimes

Threatened ecological communities

Coastal Upland E E Y No, however No Unlikely. Study N/A Potential N/A No No Swamp in the Sydney potential impacts area already highly impact, Basin Bioregion from groundwater fragmented. however, level changes, Proposal unlikely mitigation however if to increase measures mitigation fragmentation. would reduce measures are likelihood of adhered to this weed spread. would negate this impact. Duffys Forest E – Y This community is Yes, Unlikely. Study N/A Potential N/A No No Ecological Community a groundwater 0.01 ha area already highly impact, in the Sydney Basin dependent would be fragmented. however, Bioregion ecosystem. cleared Proposal unlikely mitigation Approximately to increase measures 0.01 ha of this fragmentation. would reduce community will be likelihood of cleared. weed spread. (1) TSC Act - Threatened Species and Conservation Act 1995. E = Endangered Ecological Community (2) EPBC Act - Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999., E = Endangered Ecological Community

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 89 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 7.2 Summary of likely impacts to threatened flora species

Threatened TSC EPBC Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 with the study area Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ current significantly Scientific Common disease disturbance affected name name regimes

Flora

Darwinia – V – Yes 173 No Yes ~ Unlikely. Study No Potential N/A No No glaucophylla individuals 0.32 ha area already impact, recorded with 13 highly fragmented. however, individuals Proposal unlikely mitigation to be to increase measures removed fragmentation. would reduce likelihood of weed spread. Hibbertia Spreading E1 – Yes 27 No Yes ~ Unlikely. Study No Potential N/A No No procumbens Guinea individuals 12.42 ha area already impact, Flower recorded with one highly fragmented. however, individual Proposal unlikely mitigation to be to increase measures removed fragmentation. would reduce likelihood of weed spread.

Prostanthera Somersby E1 E Yes – two No Yes ~ 0.22 Unlikely. Study No Potential N/A No No junonis Mintbush individuals ha all area already impact, recorded individuals highly fragmented. however, to be Proposal unlikely mitigation retained to increase measures fragmentation. would reduce likelihood of weed spread. (1) TSC Act - Threatened Species and Conservation Act 1995. E1 = Endangered V = Vulnerable (2) EPBC Act - Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999., E = Endangered

90 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Table 7.3 Summary of likely impacts to threatened terrestrial and aquatic fauna

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Fauna Giant Burrowing Frog* V V – Yes Possibly Yes. No. The Proposal No. Yes. Proposal has Possibly No No Recorded by during ~0.41 ha will effectively add the potential to during previous construction, incrementally to the spread Chytrid construction studies however width of an existing Fungus however but impact impact will be road corridor and strict hygiene will be short short term. will not fragment protocols will be term. any new areas of implemented to habitat. mitigate the spread of this disease. Littlejohn's Tree Frog, V V – No Possibly Yes. No. The Proposal No. Yes. Proposal has Possibly No No Heath Frog during ~0.41 ha will effectively add the potential to during construction, incrementally to the spread Chytrid construction however width of an existing Fungus however but impact impact will be road corridor and strict hygiene will be short short term. will not fragment protocols will be term. any new areas of implemented to habitat. mitigate the spread of this disease. Stuttering Frog E1 V – No Possibly Yes. No. The Proposal No. Yes. Proposal has Possibly No No during ~0.08 ha will effectively add the potential to during construction, incrementally to the spread Chytrid construction however width of an existing Fungus however but impact impact will be road corridor and strict hygiene will be short short term. will not fragment protocols will be term. any new areas of implemented to habitat. mitigate the spread of this disease.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 91 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Giant Barred Frog E1 E – No Possibly Yes. No. The Proposal No. Yes. Proposal has Possibly No No during ~0.08 ha will effectively add the potential to during construction, incrementally to the spread Chytrid construction however width of an existing Fungus however but impact impact will be road corridor and strict hygiene will be short short term. will not fragment protocols will be term. any new areas of implemented to habitat. mitigate the spread of this disease. Red-crowned Toadlet* V – – Yes Possibly Yes. No. The Proposal No. Yes. Proposal has Possibly No No Recorded by during ~0.41 ha will effectively add the potential to during previous construction, incrementally to the spread Chytrid construction studies however width of an existing Fungus however but impact impact will be road corridor and strict hygiene will be short short term. will not fragment protocols will be term. any new areas of implemented to habitat. mitigate the spread of this disease. Little Eagle V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Square-tailed Kite* V – – Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Recorded by ~12.51 ha will effectively add during previous incrementally to the construction studies width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat.

92 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Barking Owl V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Powerful Owl V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Masked Owl (southern V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No mainland) ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Sooty Owl V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 93 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Black-chinned V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Honeyeater (eastern ~0.41 ha will effectively add during subspecies) incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Scarlet Robin V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Varied Sittella V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Gang-gang Cockatoo V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat.

94 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Glossy Black-Cockatoo* V – – Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Recorded by ~12.51 ha will effectively add during previous incrementally to the construction surveys width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Little Lorikeet V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Swift Parrot E1 E – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Adam's Emerald E1 – – No Possibly No No. The Proposal No. No. No. No No Dragonfly during will effectively add construction, incrementally to the however width of an existing impact will be road corridor and short term. will not fragment any new areas of habitat.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 95 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Giant Dragonfly E1 – E No Possibly No No. The Proposal No. No. No. No No during will effectively add construction, incrementally to the however width of an existing impact will be road corridor and short term. will not fragment any new areas of habitat. Grey-headed Flying-fox V V E Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Hollow-dwelling V V – Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Microchiropteran bats Eastern ~12.51 ha will effectively add during (Eastern False False incrementally to the construction Pipistrelle*, East-coast Pipistrelle width of an existing but impact Freetail Bat, Yellow- recorded by road corridor and will be short bellied Sheathtail Bat, previous will not fragment term. Greater Broad-nosed studies. any new areas of Bat,) habitat. Cave-dwelling V – – Yes (Little No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Microchiropteran bats Bent-wing ~12.51 ha will effectively add during (Large-eared Pied Bat, Bat, Eastern incrementally to the construction Southern Myotis, Little Bent-wing width of an existing but impact Bent-wing Bat, Eastern Bat) road corridor and will be short Cave Bat, Eastern Bent- will not fragment term. wing Bat) any new areas of habitat.

96 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Eastern Pygmy-possum V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~12.51 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Spotted-Tailed Quoll V E – Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No (Southern Subspecies)* Recorded ~0.41 ha will effectively add during during incrementally to the construction previous width of an existing but impact studies road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Squirrel Glider V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Koala (NSW, ACT & V V – Yes No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No QLD – excluding SE Recorded by ~0.41 ha will effectively add during QLD)* previous incrementally to the construction studies width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 97 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Common Planigale V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Long-nosed Potoroo (SE V V – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No mainland) ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Broad-headed Snake E1 V – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Stephen's Banded V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No Snake ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat.

98 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Threatened TSC EPBC FM Recorded Impacts biodiversity Act1 Act2 Act3 with the survey Hydrology Habitat Fragmentation Affect the Weeds/ Noise Change to Likely to be area (Y/N) changes clearing lifecycle pests/ disease current significantly Scientific Common disturbance affected name name regimes Heath Monitor V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No (Rosenberg's Goanna) ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. Pale-headed Snake V – – No No Yes. No. The Proposal No. No. Possibly No No ~0.41 ha will effectively add during incrementally to the construction width of an existing but impact road corridor and will be short will not fragment term. any new areas of habitat. (1) TSC Act – Threatened Species and Conservation Act 1995. CE = Critically Endangered, E1 = Endangered V = Vulnerable E2= Endangered Population (2) EPBC Act – Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered V = Vulnerable (3) FM Act – Fisheries Management Act 1994. E = Endangered. *Species previously recorded within or in immediate vicinity of the survey area (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014a) and (Hill 2011).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 99 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

8. Conclusion

This report comprises an ecological assessment of findings from detailed field surveys and desk-top investigations completed over the survey area and associated habitats as they pertain to key biodiversity impacts that may result from the proposal.

The survey area occurs predominately on the Somersby plateau along the existing M1 alignment, between the Gosford/Kariong Interchange and the Somersby Interchange. The survey area and surrounding land has been utilised predominantly for road infrastructure, industrial estate development, private residential land and grazing. As a result, the soils and vegetation in the survey area are relatively disturbed, particularly immediately adjacent to the motorway, of which are comprised of regrowth and planted vegetation. Where the landscape and soil profile hasn’t been significantly modified however, the original vegetation is relatively intact or regenerating from a soil stored seed bank. Key biodiversity values within the survey area included:

 the presence of Duffy’s Forest and Coastal Upland Swamp, which are listed as threatened communities under the TSC Act  the presence of three threatened plants, including Darwinia glaucophylla (Vulnerable TSC Act), Hibbertia procumbens (Endangered TSC Act) and Prostanthera junonis (Endangered under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act)  known and potential habitat for 44 species of animal listed as threatened under the TSC Act and/ or EPBC Act.

The proposal will include the removal of 12.52 ha of native vegetation, including 12.1 ha of regrowth and native vegetation and 0.01 ha Red Bloodwood – Scribbly gum heathy woodland – silvertop ash variant (Duffy’s Forest), which is listed as an endangered ecological community under the TSC Act.

Significance assessments were completed for two endangered ecological communities, Duffy’s Forest and Coastal Upland Swamp, and concluded that the proposal is not likely to have a significant on these communities. This was due to Coastal Upland Swamp not being directly impacted by the proposal and the small area (0.01 ha) of Duffy’s Forest likely to be impacted by the proposal.

Two endangered populations are listed to occur within the survey area, including Eucalyptus oblonga population at Bateau Bay, Forresters Beach and Tumbi Umbi in the Wyong LGA and Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis in Wyong and Lake Macquarie local government areas. However, these species were not recorded during intensive field surveys and were not considered likely to occur in the survey area.

Three threatened species of plant, Darwinia glaucophylla (Vulnerable under the TSC Act), Hibbertia procumbens (Endangered under the TSC Act) and Prostanthera junonis (Endangered under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act), were recorded in the survey area during field surveys informing this report. A number of further threatened species, (Appendix C) have potential habitat within the survey area, but were not recorded. Significance assessments for the three threatened plant species recorded concluded that the proposal was not likely to have a significant impact on these species due to the small area of habitat likely to be affected, the disturbed nature of the survey area and ongoing disturbance regimes.

Three threatened species of animal, the Grey-headed Flying-fox (listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act), Eastern Bent-wing Bat and Little Bent-wing Bat (listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act) were recorded in the survey area during filed surveys informing this report. A further seven species of animal have previously been recorded within or immediately adjacent to the survey area including, Square-tailed Kite, Glossy Black Cockatoo, Eastern False Pipistrelle, Spotted-tailed Quoll, Koala, Giant Burrowing Frog and Red-crowned Toadlet (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014a). Based on the presence of suitable habitat, significance assessments were also completed for a further 34 threatened species of animal.

100 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Significance assessments completed for these species under the TSC Act (and EPBC Act where necessary) concluded that the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact for one or more of the following reasons:

 The small area of known and/or potential habitat likely to be impacted.  The majority of the proposal area encompassed an existing disturbed road corridor with no preferred habitat recorded therein.  The species were highly mobile and while the proposal area potentially occurred as part of a larger home range, the species would use larger tracts of vegetation/ habitat in the locality and not the survey area exclusively.

Mitigation measures postulated to reduce proposal related impacts on biodiversity include:

 preparation of a flora and fauna management plan as part of the CEMP  marking habitat trees to be removed and preparing an inventory of trees and hollows  pre-clearance surveys to be completed by an appropriately qualified ecologist  an appropriately qualified ecologist should be present when felling any hollow-bearing trees  exclusion zones should be established around retained areas of threatened and environmentally sensitive vegetation such as Duffys Forest, Coastal Upland Swamps and threatened flora species  environment induction training for all construction staff on threatened fauna and flora species likely to be encountered  site hygiene management to prevent the spread of Chytrid Fungus  undertake pre-clearing surveys for threatened species, particularly amphibians on the morning (24 hours) before clearing works commence  threatened amphibian tadpole surveys to be undertaken prior to de-watering of any water bodies to relocate any threatened tadpoles to adjoining habitats  if threatened amphibians are recorded during pre-clearing surveys, frog exclusion fencing will be required where suitable habitat adjoins the proposal area  if threatened amphibians are recorded during pre-clearing surveys, a specific frog management plan (FMP) developed by a frog expert with at least 5 years’ experience in behavioural ecology of frogs will be required. A requirement of the FMP will be the identification of potential relocation areas for threatened frogs  any hollow-bearing trees required to be removed should be replaced with appropriate species specific hollows for displace fauna  use appropriate erosion and sediment controls  use of appropriate hydrology controls to prevent changes in groundwater levels and water quality  incorporation of RMS Biodiversity guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RMS projects into the above mitigation measures (outline in Table 6.1)  consider offsetting (in accordance with RMS Guideline for Biodiversity Offsetting).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 101 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

9. References

Australasian Bat Society Inc 2007, Recommendations for Reporting Standards for bat detector use in Insectivorous Bat Survey

Australian Weeds Committee 2012, Weeds of National Significance, viewed 8 June 2012 2012, .

Bali, R 2005, Discussion Paper - Compensating for Edge Effects, Ecosense Consulting for the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority, Sydney.

Bell, AJ 2013, Review of vegetation mapping, Gosford LGA: addressing vegetation loss since 2004. , Prepared for Gosford City Council.

Bell, S 2002, The natural vegetation of the Wyong Local Government Area, Central Coast, New South Wales. Parts 1 and 2. Report to Wyong Shire Council., Wyong Shire Council, Wyong.

Bell, S 2009, The Natural Vegetation of the Gosford Local Government Area, Central Coast, New South Wales, Revised and Updated Version 3.0, An unpublished report prepared for Gosford City Council.

Bennett, AF 1990, Habitat corridors: Their role in wildlife management and conservation, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Melbourne.

Cropper, SC 1993, Management of Endangered Plants, CSIRO Australia, Melbourne. Debus, SJS 1995, 'Surveys of large forest owls in Northern New South Wales: methodology, calling behaviour and owls responses', Corella, vol. 19, no. 2, pp. 38-50.

Department of Environment 2013, Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra, ACT,

Department of Environment 2014, Protected Matters Search Tool, .

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007a, Threatened species assessment guidelines. The assessment of significance, Department of Environment and Climate Change, Hurstville.

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007b, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008, Managing Urban Stormwater: soils and construction, Vol 2D: main road construction, Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW, South Sydney.

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009, Threatened species survey and assessment guidelines: field survey methods for fauna - Amphibians, Department of Environment and Climate Change,

Department of Environment and Conservation 2004, Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities (Working Draft), Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurstville.

Department of Land and Water Conservation 2002, The NSW State Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Policy, Department of Land and Water Conservation, Sydney.

102 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Department of Land and Water Conservation 2006, Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems, Assessment, Registration and Scheduling of High Priority, Manual to Assist Groundwater Macroplanning, Department of Natural Resources.

Department of Primary industries 2014, Threatened Aquatic Fauna Database Search, Department of Fishing and Aquaculture, .

Department of Sustainability Environment Water Population and Communities 2012, Census of Australian Vertebrates, .

Department of Sustainability Environment Water Population and Communities 2013, Protected Matters Search Tool, .

Department of the Environment and Heritage 2001, Australia: State of the Environment 2001, CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne.

Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts 2010a, Survey guidelines for Australia's Threatened frogs, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra.

Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts 2010b, Survey guidelines for Australia's threatened frogs - guidelines for detecting frogs listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.,

Department of Trade & Investment Regional Infrastructure & Services 2013, Threatened Aquatic Fauna Database, Department of Fishing and Aquaculture, .

Eamus, D, Froend, R, Loomes, R, Hose, G & Murray, B 2006, 'A functional methodology for determining the groundwater regime needed to maintain the health of groundwater -dependent vegetation', Australian Journal of Botany, vol. 24, pp. 97–114.

Fairfull, S & Witheridge, G 2003, Why do fish need to cross the road? Fish passage requirements for waterway crossings, NSW Fisheries, Cronulla.

Forman, RTT, Sperling, D, Bissonette, JA, Clevenger, AP, Cutshall, CD, Dale, VH, Fahrig, L, France, R, Goldman, CR, Heanue, K, Jones, JA, Swamson, FJ, Turrentine, T & Winter, TC 2000, Road Ecology. Science and Solutions., Island Press, Washington.

Gibbons, P, Ayers, D, Seddon, J, Doyle, S & Briggs, S 2008, BioMetric 2.0. A terrestrial biodiversity assessment tool for the NSW Native Vegetation Assessment Tool NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change, Canberra.

Goldingay, RL 2009, 'Characteristics of tree hollows used by Australian birds and bats', Wildlife Research, no. 36, pp. 394-409.

Grey, MJ, Clarke, MF & Loyn, RH 1998, 'Influence of the Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala on avian diversity and abundance in remnant Grey Box Woodland', Pacific Conservation Biology, vol. 4, pp. 55-69.

Harden, G 1992, Flora of New South Wales Volume 3, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 1993, Flora of New South Wales Volume 4, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 2000, Flora of New South Wales Volume 1 (Revised Edition), University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 2002, Flora of New South Wales Volume 2 (Revised Edition), 2nd edn, vol. 2, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 103 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Hatton, T & Evans, R 1998, Dependence of ecosystems on groundwater and its significance to Australia, Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation, Canberra.

Hill 2011, Intersection Upgrade Wisemans Ferry Road and Central Coast Highway, Review of Environmental Factors, Flora and Fauna Investigation, An unpublished report prepared for the Roads and Maritime Services.

Johnson, M, Reich, P & Mac Nally, R 2007, 'Bird assemblages of a fragmented agricultural landscape and the relative importance of vegetation structure and landscape pattern', Wildlife Research, vol. 34, no. 3, pp. 185-93.

Kavanagh, RP & Debus, SJS 1994, 'The Powerful Owl Ninox strenua in New South Wales', Australian Birds, vol. 28, supplement 21-38.

Kuginis, L, Byrne, G, Williams, J & Serov, P 2012a, Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems, Volume 3 "Identification of High Probability Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems on the Coastal Plains of NSW and their Ecological Value", Department of Primary Industries, Office of Water, Sydney,

Kuginis, L, Williams, J, Byrne, G & Serov, P 2012b, Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems Volume 4 "The Ecological Value of Groundwater Sources on the Coastal Plains of NSW and the Risk from Groundwater Extraction", Department of Primary Industries, Office of Water, Sydney,

Larkin, RP 2005, Effect of Military Noise on Wildlife, viewed 11/12/2009 2009, . Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy 2003, Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Biodiversity Conservation Strategy Technical Report 2003, Digital Aerial Photo Interpretation and Updated Extant Vegetation Community Map, Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy, Callaghan, NSW.

McGinley, M 2011, "Species richness". In: Encyclopedia of Earth., Washington, D.C.: Environmental Information Coalition, National Council for Science and the Environment, .

Murray, BR, Zeppel, MJB, Hose, GC & Eamus, D 2003, 'Groundwater-dependent ecosystems in Australia: It’s more than just water for rivers', Ecological restoration and management, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 110-3.

National Land and Water Resources Audit 2001, Australian water resources assessment 2001. National Land and Water Resources Audit. Land and Water Australia, Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra.

NSW Department of Environment and Conservation 2007, Field Data Sheets for BioMetric (Version 1.8), NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurstville.

NSW Department of Environment, CCaW 2009, Threatened Species survey and assessment guidelines: field survey and methods for fauna- Amphibians

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002, Landscapes (Mitchell) of NSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2008, Hygiene protocol for the control of disease in frogs. Information Circular Number 6, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2011, Duffys Forest ecological community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion - endangered ecological community listing, 2014, .

104 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2012, Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion ­ Endangered Ecological Community listing final determination, .

NSW Roads and Maritime Services 2012, Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note - Biodiversity Assessment, North Sydney, NSW,

NSW Scientific Committee 2001, Final determination to list the clearing of native vegetation as a key threatening process, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

Office of Environment and Heritage 2012, Vegetation Types Database.

Office of Environment and Heritage 2013, BioNet the Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database Search, .

Office of Environment and Heritage 2014a, BioNet the Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database Search, .

Office of Environment and Heritage 2014b, Vegetation Benchmarks Database, October, 2014, .

Parsons Brinckerhoff 2013, Upgrade of Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby widening, M1 Pacific Motorway, Preliminary Environmental Investigation, An unpublished report prepared for Roads and Maritime Services.

Parsons Brinckerhoff 2014, Targeted Ecological Surveys for Kariong Interchange Ramp and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway, An unpublished report prepared for Roads and Maritime Services. Pennay, M, Law, B & Reinhold, L 2004, Bat calls of NSW. Region based guide to the echolocation calls of microchiropteran bats, New South Wales Department of Environment and Conservation and State Forests of New South Wales, Sydney.

Royal Botanic Gardens 2011, PlantNet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (version 2.0), .

Royal Botanic Gardens 2012, PlantNet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (version 2.0), Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, .

Royal Botanic Gardens 2013, Plantnet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust, .

Royal Botanic Gardens 2014a, Plantnet - Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust - Darwinia glaucophylla profile, viewed 16th January 2014 .

Royal Botanic Gardens 2014b, PlantNet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (version 2.0), Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney, < >.

RTA Environment Branch 2011, Biodiversity Guidelines: Protecting and managing biodiversity on RTA projects.

Seidel, J & Briggs, S 2008, Biobanking Operation Manual NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change, Sydney.

Serov, P, Kuginis, L & Williams, JP 2012, Risk Assessment Guidelines for groundwater dependent ecosystems, Volume 1 - The conceptual framework, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Office of Water, Sydney,

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD 105 Roads and Maritime Services M1 Pacific Motorway, Kariong Ramps and M1 Kariong to Somersby Widening ­ Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Stewart, D 1998, Australian Frog Calls: Subtropical East, Nature Sound, Mullumbimby.

Swan, G, Shea, G & Sadlier, R 2004, A Field Guide to Reptiles of New South Wales, Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Thackway, R & Cresswell, ID 1995, An Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia, Australian Nature Conservation Agency, Canberra.

Williams, J, Serov, P, Kuginis, L & Byrne, G 2012, Risk Assessment Guidelines for Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems, Volume 2 "Worked Examples for 7 Pilot Coastal Aquifers in NSW", NSW Department of Primary Industries, Office of Water, Sydney,

Wilson, A & Lindenmayer, DB 1995, Wildlife Corridors and the Conservation of Biodiversity: A Review., National Corridors of Green Program, Green Australia Ltd., Canberra.

106 2113226A-EN-PR-005 RevD | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Appendix A Species of plant recorded

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Plant species recorded

Table A.1 Species of plant recorded within the survey area

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Adiantaceae Cheilanthes sieberi Mulga Fern Y

Apiaceae Actinotus helianthi Flannel Flower Y

Apiaceae Actinotus minor Lesser Flannel Flower Y

Apiaceae Centella asiatica Pennywort Y

Apiaceae Platysace ericoides Heath Platysace Y

Apiaceae Platysace linearifolia Y

Apiaceae Xanthosia pilosa Woolly Xanthosia Y

Apiaceae Xanthosia tridentata Hill Xanthosia Y

Apocynaceae Parsonsia straminea Common Silkpod Y

Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax Y

Asteraceae Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed N

Asteraceae Bidens pilosa Cobblers Pegs N

Asteraceae Conyza albida Tall Fleabane N

Asteraceae Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane N

Asteraceae Coreopsis lanceolata Coreopsis N

Asteraceae Hypochaeris radicata Catsear N

Asteraceae Ozothamnus diosmifolius White Dogwood Y

Asteraceae Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed N

Asteraceae Sonchus oleraceus Common Sowthistle N

Asteraceae Tagetes minuta Stinking Roger N

Baueraceae Bauera rubioides Wiry Bauera Y

Bignoniaceae Pandorea pandorana Wonga Wonga Vine Y

Blandfordiaceae Blandfordia nobilis Y

Blechnaceae Blechnum nudum Fishbone Water Fern Y

Blechnaceae Doodia aspera Prickly Rasp Fern Y

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina littoralis Black Sheoak Y

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina torulosa Forest Oak Y

Colchicaceae Burchardia umbellata Milkmaids Y

Commelinaceae Commelina cyanea Native Wandering Jew Y

Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Y

Cunoniaceae Callicoma serratifolia Black Wattle Y

Cunoniaceae Ceratopetalum apetalum Coachwood Y

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA A-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Cyatheaceae Cyathea cooperi Straw Treefern Y

Cyperaceae Baumea acuta Pale Twig-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Baumea rubiginosa Y

Cyperaceae Carex inversa Knob Sedge Y

Cyperaceae Caustis flexuosa Curly Wig Y

Cyperaceae Caustis recurvata Y

Cyperaceae Cyathochaeta diandra Sheath Sedge Y

Cyperaceae Cyperus gracilis Slender Flat-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Gahnia clarkei Tall Saw-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Gahnia erythrocarpa Y

Cyperaceae Gahnia sieberiana Red-fruit Saw-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Gymnoschoenus Button Grass Y sphaerocephalus

Cyperaceae Lepidosperma forsythii Large-flower Rapier- Y sedge

Cyperaceae Lepidosperma laterale Variable Sword-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Schoenus apogon Fluke Bogrush Y

Cyperaceae Schoenus nitens Shiny Bog-sedge Y

Cyperaceae Schoenus paludosus Y

Dennstaedtiaceae Histiopteris incisa Bats Wing Fern Y

Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken Y

Dicksoniaceae Calochlaena dubia Common Ground Fern Y

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia aspera Y

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia cistiflora Y

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. Y empetrifolia

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia monogyna Leafy Guinea-flower Y

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia procumbens Spreading Guinea E1 Y Flower

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia riparia Erect Guinea-flower Y

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia rufa Brown Guinea-flower Y

Dioscoreaceae Dioscorea transversa Native Yam Y

Doryanthaceae Doryanthes excelsa Gymea/Giant Lily Y

Droseraceae Drosera spatulata Rosy Sundew Y

Elaeocarpaceae Tetratheca shiressii Y

Epacridaceae Acrotriche divaricata Y

A-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Epacridaceae Epacris microphylla var. Coast Coral Heath Y microphylla

Epacridaceae Epacris pulchella NSW Coral Heath Y

Epacridaceae Leucopogon appressus Y

Epacridaceae Leucopogon microphyllus Hairy Beard-heath Y

Epacridaceae Lissanthe strigosa Peach Heath Y

Epacridaceae Melichrus urceolatus Urn Heath Y

Epacridaceae Monotoca elliptica Y

Epacridaceae Monotoca scoparia Prickly Broom-heath Y

Epacridaceae Sprengelia incarnata Pink Swamp-heath Y

Epacridaceae Styphelia laeta subsp. Y latifolia

Epacridaceae Styphelia tubiflora Y

Epacridaceae Woollsia pungens Y

Euphorbiaceae Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree Y

Euphorbiaceae Phyllanthus hirtellus Thyme Spurge Y

Euphorbiaceae Ricinocarpos pinifolius Wedding Bush Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Bossiaea heterophylla Variable Bossiaea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Bossiaea obcordata Spiny Bossiaea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Bossiaea scolopendria Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Bossiaea stephensonii Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Dillwynia floribunda Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Glycine clandestina Twining Glycine Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Gompholobium glabratum Dainty Wedge Pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Gompholobium grandiflorum Large Wedge Pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Gompholobium latifolium Golden Glory Pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Kennedia rubicunda Red Kennedy Pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Medicago sp. N

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Mirbelia rubiifolia Heathy Mirbelia Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea daphnoides Large-leaf Bush-pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea ferruginea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea retusa Blunt Bush-pea Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea rosmarinifolia Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea villosa Y

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Trifolium repens White Clover N

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA A-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Fabaceae (Faboideae) Viminaria juncea Native Broom Y

Fabaceae Acacia decurrens Black Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia echinula Hedgehog Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia elata Mountain Cedar Y (Mimosoideae) Wattle

Fabaceae Acacia falcata Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia irrorata Green Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia linearis Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia longifolia Sydney Golden Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia longissima Narrow-leaved Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia myrtifolia Red-stemmed Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia oxycedrus Spike Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia parramattensis Parramatta Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia saligna Golden Wreath Wattle N (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia suaveolens Sweet Wattle Y (Mimosoideae)

Fabaceae Acacia terminalis subsp. Sunshine Wattle Y (Mimosoideae) angustifolia

Fabaceae Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses Y (Mimosoideae)

Gentianaceae Centaurium erythraea Common Centaury N

Gleicheniaceae Gleichenia dicarpa Pouched Coral-fern Y

Goodeniaceae Dampiera stricta Blue Dampiera Y

Goodeniaceae Goodenia bellidifolia Y

Goodeniaceae Scaevola ramosissima Hairy Fan-flower Y

Haloragaceae Gonocarpus micranthus Y subsp. micranthus

Haloragaceae Gonocarpus teucrioides Y

Iridaceae Patersonia sericea Silky Purple-flag Y

Lamiaceae Hemigenia purpurea Y

Lamiaceae Prostanthera junonis Somersby Mintbush E1 E Y

A-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Lauraceae Cassytha glabella Slender Dodder-laurel Y

Lauraceae Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel N

Liliaceae Lilium formosanum Taiwan Lily N

Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea linearis Screw Fern Y

Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea microphylla Lacy Wedge Fern Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra confertifolia Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra cylindrica Needle Mat-rush Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra filiformis Wattle Matt-rush Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra glauca Pale Mat-rush Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat- Y rush

Lomandraceae Lomandra multiflora Y

Lomandraceae Lomandra obliqua Y

Loranthaceae Amyema congener Y

Lycopodiaceae Lycopodium deuterodensum Bushy Clubmoss Y

Malaceae Cotoneaster sp. N

Malvaceae Sida rhombifolia Paddys Lucerne N

Menispermaceae Stephania japonica Y

Myrtaceae Angophora costata Sydney Red/Rusty Y Gum

Myrtaceae Angophora hispida Dwarf Apple Y

Myrtaceae Callistemon citrinus Crimson Bottlebrush Y

Myrtaceae Callistemon linearis Narrow-leaved Y Bottlebrush

Myrtaceae Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood Y

Myrtaceae Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum Y

Myrtaceae Darwinia fascicularis subsp. Y fascicularis

Myrtaceae Darwinia glaucophylla - V Y

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus capitellata Brown Stringybark Y

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus haemastoma Broad-leaved Scribbly Y Gum

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus piperita subsp. Y piperita

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata Grey Gum Y

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus racemosa Narrow-leaved Y Scribbly Gum

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus robusta Swamp Mahogany Y

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA A-5 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sieberi Silvertop Ash Y

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sparsifolia Narrow-leaved Y Stringybark

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus umbra Y

Myrtaceae Euryomyrtus ramosissima Rosy Baeckea Y

Myrtaceae Kunzea ambigua Tick Bush Y

Myrtaceae Leptospermum continentale Prickly Teatree Y

Myrtaceae Leptospermum juniperinum Y

Myrtaceae Leptospermum polygalifolium Y

Myrtaceae Leptospermum trinervium Paperbark Tea-tree Y

Myrtaceae Lophostemon confertus Brush Box Y

Myrtaceae Melaleuca hypericifolia Y

Myrtaceae Melaleuca nodosa Pricklyleaf Paperbark Y

Myrtaceae Syncarpia glomulifera Turpentine Y

Oleaceae Notelaea longifolia Large Mock-olive Y

Orchidaceae Calochilus paludosus Red Beard Orchid Y

Orchidaceae Cryptostylis erecta Tartan Tongue Orchid Y

Orchidaceae Cryptostylis subulata Large Tongue Orchid Y

Orchidaceae Dipodium punctatum Y

Orchidaceae Pterostylis sp. Y

Passifloraceae Passiflora suberosa Cork Passionfruit N

Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. Y producta

Phormiaceae Dianella prunina Y

Phormiaceae Dianella revoluta Y

Pinaceae Pinus radiata Radiata Pine N

Pittosporaceae Billardiera scandens Appleberry Y

Pittosporaceae Pittosporum revolutum Rough Fruit Y Pittosporum

Pittosporaceae Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum Y

Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata Lambs Tongues N

Poaceae Andropogon virginicus Whisky Grass N

Poaceae Anisopogon avenaceus Oat Speargrass Y

Poaceae Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal Grass N

Poaceae Aristida vagans Threeawn Speargrass Y

Poaceae Austrostipa pubescens Y

A-6 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Poaceae Austrostipa ramosissima Stout Bamboo Grass Y

Poaceae Brachiaria fasciculata N

Poaceae Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass N

Poaceae Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass N

Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Common Couch Y

Poaceae Eleusine tristachya Goose Grass N

Poaceae Entolasia marginata Bordered Panic Y

Poaceae Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic Y

Poaceae Eragrostis brownii Browns Lovegrass Y

Poaceae Eragrostis curvula African Lovegrass N

Poaceae Hyparrhenia hirta Coolatai Grass N

Poaceae Imperata cylindrica var. Blady Grass Y major

Poaceae Microlaena stipoides Y

Poaceae Panicum simile Two-colour Panic Y

Poaceae Paspalidium distans Spreading Panic- Y grass

Poaceae Paspalum urvillei Vasey Grass N

Poaceae Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Grass N

Poaceae Poa labillardierei var. Tussock Y labillardierei

Poaceae Rytidosperma tenuius Purplish Wallaby- Y grass

Poaceae Setaria gracilis Slender Pigeon Grass N

Poaceae Setaria verticillata Whorled Pigeon N Grass

Poaceae Sporobolus africanus Parramatta Grass N

Poaceae Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass Y

Proteaceae Banksia ericifolia Heath Banksia Y

Proteaceae Banksia oblongifolia Y

Proteaceae Banksia robur Y

Proteaceae Banksia serrata Saw Banksia Y

Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa var. Y collina

Proteaceae Conospermum longifolium Y

Proteaceae Conospermum taxifolium Variable Smoke-bush Y

Proteaceae Grevillea buxifolia Grey Spider Flower Y

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA A-7 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Proteaceae Grevillea diffusa Y

Proteaceae Grevillea sericea Y

Proteaceae Hakea bakeriana Y

Proteaceae Hakea dactyloides Broad-leaved Hakea Y

Proteaceae Hakea gibbosa Y

Proteaceae Hakea sericea Y

Proteaceae Hakea teretifolia Dagger Hakea Y

Proteaceae Isopogon anemonifolius Y

Proteaceae Lambertia formosa Mountain Devil Y

Proteaceae Lomatia silaifolia Crinkle Bush Y

Proteaceae Persoonia isophylla Y

Proteaceae Persoonia lanceolata Y

Proteaceae Persoonia levis Broad-leaved Y Geebung

Proteaceae Persoonia linearis Narrow-leaved Y Geebung

Proteaceae Petrophile pulchella Y

Restionaceae Empodisma minus Spreading Rope-rush Y

Restionaceae Lepyrodia scariosa Y

Rhamnaceae Pomaderris sp. Y

Rosaceae Rubus fruiticosus Blackberry complex N

Rubiaceae Opercularia aspera Coarse Stinkweed Y

Rubiaceae Pomax umbellata Pomax Y

Rubiaceae Richardia stellaris N

Rutaceae Boronia ledifolia Sydney Boronia Y

Rutaceae Boronia pinnata Y

Rutaceae Leionema dentatum Toothed Phebalium Y

Rutaceae Phebalium obcordatum Club-leaved Y Phebalium

Rutaceae Phebalium squamulosum Scaly Phebalium Y

Rutaceae Philotheca buxifolia Y

Santalaceae Choretrum sp. A Y

Sapindaceae Dodonaea triquetra Large-leaf Hop-bush Y

Scrophulariaceae Veronica plebeia Trailing Speedwell Y

Selaginellaceae Selaginella uliginosa Swamp Selaginella Y

A-8 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family name Scientific name Common name TSC EPBC Native Act1 Act2

Solanaceae Solanum nigrum Black-berry N Nightshade

Sterculiaceae Lasiopetalum ferrugineum Y

Thymelaeaceae Pimelea linifolia Slender Rice-flower Y

Verbenaceae Lantana camara Lantana N

Verbenaceae Verbena bonariensis Purpletop N

Verbenaceae Verbena rigida Veined Verbena N

Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea fulva Y

Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea latifolia Y

Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea media Y

Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea resinifera Y

Notes: 1 V = Vulnerable, E1 = Endangered listed under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, 2 V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA A-9

Appendix B Species of animal recorded

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Species of animal recorded

Table B.1 Species of animals recorded within the survey area

Common name Scientific name TSC Act EPBC Act Status1 Status2

Birds

Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen

Bar-shouldered Dove Geopelia humeralis

Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae

Brown Thornbill Acanthiza pusilla

Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans

Eastern Spinebill Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris

Eastern Whipbird Psophodes olivaceus

Eastern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis

Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis

Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa

Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica

Lewin's Honeyeater Meliphaga lewinii

Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera

Musk Lorikeet Glossopsitta concinna

New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae

Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala

Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa

Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus

Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata

Red-browed Finch Neochmia temporalis

Rufous Fantail Rhipidura rufifrons M

Scarlet Honeyeater Myzomela sanguinolenta

Silvereye Zosterops lateralis

Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus

Striated Thornbill Acanthiza lineata

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita

Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus

Variegated Fairy-wren Malurus lamberti

Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena

White-browed Scrubwren Sericornis frontalis

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA B-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Common name Scientific name TSC Act EPBC Act Status1 Status2

White-cheeked Honeyeater Phylidonyris nigra

White-throated Treecreeper Cormobates leucophaeus

Yellow-faced Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops

Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus

Frogs

Brown-striped Frog Limnodynastes peronii

Common Eastern Froglet Crinia signifera

Leaf Green Tree Frog Litoria phyllochroa

Bats

Chocolate Wattled Bat Chalinolobus morio

Eastern Bentwing Bat Miniopterus orianae oceanensis V

Eastern Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus megaphyllus

Gould’s Wattled Bat Chalinolobus gouldii

Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus V V

Little Bentwing Bat Miniopterus australis V

Mammals

Black Rat Rattus rattus U

Brown Antechinus Antechinus stuartii

Bush Rat Rattus fuscipes

Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula

Common Ringtail Possum Pseudocheirus peregrinus

House Mouse Mus musculus U

Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus

Swamp Wallaby Wallabia bicolor

Reptiles

Eastern Water Dragon Physignathus lesueurii

Eastern Water Skink Eulamprus quoyii

Grass Skink Lampropholis delicata

Land Mullet Egernia major

Red-bellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacus

Notes: 1 U = Invasive species, V = Vulnerable, NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, 2 V = Vulnerable, M = Migratory, Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

B-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Appendix C Threatened species of plant

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Threatened species of plant

Table C.1 Threatened species of plant known, predicted or likely to occur in the survey area

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Araliaceae Astrotricha Thick-leaf Star- V V Occurs near Patonga and in the Royal Protected Low. No potential crassifolia hair National Park and inland to Glen Davis where Matters, habitat within the survey it grows in dry sclerophyll woodland on area sandstone (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007; Harden 1992, 1993).

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia Spreading Guinea E Recorded only from Mangrove Mtn and grows BioNet, Recorded. Species was procumbens Flower in heath on sandy soils (Harden 2000). PlantNet, recorded in the survey area during surveys

Elaeocarpaceae Tetratheca Glandular Pink-bell V V Occurs from Mangrove Mountain to the Blue BioNet, Low. Potential habitat glandulosa Mountains where it grows in sandy or rocky PlantNet for this species is heath or scrub (Harden 1992). Vegetation present within the structure varies from heaths and scrub to survey area. However woodlands/open woodlands, and open forest. targeted surveys for this Vegetation communities correspond broadly species within the to Benson & Howell’s Sydney Sandstone flowering period did not Ridgetop Woodland. Common woodland tree detect this species. species include: Corymbia gummifera, C. eximia, Eucalyptus haemastoma, E. punctata, E. racemosa, and/or E. sparsifolia, with an understorey dominated by species from the families Proteaceae, Fabaceae, and Epacridaceae (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Elaeocarpaceae Tetratheca Black-eyed Susan V V Occurs in coastal districts from Buladelah to Protected Low no potential habitat juncea Port Macquarie where it grows in dry Matters, Bionet sclerophyll forest and occasionally swampy heath in sandy, (Harden 1992) low nutrient soils with a dense understorey of grasses. Specifically it is known to occur within Coastal Plains Smooth-barked Apple Woodland and Coastal Plains Scribbly Gum Woodland (Payne et al. 2002).

Epacridaceae Epacris - V Occurs in Gosford and Sydney districts where BioNet, Low no potential habitat purpurascens it grows in sclerophyll forest, scrub and PlantNet, var. swamps (Harden 1992). Usually found in purpurascens sites with a strong shale influence (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002a).

Fabaceae Senna acclinis Rainforest Cassia E Occurs in coastal districts and adjacent Bionet Low no potential habitat (Caesalpinioideae) tablelands of NSW from the Illawarra to Queensland. It grows in or on the edges of subtropical and dry rainforest (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002b).

Fabaceae Acacia bynoeana Bynoes Wattle V E Occurs south of Dora Creek-Morisset area to Protected Low no potential habitat (Mimosoideae) Berrima and the Illawarra region and west to Matters, Bionet the Blue Mountains. It grows mainly in heath and dry sclerophyll forest on sandy soils (Harden 2002). Seems to prefer open, sometimes disturbed sites such as trail margins and recently burnt areas. Typically occurs in association with Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus haemastoma, E. gummifera, E. parramattensis, E. sclerophylla, Banksia serrata and Angophora bakeri (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a).

C-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Fabaceae Acacia Downy Wattle V V Restricted to the Sydney Region from Bilpin Protected Low no potential habitat (Mimosoideae) pubescens to the Georges River and also at Woodford Matters, Bionet where it usually grows in open sclerophyll forest and woodland on clay soils. Typically it occurs at the intergrade between shales and sandstones in gravely soils often with ironstones (Harden 2002; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2003).

Geraniaceae Pelargonium sp. Omeo Stork's-bill E E Known to occur in New South Wales and Protected Low no potential habitat Striatellum (G. Victoria in habitat usually located just above Matters W. Carr 10345), the high water level of irregularly inundated or syn. Pelargonium ephemeral lakes and in the transition zone sp., Pelargonium between surrounding grasslands or pasture sp. 1 and the paludal and aquatic communities. During dry periods, the species is known to colonise exposed lake beds (NSW Scientifc Committee 2010).

Lamiaceae Prostanthera Tranquility E E Restricted to the Ourimbah--Narara area BioNet, Low no potential habitat askania Mintbush where it currently known to exist in five PlantNet, populations. It grows in sclerophyll forest on Protected ridges in or adjacent to rainforest Matters, grows in sclerophyll forest on ridges in or adjacent to rainforest (Harden 1992; NSW Scientific Committee 1998f).

Lamiaceae Prostanthera Somersby E E Grows in sclerophyll forest and woodland, BioNet, Recorded. This species junonis Mintbush usually near the coast, in sandy loamy soils, PlantNet, was recorded within the overlying sandstone. Occurs in Mangrove Mtn Protected survey area during field and Sydney districts (Harden 1992). Matters, surveys

Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea fraseri Frasers Screw E Occurs upon poorly drained, infertile soils in PlantNet, Low no potential habitat Fern swamp forest or open eucalypt forest, usually Bionet as part of a ferny understorey. Confined to the far north coastal areas (Royal Botanic Gardens 2009).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Moraceae Streblus Whalebone Tree E On the Australian mainland, Siah’s Backbone Protected Low no potential habitat pendulinus is found in warmer rainforests, chiefly along Matters watercourses. The altitudinal range is from near sea level to 800 m above sea level. The species grows in well developed rainforest, gallery forest and drier, more seasonal rainforest(Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants 2010). On Norfolk Island, the species is found in a variety of forest types, though it is rare (Director of National Parks (DNP) 2004).

Myrtaceae Angophora Charmhaven V V Restricted to the Charmhaven - Wyee area Bionet Low. Potential habitat inopina Apple where it grows in open dry sclerophyll for this species within woodland of Eucalyptus haemastoma and the survey area. Corymbia gummifera with a dense shrub However this species is understorey. Occurs on deep white sandy easily detected at all soils over sandstone, often with some times of the year and gravelly laterite (Harden 2002; NSW Scientific was not present within Committee 1998a). the survey area.

Myrtaceae Callistemon Netted Bottle V Occurs chiefly from Georges to the BioNet, Low no potential habitat linearifolius Brush Hawkesbury River where it grows in dry PlantNet, sclerophyll forest, open forest, scrubland or woodland on sandstone. Found in damp places, usually in gullies (Fairley, A. & Moore 2002; Harden 2002; Robinson 1994). Within the Sydney region, recent records are limited to the Hornsby Plateau area near the Hawkesbury River (NSW Scientific Committee 1999a).

C-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Myrtaceae Darwinia biflora V V Occurs from Cheltenham to Hawkesbury PlantNet, Low no potential habitat River where it grows in heath on sandstone or Bionet in the understorey of woodland on shale- capped ridges (Harden 2002). Occurs on the edges of weathered shale-capped ridges, where these intergrade with Hawkesbury Sandstone. Associated overstorey species include Eucalyptus haemastoma, Corymbia gummifera and/or E. squamosa. The vegetation structure is usually woodland, open forest or scrub-heath (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

Myrtaceae Darwinia - V Restricted to the Gosford LGA where it BioNet, Recorded. This species glaucophylla occurs between Gosford and the Hawkesbury PlantNet, was recorded within the River around Calga, Kariong and Mt Karing. It survey area during field grows in sandy heath, scrub and woodlands surveys and is often associated with sandstone rock platforms or near hanging swamps and friable sandstone shallow soils. Associated species include: Banksia ericifolia, Acacia terminalis, A. oxycedrus, Angophora hispida, Hakea teretifolia, Bauera rubioides, and in woodland: Corymbia gummifera, C. eximia, Eucalyptus haemastoma and E. punctata (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009).

Myrtaceae Darwinia V Occurs from Hornsby to Hawkesbury River Bionet Low no potential habitat peduncularis and west to Glen Davies where it grows in dry sclerophyll forest on sandstone hillsides and ridges (Harden 2002). Known to occur along watercourses (Benson, D. 2001). Usually grows on or near rocky outcrops on sandy, well drained, low nutrient soil over sandstone (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-5 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus Heart-leaved V V Camfield’s Stringybark is known from Norah BioNet, Low. Potential habitat camfieldii Stringybark Head, on the NSW Central Coast, to Waterfall PlantNet, for this species is and the Royal National Park, south of Sydney Protected present on the ridgetop. (Fairley, Alan 2004). Camfield’s Stringybark Matters However this species is occurs in shallow sandy soils overlying easily detected at all Hawkesbury sandstone within coastal heath, times of the year and generally on exposed sandy ridges. was not present within Associated species frequently include Brown the survey area. Stringybark (E. capitellata), Scribbly Gum (E. haemastoma), Narrow-leaved Stringybark (E. oblonga), Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi), Smooth- barked Apple (Angophora costata), Dwarf Apple (A. hispida), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), Scrub She-oak (Allocasuarina distyla), Slender Tea Tree (Leptospermum trinervium), and Fern-leaved Banksia (Banksia oblongifolia) (Benson, D & McDougall 1998; Leigh et al. 1984)

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus Slaty Red Gum V V Occurs from Taree to Broke where it is locally BioNet, Low no potential habitat glaucina frequent but very sporadic and grows in PlantNet, grassy woodland on deep, moderately fertile and well-watered soil (Harden 2002). Endemic on low coastal ranges and tablelands of central NSW, Taree to Broke, also near Casino (Brooker & Kleinig 1999).

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus Narrow-leaved EP This species is generally found in dry open Bionet Low no potential habitat oblonga Stringybark forests on dry infertile soils on sandstone. The population at Bateau Bay does however occur on coastal sands (Office of Environment and Heritage 2013).

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus Parramatta Red EP Occurs from the upper Goulburn Valley to Hill Bionet Low no potential habitat parramattensis Gum Top where it grows in dry sclerophyll subsp. woodland on sandy soils (Harden 2002). parramattensis Endangered population in the Wyong and Lake Macquarie LGAs.

C-6 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Myrtaceae Leptospermum V V Only occurs near the watershed of Lane Cove Protected Low no potential habitat deanei River where it grows on forested slopes Matters, Bionet (Harden 2002).Woodland on lower hills and slopes or near creeks, sandy alluvial soil or sand over sandstone. Occurs in Riparian Scrub- e.g. Tristaniopsis laurina, Baechea myrtifolia, Woodland- e.g. Eucalyptus haemstoma and Open Forest - e.g. Angophora costata, Leptospermum trinervium and Banksia ercifolia (Department of Environment and Climate Change).

Myrtaceae Melaleuca Biconvex V V Occurs as disjunct populations in coastal New BioNet, Low. Potential habitat biconvexa Paperbark South Wales from Jervis Bay to Port PlantNet, for this species is Macquarie, with the main concentration of Protected present on in the wetter records is in the Gosford/Wyong area (NSW Matters, swamp areas. However Scientific Committee 1998c). Grows in damp this species is easily places, often near streams, or low-lying areas detected at all times of on alluvial soils of low slopes or sheltered the year and was not aspects (Department of Environment and present within the Climate Change 2008; Harden 2002). proposal area.

Myrtaceae Micromyrtus V V Restricted to areas near the Hawkesbury Bionet Low no potential habitat blakelyi River where it grows in heath in depressions on sandstone rock platforms (Harden 2002).

Myrtaceae Syzygium Magenta Lilly Pilly V E Occurs between Bulahdelah and St Georges PlantNet, Low no potential habitat paniculatum Basin where it grows in subtropical and littoral Protected rainforest on sandy soils or stabilized dunes Matters, near the sea (Harden 2002). On the south coast the Magenta Lilly Pilly occurs on grey soils over sandstone, restricted mainly to remnant stands of littoral (coastal) rainforest. On the central coast Magenta Lilly Pilly occurs on gravels, sands, silts and clays in riverside gallery rainforests and remnant littoral rainforest communities (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-7 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Orchidaceae Caladenia - E Caladenia porphyrea has a highly restricted Bionet Low no potential habitat porphyrea geographic distribution. It has been recorded from 2 localities in the Wyong local government area c. 2 km apart (NSW Department of Environment and Conservation 2006).

Orchidaceae Caladenia Thick Lip Spider V E Occurs south of Swansea where it grows on Protected Low no potential habitat tessellata Orchid clay loam or sandy soils (Harden 1993). Matters, Bionet Prefers low open forest with a heathy or sometimes grassy understorey (Bishop 2000). Within NSW, currently known from two disjunct areas; one population near Braidwood on the Southern Tablelands and three populations in the Wyong area on the Central Coast. Previously known also from Sydney and South Coast areas (NSW Scientific Committee 2002).

Orchidaceae Cryptostylis Leafless Tongue V V Occurs south from the Gibraltar Range, BioNet, Low. Potential habitat hunteriana Orchid chiefly in coastal districts but also extends on PlantNet, for this species was to tablelands. Grows in swamp-heath and Protected recorded in the Scribbly drier forest on sandy soils on granite & Matters, Gum Woodlands within sandstone. Occurs in small, localised the survey area. colonies most often on the flat plains close to However, this species the coast but also known from some was not detected mountainous areas growing in moist despite targeted flora depressions and swampy habitats (Harden surveys during the 1993; NSW National Parks and Wildlife flowering period. Service 1999b).

Orchidaceae Dendrobium Spider Orchid E Occurs in coastal districts, north from the PlantNet, Low The main host tree melaleucaphilum lower Blue Mountains. It grows frequently on Bionet for this species was Melaleuca styphelioides, less commonly on absent and it is unlikely rainforest trees or on rocks (Department of to occur within the Environment and Conservation 2005; Royal survey area. Botanic Gardens 2005).

C-8 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Orchidaceae Diuris bracteata - X E A terrestrial ‘donkey’ orchid with yellow Bionet Low no potential habitat flowers with blackish markings Diuris bracteata is now known from a few sites in dry sclerophyll woodland in the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Previously presumed extinct (see ROTAP listing), the total number of individuals is about 50 and the known populations do not occur in conservation reserves (Harden 1993)

Orchidaceae Genoplesium Variable Midge E This terrestrial orchid occurs between Chain Bionet Low no potential habitat insigne Orchid Valley Bay and Wyong in Wyong local government area. It grows in heathland and forest and is associated with Themeda australis amongst shrubs and sedges. Typically it occurs in dry sclerophyll woodland dominated by Eucalyptus haemastoma, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata and Allocasuarina littoralis (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009).

Orchidaceae Rhizanthella Eastern Australian E V Highly cryptic as only the flowers may occur Protected Low no potential habitat slateri Underground above ground. It is more frequent in areas of Matters, Bionet Orchid soil disturbance, but further habitat characteristics or associated vegetation types are poorly known, possibly occurring in sclerophyll forests (Harden 1993).

Poaceae Bothriochloa V V Has a widespread distribution and grows in BioNet, Low no potential habitat biloba woodland on poorer soils (Harden 1993). Protected Occurs on basaltic hills and grassland on Matters drainage slopes on a variety of soils in association with Eucalyptus punctata, E. albens, E. camaldulensis E. tereticornis, E. populnea ssp bimbil and Angophora floribunda (DLWC, 2001).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-9 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2

Proteaceae Grevillea Small-flower V V Mainly known from the Prospect area (but Protected Low no potential habitat parviflora subsp. Grevillea now extinct there) and lower Georges River to Matters, Bionet parviflora Camden, Appin and Cordeaux Dam areas, with a disjunct populations near Putty, Cessnock and Cooranbong. Grows in heath or shrubby woodland in sandy or light clay soils usually over thin shales (Harden 2002; NSW Scientific Committee 1998b).

Proteaceae Grevillea V V Grevillea shiressii is a tall shrub Grows along BioNet, Low no potential habitat shiressii creek banks in wet sclerophyll forest with a PlantNet, moist understorey in alluvial sandy or loamy Protected soils. The species is a fire sensitive obligate Matters, seeder that is highly susceptible to local extinction due to frequent fire. Known only from two populations near Gosford, on tributaries of the lower Hawkesbury River north of Sydney (Mooney Mooney Creek and Mullet Creek). Both populations occur within the Gosford Local Government Area (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007).

Proteaceae Persoonia hirsuta Hairy Geebung E E Occurs from Gosford to the Royal National BioNet Low no potential habitat Park and Hill Top to Glen Davis and Putty inland where it grows in woodlands and dry sclerophyll forest on sandstone or very rarely on shale (Harden 2002). Typically occurs as isolated individuals or very small populations (NSW Scientific Committee 1998d; Royal Botanic Gardens 2005). Often occurs in areas with clay influence, in the ecotone between shale and sandstone (James 1997). Habitat in Castle Hill is considered to be "critical habitat" (James 1997).

C-10 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Family Name Species Name Common Name EPBC TSC Habitat Data Source3 Likelihood of Act Act occurrence4 Status1 Status2 Restionaceae Baloskion V V Occurs in Clyde Mountain district where it BioNet, Low. This species was longipes grows in swamps or depressions in alluvium Protected not recorded during the (Harden 1993) or peat. Resprouts following Matters field surveys. However, fire (Meney & Pate 1999). this species has potential habitat in the Sandstone Hanging Swamps recorded in the survey area. Rutaceae Asterolasia E E Only known to occur in one locality, north of Bionet Low no potential habitat elegans Maroota, where it grows in wet sclerophyll forest on moist hillsides (Harden 2002).

Sterculiaceae Lasiopetalum V V Occurs on lateritic to shaley ridgetops of the Bionet Low no potential habitat joyceae Hornsby Plateau where it grows in heath and open woodland in sandy soils on sandstone (Fairley, A. & Moore 2002; Harden 2000; NSW Scientific Committee 1999b). Thymelaeaceae Pimelea V V Confined to coastal areas around Sydney Protected Low no potential habitat curviflora var. where it grows on sandstone and laterite Matters, Bionet curviflora soils. It is found between South Maroota, Cowan, Narrabeen, Allambie Heights, Northmead and Kellyville, but its former range extended south to the Parramatta River and Port Jackson region including Five Dock, Bellevue Hill and Manly. Usually occurs in woodland in the transition between shale and sandstone, often on Lucas Heights soil landscape (Harden 2000; James 1997; James et al. 1999; NSW Scientific Committee 1998e). Notes: 1. Listed as Presumed Extinct (X), Vulnerable (V), Endangered (E) or Critically Endangered (CE)under the EPBC Act. 2. Listed as Presumed Extinct (X), Endangered Population (EP), Vulnerable (V), Endangered (E) or Critically Endangered (CE) under the TSC Act. 3. Protected matters = EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool Report Bionet = OEH Atlas of NSW Wildlife – 10 km buffer of study area PlantNet = The Royal Botanic Gardens PlantNet database – 10 km buffer of study area 4. As per Section 2.8 in main report

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-11 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Appendix C References

Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants 2010, Streblus pendulinus (online), .

Benson, D 2001, Making bush regeneration work. Watercourses: conservation and regeneration, Nature Conservation Council Urban Bushland Committee, Sydney.

Benson, D & McDougall, L 1998, 'Ecology of Sydney Plant Species - Part 6 Dicotyledon Family Myrtaceae', Cunninghamia, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 808-987.

Bishop, T 2000, Field guide to the orchids of New South Wales and Victoria, Second edn, University of New South Wales Press Pty. Ltd., Sydney.

Brooker, MIH & Kleinig, DA 1999, Field guide to Eucalypts, Volume 1: South-eastern Australia, Blooming Books, Hawthorn, Australia.

Department of Environment and Climate Change Threatened Species Profile: Leptospermum deanei, Department of Environment and Climate Change, viewed 9th June 2009 .

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2008, .

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2009, .

Department of Environment and Conservation 2005, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Director of National Parks (DNP) 2004, Norfolk Island Region Threatened Species Recovery Plan, Director of National Parks, Department of Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, .

Fairley, A 2004, Seldom Seen: Rare Plants of Greater Sydney., 1st edn, Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Fairley, A & Moore, P 2002, Native plants of the Sydney district. An identification guide, Revised Edition edn, Kangaroo Press, Sydney.

Harden, G 1992, Flora of New South Wales Volume 3, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 1993, Flora of New South Wales Volume 4, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 2000, Flora of New South Wales Volume 1 (Revised Edition), University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

Harden, G 2002, Flora of New South Wales Volume 2 (Revised Edition), 2nd edn, vol. 2, University of New South Wales Press Ltd., Kensington.

C-12 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

James, T 1997, Urban bushland biodiversity survey. Native flora in western Sydney. , NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville,

James, T, McDougall, L & Benson, D 1999, Rare bushland plants of western Sydney, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney.

Leigh, JH, Boden, R & Briggs, J 1984, Extinct and Endangered Plants of Australia, Macmillan, Melbourne, Victoria.

Meney, K & Pate, J 1999, Australian rushes: biology, identification and conservation of Restionaceae and allied families, University of Western Australia Press, Nedlands.

NSW Department of Environment and Conservation 2006, Caladenia porphyrea - endangered species listing, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a, Acacia bynoeana threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999b, Terms of licence under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Appendix B of the Integrated Forestry Operations Approval for the Upper North East Region.,

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002a, Epacris purpurascens var. purpurascens threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002b, Threatened species of the upper north coast of New South Wales - Flora, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Northern Directorate, Coffs Harbour.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2003, Acacia pubescens threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientifc Committee 2010, Final Determination to List Pelargonium sp. Striatellum (G.W. Carr 10345) as an Endangered Species, Department of Environment Climate Change and Water, Hursville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998a, Final determination to list Angophora inopina as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998b, Final determination to list Grevillea parviflora ssp. parviflora as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998c, Final determination to list Melaleuca biconvexa as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998d, Final determination to list Persoonia hirsuta as an endangered species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998e, Final determination to list Pimelea curviflora var curviflora as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1998f, Final determination to list Prostanthera askania as an endangered species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1999a, Final determination to list Callistemon linearifolius as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1999b, Final determination to list Lasiopetalum joyceae as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA C-13 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

NSW Scientific Committee 2002, Final determination to list Caladenia tessellata as an endangered species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

Payne, R, Stevenson, D & Wellington, R 2002, A standardised approach for counting black-eyed susan populations, NSW National Parks and Wildlife, Hurstville.

Robinson, L 1994, Field guide to the native plants of Sydney, Kangaroo Press, Sydney.

Royal Botanic Gardens 2005, PlantNet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (version 2.0), Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney,

Royal Botanic Gardens 2009, PlantNet - The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust (version 2.0), Royal Botanic Gardens, .

C-14 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Appendix D Threatened species of animal

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Threatened species of animal

Table D.1 Threatened species of animal known, predicted or likely to occur in the survey area

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Amphibians

Crinia tinnula Wallum V Occurs along coast from south-eastern Queensland to Sydney. Mostly Threatened Low. No suitable Froglet associated with swamps, dams and flooded roadside ditches, usually in Species habitat in the heathland, where it is confined to acid, paperbark swamps and sedge Populations and proposal area. swamps of the 'wallum' country. Males call any time of year. Breed in late Communities winter (Anstis 2002; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002). Database- Wyong CMA

Heleioporus Giant V V Exists as two distinct populations: a northern population on the BioNet Atlas of Moderate. australiacus Burrowing sandstone geology of the Sydney Basin, from Wollemi National Park in NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat Frog the north, south to Jervis Bay; and a southern population in disjunct Protected Matters, although in pockets from about Narooma south into eastern Victoria. In the northern Threatened degraded condition population there is a marked preference for sandstone ridgetop habitat Species due to edge effects. and broader upland valleys where the frog is associated with small Populations and headwater and slow flowing to intermittent creeklines. The vegetation is Communities typically woodland, open woodland and heath and may be associated Database- with ‘hanging swamp’ seepage lines and where small pools form from Hawkesbury- collected water. Also observed occupying artificial ponded structures Nepean CMA, such as fire dams, gravel ‘borrows’, detention basins and box drains that Wyong CMA. have naturalised and are surrounded by undisturbed habitat. In the southern population, records appear to be associated with Devonian igneous and sedimentary formations and Ordovician metamorphics and are generally from more heavily timbered areas. It is absent from areas that have been cleared for agriculture or for urban development. Breed in summer and autumn in burrows in the banks of small creeks (Cogger 2000; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001a).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Litoria aurea Green and V E1 Has a fragmented distribution of mainly near coastal locations from BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable Golden Bell Lakes Entrance (Victoria) to south of the NSW-Queensland border. For NSW Wildlife, habitat in the Frog breeding it utilises a wide range of waterbodies, including both natural Protected Matters, proposal area. and man-made structures, such as marshes, dams and stream sides, Threatened and ephemeral locations that are more often dry than wet. It is found in Species small pockets of habitat in otherwise developed areas and has the Populations and tendency of often turning up in highly disturbed sites. Fast flowing rivers Communities and streams appear to be one of the few types of water body not utilized Database- for breeding purposes. Habitat attributes associated with the species’ Hawkesbury- presence include that the water body is shallow, still or slow flowing, Nepean CMA, ephemeral and/or widely fluctuating, unpolluted and without heavy Wyong CMA. shading. Permanent waterbodies are also known to be used and there is historical evidence of occupation of large, often deep and permanent bodies of water. There is a clear preference for sites with a complexity of vegetation structure and terrestrial habitat attributes that favour the species include extensive grassy areas and an abundance of shelter sites such as rocks, logs, tussock forming vegetation and other cover used for foraging and shelter. Over-wintering shelter sites may be adjacent to or some distance away from breeding sites but the full range of possible habitat used for this purpose is not yet well understood (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004, 2005b).

Litoria Booroolong E E1 Confined to mountain streams of the Great Dividing Range (Cogger Threatened Low. No suitable booroolongensis Frog 2000). Usually found on or under boulders and debris in and beside the Species habitat in the rocky beds of mountain streams; breeds in summer (Anstis 2002). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA

Litoria Green- V Green-thighed Frogs occur in a range of habitats from rainforest and BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable brevipalmata thighed Frog moist eucalypt forest to dry eucalypt forest and heath, typically in areas NSW Wildlife, habitat in the where surface water gathers after rain (Department of Environment and Threatened proposal area. Climate Change 2009). Breeding occurs following heavy rainfall in late Species spring and summer, with frogs aggregating around grassy semi- Populations and permanent ponds and flood-prone grassy areas. The frogs are thought to Communities forage in leaf-litter. Isolated localities along the coast and ranges from Database- Wyong the NSW central coast to south-east Queensland. CMA

D-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Litoria littlejohni Littlejohn's V V Distributed along the eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range from Protected Matters, Moderate. Tree Frog, Watagan State Forest near Wyong, south to Buchan in north-eastern Threatened Potential habitat Heath Frog Victoria. It appears to be restricted to sandstone woodland and heath Species although in communities at mid to high altitude. It forages both in the tree canopy Populations and degraded condition and on the ground, and it has been observed sheltering under rocks on Communities due to edge effects. high exposed ridges during summer. It is not known from coastal habitats Database- (NSW Scientific Committee 2000). Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Mixophyes balbus Stuttering V E1 Terrestrial species, found in rainforest, Antarctic beech forest or wet BioNet Atlas of Moderate. Frog sclerophyll forest. The species depends on freshwater streams and NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat riparian vegetation for breeding and habitation. No records are known Protected Matters, although in from riparian habitat that has been disturbed (Cogger 2000; NSW Threatened degraded condition Scientific Committee 2003). Species due to edge effects. Populations and Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Mixophyes iteratus Giant Barred E E1 Terrestrial species which occurs in rainforests, Antarctic beech or wet BioNet Atlas of Moderate. Frog sclerophyll forests. Feeds on insects and smaller frogs (Cogger 2000). NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat The species is associated with permanent flowing drainages, from Protected Matters, although in shallow rocky rainforest streams to slow-moving rivers in lowland open Threatened degraded condition forest. It is not known to utilise still water areas (NSW Scientific Species due to edge effects. Committee 1999). More prevalent at lower altitudes and in larger streams Populations and than its congeners, although has been recorded up to 1000 metres asl. Communities (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Pseudophryne Red-crowned V Occurs within 160 km of Sydney where it is restricted to Hawkesbury BioNet Atlas of Moderate. australis Toadlet Sandstone. It breeds in deep grass and debris adjacent to ephemeral NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat drainage lines. When not breeding individuals are found scattered on Threatened although in sandstone ridges under rocks and logs (Cogger 2000). Species degraded condition Populations and due to edge effects. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Birds

Anseranas Magpie V Occurs in shallow wetlands such as large swamps and dams, especially Threatened Low. No suitable semipalmata Goose with dense growth of rushes or sedges, and with permanent lagoons and Species habitat in the grassland nearby. Feeds on seeds, tubers and green grass. Form large Populations and proposal area. nesting colonies during the wet season. During the dry season this Communities species migrates hundreds of kilometres to perennial swamps (Garnett & Database- Wyong Crowley 2000; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002). CMA

Anthochaera Regent EM CE Occurs mostly in box-ironbark forests and woodland and prefers wet, BioNet Atlas of Moderate. phrygia (syn. Honeyeater fertile sites such as along creek flats, broad river valleys and foothills. NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat Xanthomyza Riparian forests with Casuarina cunninghamiana and Amyema cambagei Protected Matters, although in phrygia) are important for feeding and breeding. Spotted Gum and Swamp Threatened degraded condition Mahogany forests are also important feeding areas in coastal areas. Species due to edge effects. Important food trees include Eucalyptus sideroxylon (Mugga Ironbark), E. Populations and albens (White Box), E. melliodora (Yellow Box) and E. leucoxylon (Yellow Communities Gum) (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed M Breeds in the northern hemisphere, wintering south to Australia. It is Protected Matters Moderate. This Swift almost exclusively aerial, flying from less than 1 m to at least 300 m species is likely to above ground. It mostly occurs over inland plains but sometimes above use aerial space in foothills or in coastal areas, including over towns and cities. It mostly vicinity of the occurs over dry and/or open habitats, including riparian woodland, low proposal area, at scrub, heathland or saltmarsh, grassland, spinifex sandplains, farmland least on an and sand-dunes. It probably roosts aerially, but has occasionally been intermittent basis. observed to land (Higgins 1999).

D-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Ardea ibis Cattle Egret M Occurs in tropical and temperate grasslands, wooded lands and BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable terrestrial wetlands and very rarely in arid and semi-arid regions. High NSW Wildlife habitat in the numbers may occur in moist, poorly drained pastures with high grass; it proposal area. avoids low grass pastures but has been recorded on earthen dam walls and ploughed fields. It is commonly associated with the habitats of farm animals, particularly cattle, but also pigs, sheep, horses and deer. It is known to follow earth-moving machinery and has been located at rubbish tips. It uses predominately shallow, open and fresh wetlands including meadows and swamps with low emergent vegetation and abundant aquatic flora (Marchant & Higgins 1990; Morton et al. 1989).

Botaurus Australasian E E1 Occurs in shallow, vegetated freshwater or brackish swamps. Requires Protected Matters, Low. No suitable poiciloptilus Bittern permanent wetlands with tall dense vegetation, particularly bulrushes Threatened habitat in the and spikerushes. When breeding, pairs are found in areas with a mixture Species proposal area. of tall and short sedges but will also feed in more open territory. (Garnett Populations and & Crowley 2000; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002). Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA

Burhinus grallarius Bush Stone- E1 Inland habitat consists of open forest and woodlands with few, if any, BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable curlew shrubs, and short, sparse grasses of less than 15cm in height, with NSW Wildlife, habitat in the scattered fallen timber, leaf litter and bare ground present (Department of Threatened proposal area. Environment and Conservation 2006). In coastal areas, structurally Species similar elements of tidal and estuarine communities (Casuarina Populations and woodlands, saltmarsh and mangroves) provide suitable habitat (Price Communities 2004). Nesting sites are frequently located in relatively open areas, Database- where ground cover is extremely low and/or sparse including native Hawkesbury- vegetation and mown lawns, ploughed paddocks and paddocks cut for Nepean CMA, hay, dirt and gravel roads, seaweed on sand beach, playing fields, Wyong CMA. vacant lots (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006).

Cacatua Major V Generally found in western New South Wales in the Murray Basin. Threatened Low. No suitable leadbeateri Mitchell's Occurs in arid and semi-arid zone woodlands dominated by Mulga, Species habitat in the Cockatoo mallee, box eucalypts and Callitris pine where it feeds on seeds, roots Populations and proposal area. and fruit. The main requirement of this species is trees with suitable Communities nesting hollows and fresh surface water (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-5 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Calidris alba Sanderling M V A coastal species found on low and open sand beaches exposed to open Threatened Low. No suitable sea-swells. A migratory species, it has been recorded in NSW from Species habitat in the September to May (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Calidris ferruginea Curlew M E1 Occurs in inter-tidal mudflats of estuaries, lagoons, mangrove channels Threatened Low. No suitable Sandpiper and also around lakes, dams, floodwaters and flooded saltbush Species habitat in the surrounding inland lakes (Morcombe 2003). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Calidris tenuirostris Great Knot M V Generally a coastal species found on tidal mudflats and sandy ocean Threatened Low. No suitable shores. A migratory species visiting Australian waters between Species habitat in the September and March (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Callocephalon Gang-gang V Occurs in wetter forests and woodland from sea level to an altitude over BioNet Atlas of Moderate. fimbriatum Cockatoo 2000 metres, timbered foothills and valleys, coastal scrubs, farmlands NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat and suburban gardens (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Threatened although in Species degraded condition Populations and due to edge effects. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-6 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Calyptorhynchus Glossy Black- V Occurs in eucalypt woodland and forest with Casuarina/Allocasuarina BioNet Atlas of Moderate. lathami Cockatoo spp. Characteristically inhabits forests on sites with low soil nutrient NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat status, reflecting the distribution of key Allocasuarina species. The drier Threatened although in forest types with intact and less rugged landscapes are preferred by the Species degraded condition species. Nests in tree hollows (Garnett & Crowley 2000; NSW National Populations and due to edge effects. Parks and Wildlife Service 1999c). Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Charadrius Greater Sand M V Entirely coastal in NSW foraging on intertidal sand and mudflats in Threatened Low. No suitable leschenaultii Plover estuaries, and roosting during high tide on sand beaches or rocky Species habitat in the shores. A migratory species it is found in New South Wales generally Populations and proposal area. during the summer months (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Charadrius Lesser Sand M V Migratory bird that migrates from the northern hemisphere to coastal Threatened Low. No suitable mongolus Plover areas of northern and east coast of Australia (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Chthonicola Speckled V Occurs in a wide range of eucalypt dominated vegetation with a grassy Threatened Low. No suitable sagittata (syn. Warbler understorey and is often found on rocky ridges or in gullies. It feeds on Species habitat in the Pyrrholaemus seeds and insects and builds domed nests on the ground (Garnett & Populations and proposal area. sagittatus) Crowley 2000). The species has been shown to decrease in abundance Communities as woodland area decreased, and it appears to be extinct in districts Database- where no fragments larger than 100ha remain (Barrett, G.W et al. 1994). Hawkesbury- Isolation of Speckled Warbler populations in small remnants increases Nepean CMA, their vulnerability to local extinction as a result of stochastic events and Wyong CMA. decreases their genetic viability in the long term (NSW Scientific Committee 2001b).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-7 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Circus assimilis Spotted V The Spotted Harrier occurs throughout the Australian mainland in grassy Threatened Low. No suitable Harrier open woodland including acacia and mallee remnants, inland riparian Species habitat in the woodland, grassland and shrub steppe (e.g. chenopods) (Marchant & Populations and proposal area. Higgins 1993). It is found mostly commonly in native grassland, but also Communities occurs in agricultural land, foraging over open habitats including edges of Database- inland wetlands. The diet of the Spotted Harrier includes terrestrial Hawkesbury- mammals, birds and reptiles, occasionally large insects and rarely carrion Nepean CMA, (Department of Environment Climate Change and Water 2010). Wyong CMA.

Climacteris Brown V Found in eucalypt woodlands and dry open forest of the inland slopes Threatened Low. No suitable picumnus victoriae Treecreeper and plains inland of the Great Dividing Range; mainly inhabits woodlands Species habitat in the (eastern dominated by stringybarks or other rough-barked eucalypts. Nesting Populations and proposal area. subspecies) occurs in tree hollows (Department of Environment and Conservation Communities 2005a). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Daphoenositta Varied Sittella V The Varied Sittella inhabits most of mainland Australia except the BioNet Atlas of Moderate. chrysoptera treeless deserts and open grasslands. It inhabits eucalypt forests and NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat woodlands, especially rough-barked species and mature smooth-barked Threatened although in gums with dead branches, mallee and Acacia woodland. The Varied Species degraded condition Sittella feeds on arthropods gleaned from crevices in rough or Populations and due to edge effects. decorticating bark, dead branches, standing dead trees, and from small Communities branches and twigs in the tree canopy. It builds a cup-shaped nest of Database- plant fibres and cobwebs in an upright tree fork high in the living tree Hawkesbury- canopy, and often re-uses the same fork or tree in successive years Nepean CMA, (Department of Environment Climate Change and Water 2010). Wyong CMA.

Dasyornis Eastern E E1 The habitat of the Eastern Bristlebird is characterised by low dense Protected Matters Low. No suitable brachypterus Bristlebird vegetation. Fire is a feature of all areas where known populations occur. habitat in the Given the poor flight ability of the species it is though that few individuals proposal area. survive the passage of fire, survival is dependent on the availability of fire refuges and recolonisation may be relatively slow. The bird is cryptic and camouflaged and rarely seen but may be detected by its distinctive, loud calls. Confined to NSW/Queensland border region, Illawarra region and NSW/Victorian border region (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1997).

D-8 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Diomedea Antipodean VM V A nomadic marine species that occasionally breeds off the coast of New Protected Matters Low. No suitable antipedensis Albatross South Wales (Garnett & Crowley 2000). habitat in the proposal area.

Diomedea Tristan E Breeding range now restricted to Inaccessible and Gough Island., having Protected Matters Low. No suitable dabbena Albatross been eliminated from the main island of Tristan de Cunha by 1907. habitat in the Current global population estimated to contain about 1,000 breeding proposal area. pairs. There is only one record from Australian waters. Breed biennially in colonies among grass tussocks on isolated subantarctic islands and feed pelagically on squid, fish and crustaceans (Garnett & Crowley 2000).

Diomedea exulans Wandering VM E1 Nomadic marine species, that breeds in small loose colonies among Protected Matters, Low. No suitable Albatross grass tussocks, using a large mud nets, sometimes off the coast of NSW Threatened habitat in the (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species proposal area. Populations and Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Diomedea gibsoni Gibson's VM V A nomadic marine species that forages off the coast of New South Wales Protected Matters Low. No suitable Albatross (Garnett & Crowley 2000). habitat in the proposal area.

Ephippiorhynchus Black-necked E1 Feed in shallow water up to 0.5 m deep on fish, reptiles and frogs. Build Threatened Low. No suitable asiaticus Stork nests in trees close to feeding sites (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-9 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Epthianura White-fronted E2 The White-fronted Chat occupies foothills and lowlands below 1000 m Threatened Low. No suitable albifrons Chat above sea level (North 1904; Higgins et al. 2001; Barrett et al. 2003). In Species habitat in the New South Wales the White-fronted Chat occurs mostly in the southern Populations and proposal area. half of the state, occurring in damp open habitats along the coast, and Communities near waterways in the western part of the state (Higgins et al. 2001). Database- Along the coastline, White-fronted Chats are found predominantly in Hawkesbury- saltmarsh vegetation although they are also observed in open grasslands Nepean CMA, and sometimes in low shrubs bordering wetland areas. (North 1904; Wyong CMA. Higgins et al. 2001; Barrett et al. 2003). The population in the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority region is listed as Endangered (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012).

Erythrotriorchis Red VM CE Lives in coastal and sub-coastal tall open forests and woodlands, tropical Protected Matters Low. No suitable radiatus Goshawk savannas traversed by wooded or forested rivers and along edges of habitat in the rainforest. Nests are only built in trees taller than 20 meters which occur proposal area. within 1 kilometre of a watercourse or wetland. Has a home range of 200 square kilometres and hunts for medium to large birds in open forests and gallery forest (Garnett & Crowley 2000).

Falco subniger Black Falcon V Widely, but sparsely, distributed in New South Wales, mostly occurring Threatened Low. No suitable woodland, shrubland and grassland in the arid and semi-arid zones, Species habitat in the especially wooded watercourses and agricultural land with scattered Populations and proposal area. remnant trees. It is usually associated with streams or wetlands, visiting Communities them in search of prey and often using standing dead trees as lookout Database- posts. Habitat selection is generally influenced more by prey densities Hawkesbury- than by specific aspects of habitat floristics or condition, although in Nepean CMA, agricultural landscapes it tends to nest in healthy, riparian woodland Wyong CMA. remnants with a diverse avifauna (NSW Scientific Committee 2013).

Glossopsitta Little Lorikeet V The Little Lorikeet is a small green lorikeet with black bill and red patch BioNet Atlas of Moderate. pusilla on forehead and throat. The underside is yellow-green. Immatures are NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat duller with less red on face and brown bill. Found in forests, woodland, Threatened although in treed areas along watercourses and roads. Forages mainly on flowers, Species degraded condition nectar and fruit. Found along coastal east Australia from Cape York in Populations and due to edge effects. Queensland down east coast and round to South Australia. Uncommon Communities in southern Victoria (Higgins 1999). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-10 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Grantiella picta Painted V Lives in dry forests and woodlands. Primary food is the mistletoes in the BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable Honeyeater genus Amyema, though it will take some nectar and insects. Its breeding NSW Wildlife, habitat in the distribution is dictated by presence of mistletoes which are largely Threatened proposal area. restricted to older trees. Less likely to be found in in strips of remnant Species box-ironbark woodlands, such as occur along roadsides and in Populations and windbreaks, than in wider blocks (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Gygis alba White Tern V Occurs on oceanic islands, tropical and subtropical seas. Eggs are laid Threatened Low. No suitable and incubated in depression on branch of forest tree or palm frond up to Species habitat in the 10 metres above ground (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Haematopus Sooty V The Sooty Oystercatcher is found on rocky headlands, rock shelves, Threatened Low. No suitable fuliginosus Oystercatcher exposed reefs with rock pools, beaches and muddy estuaries (Marchant Species habitat in the & Higgins 1993). The species forages on exposed intertidal rocky Populations and proposal area. shorelines at low tide (Garnett & Crowley 2000). It breeds almost Communities exclusively on offshore islands, and occasionally on isolated Database- Wyong promontories during spring and summer. They nest on the ground in CMA amongst rocks, seaweed, shells and pebbles (Marchant & Higgins 1993).

Haematopus Australian E1 Occurs in undisturbed beaches, sandspits, sandbars, tidal mudflats, Threatened Low. No suitable longirostris Pied estuaries and coastal islands. Occasionally found on rocky reefs, Species habitat in the Oystercatcher shores, rock stacks, brackish or saline wetlands and also in grassy Populations and proposal area. paddocks, golf courses or parks near coast. Eggs are laid in shallow Communities scrape in sand on open beach or among low growth behind beach Database- Wyong (Pizzey & Knight 2007). CMA

Haliaeetus White-bellied M Occurs in coastal areas including islands, estuaries, inlets, large rivers, Protected Matters Low. No suitable leucogaster Sea-Eagle inland lakes and reservoirs. Builds a huge nest of sticks in tall trees near habitat in the water, on the ground on islands or on remote coastal cliffs (Pizzey & proposal area. Knight 2007).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-11 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Hamirostra Black- V Distributed throughout most of inland Australia and prefers arid Threatened Low. No suitable melanosternon breasted scrubland, and open woodlands. Feeds on small mammals and birds Species habitat in the Buzzard (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Hieraaetus Little Eagle V The Little Eagle is distributed throughout the Australian mainland Threatened Moderate. morphnoides occupying habitats rich in prey within open eucalypt forest, woodland or Species Potential habitat open woodland. Sheoak or acacia woodlands and riparian woodlands of Populations and although in interior NSW are also used. For nest sites it requires a tall living tree Communities degraded condition within a remnant patch, where pairs build a large stick nest in winter and Database- due to edge effects. lay in early spring. Prey includes birds, reptiles and mammals, with the Hawkesbury- occasional large insect and carrion. Most of its former native mammalian Nepean CMA, prey species in inland NSW are extinct and rabbits now form a major part Wyong CMA. of the diet (Marchant & Higgins 1993).

Hirundapus White- M Occurs in airspace over forests, woodlands, farmlands, plains, lakes, BioNet Atlas of Moderate. This caudacutus throated coasts and towns. Breeds in the northern hemisphere and migrates to NSW Wildlife, species is likely to Needletail Australia in October-April (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Protected Matters use aerial space in vicinity of the proposal area, at least on an intermittent basis.

Irediparra Comb- V Occurs in floating vegetation of permanent well-vegetated wetlands and Threatened Low. No suitable gallinacea crested dams. Walks on floating plants. Occasionally feeds along muddy wetland Species habitat in the Jacana margins on east coast of NSW (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-12 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Ixobrychus Black Bittern V Usually found in dense vegetation in and fringing streams, swamps, tidal Threatened Low. No suitable flavicollis creeks and mudflats, particularly amongst swamp she-oaks and Species habitat in the mangroves. Feeds on aquatic fauna along streams, in estuaries and Populations and proposal area. beside billabongs and pools. Breeding occurs in summer in secluded Communities places in densely vegetated wetlands. It nests in trees that overhang the Database- water (Garnett & Crowley 2000; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Hawkesbury- 2002). Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot E E1 Breeding occurs in Tasmania, majority migrates to mainland Australia in Protected Matters, Moderate. autumn, over-wintering, particularly in Victoria and central and eastern Threatened Potential habitat NSW, but also south-eastern Queensland as far north as Duaringa. Until Species although in recently it was believed that in New South Wales, Swift Parrots forage Populations and degraded condition mostly in the western slopes region along the inland slopes of the Great Communities due to edge effects. Dividing Range, but new evidence indicates that the forests on the Database- coastal plains from southern to northern NSW are also extremely Hawkesbury- important. In mainland Australia is semi-nomadic, foraging in flowering Nepean CMA, eucalypts in eucalypt associations, particularly box-ironbark forests and Wyong CMA. woodlands. Preference for sites with highly fertile soils where large trees have high nectar production, including along drainage lines and isolated rural or urban remnants, and for sites with flowering Acacia pycnantha, is indicated. Sites used vary from year to year. (Garnett & Crowley 2000), (Swift Parrot Recovery Team 2001).

Limicola falcinellus Broad-billed M V A migratory species that breeds in the northern hemisphere between Threatened Low. No suitable Sandpiper June and August. Individuals feed both on exposed mudflats and while Species habitat in the wading in water (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Limosa limosa Black-tailed M V A coastal species found on tidal mudflats, swamps, shallow river margins Threatened Low. No suitable Godwit and sewage farms. Also found inland on larger shallow fresh or brackish Species habitat in the waters. A migratory species visiting Australia between September and Populations and proposal area. May (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-13 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed V This species hunts primarily over open forest, woodland and mallee Threatened Moderate. Kite communities as well as over adjacent heaths and other low scrubby Species Potential habitat habitats in wooded towns. It feeds on small birds, their eggs and Populations and although in nestlings as well as insects. Seems to prefer structurally diverse Communities degraded condition landscapes (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Database- due to edge effects. Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Macronectes Southern EM E1 A partly nomadic marine species that forages off the coast of New South Threatened Low. No suitable giganteus Giant-Petrel Wales (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Melanodryas Hooded V Found in south-eastern Australia, generally east of the Great Dividing Threatened Low. No suitable cucullata cucullata Robin (South- Range. Found in eucalypt woodland and mallee and acacia shrubland. Species habitat in the Eastern) This is one of a suite of species that has declined in woodland areas in Populations and proposal area. south-eastern Australia (Garnett & Crowley 2000; Traill & Duncan 2000). Communities The species appears unable to survive in remnants smaller than 100- Database- 200ha (NSW Scientifc Committee 2001). Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Melithreptus Black- V Occurs within areas of annual rainfall between 400-700 mm. Feed on Threatened Moderate. gularis gularis chinned insects, nectar and lerps (Garnett & Crowley 2000). It occupies mostly Species Potential habitat Honeyeater upper levels of drier open forests or woodlands dominated by box and Populations and although in (eastern ironbark eucalypts, Blakely's Red Gum and Forest Red Gum. Also Communities degraded condition subspecies) inhabits open forests of smooth-barked gums, stringybarks, river sheoaks Database- due to edge effects. (nesting habitat) and tea-trees. Feeding territories are large making the Hawkesbury- species locally nomadic. It tends to occur in the largest woodland Nepean CMA, patches in the landscape as birds forage over large home ranges of at Wyong CMA. least 5 hectares (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012b).

D-14 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Merops ornatus Rainbow M Usually occur in open or lightly timbered areas, often near water. Breed Protected Matters Moderate. Bee-eater in open areas with friable, often sandy soil, good visibility, convenient Potential habitat perches and often near wetlands. Nests in embankments including although in creeks, rivers and sand dunes. Insectivorous, most foraging is aerial, in degraded condition clearings (Higgins 1999). due to edge effects and likely only as a passage migrant due to lack of breeding substrates.

Monarcha Black-faced M Occurs in rainforests, eucalypt woodlands, coastal scrubs, damp gullies Protected Matters Moderate. melanopsis Monarch in rainforest, eucalypt forest and in more open woodland when migrating Potential habitat (Pizzey & Knight 2007). although in degraded condition due to edge effects and likely only as a passage migrant due to lack of breeding substrates.

Monarcha Spectacled M Occurs in the understorey of mountain/lowland rainforests, thickly Protected Matters Low. Outside of trivirgatus Monarch wooded gullies and waterside vegetation. Migrates to NE NSW in known range. summer to breed (Pizzey & Knight 2007).

Myiagra Satin M Occurs in heavily vegetated gullies, in forests and taller woodlands. Protected Matters Moderate. cyanoleuca Flycatcher During migration it is found in coastal forests, woodlands, mangroves, Potential habitat trees in open country and gardens (Pizzey & Knight 2007). although in degraded condition due to edge effects.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-15 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Neophema Turquoise V The Turquoise Parrot inhabits eucalypt and cypress-pine open forests BioNet Atlas of Low. Outside of pulchella Parrot and woodlands (commonly box or box-ironbark) with native grasses, NSW Wildlife, known local range. sometimes with a low shrubby understorey, often in undulating or rugged Threatened country, or on footslopes. It also lives in open woodland or riparian gum Species woodland, and often near ecotones between woodland and grassland, or Populations and coastal forest and heath. The Turquoise Parrot requires live or dead Communities trees, stumps and logs for nesting, trees and shrubs for shelter, and Database- seeding grasses and forbs (often beneath trees) for food. The Turquoise Hawkesbury- Parrot’s nest is a cavity in a live or dead tree, stump or log, or even fence Nepean CMA, post often within 1-2 m of the ground. Hollows average about 0.5 m Wyong CMA. deep, with an entrance hole of 10 x 7 cm, and a nest chamber 12 x 9 cm in diameter (Garnett & Crowley 2000; Higgins 1999).

Nettapus Cotton E1 Found on freshwater lakes, swamps, and large water impoundments. Threatened Low. No suitable coromandelianus Pygmy- Congregates in flocks on permanent water bodies during the dry season. Species habitat in the Goose Lays eggs in the hollow of trees that stand in or beside water. Principal Populations and proposal area. foods are Pondweed Potamogeton seeds and other aquatic vegetation Communities (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Database- Wyong CMA

Ninox connivens Barking Owl V Occurs in dry sclerophyll woodland. In the south west it is often BioNet Atlas of Moderate. associated with riparian vegetation while in the south east it generally NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat occurs on forest edges. It nests in large hollows in live eucalypts, often Threatened although in near open country. It feeds on insects in the non-breeding season and Species degraded condition on birds and mammals in the breeding season (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and due to edge effects. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-16 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl V A sedentary species with a home range of approximately 1000 hectares BioNet Atlas of Moderate. it occurs within open eucalypt, Casuarina or Callitris pine forest and NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat woodland. It often roosts in denser vegetation including rainforest of Threatened although in exotic pine plantations. Generally feeds on medium-sized mammals such Species degraded condition as possums and gliders but will also eat birds, flying-foxes, rats and Populations and due to edge effects. insects. Prey are generally hollow dwelling and require a shrub layer and Communities owls are more often found in areas with more old trees and hollows than Database- average stands (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Oxyura australis Blue-billed V Relatively sparse throughout species range. Regularly found breeding in Threatened Low. No suitable Duck south-east Queensland, north-east South Australia and throughout New Species habitat in the South Wales. Found on temperate, fresh to saline, terrestrial wetlands, Populations and proposal area. and occupies artificial wetlands. Prefers deep permanent open water, Communities within or near dense vegetation. Nest in rushes, sedge, Lignum Database- Wyong Muehlenbeckia cunninghamii and paperbark Melaleuca (Garnett & CMA Crowley 2000).

Pandion cristatus Eastern M V Generally a coastal species, occurring in estuaries, bays, inlets, islands BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable (syn. P. haliaetus) Osprey and surrounding waters, coral atolls, reefs, lagoons, rock cliffs and NSW Wildlife, habitat in the stacks. Sometimes ascends larger rivers to far inland. Builds nests high Threatened proposal area. in tree, on pylon or on ground on islands. Feeds on fish (Pizzey & Knight Species 2007). Populations and Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-17 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin V In NSW, the Scarlet Robin occupies open forests and woodlands from BioNet Atlas of Moderate. the coast to the inland slopes. Some dispersing birds may appear in NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat autumn or winter on the eastern fringe of the inland plains. It prefers an Threatened although in open understorey of shrubs and grasses and sometimes in open areas. Species degraded condition Abundant logs and coarse woody debris are important structural Populations and due to edge effects. components of its habitat. In autumn and winter it migrates to more open Communities habitats such as grassy open woodland or paddocks with scattered Database- trees. It forages from low perches, feeding on invertebrates taken from Hawkesbury- the ground, tree trunks, logs and other coarse woody debris (Higgins & Nepean CMA, Peter 2002; NSW Scientific Committee 2010). The species has been Wyong CMA. found to be absent from remnants surrounded by cereal cropping, less common in isolated patches of 30 ha or less (where there was no tree cover within 200 m and less than 20% cover within 1 km), less common in sites surrounded by cattle grazing and more common in sites with native versus exotic grasses if ungrazed for more than 10 years (Barrett, G.W. et al. 2003).

Petroica Flame Robin V In NSW the Flame Robin breeds in upland moist eucalypt forests and Threatened Low. Outside of phoenicea woodlands, often on ridges and slopes, in areas of open understorey. It Species known local range. migrates in winter to more open lowland habitats (Higgins & Peter 2002). Populations and The Flame Robin forages from low perches, feeding on invertebrates Communities taken from the ground, tree trunks, logs and other woody debris. The Database- robin builds an open cup nest of plant fibres and cobweb, which is often Hawkesbury- near the ground in a sheltered niche, ledge or shallow cavity in a tree, Nepean CMA, stump or bank (Department of Environment Climate Change and Water Wyong CMA. 2010).

Phaethon Red-tailed V Tropical and sub-tropical seas (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Threatened Low. No suitable rubricauda Tropicbird Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

D-18 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Pomatostomus Grey- V The eastern form of the species formerly ranged throughout eastern BioNet Atlas of Low. Outside of temporalis Crowned Australia from South Australia, through Victoria and broadly through NSW Wildlife, known local range. temporalis Babbler NSW and central Queensland but is now extinct in South Australia, Threatened (Eastern coastal Victoria and the ACT. In NSW, it occurs on the western slopes Species subspecies) and plains but is less common at the higher altitudes of the tablelands. Populations and Isolated populations are known from coastal woodlands on the North Communities Coast, in the Hunter Valley and from the South Coast near Nowra Database- (Blakers et al. 1984; Schodde & Mason 1999).Grey-crowned Babblers Hawkesbury- occupy open woodlands dominated by mature eucalypts, with Nepean CMA, regenerating trees, tall shrubs, and an intact ground cover of grass and Wyong CMA. forbs. The species builds conspicuous dome-shaped nests and breeds co-operatively in sedentary family groups of 2-13 birds (Davidson & Robinson 1992).Grey-crowned Babblers are insectivorous and forage in leaf litter and on bark of trees (NSW Scientific Committee 2001a).

Pterodroma Gould's Petrel EM V A marine species, it nests on islands among rocks and debris of Threatened Low. No suitable leucoptera Cabbage Tree Palms. It feeds on fish, cephalapods and other marine Species habitat in the animals (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Pterodroma Kermadec V An oceanic species that forages in the tropical and subtropical pacific Threatened Low. No suitable neglecta Petrel ocean (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Pterodroma Black-winged V A marine species. Nests at numerous sites on Lord Howe Island: North BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable nigripennis Petrel Head, New Gulch, Dawson's Ridge, Malabar, Ned's Beach, Jim's Point, NSW Wildlife, habitat in the Transit Hill, adjacent to Muttonbird Point, Red Point and Ball's Pyramid. Threatened proposal area. Nest in a burrow, up to a metre long in sandy soil but shorter in stony Species volcanic soil. The burrow is located on higher ground, and the entrance is Populations and usually hidden amongst bushes (Department of Environment and Communities Conservation 2005c). Database- Wyong CMA

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-19 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Pterodroma Providence M V A marine species that breeds at Norfolk island and breeds within earth Threatened Low. No suitable solandri Petrel burrows often within rainforest. Occurs across the western Tasman Sea Species habitat in the and the entire north Pacific Ocean (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Ptilinopus Wompoo V Occurs in rainforests, monsoon forests, adjacent eucalypt forests, fruiting Threatened Low. No suitable magnificus Fruit-Dove trees on scrubby creeks or in open country (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Ptilinopus regina Rose- V Occurs in subtropical and dry rainforests and occasionally in moist Threatened Low. No suitable crowned eucalypt forests and swamp forests where fruit is plentiful. They are Species habitat in the Fruit-Dove thought to move locally as they follow the ripening fruit (NSW National Populations and proposal area. Parks and Wildlife Service 2002). Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Ptilinopus Superb Fruit- V Occurs in rainforests and fringes, scrubs, mangroves and wooded Threatened Low. No suitable superbus Dove stream-margins, lantana thickets, isolated figs, pittosporums, lily pillies Species habitat in the and blackberries (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Puffinus assimilis Little V A marine species that occurs over the Tasman Sea and possibly the Threatened Low. No suitable Shearwater Coral Sea. The species breeds on island in burrows dug in soft soil Species habitat in the among mats of succulents or among loose rocks and they forage far out Populations and proposal area. to sea (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Communities Database- Wyong CMA

D-20 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Puffinus carneipes Flesh-footed M V An oceanic species that has been recorded off the coast of New South Threatened Low. No suitable Shearwater Wales (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous M Occurs in a range of habitats including the undergrowth of Protected Matters Recorded. This Fantail rainforests/wetter eucalypt forests/gullies, monsoon forests paperbarks, species was sub-inland and coastal scrubs, mangroves, watercourses, parks and recorded during on gardens. When migrating they may also be recorded on farms, streets site field surveys. and buildings. Migrates to SE Australia in October-April to breed, mostly in or on the coastal side of the Great Dividing Range (Pizzey & Knight 2007).

Rostratula Australian VM E1 Inhabits shallow, vegetated, temporary or infrequently filled wetlands, Protected Matters, Low. No suitable australis (syn. R. Painted Snipe including where there are trees such as Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Threatened habitat in the benghalensis) (Painted Red Gum), E. populnea (Poplar Box) or shrubs such as Muehlenbeckia Species proposal area. Snipe) florulenta (Lignum) or Sarcocornia quinqueflora (Samphire). Feeds at the Populations and water's edge and on mudlflats on seeds and invertebrates, including Communities insects, worms, molluscs and crustaceans. Males incubate eggs in a Database- Wyong shallow scrape nest (Garnett & Crowley 2000). CMA

Stagonopleura Diamond V Distributed through central and eastern NSW, extending north into Threatened Low. No suitable guttata Firetail southern and central Queensland and south through Victoria to the Eyre Species habitat in the Peninsula, South Australia. In NSW, the species occurs predominantly Populations and proposal area. west of the Great Dividing Range, although populations are known from Communities drier coastal areas (Blakers et al. 1984; Schodde & Mason 1999). Occurs Database- in a range of eucalypt dominated communities with a grassy understorey Hawkesbury- including woodland, forest and mallee. Most populations occur on the Nepean CMA, inland slopes of the dividing range (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Firetails Wyong CMA. nest in trees and bushes, and forage on the ground, largely for grass seeds and other plant material, but also for insects (Blakers et al. 1984; Read 1994).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-21 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Sterna albifrons Little Tern M E1 A coastal species found along the coast of New South Wales. They nest Protected Matters, Low. No suitable between the high tide mark and shore vegetation on undisturbed and Threatened habitat in the unvegetated sites near estuaries and adjacent freshwater lakes. They Species proposal area. feed on fish taken from inshore waters (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Populations and Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern V Occurs in tropical and subtropical seas, islands and cays. Nests in Threatened Low. No suitable scrape in sand or coral debris, often in large colonies (Simpson & Day Species habitat in the 1996). Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Stictonetta Freckled V In most years this species appear to be nomadic between ephemeral Threatened Low. No suitable naevosa Duck inland wetlands. In dry years they congregate on permanent wetlands Species habitat in the while in wet years they breed prolifically and disperse widely, generally Populations and proposal area. towards the coast. In inland eastern Australia, they generally occur in Communities brackish to hyposaline wetlands that are densely vegetated with Lignum Database- (Muehlenbeckia cunninghamii) within which they build their nests Hawkesbury- (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Thalassarche Shy Albatross VM V An oceanic species that has been recorded off the coast of New South Threatened Low. No suitable cauta Wales (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Thalassarche Black-browed VM V Nomadic marine species that breeds on subantarctic island outside Threatened Low. No suitable melanorphis Albatross Australian waters, but moves northwards in non-breeding seasons. The Species habitat in the waters off southern Australia between Brisbane and Perth are the Populations and proposal area. principal feeding area of birds (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Communities Database- Wyong CMA

D-22 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Tringa nebularia Common M Occurs in a range of inland and coastal environments. Inland, it occurs in BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable Greenshank both permanent and temporary wetlands, billabongs, swamps, lakes NSW Wildlife habitat in the floodplains, sewage farms, saltworks ponds, flooded irrigated crops. On proposal area. the coast, it occurs in sheltered estuaries and bays with extensive mudflats, mangrove swamps, muddy shallows of harbours and lagoons, occasionally rocky tidal ledges. It generally prefers wet and flooded mud and clay rather than sand (Morcombe 2003).

Turnix maculosus Red-backed V The Red-backed Button-quail is a cryptic species and its specific ecology Threatened Low. No suitable Button-quail is poorly documented. The species is nocturnal and crepuscular and Species habitat in the feeds on insects and seeds. They normally hide and freeze rather than Populations and proposal area. flushing, although individuals will fly for short distances before dropping Communities back to cover. Red-backed Button-quail may be encountered individually, Database- Wyong in pairs or in small family groups .Red-backed Button-quail inhabit CMA grasslands, woodlands and cropped lands of warm temperate areas that annually receive 400 mm or more of summer rain. Observations of populations in other parts of its range suggest the species prefers sites near water, including grasslands and sedgelands near creeks, swamps and springs, and wetlands. Red-backed Button-quail usually breed in dense grass near water, and nests are made in a shallow depression sparsely lined with grass and ground litter (Marchant & Higgins 1993).

Tyto longimembris Eastern V Typically found in tussock-grasslands but also occur in heathland, Threatened Low. No suitable longimembris Grass Owl swamps, coastal dunes, tree-lined creeks, treeless plains, grassy gaps Species habitat in the between trees and crops. Nest on the ground generally under tussocks. Populations and proposal area. They generally feed on rodents but will also eat insects (Pizzey & Knight Communities 2007). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA

Tyto Masked Owl V Occurs within a diverse range of wooded habitats including forests, BioNet Atlas of Moderate. novaehollandiae (southern remnants and almost treeless inland plains. This species requires large- NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat novaehollandiae mainland) hollow bearing trees for roosting and nesting and nearby open areas for Threatened although in foraging. They typically prey on terrestrial mammals including rodents Species degraded condition and marsupials but will also take other species opportunistically. Also Populations and due to edge effects. known to occasionally roost and nest in caves (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-23 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl V Occurs in wet eucalypt forest and rainforest on fertile soils with tall BioNet Atlas of Moderate. emergent trees. Typically found in old growth forest with a dense NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat understorey but also occurs in younger forests if nesting trees are Threatened although in present nearby. It nests in large hollows within eucalypts and Species degraded condition occasionally caves. It hunts in open and closed forest for a range of Populations and due to edge effects. arboreal and terrestrial mammals including introduced species and Communities sometimes birds (Garnett & Crowley 2000). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Xenus cinereus Terek M V Found on tidal mudflats and estuaries and on shores and reefs of Threatened Low. No suitable Sandpiper offshore islands (Pizzey & Knight 2007). Species habitat in the Populations and proposal area. Communities Database- Wyong CMA

Fish

Epinephelus Black Cod V Adult black cod are usually found in caves, gutters and beneath NSW DPI Low. No suitable daemelii bomboras on rocky reefs. They are territorial and often occupy a Fisheries - habitat in the particular cave for life. Small juveniles are often found in coastal rock Hawkesbury- proposal area. pools, and larger juveniles around rocky shores in estuaries. Black cod Nepean CMA, are opportunistic carnivores, eating mainly other fish and crustaceans. NSW DPI They can change from one colour pattern to another in just a few Fisheries- seconds. They are usually black in estuaries and banded around clear Hunter/Central water reefs. Black cod are apparently slow growing. Smaller fish are Rivers CMA, mostly females, but they generally change sex to become males at Protected Matters around 100-110 cm in length. (Department of Primary Industries (Fishing and Aquaculture) 2012)

Macquaria Macquarie E The natural range of Macquarie Perch included the upper and middle NSW DPI Low. No suitable australasica Perch reaches of the Murray-Darling basin as well as the Shoalhaven and Fisheries - habitat in the Hawkesbury Rivers. However, this species has recently been sighted in Hawkesbury- proposal area. only a few localities within these river systems. Preferred habitat is deep Nepean CMA, holes covered with rocks, and spawning occurs above shallow running Protected Matters water. Macquarie Perch is a schooling species (Department of the Environment and Water Resources, 2007).

D-24 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Pristis zijsron Green E4 In Australia the species occurs mainly in the tropics from Broome to NSW DPI Low. No suitable Sawfish southern Queensland, with individuals found as far south as Sydney and Fisheries - habitat in the a single record from Glenelg, South Australia(Last & Stevens, 1994).The Hawkesbury- proposal area. last recorded museum specimen from NSW was in 1972 (NSW Fisheries Nepean CMA, Scientific Committee 2008). The Green Sawfish inhabits muddy bottom NSW DPI habitats and enters estuaries. It has been recorded in inshore marine Fisheries- waters, estuaries, river mouths, embankments and along sandy and Hunter/Central muddy beaches (Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC) Rivers CMA 2008).

Prototroctes Australian V It is a mid-water, freshwater species that occurs most commonly in clear, Protected Matters Low. No suitable maraena Grayling gravelly streams with a moderate flow. Prefers deep, slow flowing pools habitat in the (NSW Fisheries 2004). proposal area.

Invertebrates

Archaeophya Adam's E1 Only five adults have ever been collected, and the species is only known NSW DPI Moderate. adamsi Emerald from a few sites in the greater Sydney region. Larvae have been found in Fisheries - Potential habitat Dragonfly small creeks with gravel or sandy bottoms, in narrow, shaded riffle zones Hawkesbury- although in with moss and rich riparian vegetation (Department of Environment and Nepean CMA degraded condition Conservation 2007). due to edge effects.

Austrocordulia Sydney Hawk E1 The Sydney Hawk dragonfly spends most of its life underwater as an NSW DPI Low. The proposal leonardi Dragonfly aquatic larva, before metamorphosing and emerging from the water as Fisheries - area occurs outside an adult. Adults are thought to only live for several weeks or a few Hawkesbury- the known and months. The Sydney Hawk dragonfly has specific habitat requirements, Nepean CMA predicted and has only ever been collected from deep and shady river pools with distribution of this cooler water. Larvae are found under rocks where they coexist with the species. Eastern Hawk dragonfly. The Sydney hawk dragonfly has a very restricted distribution. The known distribution of the species includes three locations in a small area south of Sydney, from Audley to Picton. The species is known from the Hawkesbury-Nepean, Georges River, Port Hacking and Karuah drainages (Department of Trade and Investment Regional Infrastructure and Services 2011).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-25 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Petalura gigantea Giant E1 Found in permanent wetlands, both coastal and upland from moss Vale Threatened Moderate. Dragonfly northwards to southern Queensland (Department of Environment and Species Potential habitat Conservation 2005c). Populations and although in Communities degraded condition Database- Wyong due to edge effects. CMA

Meridolum Cumberland E1 Restricted to the Cumberland Plain and Castlereagh Woodlands of Threatened Low. No suitable corneovirens Plain Land Western Sydney and also along the fringes of River Flat Forest, Species habitat in the Snail especially where it meets Cumberland Plain Woodland. It is typically Populations and proposal area. found under logs and other debris, amongst leaf litter and bark around Communities bases of trees. It is also sometimes found under grass clumps and Database- where possible it will burrow into loose soil (NSW National Parks and Hawkesbury- Wildlife Service 1999b). Nepean CMA

Mammals

Cercartetus nanus Eastern V Found in a range of habitats from rainforest through sclerophyll forest to BioNet Atlas of Moderate. Pygmy- tree heath. It feeds largely on the nectar and pollen of banksias, NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat possum eucalypts and bottlebrushes and sometimes soft fruits. It nests in very Threatened although in small tree holes, between the wood and bark of a tree, abandoned birds’ Species degraded condition nests and shredded bark in the fork of trees (Turner & Ward 1995). Populations and due to edge effects. Communities Database - Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Chalinolobus Large-eared V V Occurs in moderately wooded habitats, mainly in areas with extensive BioNet Atlas of Moderate. dwyeri Pied Bat cliffs and caves and roosts in caves, mine tunnels and the abandoned, NSW Wildlife, Potential foraging bottle-shaped mud nests of Fairy Martins (Churchill 1998; Office of Protected Matters, habitat although in Environment and Heritage 2011). Breeding habitat (maternity roosts) is Threatened degraded condition located in roof domes in sandstone caves (Office of Environment and Species due to edge effects. Heritage 2011). Thought to forage below the forest canopy for small Populations and flying insects (Churchill 1998). Communities Database - Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-26 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Dasyurus Spotted- E V Occurs from the Bundaberg area in south-east Queensland, south BioNet Atlas of Moderate. maculatus Tailed Quoll through NSW to western Victoria and Tasmania. In NSW, it occurs on NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat maculatus (Southern both sides of the Great Dividing Range and north-east NSW represents a Protected Matters, although in Subspecies) national stronghold (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h). Threatened degraded condition Occurs in wide range of forest types, although appears to prefer moist Species due to edge effects. sclerophyll and rainforest forest types, and riparian habitat. Most Populations and common in large unfragmented patches of forest. It has also been Communities recorded from dry sclerophyll forest, open woodland and coastal Database- heathland, and despite its occurrence in riparian areas, it also ranges Hawkesbury- over dry ridges. Nests in rock caves and hollow logs or trees. Feeds on Nepean CMA, a variety of prey including birds, terrestrial and arboreal mammals, small Wyong CMA macropods, reptiles and arthropods (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999f, 1999h).

Dasyurus Eastern Quoll E1 Found in a variety of habitats including dry sclerophyll forest, scrub, Threatened Low. This species viverrinus heathland and cultivated land. Lives in dens which consist of several Species is considered chambers including underground burrows, hollow logs, rock piles and Populations and extinct on the hay sheds (Strahan 1995). Communities Australian Database- Wyong mainland, occurring CMA only in Tasmania.

Falsistrellus Eastern False V Usually roosts in tree hollows in higher rainfall forests. Sometimes found BioNet Atlas of Moderate. tasmaniensis Pipistrelle in caves (Jenolan area) and abandoned buildings. Forages within the NSW Wildlife, Potential foraging canopy of dry sclerophyll forest. It prefers wet habitats where trees are Threatened and roosting habitat more than 20 metres high (Churchill 2008). Species although in Populations and degraded condition Communities due to edge effects. Database - Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-27 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Isoodon obesulus Southern E E1 Occurs in a variety of habitats in south-eastern Australia, including Threatened Low. Whilst the Brown heathland, shrubland, dry sclerophyll forest with heathy understorey, Species survey area Bandicoot sedgeland and woodland. Many of the habitats are prone to fire (NSW Populations and contained potential National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999e). Communities habitat for this Database- Wyong species, the CMA proposal area is outside the distribution for this species.

Kerivoula Golden- V Predominantly distributed throughout Indonesia, New Guinea and the Threatened Low. No suitable papuensis tipped Bat Philippines, the species has been observed on the east coast of NSW Species habitat in the and Victoria. Prefers moist dense vegetation in coastal forests, near to Populations and proposal area. where wet and dry forests meet and often in the vicinity of creeks. Communities Possibly prefers ecotonal habitats (such as creek lines) for feeding and Database- Wyong passage and an ability to manoeuvre in dense vegetation (Strahan CMA 1995).

Macropus parma Parma V Now extinct south of Gosford, and confined to high rainfall areas in the Threatened Low. No suitable Wallaby coast and ranges of central and northern NSW; from the Watagan Species habitat in the Mountains to the Richmond and Border Ranges area, with the Washpool Populations and proposal area. - Gibraltar Range and Bulga - Dingo Tops areas being areas of greatest Communities importance. Occurs in wet sclerophyll forest and rainforest patches in Database- moist sclerophyll forest, with a moist shrubby understorey, often Hawkesbury- associated with grassy areas. They are occasionally found in dry Nepean CMA, sclerophyll forest and rainforest edges are considered important refugia. Wyong CMA. Ecotones between open and closed forest are favoured, open areas are used for foraging, while areas of dense ground cover provide areas for shelter and protection from predators (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h).

D-28 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Micronomus Eastern V The Eastern Freetail-bat is found along the east coast from south BioNet Atlas of Moderate. norfolkensis (syn. Freetail-bat Queensland to southern NSW. Occur in dry sclerophyll forest and NSW Wildlife, Potential foraging Mormopterus woodland east of the Great Dividing Range. Roost mainly in tree hollows Threatened and roosting habitat norfolkensis) but will also roost under bark or in man-made structures (Churchill 2008). Species although in Populations and degraded condition Communities due to edge effects. Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA

Miniopterus Little Bent- V Feeds on small insects beneath the canopy of well-timbered habitats BioNet Atlas of Recorded. This australis wing Bat including rainforest, Melaleuca swamps and dry sclerophyll forests. NSW Wildlife, species was Roosts in caves and tunnels and has specific requirements for nursery Threatened recorded during the sites. Distribution becomes coastal towards the southern limit of its range Species field surveys via in NSW. Nesting sites are in areas where limestone mining is preferred Populations and anabat recordings. (Strahan 1995). Communities Database - Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Miniopterus Eastern Bent- V This species is found along the east coast of Australia from Cape York in BioNet Atlas of Recorded. This schreibersii wing Bat Queensland to Castlemaine in Victoria. Habitat includes rainforest, wet NSW Wildlife, species was oceanensis and dry sclerophyll forest, monsoon forest, open woodland, Melaleuca Threatened recorded during the forests and open grasslands. Roosts in caves, old mines, stormwater Species field surveys via channels and sometimes buildings with populations centred on maternity Populations and anabat recordings caves that are used annually for the birth and development of young Communities (Churchill 2008). Database - Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-29 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Myotis macropus Southern V Found in most habitat types in association with streams and permanent BioNet Atlas of Moderate. Myotis waterways usually at low elevations in flat or undulating landscapes from NSW Wildlife, Potential foraging northern areas of Western Australia, and the Northern Territory, down the Threatened habitat although in entire east coast and the southern coast of Australia to just west of the Species degraded condition Victoria/South Australia border and inland along the Murray River. Populations and due to edge effects. Roosts in caves, tree hollows, in clumps of dense vegetation (e.g. Communities Pandanus), mines, tunnels, under bridges, road culverts and stormwater Database - drains often in abandoned, intact Fairy Martin nests. Roost sites are Hawkesbury- strongly associated with bodies of water where this species commonly Nepean CMA, feeds on aquatic insects, shrimp and small fish at the water surface, Wyong CMA. however, aerial foraging for other insects is also known(Churchill 2008). Breeding habitat likely to coincide with roosting habitat (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

Nyctophilus South- V V The species has a limited distribution that is restricted around the Threatened Low. Proposal area corbeni (syn. N. eastern Long- Murray-Darling Basin in south-eastern Australia (Turbill & Ellis 2006). It Species occurs outside the timoriensis) eared Bat occurs in far eastern South Australia, in areas north of the Murray River Populations and known distribution (Greater (Turbill et al. 2008). It occurs in a range of inland woodland vegetation Communities for this species. Long-eared types being most abundant in vegetation with a distinct canopy and a Database- Bat) dense cluttered shrub layer (Dominelli 2000; Ellis et al. 1999; Lumsden & Hawkesbury- Bennet 2003; Parnaby 1995; Turbill & Ellis 2006). Roosting and breeding Nepean CMA habitat includes in tree hollows and under loose bark in arid and semi- arid Australia (Strahan 1995) and forages in the understorey of woodlands and open savannah and swamps (Churchill 1998).

Petaurus australis Yellow-bellied V Restricted to tall, mature eucalypt forest in high rainfall areas of BioNet Atlas of Low. No suitable Glider temperate to sub-tropical eastern Australia. Feeds on nectar, pollen, the NSW Wildlife, habitat in the sap of eucalypts and sometimes insects. Preferred habitats are Threatened proposal area. productive, tall open sclerophyll forests where mature trees provide Species shelter and nesting hollows and year round food resources are available Populations and from a mixture of eucalypt species (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Communities Service 1999i, 2003c). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

D-30 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Petaurus Squirrel V The Squirrel Glider is sparsely distributed along the east coast and BioNet Atlas of Moderate. norfolcensis Glider immediate inland districts from western Victoria to north Queensland. In NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat NSW it is found in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland but not found in Threatened although in dense coastal ranges, inhabits mature or old growth Box, Box-Ironbark Species degraded condition woodlands and River Red Gum forest west of the Great Dividing Range Populations and due to edge effects. and Blackbutt-Bloodwood forest with heath understorey in coastal areas. Communities It is associated with mixed tree species stands with a shrub or Acacia Database- midstorey. It requires abundant tree hollows for refuge and nest sites and Hawkesbury- feeds on gum of acacias, eucalypt sap and invertebrates (NSW National Nepean CMA, Parks and Wildlife Service 1999g). Wyong CMA.

Petrogale Brush-tailed V E1 Occurs in inland and sub-coastal south eastern Australia where it Protected Matters, Low. No suitable penicillata Rock-wallaby inhabits rock slopes. It has a preference for rocks which receive sunlight Threatened habitat in the for a considerable part of the day. Windblown caves, rock cracks or Species proposal area. tumbled boulders are used for shelter. Occur in small groups or Populations and "colonies" each usually separated by hundreds of metres (NSW National Communities Parks and Wildlife Service 2003a). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Phascogale Brush-tailed V Largely arboreal it occurs in a range of habitats which have reliable Threatened Low. No suitable tapoatafa Phascogale rainfall (500-2000mm), but has preference for open dry sclerophyll forest Species habitat in the on ridges (up to 600 m alt) with little/sparse ground cover. It nests in tree Populations and proposal area. hollows and feeds at dusk on arthropods and small vertebrates (Strahan Communities 1995). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-31 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Phascolarctos Koala (NSW, V V Found in sclerophyll forest. Throughout New South Wales, Koalas have BioNet Atlas of Moderate. cinereus ACT & QLD - been observed to feed on the leaves of approximately 70 species of NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat excluding SE eucalypt and 30 non-eucalypt species. However, in any one area, Koalas Protected Matters, although in QLD) will feed almost exclusively on a small number of preferred species. The Threatened degraded condition preferred tree species vary widely on a regional and local basis. Some Species due to edge effects. preferred species in NSW include Forest Red Gum Eucalyptus Populations and tereticornis, Grey Gum E. punctata, Monkey Gum E. cypellocarpa and Communities Ribbon Gum E. viminalis. In coastal areas, Tallowwood E. microcorys Database- and Swamp Mahogany E. robusta are important food species, while in Hawkesbury- inland areas White Box E. albens, Bimble Box E. populnea and River Nepean CMA, Red Gum E. camaldulensis are favoured (NSW National Parks and Wyong CMA Wildlife Service 1999d, 2003b). Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens Population and population in the Pittwater LGA listed as Endangered under the NSW TSC Act.

Planigale maculata Common V Occurs in a range of habitats from rainforest, sclerophyll forest, Threatened Moderate. Planigale grasslands, marshlands and rocky areas, usually where there is ground Species Potential habitat cover and close to water (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Populations and although in 2002). Builds small saucer-shaped nests of grass and bark (Strahan Communities degraded condition 1995). Database- Wyong due to edge effects. CMA

Potorous Long-nosed V V Disjunct distribution along coastal south-east Australia from near BioNet Atlas of Moderate. tridactylus Potoroo (SE Gladstone in Queensland, to south-west Victoria and in Tasmania. NSW Wildlife, Potential habitat tridactylus mainland) Found from sea level up to 1500 metres in altitude generally in areas Protected Matters, although in with rainfall greater than 760 millimetres. In NSW, it is found throughout Threatened degraded condition coastal and subcoastal areas. Occurs in a range of habitats: coastal Species due to edge effects. forest and woodland with a moderately dense heathy understorey, dense Populations and coastal scrubs or heath, wet and dry sclerophyll forest and sub-tropical, Communities warm temperate and cool temperate rainforest of the eastern slopes and Database- Wyong highlands. Often associated with gullies and forest ecotones. Open areas CMA are used for foraging while areas of dense groundcover or understorey provide areas for shelter and protection from predators. Relatively thick ground cover is a major habitat requirement and it seems to prefer areas with light sandy soils. Feeds at dusk on roots, tubers, fungi, insects and their larvae and other soft bodied animals in the soil. Moves up and down slope as food resources become seasonally available (Johnston 1995; NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h).

D-32 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Pseudomys Eastern V The species is mostly found, in low numbers, in heathland and is most Threatened Low. No suitable gracilicaudatus Chestnut common in dense, wet heath and swamps. In the tropics it is more an Species habitat in the Mouse animal of grassy woodlands. Optimal habitat appears to be in vigorously Populations and proposal area. regenerating heathland burnt from 18 months to four years previously. By Communities the time the heath is mature, the larger Swamp Rat becomes dominant, Database- Wyong and Eastern Chestnut Mouse numbers drop again (Strahan 1995). CMA

Pseudomys New Holland V The New Holland Mouse is a small, burrowing native rodent. The Protected Matters Low. No suitable novaehollandiae Mouse species is similar in size and appearance to the introduced house mouse habitat in the (Mus musculus), although it can be distinguished by its slightly larger proposal area. ears and eyes, the absence of a notch on the upper incisors and the absence of a distinctive ‘mousy’ odour. Known to inhabit open heathlands, open woodlands with a heathland understorey, and vegetated sand dunes (Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2010).

Pteropus Grey-headed V V Occurs in subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests BioNet Atlas of Recorded. This poliocephalus Flying-fox and woodlands, heaths and swamps. Urban gardens and cultivated fruit NSW Wildlife, species was crops also provide habitat for this species. Feeds on the flowers and Protected Matters, recorded on site nectar of eucalypts and native fruits including lily pillies. It roosts in the Threatened during field branches of large trees in forests or mangroves (Churchill 2008; NSW Species surveys. National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001b) Populations and Communities Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Saccolaimus Yellow-bellied V This species is widespread through tropical Australia and migrates to Threatened Moderate. flaviventris Sheathtail-bat southern Australia in summer. Occurs in eucalypt forest where it feeds Species Potential foraging above the canopy and in mallee or open country where it feeds closer to Populations and and roosting habitat the ground. Generally a solitary species but sometimes found in colonies Communities although in of up to 10. It roosts and breeds in tree hollows but has also been Database- degraded condition recorded roosting under exfoliating bark, in burrows of terrestrial Hawkesbury- due to edge effects. mammals, in soil cracks and under slabs of rock and in the nests of bird Nepean CMA, and sugar gliders (Churchill 2008). Wyong CMA.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-33 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Scoteanax Greater V The preferred hunting areas of this species include tree-lined creeks and BioNet Atlas of Moderate. rueppellii Broad-nosed the ecotone of woodlands and cleared paddocks but it may also forage in NSW Wildlife, Potential foraging Bat rainforest. Typically it forages at a height of 3-6 metres but may fly as low Threatened and roosting habitat as one metre above the surface of a creek. It feeds on beetles, other Species although in large, slow-flying insects and small vertebrates. It generally roosts in tree Populations and degraded condition hollows but has also been found in the roof spaces of old buildings Communities due to edge effects. (Churchill 2008) Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA

Thylogale Red-legged V Distribution: Restricted to the coastal and subcoastal strip of eastern Threatened Low. No suitable stigmatica Pademelon Australia, from the tip of Cape York in north Queensland, south to the Species habitat in the Hunter Valley, just north of Newcastle in NSW. Populations are confined Populations and proposal area. mainly to areas of high rainfall. Macrohabitat is coastal and sub-coastal Communities rainforests and wet sclerophyll forest. Dense understorey and ground Database- Wyong cover is important. Ecotones between open and closed forest are CMA favoured. Microhabitat is open areas are used for foraging while areas of dense ground cover / understorey provide areas for shelter and protection from predators (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h).

Vespadelus Eastern Cave V A cave-dwelling species found in eastern Australia from Cape York to Threatened Moderate. troughtoni Bat NSW. They inhabit tropical mixed woodland and wet sclerophyll forests Species Potential foraging on the coast and the dividing range, but extend into drier forests on the Populations and habitat although in western slopes (Churchill 1998). Breeding habitat includes caves, rocky Communities degraded condition outcrops, cliffs, scarps and old mine workings. Roosting habitat includes Database- due to edge effects. breeding habitat types and very small crevices in rocky areas or boulder Hawkesbury- piles or old mine workings and Fairy martin nests. Foraging habitat Nepean CMA, includes suitable native vegetation within 5km of breeding habitat (Office Wyong CMA. of Environment and Heritage 2011).

Reptiles5

Hoplocephalus Pale-headed V A partly arboreal, nocturnal species found in a range of habitats from Threatened Moderate. bitorquatus Snake rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest to the drier eucalypt forests of the Species Potential habitat western slopes. Feeds largely on frogs and lizards (Cogger 2000). Populations and although in Communities degraded condition Database- Wyong due to edge effects. CMA

D-34 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Scientific name Common EPBC TSC Habitat Data source3 Likelihood of Name Act Act Occurence4 Status1 Status2

Hoplocephalus Broad- V E1 A nocturnal species that occurs in association with communities Protected Matters, Moderate. bungaroides headed occurring on Triassic sandstone within the Sydney Basin. Typically found Threatened Potential habitat Snake among exposed sandstone outcrops with vegetation types ranging from Species although in woodland to heath. Within these habitats they generally use rock Populations and degraded condition crevices and exfoliating rock during the cooler months and tree hollows Communities due to edge effects. during summer (Webb, J.K. & Shine 1994; Webb, J.K & Shine 1998). Database- Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA

Hoplocephalus Stephen's V Found in coastal areas from Gosford district to southern QLD. Arboreal Threatened Moderate. stephensii Banded snake usually encountered in the wetter sclerophyll or rainforests which Species Potential habitat Snake occur within its range (Cogger 2000). Populations and although in Communities degraded condition Database- Wyong due to edge effects. CMA

Varanus Heath V Found in coastal heaths, humid woodlands, wet and dry sclerophyll Threatened Moderate. rosenbergi Monitor forests. Mostly a terrestrial species it shelters in burrows, hollow logs Species Potential habitat (Rosenberg's and rock crevices (Cogger 2000). Populations and although in Goanna) Communities degraded condition Database- due to edge effects. Hawkesbury- Nepean CMA, Wyong CMA.

Notes: 1. Listed as Vulnerable (V), Endangered (E), Critically Endangered (CE) or Extinct (X) under the EPBC Act. 2. Listed as an Endangered Population (E2), Vulnerable (V), Endangered (E1), Critically Endangered (CE) or Extinct (E4) under the TSC Act. 3. EPBC = EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool Report Atlas of NSW Wildlife = Office of Environment and Heritage Bionet Atlas – 10 km buffer of study area PlantNet = The Royal Botanic Gardens PlantNet database – 25 km buffer of study area 4. Likelihood of occurrence assessment definition is outlined in Section 2.8 of the main report. 5. Loggerhead Turtle, Green Turtle, Leatherback Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Flatback Turtle (as identified in the Protected Matters Search Report) were removed from this appendix due to the lack of required habitat in the proposal area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-35 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Appendix D References

Anstis, M 2002, Tadpoles of South-eastern Australia: a Guide with Keys, vol. 1, 1 vols., New Holland Publishers, Sydney.

Barrett, GW, Barry, SC, Cunningham, RB & Poulter, R 2003, The new atlas of Australian Birds, Ornithologists Union, Melbourne.

Barrett, GW, Ford, HA & Recher, HF 1994, 'Conservation of woodland birds in a fragmented rural landscape', Pacific Conservation Biology, no. 1, pp. 245-56.

Blakers, M, Davies, SJJF & Reilly, PN 1984, The Atlas of Australian Birds, Melbourne University Press, Melbourne.

Churchill, S 1998, Australian Bats, Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Churchill, S 2008, Australian Bats, 2nd edn, Allen & Unwin, Sydney.

Cogger, HG 2000, Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia, Reed Books, Sydney.

Davidson, I & Robinson, D 1992, Grey-crowned Babbler Action Statement No 34 Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Climate Change 2009, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2009, .

Department of Environment and Conservation 2004, Green and Golden Bell Frog environmental impact assessment guidelines Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

Department of Environment and Conservation 2005a, Brown Treecreeper (eastern subspecies) - Profile, Department of Environment and Conservation, viewed 24 July 2009 2009, .

Department of Environment and Conservation 2005b, Draft Recovery Plan for the Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea), Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville, NSW,

Department of Environment and Conservation 2005c, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Department of Environment and Conservation 2006, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Department of Environment and Conservation 2007, Threatened species, populations and ecological communities, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006, .

Department of Environment Climate Change and Water 2010, Threatened species, populations and communities database, Department of Environment Climate Change and Water, .

Department of Primary Industries (Fishing and Aquaculture) 2012, Freshwater Pest Fish, viewed 26 January 2012, .

Department of Trade and Investment Regional Infrastructure and Services 2011, Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement - Profiles for species, populations and ecological communities, Department of

D-36 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Trade and Investment Regional Infrastructure and Services, .

Dominelli, S 2000, Distribution, roost requirements and foraging behaviour of the Greater Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus timoriensis) and the Little Pied Bat (Chalinolobus picatus) in the Bookmark Biosphere Reserve, An Unpublished Report prepared for Bookmark Biosphere Trust, South Australia.

Ellis, M, Lumsden, L, Schultz, M, Reardon, T, Richards, G & Hoy, G 1999, 'Eastern Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus timoriensis', in A Duncan, G Baker & M N. (eds), The Action Plan for Australian Bats, Environment Australia, Canberra, pp. 42-3.

Garnett, ST & Crowley, GM 2000, The Action Plan for Australian Birds, Environment Australia, Canberra.

Higgins, PJ (ed.) 1999, Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds Volume 4: Parrots to Dollarbirds, Volume 4: Parrots to Dollarbird, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.

Higgins, PJ & Peter, JM (eds) 2002, Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds, Volume 6: Pardalotes to Shrike-thrushes, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.

Johnston, PG 1995, 'Long-nosed Potoroo', in R Strahan (ed.), The Mammals of Australia, Reed New Holland, Sydney, pp. 301-2.

Lumsden, L & Bennet, A 2003, Bats and paddock trees: insights from recent research, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria.

Marchant, S & Higgins, PJ 1990, Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds, vol. Volume One - Ratites to Ducks, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.

Marchant, S & Higgins, PJ (eds) 1993, Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds Volume 2: Raptors to Lapwings, vol. 2, Volume 2: Raptors to Lapwings, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.

Morcombe, M 2003, Field guide to Australian birds, Steve Parish Publishing, Archerfield, Queensland.

Morton, SR, Brennan, KG & Armstrong, MD 1989, Distribution and Abundance of Waterbirds in the Alligator Rivers Region, Northern Territory.

NSW Fisheries 2004, Status and monitoring of the Australian Grayling in NSW, NSW Fisheries.

NSW Fisheries Scientific Committee 2008, Final Determination for Pristis zijsron Green Sawfish.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1997, Submission to the mining warden's inquiry into the renewal of special leases 567 and 568 for the extraction of peat from Wingecarribee Swamp, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a, Broad-billed Sandpiper threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999b, Cumberland Plain Large Land Snail threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999c, Glossy Black-cockatoo threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999d, Koala threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999e, Southern Brown Bandicoot threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-37 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999f, Spotted-tailed Quoll threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999g, Squirrel Glider threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999h, Terms of licence under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Appendix B of the Integrated Forestry Operations Approval for the Upper North East Region.,

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999i, Yellow-bellied Glider threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001a, Giant Burrowing Frog threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001b, Grey-headed Flying Fox threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2002, Threatened Species of the Upper North Coast of New South Wales - Fauna, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Northern Directorate, Coffs Harbour.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2003a, Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby Warrumbungles endangered population threatened species information, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2003b, Draft Recovery Plan for the Koala, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2003c, Recovery Plan for the Yellow-bellied Glider (Petaurus australis), NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientifc Committee 2001, Final Determination to list the Hooded Robin (South-eastern form) as a Vulnerable species, Department of Environment and Climate Change, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 1999, Final determination to list the Giant Barred Frog as an endangered species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 2000, Final determination to list Littlejohn's tree Frog as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 2001a, Final determination to list the Grey-crowned Babbler as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 2001b, Final determination to list the Speckled warbler as a vulnerable species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 2003, Final determination to list the Stuttering Frog as an endangered species, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee 2010, Final determination to list the Scarlet Robin (Petroica boodang) as a vulnerable species, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Hurstville, NSW.

NSW Scientific Committee 2013, Final Determination listing of Black Falcon Falco subniger G.R. Gray, 1843 as a Vulnerable Species in Part 1 of Schedule 2 of the Act, Office of Environemnt and Heritage, 08/11/2013,

Office of Environment and Heritage 2011, Threatened Species, Populations and Communities Database, Office of Environment and Heritage, .

D-38 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Office of Environment and Heritage 2012, Threatened Species, Populations and Communities Database, .

Parnaby, HE 1995, Greater Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus timoriensis, Reed Books, Chatswood, NSW.

Pizzey, G & Knight, F 2007, Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, Harper and Collins, Sydney.

Price, CJ 2004, 'The Bush Stone-curlew Burhinus grallarius on the Central Coast of NSW – A Case study in Conservation Management; unpublished thesis', University of Sydney.

Read, JL 1994, 'The diet of three species of firetail finches in temperate South Australia', Emu, vol. 94, no. 1- 8.

Schodde, R & Mason, IJ 1999, Directory of Australian Birds: Passerines, CSIRO, Melbourne.

Simpson, K & Day, N 1996, Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, 5th edn, Viking. Penguin Books Australia Ltd., Ringwood.

Strahan, R 1995, The Mammals of Australia, Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Swift Parrot Recovery Team 2001, Swift Parrot Recovery Plan, Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment, Hobart.

Threatened Species Scientific Committee 2010, Commonwealth Listing Advice on Pseudomys novaehollandiae (New Holland Mouse), Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra, ACT.

Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC) 2008, Guidelines for Assessing the Conservation Status of Native Species according to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act) and EPBC Regulations 2000., Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, Canberra.

Traill, BJ & Duncan, S 2000, Status of birds in the New South Wales temperate woodlands region, Consultancy report to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service by the Australian Woodlands Conservancy, Chiltern, Victoria.

Turbill, C & Ellis, M 2006, 'Distribution and abundance of the south eastern form of the Greater Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus timoriensis', Australian Mammalogy, vol. 28, pp. 1-7.

Turbill, C, Lumsden, L & Ford, G 2008, South-eastern Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus sp. In: Van Dyck, S. and R. Strahan, (eds.), eds. The Mammals of Australia., New Holland, Sydney.

Turner, V & Ward, SJ 1995, 'Eastern Pygmy-possum', in R Strahan (ed.), The Mammals of Australia, Reed New Holland, Sydney, pp. 217-8.

Webb, JK & Shine, R 1994, Habitat use by the broad-headed snake, Hoplocephalus bungaroides, Environment Australia, Canberra.

Webb, JK & Shine, R 1998, 'Ecological characteristic of an endangered snake species Hoplocephalus bungaroides (Serpentes: Elapidae)', Animal Conservation, vol. 1, pp. 185-93.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA D-39

Appendix E Bat call sonograms

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Bat call sonograms

Figure E.1 Little Bentwing Bat (Miniopterus australis)

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA E-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Figure E.2 Eastern Horsehoe Bat (Rhinolophus megaphyllus)

E-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Figure E.3 Chocolate Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus morio)

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA E-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Figure E.4 Gould’s Wattle Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii)

E-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Figure E.5 Eastern Bentwing Bat (Miniopterus orianae oceanensis)

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA E-5

Appendix F Survey effort

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey effort

Table F.1 Fauna survey effort

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

7 April 2014

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.28641 -33.42417

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.29888 -33.38828

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.29831 -33.38784

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 1 of 4 M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.29935 -33.38113

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 1 of 4 M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.28641 -33.42417

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA F-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 1 of 4 M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.297716 -33.399341

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 1 of 4 M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.29831 -33.38784

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 1 of 4 M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.297852 -33.400423

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 1 of 3 M1-1 20.0 0.4 26 151.285910 -33.425066

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 1 of 3 M1-3 20.0 0.4 26 151.298312 -33.387931

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 1 of 2 M1-2 20.0 0.4 26 151.297664 -33.398633

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 1 of 2 M1-4 20.0 0.4 26 151.299452 -33.380652

8 April 2014

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Standard bird surveys 2 x 20 minutes M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Standard bird surveys 2 x 20 minutes M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Standard bird surveys 2 x 20 minutes M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Standard bird surveys 2 x 20 minutes M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Herpetofauna survey 2 x 30 minutes M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Herpetofauna survey 2 x 30 minutes M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Herpetofauna survey 2 x 30 minutes M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Herpetofauna survey 2 x 30 minutes M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

F-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 2 of 4 M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 2 of 4 M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 2 of 4 M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.297716 -33.399341

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 2 of 4 M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 2 of 4 M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.297852 -33.400423

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 3 M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.285910 -33.425066

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 3 M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.298312 -33.387931

Spotlighting survey 2 x 1 hour M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Spotlighting survey 2 x 1 hour M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Forest Owl Call playback 15 minutes M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Forest Owl Call playback 15 minutes M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA F-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Targeted threatened Amphibian survey 20 minutes M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Targeted threatened Amphibian survey 20 minutes M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Habitat assessment 15 minutes M1-1 22.3 0.4 19 151.28641 -33.42417

Habitat assessment 15 minutes M1-2 22.3 0.4 19 151.29888 -33.38828

Habitat assessment 15 minutes M1-3 22.3 0.4 19 151.29831 -33.38784

Habitat assessment 15 minutes M1-4 22.3 0.4 19 151.29935 -33.38113

9 April 2014

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

F-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 3 of 4 M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 3 of 4 M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.28641 -33.42417

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 3 of 4 M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29831 -33.38784

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 3 of 4 M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.297716 -33.399341

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 3 of 4 M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.297852 -33.400423

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 2 M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.297664 -33.398633

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 2 M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.299452 -33.380652

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 3 M1-1 22.7 0.2 20 151.285910 -33.425066

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 2 of 3 M1-3 22.7 0.2 20 151.298312 -33.387931

Spotlighting survey 2 x 1 hour M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Spotlighting survey 2 x 1 hour M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

Targeted threatened Amphibian 30 Minutes M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 surveys 151.29888 -33.38828

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA F-5 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Targeted threatened Amphibian 30minutes M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 surveys 151.29935 -33.38113

Forest Owl Call playback 15 minutes M1-2 22.7 0.2 20 151.29888 -33.38828

Forest Owl Call playback 15 minutes M1-4 22.7 0.2 20 151.29935 -33.38113

10 April 2014

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot A mammal trapping (15 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

F-6 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot B mammal trapping (5 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Elliot E mammal trapping (12 traps) Night 4 of 4 M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 4 of 4 M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.28641 -33.42417

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 4 of 4 M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29831 -33.38784

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 4 of 4 M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.297716 -33.399341

Remote camera (1 camera) Night 4 of 4 M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.297852 -33.400423

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 3 of 3 M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 151.285910 -33.425066

Ultrasonic Anabat bat detection Night 3 of 3 M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 151.298312 -33.387931

Threatened species suitable habitat 15 minutes M1-1 21.3 0.8 17 assessment 151.28641 -33.42417

Threatened species suitable habitat 15 minutes M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 assessment 151.29888 -33.38828

Threatened species suitable habitat 15 minutes M1-3 21.3 0.8 17 assessment 151.29831 -33.38784

Threatened species suitable habitat 15 minutes M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 assessment 151.29935 -33.38113

Targeted Koala searches 2 x 1 person hour M1-2 21.3 0.8 17 151.29888 -33.38828

Targeted Koala searches 2x 1 person hour M1-4 21.3 0.8 17 151.29935 -33.38113

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA F-7 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Highway

Survey technique Effort Survey site Temp. oC Rainfall Wind km/h Location (MGA94 Zone 55) (max)1 (mm)1 (max)1 Easting Northing

11 April 2014

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-1 25.8 0.8 28 151.28641 -33.42417

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-2 25.8 0.8 28 151.29888 -33.38828

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-3 25.8 0.8 28 151.29831 -33.38784

Opportunistic fauna surveys 1 day M1-4 25.8 0.8 28 151.29935 -33.38113

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-1 25.8 0.8 28 151.28641 -33.42417

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-2 25.8 0.8 28 151.29888 -33.38828

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-3 25.8 0.8 28 151.29831 -33.38784

Standard bird surveys 20 minutes M1-4 25.8 0.8 28 151.29935 -33.38113

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-1 25.8 0.8 28 151.28641 -33.42417

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-2 25.8 0.8 28 151.29888 -33.38828

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-3 25.8 0.8 28 151.29831 -33.38784

Herpetofauna survey 30 minutes M1-4 25.8 0.8 28 151.29935 -33.38113

F-8 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff

Appendix G Significance assessments

Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Significance assessments

Table of Contents

Page number

1. Introduction 5

2. Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion 6

2.1 TSC Act significance assessment 7 2.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Coastal Upland Swamp 9

3. Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion 12

3.1 TSC Act significance assessment 13

4. Darwinia glaucophylla 17

4.1 TSC Act significance assessment 17

5. Hibbertia procumbens (Spreading Guinea Flower) 21

5.1 TSC Act significance assessment 21

6. Prostanthera junonis (Somersby Mintbush) 25

6.1 TSC Act significance assessment 25 6.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 29

7. Giant Burrowing Frog (Heleioporus australiacus) 31

7.1 TSC Act significance assessment 32 7.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 35

8. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog (Litoria littlejohni) 38

8.1 TSC Act significance assessment 39 8.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 41

9. Forest Frogs 44

9.1 TSC Act significance assessment 45 9.2 EPBC Act significance assessment (Stuttering Frog) 48 9.3 EPBC Act significance assessment (Giant Barred Frog) 50

10. Red-crowned Toadlet (Pseudophryne australis) 53

10.1 TSC Act significance assessment 54

11. Threatened Woodland Birds 57

11.1 TSC Act significance assessment 59

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-1 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

12. Gang-gang Cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum) 62

12.1 TSC Act significance assessment 63

13. Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) 66

13.1 TSC Act significance assessment 67

14. Threatened opportunistic blossom nomads 70

14.1 TSC Act significance assessment 71 14.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot 74

15. Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) 77

15.1 TSC Act significance assessment 78 15.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Grey-headed Flying-fox 81

16. Threatened raptors 84

16.1 TSC Act significance assessment 84

17. Threatened forest owls 88

17.1 TSC Act significance assessment 90

18. Long-nosed Potoroo (Potorous tridactylus) 95

18.1 TSC Act Significance assessment 95 18.2 EPBC Act Significance assessment for Long-nosed Potoroo 98

19. Common Planigale (Planigale maculata) 101

19.1 TSC Act Significance assessment 101

20. Eastern Pygmy-possum (Cercartetus nanus) 105

20.1 TSC Act significance assessment 106

21. Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) 109

21.1 TSC Act significance assessment 110 21.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 114

22. Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) 116

22.1 TSC Act significance assessment 117

23. Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) 120

23.1 TSC Act significance assessment 122 23.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 125

24. Microchiropteran bats 129

G-2 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

24.1 Hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats 129 Specific impacts: 130 24.2 Cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats 136 Specific impacts 137 24.3 EPBC Act significance assessment for Large-eared Pied Bat 142

25. Pale-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bitorquatus) 144

25.1 TSC Act significance assessment 145

26. Stephen’s Banded Snake (Hoplocephalus stephensii) 148

26.1 TSC Act significance assessment 148

27. Heath Monitor (Varanus rosenbergi) 152

27.1 TSC Act significance assessment 152

28. Broad-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bungaroides) 156

28.1 TSC Act significance assessment 157 28.2 EPBC Act significance assessment 159

29. Threatened invertebrates 162

29.1 TSC Act significance assessment 163

30. Attachment G References 167

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-3 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

List of Tables

Table 2.1 Conservation management actions for Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community 8 Table 3.1 Conservation management actions for Duffys Forest ecological community 14 Table 4.1 Conservation management actions for Darwinia glaucophylla 19 Table 5.1 Management actions for Hibbertia procumbens 23 Table 6.1 Recovery Plan objectives for Prostanthera junonis 27 Table 7.1 Management Actions for the Giant Burrowing Frog 33 Table 8.1 Management Actions for the Littlejohn’s Tree Frog 40 Table 9.1 Details of threatened frog species 44 Table 9.2 Management Actions for the Stuttering Frog and Giant Barred Frog 47 Table 10.1 Management actions for the Red-crowned Toadlet 55 Table 11.1 Details of threatened woodland birds 57 Table 11.2 Management actions for threatened woodland birds 60 Table 12.1 Recovery actions for Gang-gang Cockatoo 64 Table 14.1 Details of threatened opportunistic blossom nomads 70 Table 14.2 Management actions for threatened blossom nomads (Little Lorikeet, Swift Parrot) 73 Table 15.1 Management Actions for Grey-headed Flying-fox 79 Table 16.1 Details of threatened raptors 84 Table 16.2 Management actions for threatened raptors 86 Table 17.1 Details of threatened forest owls. 88 Table 17.2 Recovery actions for Large Forest Owls 91 Table 18.1 Recognised threats for Long-nosed Potoroo 97 Table 19.1 Management actions for Common Planigale 103 Table 19.2 Recognised threats for Common Planigale 103 Table 20.1 Recovery actions for Eastern Pygmy-possum 108 Table 21.1 Management actions for Spotted-tailed Quoll 111 Table 22.1 Recovery actions for Squirrel Glider 118 Table 23.1 Recovery plan objectives for Koala 123 Table 23.2 Management actions for the Koala 124 Table 23.3 Koala habitat assessment tool (Department of the Environment 2013) 126 Table 24.1 Details of threatened species of hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bat 129 Table 24.2 Management actions for threatened hollow-dwelling microbats 132 Table 24.3 State wide Management Actions for Eastern Freetail-bat 134 Table 24.4 Details of threatened cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats 136 Table 24.5 Management actions for the Eastern Cave Bat 140 Table 24.6 State wide conservation management actions for Large-eared Pied Bat 140 Table 25.1 Management Actions for Pale-headed Snake 146 Table 26.1 Management Actions for Stephen’s Banded Snake 150 Table 27.1 Management Actions for Heath Monitor 154 Table 29.1 Details of threatened invertebrates 162 Table 29.2 Management actions for the Giant Dragonfly 165

List of Figures

Figure G23 Koala records in the proposal locality G121

G-4 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

1. Introduction

Significance assessments

The proposal will be assessed under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). Section 5A of the EP&A Act requires that a 7 part test is undertaken to assess the likelihood of significant impact upon threatened species, populations or ecological communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2007).

For threatened biodiversity listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) significance assessments have been completed in accordance with the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment, 2013). Species listed under both the TSC Act and the EPBC Act has been assessed using both assessment guidelines separately.

The following assessments were undertaken for species with moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the survey area. The definitions used in determining the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species within the survey area is outlined in Section 2.6, Section 2.7, Appendix C and Appendix D.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-5 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

2. Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion

Status

Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion is listed as an Endangered ecological community under the both TSC Act and EPBC Act.

Distribution

Coastal Upland Swamp occurs within NSW and is confined to the Sydney Basin Bioregion. This community is location on the east coast of NSW from the Somersby area in the north to the Robertson district in the south. It occurs on the Woronora and Somersby Hornsby Plateaus. It occurs at elevations from 20 m to over 600 m above sea level (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Description

The Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion includes open graminiod heath, sedgeland and tall scrub associated with periodically waterlogged soils on the Hawkesbury sandstone plateaux. The Coastal Upland Swamp is generally associated with soils that are acidic and vary from yellow or grey mineral sandy loams with a shallow organic horizon to highly organic spongy black peat soils with pallid subsoils. The vegetation of the Coastal Upland Swamp may include tall open scrubs, tall closed scrubs, closed heaths, open graminoid heaths, sedgelands and fernlands. Larger examples may include a complex of these structural forms. The flora comprising the upland swamp is diverse there are 73 plant species listed as characterising the ecological community. The total species list is much greater and is likely to exceed 200 species of vascular plants (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Within the Gosford Local Government Area (LGA), Coastal Upland Swamps have been mapped collectively as Map Unit E54 Sandstone Hanging Swamp (Bell 2009). Of this vegetation type four distinct variants have been identified that include;

„ E54a – Leptospermum – Gleichenia hanging swamp

„ E54b – Gymnoschoenus – Banksia – Sprengelia hanging swamp

„ E54c - Banksia – Hakea – Gleichenia – Callistemon hanging swamp

„ E54d Lepyrodia – Schoenus – Lepidosperma hanging swamp

Habitat and ecology

Coastal Upland Swamps occur primarily on impermeable sandstone plateaux with shallow groundwater aquifers in the headwaters and impeded drainage lines of streams, and on sandstone benches with abundant seepage moisture (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

The Coastal Upland Swamp is generally associated with soils that are acidic and vary from yellow to grey mineral sandy loams with a shallow organic horizon to highly organic spongy black peats with pallid subsoils (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Threats

The following threats are listed by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage for the Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community:

„ Fracturing and drainage of shallow groundwater aquifers as a result of land subsidence associated with longwall coal mining

„ Changes in climatic moisture associated with climate change

G-6 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

„ Changes in fire frequency and intensity associated with climate change

„ Exploration and extraction of coal seam gas

„ High frequency fire - threatening structurally dominant species

„ Clearing associated with infrastructure, quarries, surface facilities and recreational facilities

„ Localised disturbance associated with unauthorised access by vehicles, trail bikes and horses

Specific impacts

Coastal Upland Swamp vegetation was identified at various locations along the survey area in the form of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath and is generally associated with sandstone outcrops and groundwater seeps. None of this vegetation community will be removed as a result of the proposal, however it may be impacted indirectly through hydrological changes to groundwater levels. Mitigation measures have been outlined in the main report to mitigate this impact by not discharging any water into the groundwater during construction works. Therefore a precautionary principal has been applied and an impact assessment has been conducted.

2.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Coastal Upland Swamp vegetation was identified at various locations along the survey area in the form of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath, the occurrence of this community was in small patches associated with groundwater seeps with the extent mapped as 1.79 ha. None of this community will be removed as a result of the proposal. Collectively a total extant area of 360.69 ha of E54 Sandstone Hanging Swamp has been recorded within the Gosford LGA (Bell 2009). Of this, approximately 200 ha has been recorded within national park, state forest and crown land estates. A total of 5,360 ha of Coastal Upland Swamp has been mapped within the greater Sydney Basin bioregion (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2012).

Therefore the as no area of habitat will be removed and the impact to this community will be via indirect processes it is unlikely to cause the community to be placed at risk of extinction.

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The widening of the M1 may impact upon the composition of Coastal Upland Swamp due to the introduction of edge effects. However as there are currently edge effects already occurring this introduction of weeds will be minor and occur at the road verge and should not increase substantially than is already occurring.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-7 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Therefore the proposal is unlikely to adversely modify the composition Coastal Upland Swamp such that it may be placed at risk of extinction.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

Coastal Upland Swamp vegetation was identified at various locations along the survey area in the form of Needlebush – Banksia wet heath, the occurrence of this community was in small patches associated with groundwater seeps with the extent mapped as 1.79 ha. whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The proposal will not result in any areas of Coastal Upland Swamp from becoming any further fragmented or isolated from other areas communities. The proposal will essentially incrementally widen the existing M1 motorway alignment, consequently will not further will not further fragment or isolate other previously undisturbed areas of habitat for this community.

(ii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The survey area is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival Coastal Upland Swamp. Furthermore no area of the community will be removed with the potential of indirect impacts from changes in hydrology. If the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to then the impact from the proposal is likely to be minor.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for this species, nor is the survey area critical for the survival of Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has not been prepared for the Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community.

The Office of Environment and Heritage is developing a targeted strategy for the management of this endangered ecological community under the Saving Our Species program (SOS). In the interim the management actions outlined in Table 2.1 have been developed. The proposal is unlikely to significantly affect these actions.

Table 2.1 Conservation management actions for Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

The extent and condition of this ecological community will be No improved or maintained primarily via positive management consistent with Catchment Action Plans, water management plans, and by regulating clearing.

Where it occurs on private lands, this ecological community will No also benefit from voluntary agreements with landholders to manage the land for conservation purposes

G-8 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Coastal Upland Swamp, the key threatened process of Alteration to the Natural flow regimes of rivers or streams may impact upon this groundwater dependent ecosystem. However if the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to then the impact to this community is likely to be minor. No other Key Threatening Processes are likely to be significantly increased by the proposal.

Conclusion

The proposal may result in the indirect impacts to this community as a result of the potential for changes in groundwater levels. However, no removal of this community will occur as a result of the proposal. In addition, 1.79 ha of this community was mapped within the survey area with a further 360 ha mapped within the Gosford LGA. This equates to which equates to 0.5% of the total community area mapped within the Gosford LGA. The potential for indirect impacts due to hydrology changes to Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community is not likely to be significant by comparison to the size of suitable habitat and available habitat mapped within the locality. Consequently, the proposal is not considered to have a significant impact on Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community.

2.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Coastal Upland Swamp

Coastal Upland Swamp is listed as Endangered Ecological Community under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013).

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a critically endangered community if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Reduce the extent of an ecological community

The proposal will not result in a reduction of the extent of the Coastal Upland Swamp commensurate with the EPBC Act listed community within the survey area, however there may be some potential for indirect impacts due to potential hydrological changes.

The proposal has modified its design to ensure that the Coastal Upland Swamp as listed under the EPBC Act would be avoided and any potential indirect impact upon this community such as sediment, erosion and control of water discharge will be managed and mitigated through the preparation of a detailed CEMP.

Fragment or increase fragmentation of an ecological community, for example by clearing vegetation for roads or transmission lines

The proposal is unlikely to fragment this ecological community as no area of the community will be removed as part of the proposal.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of an ecological community

No critical habitat has been listed for Coastal Upland Swamp ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Department of Environment, 2014).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-9 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Modify or destroy abiotic (non-living) factors (such as water, nutrients, or soil) necessary for an ecological community’s survival, including reduction of groundwater levels, or substantial alteration of surface water drainage patterns

The proposal has the potential to modify groundwater levels which this community is dependent upon. However it is highly likely that this impact would be mitigated through sediment, erosion control and control of water discharge will be managed and mitigated through the preparation of a detailed CEMP. Soil would be disturbed in the construction footprint, however, this will not include areas of this community. The proposal would result in some localised modification to surface water hydrology, however not to an extent that would affect the survival of the ecological community. These impacts include a potential increase sediment and water runoff from the proposal. In addition to these there is the potential for oil spills to occur along the road corridor which adjoin areas of Coastal Upland Swamp. Proposed water quality, stormwater, sediment control and oil spill mitigation measures will be implemented as part of the CEMP. The changes to the surface water hydrology would not result in significant changes to the groundwater recharge, providing that the water used for dust control is managed as per the mitigation measures outlined within the main report.

Therefore the potential impacts are considered to be minor and are unlikely affect the survival of this community.

Will the action cause a substantial change in the species composition of an occurrence of an ecological community, including causing a decline or loss of to date functionally important species for example through regular burning or flora or fauna harvesting

Past and present urban development activities have modified the groundlayer and shrublayer composition due to urban activities such as the numerous unformed vehicle and walking tracks that have been constructed throughout this community. These disturbances have resulted in weed incursions, rubbish dumping and soil disturbance. There is evidence of bushland regeneration in the form of additional plantings of native shrub species from local community Landcare groups within this community. No area of this community will be removed by the proposal. However indirect effects from increase vehicle movements, potential for increased weed dispersal and an increase in sediment and water runoff have the potential to modify the patches of this community within the survey area. The CEMP will outlines measures such as temporary fencing of the community, sediment fencing, restricting vehicles to existing roads and a weed management plan will mitigate any of the potential indirect impacts to this community.

Therefore the proposal will not substantially change the species composition of the Coastal Upland Swamp within the Study Area.

Will the action cause a substantial reduction in the quality or integrity of an occurrence of an ecological community, including, but not limited to:

„ assisting invasive species, that are harmful to the listed ecological community, to become established

„ causing regular mobilisation of fertilisers, herbicides or other chemicals or pollutants into the ecological community which kill or inhibit the growth of species in the ecological community.

The proposal has the potential to introduce invasive weeds into the patches of this EPBC Act listed community. Invasive weeds have the potential to spread through the increase in vehicle movements and construction works in close proximity to this community.

However, to help mitigate these impacts the CEMP will implement a weed management plan which will involve washdown of vehicles before entering the area and temporary fencing of this endangered community to prevent vehicles from entering this community.

G-10 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Indirect impacts from runoff from fertilisers used on lawns from the surrounding urban development are likely to be already occurring within this community. There is the potential for further mobilisation of fertilisers, herbicides and/or pollutants from increase in sediment and water runoff to occur as a result of the proposal. However mitigation measures such as sediment and erosion control measures will be implemented to mitigate these impacts from the proposal.

While the proposal has the potential to introduce new adverse impacts, the implementation of the CEMP will mitigate any of these potential indirect impacts from occurring.

Will the action interfere with the recovery of an ecological community

There is currently no draft recovery plan for Coastal Upland Swamp. The proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this community as no area of the EPBC Act listed community will be removed.

Conclusion

The proposal will not remove any area of the endangered Coastal Upland Swamp within the survey area. As no area of this community will be removed as a result of the proposal and impacts will be limited to potential indirect impacts, a referral to the commonwealth under the EPBC Act is not recommended for Coastal Upland Swamp.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-11 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

3. Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion

Status

Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin bioregion is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act.

Distribution within northern Sydney

Extensively fragmented distribution, occurring primarily within Warringah and Ku-ring-gai Local Government Areas (LGA), with minor occurrences in the Pittwater (Ingleside and Bilgola Plateau), Manly (Seaforth Oval) and Hornsby (South Turramura and Epping North) LGAs. Estimated original extent was approximately 1450 ha, of which less than 16%, or approximately 240 ha, remains (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Distribution within Gosford LGA

The final determination for Duffys Forest states that this community has been reported from the Warringah, Pittwater, Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and Manly LGAs, although indicates that it may occur elsewhere in the Sydney Basin Bioregion (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2011). The Study area is located within the Sydney Basin bioregion and the Gosford LGA, Bell (2009) identifies vegetation community E26d Somersby Plateau Woodland as exhibiting strong similarities to the endangered community Duffys Forest although clearly states that ‘without a more comprehensive analysis of sample data from both the Somersby and northern Sydney areas, it is difficult to be certain of the true relationships between the two areas’

Notwithstanding the uncertainty over the presence of Duffy Forest within the Gosford LGA, the floristic composition of the Red Bloodwood – Scribbly Gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash variant along with underlying soils and geology indicate a high probability that this community is representative of Duffys Forest. Therefore in this case a precautionary measure has been undertaken and a significance assessment has been conducted.

Description

The floristic structure of Duffys Forest is that of an open-forest or woodland community dominated by canopy species of Red Bloodwood Corymbia gummifera, Black Ash Eucalyptus sieberi, Smooth-barked Apple Angophora costata, and frequently a stringybark E. capitellata or E. oblonga. Other understorey species include Myrtle Wattle Acacia myrtifolia, Hairpin Banksia Banksia spinulosa, Rusty Velet-bush Lasiopetalum ferrugineum, Crinkle Bush Lomatia silaifolia, Broad-leaf Geebung Persoonia levis, Apple–berry Billardiera scandens, Wiry Panic Entolasia stricta, Twisted Mat-rush Lomandra obliqua, Micrantheum ericoides and Xanthorrhoea media.

Habitat and ecology

Duffys Forest occurs in associated with shale lenses in Hawkesbury sandstone. Situated on ridge tops, plateaus and upper slopes, but may also occur on mid-slopes or benches downslope of Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland. Fire intensity and frequency are important factors influencing community composition.

Threats

The following threatens are listed for the Duffys Forest ecological community:

„ Loss and fragmentation of habitat through clearing and development,

„ Habitat and degradation by weed invasion and physical damage from inappropriate access and disturbance by people, horses, trail-bikes and other vehicles.

„ Boundary encroachment

G-12 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

„ Inappropriate fire regimes.

„ Inappropriate plantings in and around remnants

„ Stormwater, soil erosion, and nutrient enrichment.

„ In this case a precautionary measure has been taken and for the purpose of this study it has been identified as being commensurate with this threatened ecological community.

Specific impacts

Duffys Forest ecological community was recorded within the survey area (6.51 ha), however 0.01 ha of habitat is likely to be removed by the proposal.

3.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Duffys ecological community was recorded within the survey area (6.51 ha) and approximately 0.01 ha will be removed as a result of the proposal. (Bell S 2009) has mapped over 574.66 ha of this community within the Gosford LGA. The proposal will remove 0.001% (0.01 ha) of the mapped community within the Gosford LGA. Suitable and higher quality habitat will remain available both within the survey area (6.51 ha) and in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State forest.

Therefore the habitat area to be removed is relatively small and in comparison to the habitat in the locality and the region is not considered significant to cause the community to be placed at risk of extinction.

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The widening of the M1 may impact upon the composition of Duffys Forest due to the introduction of edge effects. However as there are currently edge effects already occurring this introduction of weeds will be minor and occur at the road verge and should not increase substantially than is already occurring. Therefore the proposal is unlikely to adversely modify the composition of Duffys Forests such that it may be placed at risk of extinction.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-13 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

Duffys ecological community was recorded within the survey area (6.51 ha) and approximately 0.01 ha will be removed as a result of the proposal. (Bell S 2009) has mapped over 574.66 ha of this community within the Gosford LGA. The proposal will remove 0.001% (0.01 ha) of the mapped community within the Gosford LGA. Therefore the habitat area to be removed is relatively small and in comparison to the habitat in the locality and the region is not considered significant to cause the community to be placed at risk of extinction.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The proposal will not result in any areas of Duffys Forest from becoming any further fragmented or isolated from other areas communities. The proposal will essentially incrementally widen the existing M1 motorway alignment, consequently will not further will not further fragment or isolate other previously undisturbed areas of habitat for this community.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The survey area is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival Duffys Forest Ecological community. The proposal may remove approximately 0.01 ha of Duffys Forest community, equating to less than 0.001% of the total mapped community are in the Gosford LGA (Bell 2009). Approximately 6.51 ha of Duffys Forest community will be retained within the survey area and an abundance of similar higher quality habitat will remain in the adjacent Brisbane Waters National Park and Strickland State Forest.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for this species, nor is the survey area critical for the survival of Duffys Forest ecological community.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has not been prepared for the Duffys Forest ecological community.

The Office of Environment and Heritage is developing a targeted strategy for the management of this endangered ecological community under the Saving Our Species program (SOS). In the interim the 25 management actions outlined in Table 3.1 have been developed (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). The proposal is unlikely to significantly affect these actions.

Table 3.1 Conservation management actions for Duffys Forest ecological community

Management Actions Likely to be affected by the proposal

Collate data for conservation assessment of all DFEC remnants No

Review the distribution and map remnants of Duffys Forest EEC, No including degraded areas.

Make an assessment for Critical habitat nomination. No

Prepare nomination for listing under the EPBC Act. No

G-14 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Actions Likely to be affected by the proposal

Notify landowners and managers of the presence of DFEC No remnants under their care and/or control.

Liaise with public authorities to pursue active management for No conservation.

Liaise with private land owners to pursue active management for No conservation.

Launch DEC and Council incentives programs. No

Prioritise, cost and implement threat management & ecological No restoration works.

Establish and implement a threat management monitoring No program.

Assess and manage the impacts of horse riding & mountain bike No activities.

Consult with and support private landholders to undertake threat No management & restoration actions.

Develop Best Practice Management Guidelines for DFEC No remnants.

Prepare & implement POM on public land. No

Develop a community education, awareness and involvement No strategy to inform the community of the conservation requirements and threats affecting this EEC.

Encourage and facilitate research, fire, pests, size resilience, No viability, species diversity, ecological processes, habitat restoration, translocation, cultural heritage values and uses.

Incorporate outcomes from research into preparation and No implementation of Best Practice Mgt Guidelines.

Coordinate recovery program. No

Finalise state priority recovery plan in accordance with previous No commitments by June 2007.

Update and maintain fire management guidelines. No

Secure funding to implement recovery actions. No

The proposal is unlikely to interfere with any of the above-mentioned management actions.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Duffys Forest ecological community, the proposal is consistent with one Key Threatening Process being clearing of native vegetation. The habitat that is being modified/removed is small and if the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to it is not expected that these activities are likely to exacerbate of the aforementioned Key Threatening Processes such that they are likely to significantly affect Duffys Forest. No other Key Threatening Processes are likely to be significantly increased by the proposal.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-15 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Conclusion

The proposal may result in the removal of 0.01 ha of this community, which equates to 0.001% of the total community area mapped within the Gosford LGA. Approximately 6.51 ha of this community will be retained within in the survey area and an abundance of similar, higher quality habitat will remain available in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State forest.

The reduction in the size and extent of Duffys Forest ecological community is not likely to be significant by comparison to the size of suitable habitat and available habitat mapped within the locality. Consequently, the proposal is not considered to have a significant impact on Duffys Forest ecological community.

G-16 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

4. Darwinia glaucophylla

Status

Darwinia glaucophylla is listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

Darwinia glaucophylla is a spreading, prostrate shrub with yellow- green to red flowers and ascending branchlets to 15 m high that occurs between Gosford and the Hawkesbury River around Calga, Kariong and Mt Kariong. Known from approximately 15 sites, several within or near to Brisbane Waters NP and one within Popran NP. Occurs entirely within the Gosford Local Government Area of the Sydney Basin Bioregion (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

Darwinia glaucophylla occurs in sandy heath, scrub and woodlands often associated with sandstone rock platforms or near hanging swamps and friable sandstone shallow soils. It is typically associated with species such as Banksia ericifolia, Acacia terminalis, A. oxycedrus, Angophora hispida, Hakea teretifolia, Bauera rubioides, Corymbia gummifera, C. eximia, Eucalyptus haemastoma and E. punctata. Generally flowering between winter and spring the species is dispersed by ants and germination occurs from soil stored seed which requires heat to break seed coat dormancy. Therefore germination is unlikely in the absence of fire where the plants are killed by fire (populations may fluctuate in relation to time since the last fire) however the species is highly sensitive to too frequent or infrequent fire. It is recommended that the ideal fire frequency for this species is between 5 and 10 years (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Specific impacts

One hundred and seventy-three Darwinia glaucophylla were recorded along the southern portion of the survey area, surrounding the Kariong interchange. The plant community types that contained habitat for this species consisted of Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant and Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland as mapped throughout the survey area. A total of 13 individuals will be impacted upon by the proposal within 0.33 ha of potential habitat which will be impacted by the proposal.

4.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

One hundred and seventy three Darwinia glaucophylla individuals were recorded during the field surveys within the survey area. Of these 13 are likely to be removed as a result of the proposal.

The survey area contains suitable habitat for this species within the Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant and Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland as mapped throughout the survey area. A total of 0.33 ha of potential habitat and 13 individuals will be impacted by the proposal.

Bell (2009) has mapped over 35,251 ha of these communities within the Gosford LGA. The proposed road widening will remove 0.33 ha of potential habitat for Darwinia glaucophylla, this represents 0.0009% of the available habitat within the Gosford LGA. Therefore the habitat area to be removed is small (0.33 ha) in comparison to the habitat in the locality and the region. In addition the amount of individuals to be removed is small (7%) of the individuals recorded within the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-17 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

This species is likely to be pollinated by honeyeaters and bees with a considerable proportion of outbreeding occurring (Benson and McDougall 1998). Darwinia glaucophylla usually germinates via a soil stored seedbank which requires heat to break seed coat dormancy therefore germination is unlikely in the absence of fire, whereby the adult plants are killed by the fire (Benson and McDougall 1998). The species is however sensitive to too frequent or infrequent fire and it is recommended that a 5 -10 years frequency of fire is required for adequate recruitment (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

The removal of 13 individuals and a small area of habitat 0.33 ha is unlikely to impact upon the pollinator, seed dispersal or other life cycle mechanisms for this species. Therefore the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population will be placed at risk of extinction.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(iii) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

(iv) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(iv) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

The proposal will remove approximately 0.33 ha of potential habitat for the species. (Bell S 2009) has mapped over 35,251 ha of these communities within the Gosford LGA. The proposed routine vegetation maintenance activities will remove 0.33 ha of potential habitat for Darwinia glaucophylla, this represents 0.0009% of the available habitat within the Gosford LGA. Therefore the habitat area to be removed is relatively small (0.33 ha) in comparison to the habitat that will remain available in the locality and the region.

(v) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The proposal will impact upon 0.33 ha of previously disturbed habitat currently experiencing edge effects and disturbance from the existing M1. The proposal essentially increases the width of the existing M1 linear corridor and will not further fragment or isolate habitat for this species any more than what already occurs in the survey area. Whilst the proposal will increase the width of the M1 it is unlikely to affect pollinators such as birds for this species.

(vi) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The survey area is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival of Darwinia glaucophylla. The proposal will disturb approximately 0.33 ha of habitat for this species, comprising approximately

G-18 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

0.0009% of similar available habitat in the Gosford LGA. Similar high quality habitat will be retained within the survey area. Consequently the importance of the habitat contained in the survey area is unlikely to be important for the long term survival of the species in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for this species, nor is the survey area critical for the survival of the Darwinia glaucophylla.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has not been prepared for Darwinia glaucophylla.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage Darwinia glaucophylla has been assigned as a site managed species. Site managed species can be successfully secured by carrying out targeted conservation projects at specific sites around NSW. Two sites have been allocated to this species and these sites are likely to occur in close proximity of the Study area. These sites include Mooney Mooney Creek East and Mooney Mooney Creek West. The exact location of these sites has not been disclosed due to the sensitive nature of the species and or the site. The Office of Environment and Heritage has developed 8 conservation management actions (refer Table 4.1) to help recover of Darwinia glaucophylla (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). The current proposal activities are unlikely to affect these actions provided the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to.

Table 4.1 Conservation management actions for Darwinia glaucophylla

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Augment extant wild population(s) No

Reduce access of recreational users to site No.

Reduce and maintain weed densities at low levels No. Weed management measures will be implemented for the proposal.

Assess extent/severity or mechanism of threatening processes No

Minimise impacts of mining activities No

Track species abundance / condition over time No

Maintain appropriate fire regimes No

Ensure land management is sympathetic to the long term No requirements of the species

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Darwinia glaucophylla, the current activities are consistent with one Key Threatening Process being clearing of native vegetation. The habitat that is being modified/removed is small and an abundance of similar higher quality habitat will be retained within the survey area and locality. Consequently, it is not expected that the proposal is likely to exacerbate of the aforementioned Key Threatening Process such that

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-19 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

it is likely to significantly affect Darwinia glaucophylla. No other Key Threatening Processes are likely to be significantly increased by the proposal.

Conclusion

The proposal will remove approximately 0.33 ha of potential habitat and 13 individuals of this species. Bell (2009), has mapped over 35,251 ha of habitat within the Gosford LGA. The proposed widening of the M1 Motorway will remove 0.33 ha of potential habitat for Darwinia glaucophylla, this represents 0.0009% of the available habitat within the Gosford LGA. In addition 13 individuals will be removed as part of the proposal, however 160 individuals will be retained within the survey area. Therefore the habitat area to be removed is relatively small (0.33 ha) in comparison to the habitat area that will be retained in the locality and the region.

The reduction in the population size and extent of potential habitat of Darwinia glaucophylla is not likely to be significant by comparison to the size of suitable habitat remaining records of the species and available habitat within the locality. Therefore the proposal is not considered to have a significant impact on the Darwinia glaucophylla.

G-20 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

5. Hibbertia procumbens (Spreading Guinea Flower)

Status

Hibbertia procumbens is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act.

Distribution

Hibbertia procumbens is a prostrate spreading shrub with yellow flowers that is known from within NSW, known from several locations only on the Central Coast in the Gosford and Wyong local government areas. These populations are at Bumble Hill near Yarramalong in Wyong LGA; Kulnura, Strickland State Forest, Mangrove Mountain, Somersby, Calga/Mt White and Peats Ridge in the Gosford LGA; and near Mogo Creek to the west of Mangrove Creek Dam. It has been recorded in four conservation reserves: Yengo, Popran and Brisbane Water National Parks and the non-production Strickland State Forest. Also occurs in Victoria and Tasmania, although investigation is required to verify that the disjunct NSW populations are the same species (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

Hibbertia procumbens grows in shrub/heath on skeletal sandy soils and is often associated with the ‘hanging swamp’ vegetation communities on sandy deposits. The species flowers in summer and is capable of resprouting following fire and has a persistent soil-stored seed bank.

Specific impacts

Twenty seven Hibbertia procumbens individuals were recorded at various locations within the survey area in the vegetation communities of Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Silvertop Ash Variant, Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant, Regrowth and Planted Vegetation and Scribbly Gum – Hairpin Banksia – Dwarf Apple Heathy Woodland as mapped within the survey area (76.22 ha). Approximately 12.44 ha of potential habitat is likely to be impacted and one individual of this species to be removed that occurs within the median strip as part of the proposal.

5.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The survey area contains 76.22 ha of suitable habitat for this species. The proposal will remove approximately 12.44 ha of potential habitat and one individual located within the median strip, with 26 individuals within the survey area being retained.

Approximately 63.79ha (84%) of potential habitat for Hibbertia procumbens and 26 individuals within the survey area will be retained. Furthermore, Hibbertia procumbens is capable of vegetative spread and also persists and germinates from a soil stored seed bank (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). It is also considered that the remaining habitat within the survey area and the locality provides good quality habitat for Hibbertia procumbens. .

Consequently, the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population will be placed at risk of extinction.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-21 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not Applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

The proposal will remove approximately 12.44ha of potential habitat for this species, with one individual being removed. However, 63.79 ha (83%) of the potential habitat and 26 individuals contained within the survey area will be retained and remain available for habitation post project. Due to the minimal amount of habitat to be removed and the availability and abundance of similar and higher quality habitat surrounding the survey area, the proposal is unlikely to affect this species.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The proposal will impact upon 12.44 ha of potential habitat currently experiencing edge effects and disturbance from the existing M1. The proposal essentially increases the width of the existing M1 linear corridor and will not further fragment or isolate habitat for this species any more than what already occurs in the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The survey area is unlikely to contain habitat important to the long-term survival of Hibbertia procumbens. Approximately 24,595.79 ha of suitable habitat has been mapped within the locality (Bell, 2009). The proposal disturbance area (12.44ha) accounts for less than 0.05% of the mapped suitable habitat available in the locality. Consequently, given the abundance of suitable habitat remaining in the locality, and current impacts of the existing M1, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect habitat important to the long term survival of Hibbertia procumbens.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for this species, nor is the survey area critical for the survival of the Hibbertia procumbens.

G-22 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has not been prepared for Hibbertia procumbens.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage Hibbertia procumbens has been assigned as a partnership species. Partnership species have less than 10% of their distribution in NSW. Species that are threatened nationally and have important populations in NSW will have species conservation projects developed for them in the future. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing this species however in the interim they have developed 16 management actions (refer Table 5.1) to help recover of Hibbertia procumbens (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). The current vegetation maintenance activities are unlikely to affect these actions provided the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to.

Table 5.1 Management actions for Hibbertia procumbens

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Identify and map potential habitat. No. Vegetation and habitat mapping has been undertaken as part of this study.

Conduct targeted survey of potential habitat within NPWS estate. No.

Conduct targeted survey of potential habitat on freehold and crown No. Targeted searches have been land. undertaken as part of this study.

Prepare species profile and EIA guidelines. No

Restrict access to sites, where necessary. No.

Undertake targeted bush regeneration works, where required. No

Incorporate site specific threat abatement measures for the species into No Plans of Management for on-park sites.

Incorporate site specific threat abatement measures for the species into No Plans of Management for sites in council or crown reserves.

Prepare management plan for sites located in Strickland State Forest. No

Public authorities undertaking road, trail or easement maintenance No. Completed as part of this survey. activities in potential habitat to survey thoroughly for the species prior to commencing works and to implement measures to avoid impacting upon any populations found.

Seek to increase the level of legislative protection for sites on freehold No land through land-use planning mechanisms and conservation agreements.

Negotiate with the managers of freehold sites to prepare and implement No site management plans that address threatening processes.

Incorporate a suitable fire regime for the species into land management No practices.

Ensure that sites on crown land are appropriately classified and No managed.

Conduct taxonomic review. No

Encourage research projects on the ecological requirements of the No species and its response to disturbance.

The proposal is consistent with some management actions for Hibbertia procumbens.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-23 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Hibbertia procumbens, the proposal is consistent with one Key Threatening Process being clearing of native vegetation. The habitat that is being modified/removed is small and if the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to it is not expected that these activities are likely to exacerbate of the aforementioned Key Threatening Processes such that they are likely to significantly affect Hibbertia procumbens. No other Key Threatening Processes are likely to be significantly increased by the proposal.

Conclusion

The proposal will require the removal of approximately 12.44 ha of potential habitat and one individual of Hibbertia procumbens. Approximately 63.79ha (83%) of potential habitat for Hibbertia procumbens and 26 individuals identified within the survey area will be retained. Furthermore, Hibbertia procumbens is capable of vegetative spread and also persists and germinates from a soil stored seed bank (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). Approximately 24,595.79 ha of suitable habitat has been mapped within the Gosford LGA (Bell, 2009). The proposal disturbance area (12.44ha) accounts for less than 0.05% of the mapped suitable habitat available in the locality.

The reduction in the size and extent of potential habitat of Hibbertia procumbens is not likely to be significant by comparison to the size of suitable habitat remaining records of the species and available habitat within the locality. Consequently the proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact upon Hibbertia procumbens.

G-24 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

6. Prostanthera junonis (Somersby Mintbush)

Status

Prostanthera junonis is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and EPBC Act.

Distribution

Prostanthera junonis is a low spreading shrub to 1 m tall that has a north-south range of approximately 19 km on the Somersby Plateau in the Gosford and Wyong local government areas (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

Prostanthera junonis it restricted to the Somersby Plateau and Somersby and Sydney Town soil landscapes on gently undulating country over weathered Hawkesbury sandstone within open forest/low woodland/open scrub. It occurs in both disturbed and undisturbed sites. The species generally flowers in October to mid- December depending on weather and site conditions and is very difficult to identify outside of this time. While mature plants appear to be incapable of resprouting after fire, it may trigger seed germination (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Specific impacts

Two individuals of Prostanthera junonis were recorded within the survey area during field surveys within the vegetation community of Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant (26.1ha). These two individuals will be retained as part of the proposal. Approximately 26.1 ha of potential habitat is contained within the survey area and 0.22 ha of potential habitat will be removed by the proposal. Targeted surveys were undertaken during the flowering period and this species was not recorded within the area to be removed.

6.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Two Prostanthera junonis individuals were recorded during the current field surveys; however these individuals will be retained as part of the proposal. The survey area contains suitable habitat for this species within the Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant vegetation type. The proposal will remove approximately 0.22 ha of unoccupied habitat for this species.

Bell (2009) has mapped over 19,068.86 ha of this community within the Gosford LGA. The proposal will remove 0.22 ha of unoccupied habitat for Prostanthera junonis, this represents 0.001% of the available habitat within the Gosford LGA. Therefore the habitat area to be removed is small (0.22 ha) in comparison to the habitat in the locality and the region. In addition the two individuals recorded within the survey area will be retained as part of the proposal.

Prostanthera junonis reproduces from both outcrossing and self-reproductive strategies (ref) and the plant has been observed to be stolniferous and most likely uses both strategies in reproduction (NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service 2000). The pollination vector is likely to be insects suspected to be bees and/or wasps, however the success of the pollination from these insects is unknown. Seed dispersal mechanism is largely unknown, however it has been suggested that the seeds drop close to the plant and are likely to be dispersed by birds or animals (NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service 2000). The seed bank longevity is likely to be less than 12 months as laboratory experiments found seeds were non viable after this period of time. Germination of this species may be triggered by fire as the germination increased with the application of smoke water. The proposal will require the removal of a small area (0.22 ha) of unoccupied habitat, the

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-25 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

remaining habitat within the survey area and the locality provides good quality habitat for Prostanthera junonis, with the two recorded species being retained as part of the proposal.

The proposal has the potential to effect the life cycle and lead to the potential extinction of a local population, if the species is recorded within the survey area are removed. The widening of the existing linear corridor is unlikely to impact upon the pollinator or seed dispersal vectors for this species. The proposal will not remove any identified Prostanthera junonis within the survey area and consequently it is considered that the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that it is likely to place the species at risk of extinction.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

The proposal will remove approximately 0.22 ha of potential habitat for Prostanthera junonis. Approximately 25.88 ha (99%) of suitable habitat within the survey area will be retained. Approximately 19,068.86ha of suitable habitat has been mapped within the Gosford LGA (Bell, 2009). Given the small amount of habitat to be removed and the abundance of similar habitat available in the locality and the retention of the two individuals within the survey area, it is unlikely that the proposal will impact this species.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The proposal will impact upon 0.22 ha of potential habitat currently experiencing edge effects and disturbance from the existing M1. The proposal essentially increases the width of the existing M1 linear corridor and will not further fragment or isolate habitat for this species any more than what already occurs in the survey area. The proposal is unlikely to impact upon the pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents which would further fragment the existing population recorded within the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The habitat contained within the survey area (26.1 ha) is likely to be of importance to the survival of Prostanthera junonis in the locality, particularly the occupied habitat in the northern portion of the survey area.

G-26 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The survey area may be of critical importance to the long-term survival of the Prostanthera junonis for a local population, therefore as part of the proposal the occupied habitat and the two individuals will be retained to conserve this endangered species. The proposal will remove a small portion of habitat for this species, approximately 0.22 ha of suitable habitat, however this area was surveyed during the flowering period and this species was not recorded in the proposed removal area. Further habitat for this species will be available in the survey area and wider locality and therefore it is likely that the habitat to be removed will be of low importance to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for this species, nor is the survey area critical for the survival of the Prostanthera junonis.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has been prepared for Prostanthera junonis by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service 2000).

The recovery plan has developed 6 recovery objectives (refer Table 6.1) to help assist in the recovery of Prostanthera junonis (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). The proposal is in keeping with the objectives of the recovery plan by retaining habitat and individuals of this species.

Table 6.1 Recovery Plan objectives for Prostanthera junonis

Recovery objective Likely to be affected by the proposal

Ensure populations are not destroyed as a consequence of No. As outlined in the main report populations of habitat loss and increase the level of security to lands which this species will be fenced off to protect the support the species individuals. Minor habitat loss will occur as a result of the proposal however this will be minimal (0.22 ha)

Minimise risk to P. junonis populations from declining in the long No. Targeted surveys were undertaken to term through encouraging the implementation of appropriate ensure this species was detected with minimal threat and habitat management practices. risk to populations

Establish the full extent of P. junonis populations No. This survey has located two new individuals previously not recorded.

Ensure the management of P. junonis habitat is informed by No. essential aspects of the species biology and ecology.

Determine whether a declaration of critical habitat for P. junonis No. will provide better protection

Understand the requirements for safeguarding genetic diversity No. The known individuals have been retained of P. junonis for the purpose of reintroduction, following as part of the proposal therefore protecting extinction or irreversible decline of natural populations existing genetic diversity.

Raise awareness among the broader community about the No. conservation status of P. junonis.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage Prostanthera junonis has been assigned as a site managed species. Site managed species can be successfully secured by carrying out targeted conservation projects at specific sites around NSW. Five management sites have been identified for this species and these include Konda, Survey Site, Reservoir Road, Reeves Road and West Kariong. The exact location for these sites has not been disclosed however there are 8 conservation management actions developed for these sites (Table 6.2). However Reeves Road

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-27 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

crosses the M1 to the north of Fountain Creek and Reservoir Road occurs to the west of the M1 near Mooney Mooney Dam. Konda Road Occurs to the north of the Peats Ridge interchange and the Somersby interchange occurs at West Kariong. It is unknown where Site Survey is located. The proposal is unlikely to impact upon any of the sites, with the two individuals recorded within the study are being retained as part of the proposal.

Table 6.2 Conservation management actions for Prostanthera junonis at the above identified sites

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Reduce the impact of illegal dumping No

Expand area/condition of suitable habitat No

Prevent entry of disease to the site No.

Prevent weed invasion No. Weed management measures will be implemented for the proposal.

Reduce access to recreational users to site No

Track species abundance / condition over time No

Maintain appropriate fire regimes No

Ensure land management is sympathetic to the long term No requirements of the species

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

The current activities have the potential to contribute to two Key Threatening Processes. With respect to Prostanthera junonis, the current activities are consistent with one Key Threatening Process being clearing of native vegetation. The habitat that is being modified/removed is small and if the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to it is not expected that these activities are likely to exacerbate of the aforementioned Key Threatening Processes such that they are likely to significantly affect Prostanthera junonis. No other Key Threatening Processes are likely to be significantly increased by the proposal.

Conclusion

Two individuals of Prostanthera junonis were recorded within the survey area, however these individuals will be retained as part of the proposal. The upgrade of the M1 will require the removal of 0.22 ha of potential habitat for this species. Whilst, the proposal will require the removal of a small area of habitat a further 25.88 ha of habitat will be retained within the survey area. Furthermore, large areas of potential habitat (19,068.86 ha) have been mapped within the Gosford LGA (Bell, 2009) including habitat within Brisbane Water National Park. The reduction in the size and extent of potential habitat of Prostanthera junonis is not likely to be significant by comparison to the size of suitable habitat remaining records of the species and available habitat within the locality.

Targeted surveys were undertaken during the flowering period for this species to ensure that all individuals were detected. Two individuals were detected during these surveys and will be retained as part of the proposal. Therefore it is unlikely that the proposal will have a significant impact upon Prostanthera junonis.

G-28 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

6.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

Prostanthera junonis is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013).

Would the action lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population?

Two individuals of Prostanthera junonis were recorded during the targeted field surveys within the flowering period (October to mid-December). These individuals will be retained as part of the proposal, however a small area of unoccupied habitat 0.22 ha will be impacted upon by the proposal.

If the mitigation measures are implemented which include fencing off of the recorded individuals during construction works then the proposal is unlikely to lead to the long-term decrease in the size of the population.

Would the action reduce the area of occupancy of the species?

Two individuals of Prostanthera junonis were recorded within the survey area however, these will be retained as part of the proposal. A small area (0.22 ha) of unoccupied habitat for the species will be impacted upon by the proposal. In addition there is an abundance of suitable habitat available in the locality and the proposal is unlikely reduce the area of occupancy of the species.

Would the action fragment an existing population into two or more populations?

The proposal will impact upon 0.22 ha of unoccupied habitat and the two individuals are currently fragmented from each other by the existing M1 Motorway. The proposal essentially increases the width of the existing M1 linear corridor and will not further fragment or isolate habitat for this species any more than what already occurs in the survey area. The proposal is unlikely to impact upon the pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents which would further fragment the existing population recorded within the survey area.

Would the action adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of Environment 2013).

The proposal will remove approximately 0.22 ha of suitable dispersal habitat for this species. The proposal is unlikely to impact upon the pollination or seed dispersal vectors for this species. In addition there is an abundance of habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is unlikely that the proposal will impact upon the breed or dispersal mechanisms species. Therefore, this would not meet the above criteria.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of a population

Prostanthera junonis reproduces generally by germinating after fire from a soil seedbank (NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service 2000). The species appears incapable of resprouting after fire. The pollinator

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-29 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

vectors for this species are likely to be insects with seed dispersal likely to be via birds or animals. The proposal is unlikely to impact on any of the breeding cycle processes or the habitat for the pollinators or seed dispersal mechanisms for this species. The individuals that were recorded will be retained as part of the proposal. The proposal is therefore unlikely to disturb the species breeding mechanisms and therefore is unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of Prostanthera junonis.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

The survey area provides 26.1 ha Red Bloodwood - Scribbly gum heathy woodland – Atypical variant suitable habitat for this species. Of this a small area of unoccupied habitat 0.22 ha will be required for removal and this small area is not likely to be significant habitat for the species. Two individuals were recorded within this habitat and these individuals will be retained as part of the proposal.

The action would not result in a significant increase in the isolation or fragmentation of habitat for this species in the locality. The proposal will remove a small area of habitat (0.22 ha) and this may be subject to new areas of edge effects, however if the mitigation measures outlined in the main report are adhered to then it is unlikely decrease the quality of habitat for this species. Furthermore large areas of good quality habitat are available for this species in the wider region. As such, the widening of the M1 is unlikely to result in the long- term decline of the species.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the endangered species´ habitat

The mitigation measures currently being implemented and those additional measures outlined in the main report are minimising potential weed invasion into adjacent areas of habitat.

The action is unlikely to result in invasive species becoming established in this Endangered species’ habitat.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

No diseases are known to cause the decline in this species.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

The habitat within the subject site has been predominantly cleared and disturbed associated with the adjacent existing M1 motorway. No Prostanthera junonis individuals were recorded within disturbance area however two individuals were recorded within the survey area. Whilst, the proposal will require the removal of a small area of habitat a further 25.88 ha of habitat will be retained within the survey area. Furthermore, large areas of potential habitat (19,068.86 ha) have been mapped within the Gosford LGA (Bell, 2009) including habitat within Brisbane Water National Park. Consequently, it is unlikely that the activities are interfering with the long-term survival of Prostanthera junonis. The action is unlikely to interfere with the recovery of the species.

Conclusion

Prostanthera junonis is listed as an Endangered species under the EPBC Act. The species is unlikely to be significantly impacted by the proposal. Approximately 0.22ha of potential habitat will be cleared by the proposal however; a further 25.88 ha of habitat will be retained within the survey area. Furthermore, large areas of potential habitat (19,068.86 ha) have been mapped within the Gosford LGA (Bell, 2009) including habitat within the Brisbane Water National Park. A referral is not recommended on the basis of impacts to this species.

G-30 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

7. Giant Burrowing Frog (Heleioporus australiacus)

Status

The Giant Burrowing Frog is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and the EPBC Act.

Description

The Giant Burrowing Frog is a large slow moving frog and grows to around 10 cm (Cogger 2000). This species has muscular hind limbs with enlarged tubercles on their feet to assist in burrowing. Colour varies from blue grey to black on the limb and upper body but paler on the sides. The belly is white to grey blue with the body surface being granular to touch with numerous warts. The eyes are prominent with a vertically elliptical pupil and silvery iris. Tadpoles are large being up to 75 mm and very dark blue to black (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001).

Distribution

This species occurs in the south east of NSW and Victoria, and exists as two disjunct populations generally confined to sandstone geology within the Sydney Basin in the north. The southern population occurring North from Narooma to Walhalla, Victoria (Penman, Mahony et al. 2005).

Habitat and ecology

This species is found in a variety of habitats including heath, woodland and open dry sclerophyll forest (Cogger 2000). This species spends more than 95% of its time in non-breeding habitat in areas up to 300 m from breeding sites. When not breeding the Giant Burrowing Frog burrows below the soil surface or leaf litter with individual frogs occupying a number of burrowing sites, a few of which are used repeatedly. Home ranges are approximately 0.04 ha in size. Their diet is that of a generalist consuming invertebrates such as ants, beetles, cockroaches, spiders, centipedes and scorpions.

Frogs will move to breeding sites after heavy rain and occupy these sites for approximately 10 days, with the frogs not breeding every year. Breeding frogs will call from open spaces under vegetation or rocks or from within burrows along creek banks. Breeding season is in Autumn. Breeding habitat is soaks, pools within first or second order streams and they have also been recorded from hanging swamps seepage lines and where small pools form from collected water. This species is slow growing and long lived of up to 10 years (Penman, Mahony et al. 2005).

Threats

The Office of the Environment and Heritage has identified the following threats to the Giant Burrowing Frog:

„ loss of habitat through clearing for residential, agricultural and urban development

„ disease (chytrid fungus)

„ reduction of water quality generally in the vicinity of urban development

„ forest disturbance associated with forestry activities

„ climate change

„ populations appear to be fragmented and consequently are susceptible to stochastic events.

Specific impacts

The Giant Burrowing Frog was not recorded in the survey area during surveys; however it has previously been recorded within the vicinity of the survey area (Hill, 2011). Approximately 55.78 ha of potential habitat

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-31 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

(including woodland, hanging swamp, heath and aquatic fauna habitat types) was recorded within the survey area. However, approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be impacted by the proposal.

7.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Approximately 55.78ha of suitable habitat for the Giant Burrowing Frog was identified as the within the survey area. While this species was not recorded during current surveys, it is assumed that this species would be present in suitable habitat as it has previously been recorded in the vicinity of the survey area. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While it is estimated that a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on areas of suitable habitat. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Breeding habitat for this species was observed within the survey area in the form of aquatic habitats and groundwater soaks. Limited disturbance will occur to this breeding habitat as it has already been disturbed and is not part of the widening impact area. Furthermore an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs in the adjacent Strickland State Forest and Brisbane Water National Park and wider locality suitable for Giant Burrowing Frog habitation. Therefore the proposal is not likely to have an adverse affect to the lifecycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not Applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would likely be affected by the proposal. Although this area was not considered good quality habitat given the potentially better quality and more suitable habitat available in adjacent vegetation; particularly including Strickland State Forest and Brisbane Water National Park.

G-32 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land, within the previous M1 disturbance footprint. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to areas adjacent to the existing M1 and within previously disturbed areas. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat.

Remnant vegetation contained in the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, positioned adjacent to the survey area, provide a significant wildlife corridor. However, given that the proposal would generally occur in existing clearings no greater than 60 m, this would not present a significant barrier to the Giant Burrowing Frog. Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to result in the fragmentation or isolation of habitat any more than that currently occurring in the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The survey area is mostly confined to previously disturbed lands associated with existing M1 easements, with a relatively small amount (about 0.42 ha) of habitat likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality suitable for Giant Burrowing Frog habitation.

Therefore, given the relatively small amount of potential habitat to be disturbed by the proposal, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species. Although, it is recognised that vegetation likely to be affected will add incrementally to the loss of habitat for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Giant Burrowing Frog to date. No areas within the survey area are considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan for the Giant Burrowing Frog has been produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Giant Burrowing Frog has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing this species however in the interim they have, identified 20 management actions to help recover the Giant Burrowing Frog (Table 7.1). The proposal is not likely to interfere with any of these management actions.

Table 7.1 Management Actions for the Giant Burrowing Frog

Management action for the Giant Burrowing Frog Likely to be affected by the proposal

Resolve the taxonomic uncertainty regarding the northern and southern populations No

Develop a list of key populations of the Giant Burrowing Frog to focus recovery action. No

Determine the treats and other management issues affecting all key populations No

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-33 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management action for the Giant Burrowing Frog Likely to be affected by the proposal identified for this species.

Prepare and implement site specific management plans to protect key Giant No Burrowing Frog populations from identified threats. Source funding to implement these plans.

Develop and test a protocol for monitoring populations of the Giant Burrowing Frog No throughout its range.

Once a monitoring protocol is developed incorporate it into all site management plans. No

Maintain and refer to an up to date species profile and set of environmental impact No assessment (including survey) guidelines for the Giant Burrowing Frog.

Develop habitat management guidelines that can be used by land managers to protect No local populations and habitats across the landscape.

Facilitate the adequate consideration of Giant Burrowing Frogs during biodiversity No certification of environmental planning instruments.

Ensure up to date and accurate Giant Burrowing Frog species and habitat information No is being used in the threatened species tool software components of the Property Vegetation Planning and BioBanking assessment processes.

Ensure records from surveys and assessments are entered on the Atlas of NSW No Wildlife and Atlas of Victorian Wildlife accurately and quickly.

Encourage and support research projects that contribute to the conservation of the No Giant Burrowing Frog

Develop a captive husbandry protocol in case rapid declines are observed. No

Determine priorities for regions and populations to be included in a gene bank to No provide an assurance for populations that may decline and disappear in the future.

Integrate the recovery actions for the Giant Burrowing Frog with Threat Abatement No Plans and recovery actions for other threatened species, populations and communities.

Develop a declining stream frog working group. No

Conduct surveys for the Giant Burrowing Frog in and around historic locations and No within areas of likely high quality habitat to assess the Status of the species at the southern end of its range.

Prepare state and national priority recovery plan in accordance with contractual No obligations between the Office of the Environment and Heritage and the Department of Heritage by December 2008.

Assess the threat of changed hydrological regimes on the habitat of this species. No Include the impacts of increasing urbanisation, groundwater extraction and climate change into this assessment.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes (KTPs) are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

For Giant Burrowing Frog, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is unlikely to significantly affect the Giant Burrowing Frog in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

G-34 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for the Giant Burrowing Frog was identified within the survey area providing dense vegetation cover and leaf litter for foraging and burrowing. Breeding habitat was also observed within the survey area, in the form of aquatic habitats such as creeks, streams, pools and small groundwater soaks. It is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within marginal habitat or resulting in encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially follows existing regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Giant Burrowing Frog.. As the survey area is located along an existing disturbed corridor associated with the existing M1 Motorway, the proposal will not further fragment a known population. Furthermore, the survey area is surrounded by large areas of high quality vegetation contained within the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that is likely to contain more substantial habitat for this species. Consequently the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact on this species.

7.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

The Giant Burrowing Frog is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

The survey area contains sheltering and breeding habitat for the Giant Burrowing Frog in the form of creek banks, streams, ponds and pools in marginal condition. These habitats however, are unlikely to be key breeding habitat given the large areas of better quality habitat within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. The proposal area is relatively small in size and linear in nature running parallel to the existing M1 Motorway through largely modified habitats. Thus, the proposal area is not likely to retain a large population that would be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity. In addition, this species is not at the limit of its range. Therefore, it is considered that any Giant Burrowing Frogs potentially occurring within the survey area would not form part of an important population.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Giant Burrowing Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not form part of an important population.

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population of the species

Not applicable. Giant Burrowing Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not form part of an important population.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-35 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Not applicable. Giant Burrowing Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not form part of an important population.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a).

The proposal would likely impacted approximately 0.42 ha of marginal habitat, potentially suitable for foraging, sheltering and breeding purposes. As the proposal will be largely be limited to previously disturbed areas adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway and given the abundance of potentially suitable habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is not likely that the proposal would impact upon this species.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Giant Burrowing Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not form part of an important population.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal would only affect approximately 0.42 ha marginal habitat, potentially suitable for foraging, sheltering and breeding purposes. Due to the small area of potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal, its marginal quality within previously disturbed areas associated with the existing M1 Motorway, and the potential availability of better quality habitat in adjacent vegetation (particularly including Strickland State Forest and Brisbane Water National Park), the proposal is not likely to cause the species to decline.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

The proposal is not likely to result in invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to the Giant Burrowing Frog to become further established in the survey area.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

Chytrid fungus is known to affect this species. Mitigation measures have been recommended for the proposal to reduce the risk of introducing and/or spreading this disease during construction of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

Due to the limited habitat likely to be affect by the proposal (0.42 ha), the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

G-36 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Suitable habitat for the Giant Burrowing Frog was identified within the survey. Breeding habitat was observed within the survey area, in the form of creeks, streams, pools, ponds and groundwater soaks. It is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within modified habitats associated with the existing M1 Motorway and is likely to result in a small encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially follows existing regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre- clearing surveys identify the presence of Giant Burrowing Frog.. As the survey area is primarily located within previously disturbed habitats, it is not likely to further fragment a known population. Further, larger areas of high quality vegetation associated with Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, which occur adjacent to the survey area, likely contain substantial habitat for this species. Therefore habitat attributes occurring within the survey area are not considered important to the long-term survival of the Giant Burrowing Frog.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-37 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

8. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog (Litoria littlejohni)

Status

Littlejohn’s Tree Frog is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act.

Description

Littlejohn’s Tree Frog is pale brown, with dark speckles and a broad, dark band down its back. The belly is white or cream, and it has large orange patches on the groin, armpit and back of the thighs. It also has a brown bar from the tip of the snout through the nostrils to the top of the arm. This species does not have the white patch that extends from under the eye to the back of the jaw that is present on the very similar-looking Jervis Bay Tree Frog. The call is a "low reedy whistle" (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Distribution

Littlejohn's Tree Frog has a distribution that includes the plateaus and eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range from Watagan State Forest (90 km north of Sydney) south to Buchan in Victoria. The majority of records are from within the Sydney Basin Bioregion with only scattered records south to the Victorian border and this species has not been recorded in southern NSW within the last decade. Records are isolated and tend to be at high altitude (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

This species breeds in upper reaches of permanent streams and in perched swamps. Non-breeding habitat is heath based forests and woodlands where it shelters under leaf litter and low vegetation, and hunts for invertebrate prey either in shrubs on the ground (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Breeding is triggered by heavy rain and can potentially occur all year, but is usually from late summer to early spring when conditions are favourable. Males call from low vegetation close to slow flowing pools. Eggs are laid in loose gelatinous masses attached to small submerged twigs. Eggs and tadpoles are mostly found in still or slow moving pools that receive extended exposure to sunlight, but will also use temporary isolated pools (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014)

Threats

The Office of the Environment and Heritage has identified the following threats to Littlejohn’s Tree Frog:

„ Loss of streamside vegetation through land clearing or frequent burning

„ Changes to natural water flows and water quality

„ Predation of eggs and tadpoles by introduced fish

„ Disease – chytrid fungus

„ Longwall mining

„ Climate change

„ Disturbance to forest and woodland non-breeding habitat.

Specific impacts

Littlejohn’s Tree Frog was not recorded in the survey area during surveys. Approximately 55.78 ha of potential habitat (including woodland, hanging swamp, heath and aquatic fauna habitat types) was recorded within the survey area however approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

G-38 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

8.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is s likely to be placed at risk of extinction

A small area (approximately 0.42 ha) of potentially suitable habitat will be affected by the proposal.

While it is estimated that a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is likely to result in a small encroachment within previously disturbed areas. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Furthermore an abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality that are suitable for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog habitation. Therefore the proposal is not likely to have an adverse affect on the lifecycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

Approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land, within the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat is likely to be affected. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to areas adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, within previously disturbed areas. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Remnant vegetation contained in the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, which occurs adjacent to the survey area, provide a locally and regionally significant wildlife corridor. However, given that the proposal would generally occur in existing clearings no greater than 60 m, this would not present a significant barrier to the Littlejohn's Tree Frog. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to result in the fragmentation or isolation of habitat any more than that currently occurring in the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-39 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The survey area is mostly confined to previously disturbed lands associated with existing M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (about 0.42 ha) of potentially suitable habitat likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality potentially suitable for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog habitation.

Therefore, given the relatively small amount of potentially suitable habitat to be disturbed by the proposal, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species. Although, it is recognised that vegetation likely to be affected will add incrementally to the loss of habitat for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Littlejohn’s Tree Frog to date. The survey area is considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog has been produced under the TSC Act. As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage Littlejohn’s Tree Frog has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Littlejohn’s Tree Frog. In the interim, the following eight management actions have been identified for this species (Table 8.1).

Table 8.1 Management Actions for the Littlejohn’s Tree Frog

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

undertake survey in some pf the less surveyed parts of the species distribution such No as the Blue Mountains and areas in southern NSW where there have been no recent records

improve understanding of the species ecology and general biology No

investigate opportunities to remove exotic fish or attenuate chytrid infection if identified No in known breeding areas

develop and monitor the effectiveness of an IFOA prescription for this species in areas No of forestry operations

maintain hydrological regimes and protect water flows and water quality around the No upper reaches of streams and perched swamps

assess the threat of changed hydrological regimes on the habitat of the species. No Include the impacts of increasing urbanisation, groundwater extraction, and climate change into this assessment

ensure that there is adequate assessment of the impact of longwall mining on this No species and that cumulative impacts are adequately addressed in all mining proposals within the habitat and distribution of the species

maintain and support Declining Frogs Working Group. No

G-40 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The proposal is not likely to interfere with any of the above management strategies.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes (KTPs) are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

The proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is unlikely to significantly affect Littlejohn’s Tree Frog in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for the Littlejohn’s Tree Frog was identified within the survey area for foraging, breeding and burrowing. Breeding habitat was also observed within the survey area, in the form of aquatic habitats such as creeks, streams, pools and small groundwater soaks. It is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within marginal habitat or resulting on encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially follows regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Littlejohn’s Tree Frogs. As the survey area is located along an existing disturbed corridor associated with the existing M1 Motorway, the proposal will not further fragment a known population. Furthermore, the survey area is surrounded by large areas of high quality vegetation contained within the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that is likely to contain more substantial habitat for the species. Consequently the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact on this species.

8.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

Littlejohn’s Tree Frog is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

The survey area contains sheltering and breeding habitat for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog in the form of creek banks streams, ponds and pools in marginal condition. These habitats however, are unlikely to be key breeding habitat given the large areas of better quality habitat within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. The proposal area is relatively small in size, linear in nature running parallel to the existing M1 Motorway through largely modified habitats and unlikely to maintain a large population that would be necessary for maintain genetic diversity. In addition this species is not at the limit of its range. Therefore it is considered that any Littlejohn’s Tree Frog within the survey area would occur as part of an important population.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-41 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population of the species

Not applicable. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Not applicable. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a). The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of marginally suitable foraging, sheltering and breeding habitat for this species. As the proposal is largely confined to previously disturbed areas within and adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and given an abundance of similar or better quality habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is not likely that the proposal will impact upon this species. Therefore, this would not meet the above criteria.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Littlejohn’s Tree Frog potentially occurring in the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal would only affect approximately 0.42 ha of marginally suitable foraging, sheltering and breeding habitat for this species. Due to the small area that the proposal is likely to affect, its marginal quality (being generally limited within previously disturbed areas within and adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway), and the availability of quality habitat for this species in the adjacent vegetation, the proposal is unlikely to cause the species to decline.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

G-42 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to Littlejohns’ Tree Frog would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

Chytrid fungus is known to affect this species. Mitigation measures have been recommended for the proposal to reduce the risk of introducing and/or spreading this disease during construction of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

A recovery plan has not been prepared for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog. Due to the limited habitat likely to be affect by the proposal (0.42 ha), the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for Littlejohn’s Tree Frog was identified within the survey area with breeding habitat observed in the form of creeks, streams, pools, ponds and groundwater soaks. It is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within modified habitats associated with the existing M1 Motorway and is likely to result in a small encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially followed existing regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Littlejohn’s Tree Frog. As the proposal area is primarily located within previously disturbed habitats, it is not likely to further fragment a known population, and is surrounded by a larger area of high quality vegetation of the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, which are likely to contain more substantial habitat. Therefore, potential habitat attributes occurring within the survey area are not considered important to the long-term survival of Littlejohn’s Tree Frog.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-43 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

9. Forest Frogs

The Stuttering Frog (Mixophyes balbus) and Giant Barred Frog (Mixophyes iteratus) have been grouped for assessment owing to similarities in ecology and habitat preference. These two threatened frog species generally share similar habitat requirements, threats that affect their recovery, and potential impacts as a result of the proposal (refer Table 9.1).

Both species are listed as Endangered under the TSC Act. The Stuttering Frog is listed as Vulnerable and the Giant Barred Frog is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act.

Table 9.1 Details of threatened frog species

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Name Act Act

Stuttering Frog E V Stuttering Frogs occur along the east coast of Australia Threats to the (Mixophyes from southern Queensland to north-eastern Victoria. Stuttering Frog include: balbus ) Considered to have disappeared from Victoria and to „ modification and have undergone considerable range contraction in loss of habitat NSW, particularly in south-east NSW. It is the only Mixophyes species that occurs in south-east NSW and „ disease - chytrid in recent surveys it has only been recorded at three fungus locations south of Sydney. The Dorrigo region, in north- „ changes to natural east NSW, appears to be a stronghold for this species water flows and (NSW Scientific Committee 2003). water quality This species inhabits rainforest and wet tall open forest „ predation of eggs in the foothills and escarpments on the eastern side of and tadpoles by the Great Dividing Range. The majority of the year this introduced fish species live in deep leaf litter and thick understorey vegetation on the forest floor. The Stuttering Frog eats „ damage to habitat insects and small frogs. Breeding occurs in summer in and impacts on streams after heavy rain. The females lay their eggs on water quality from rock shelves or shallow riffles in small, flowing streams. forestry activities The tadpoles move to deep permanent pools as they „ damage to habitat grow and take approximately 12 months to by domestic stock. metamorphose (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

G-44 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Name Act Act

Giant-barred E E The Giant Barred Frog is distributed along the coast Threats to the Giant Frog and ranges from Eumundi in south-east Queensland to Barred Frog include: (Mixophyes Warrimoo in the Blue Mountains. Declines in this „ loss of riparian iteratus ) species appear to be at the margins of the species habitat range (NSW Scientific Committee 1999). „ infestation of tall This species is found along freshwater streams with dense weeds such permanent or semi-permanent water, generally at lower as Lantana and elevations. Moist riparian habitats are favoured for the exotic grasses deep leaf litter that they provide for shelter and foraging, decrease habitat as well as open perching sites on the forest floor. This species also utilises dryer habitats such as degraded „ reduction in water riparian habitats and dams (NSW Scientific Committee quality or alterations 1999). to flow patterns

Breeding occurs from spring to summer and the „ inadequate tadpoles grow to about 11 cm and my take up to 14 protection of riparian months to develop. This species is usually found within habitat during 20 m of a stream outside of the breeding season; forestry activities however it has been recorded 50 m or further from the „ spread of the stream. It is a generalist feeder, foraging on large Chytrid fungus insects, snails, spiders and smaller frogs (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014). „ predation of individuals and disturbance of habitat or destruction of eggs by feral pigs

„ damage to riparian habitats from grazing and physical disturbance by domestic stock

„ loss of genetic variation through stochastic events

Specific impacts

Neither the Stuttering Frog nor the Giant Barred Frog (Forest Frogs) were recorded in the survey area during recent surveys, however, approximately 0.4 ha potential habitat was identified within the survey area in the form of (aquatic habitat and woodland). The survey area contained moderate undergrowth surrounding creeks, streams, pools and ponds, with a moderately deep layer of leaf litter that would provide sheltering/foraging habitat for these species. Approximately 0.08ha of potential habitat may be removed by the proposal.

9.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is s likely to be placed at risk of extinction

A small area of suitable habitat, approximately 0.08 ha, is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment within previously disturbed areas. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Furthermore, an abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat is likely to occur in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-45 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

that are suitable for Forest Frog species habitation. Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to have an adverse affect on the lifecycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated approximately 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal. The majority of this occurs was not considered good quality habitat given previous disturbance associated with the construction of the existing M1 Motorway.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land, within the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.08 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Remnant vegetation contained in the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest bordering the survey area facilitates a significant wildlife corridor. However, given that the proposal would generally occur in existing clearings no greater than 60 m, this would not present a significant barrier to the Forest Frog species. Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to result in the fragmentation or isolation of habitat any more than that currently occurring in the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The survey area is mostly confined to previously disturbed lands associated with existing M1 Motorway, with a relatively small amount (0.08 ha) of potential habitat likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality suitable for Forest Frog species habitation.

G-46 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Therefore, given the relatively small amount of potential habitat likely to be affected, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species. Although, it is recognised that vegetation likely to be affected will add incrementally to the loss of habitat for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Stuttering Frog or Giant Barred Frog to date. The survey area is not considered critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan for the Stuttering Frog or Giant Barred Frog has been produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Stuttering Frog and the Giant Barred Frog have been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing landscape species such as the Forest Frog species. In the interim, the following management actions have been identified for these species (incorporating management actions for both the Stuttering Frog and Giant Barred Frog) and these are outlined in Table 9.2 below.

Table 9.2 Management Actions for the Stuttering Frog and Giant Barred Frog

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

implement outcomes of the Commonwealth recovery plan for the species No

monitor water quality, chytrid infection and population status of Ruby Creek population No to determine impact of old mine

undertake surveys of potential habitat at southern end of distribution No

monitor Status of known populations No

control weeds in known habitat for this species No

design and implement an ecological burn (Dinner Creek) including habitat No requirements of the species in Demon Nature Reserve

survey Dampier State Forest to clarify Status of populations and obtain genetic No material to help clarify boundary between northern and southern populations

continue preparation of the recovery plan for the Giant Barred Frog to be completed in No 2008

monitor population size, habitat condition and threats at known Giant Barred Frog sites No

protect Giant Barred Frog habitat from impacting activities Yes see paragraph below.

ensure the Giant Barred Frog is considered in plans of management, environmental No planning instruments and environmental impact assessment

control weeds in riparian areas. No

The proposal is likely to be in conflict with protecting Giant Barred Frog habitat from impacting activities. A small (approximately 0.08 ha), largely linear area of suitable habitat, is likely to be affected by the proposal. While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-47 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Thus, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on this species.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes (KTPs) are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

The proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is unlikely to significantly affect the Stuttering Frog or Giant Barred Frog in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for the Forest Frogs was identified within the survey area for foraging and breeding habitat in the form of aquatic habitats such as creeks, streams, pools and small groundwater soaks. It is estimated that approximately 0.08 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within marginal habitat or resulting on encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially follows existing regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Forest Frogs. As the proposal area is located along an existing disturbed corridor associated with the M1 Motorway, the proposal will not further fragment a known population. Furthermore, the survey area is surrounded by large areas of high quality vegetation contained within the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that are likely to contain more substantial habitat for the species. Consequently, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact on these species.

9.2 EPBC Act significance assessment (Stuttering Frog)

The Stuttering Frog is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

The survey area contained potential habitat for the Stuttering Frog in the form of creek banks streams, ponds and pools in marginal condition. These habitats however, are unlikely to be key breeding habitat given the large areas of better quality habitat within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. The proposal area is relatively small in size, linear in nature running parallel to the existing M1 Motorway through largely modified habitats and unlikely to maintain a large population that would be necessary for maintain genetic diversity. In addition, this species is not at the limit of its range. Therefore, it is considered that any Stuttering Frog within the survey area would not form part of an important population.

G-48 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Stuttering Frog potentially occurring within the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population of the species

Not applicable. Stuttering Frog potentially occurring within the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Not applicable. Stuttering Frog potentially occurring within the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for the Stuttering Frog under the EPBC Act. However, habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a). The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat for this species. As the proposal will be generally limited to previously disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and given the abundance of potential habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is unlikely that the proposal will impact upon this species. Therefore, this would not meet the above criteria.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Stuttering Frog potentially occurring within the survey area would not be considered part of an important population.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal would only affect approximately 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat for this species. Due to the small area of potential habitat that the proposal is likely to affect, its marginal quality being largely limited to previously disturbed areas within and adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and the availability of quality habitat for this species in the adjacent vegetation, the proposal is not likely to cause the species to decline.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-49 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to the Stuttering Frog would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

Chytrid fungus is known to affect this species. Mitigation measures have been recommended for the proposal to reduce the risk of introducing and/or spreading this disease during construction of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

A recovery plan has not been prepared for the Stuttering Frog. Due to the limited habitat likely to be affected (0.08 ha), the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for the Stuttering Frog was identified within the survey area in the form of creeks, streams, pools, ponds and groundwater soaks. It is estimated that approximately 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority was contained within modified habitats associated with the existing M1 Motorway and is likely to result in a small encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially followed regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Stuttering Frog. As the proposal area is primarily located within previously disturbed habitats, it is not likely to further fragment a known population, and is surrounded by a larger area of high quality vegetation of the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest which is likely to contain more substantial habitat. Therefore, habitat attributes occurring within the proposal area are not considered important to the long-term survival of this species.

9.3 EPBC Act significance assessment (Giant Barred Frog)

The Giant Barred Frog is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013).

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population

Approximately 0.08 ha of potential habitat for the Giant Barred Frog is likely to be affected by the proposal. While the survey area was found to provide potentially suitable habitat, the proposal is will only impact a small area of potential habitat that was largely confined to disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway. This small area of somewhat marginal habitat is likely to only represent a small component of locally occurring resources for this species. Any identified population of Giant Barred Frog in the area would not be restricted to habitat within the survey area. Furthermore, it is likely that abundant and potentially better quality habitat would exist for this species in the proposal locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that occur adjacent to the proposal. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to result in a long-term decline in the size of a population.

Reduce the area of occupancy of the species

It is estimated that approximately 0.08 ha of potential habitat for this species would be affected by the proposal. Due to the proposal’s linear nature, essentially incrementally widening an existing road corridor,

G-50 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

the proposal area would encroach on relatively small areas of potential habitat. The small amount of potential habitat likely affected in the proposal area would only represent a very small component of locally occurring resources for this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat is not likely to reduce the area of occupancy for the Giant Barred Frog.

Fragment an existing population into two or more populations

The proposal area is largely confined to the existing M1 Motorway corridor and will essentially add incrementally to an existing barrier in the landscape. The proposal is likely to only encroach on vegetation at the interface of the existing barrier. Therefore, it is not likely that the proposal would isolate habitat or fragment an existing population into two or more populations.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for the Giant Barred Frog under the EPBC Act. However, habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a).

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.08 ha of potentially suitable habitat for this species. As the proposal will be generally limited to previously disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and given the abundance of potential habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is unlikely that the proposal will impact upon this species. Therefore, this would not meet the above criteria.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of a population

It is estimated that approximately 0.08 ha of potential habitat would be affected by the proposal. Due to the proposal’s linear nature and use of an existing road corridor, the proposal area would essentially only encroach on a small area of potential habitat. Due to the small area of potential habitat to be affected, it is likely that this would only represent a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.08 ha of potential habitat is not likely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population of Giant Barred Frog.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal would only affect approximately 0.08 ha potentially suitable habitat for this species. Due to the small area of potential habitat that the proposal is likely to affect, its marginal quality being largely limited to previously disturbed areas within and adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and the availability of quality habitat for this species in the adjacent vegetation, the proposal is not likely to cause the species to decline.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a critically endangered or endangered species becoming established in the endangered or critically endangered species´ habitat

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to the Giant Barred Frog would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-51 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

Chytrid fungus is known to affect this species. Mitigation measures have been recommended for the proposal to reduce the risk of introducing and/or spreading this disease during construction of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

A recovery plan has not been prepared for the Giant Barred Frog. Due to the limited habitat likely to be affected (0.08 ha), the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

The proposal area is largely confined to an existing road corridor, with a small amount (0.08 ha) of native vegetation (not including regrowth and planted vegetation), largely linear in nature, likely to be affected. Due to the linear nature of the proposal (0.08 ha of native vegetation affected over an approximate 8 km alignment), potential habitat occurring in the proposal area would likely only be used by this species as part of a larger home range. Within the proposal locality, particularly including the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat would occur for habitation. Whilst the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat for this species, given the proposal is largely restricted to an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for this species. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of appropriate translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Giant Barred Frog. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to have a significant adverse affect on the Giant Barred Frog.

G-52 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

10. Red-crowned Toadlet (Pseudophryne australis)

Status

The Red-crowned Toadlet is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Description

This species is small usually less than 30 mm in length. It is dark brown to black in colour with reddish- orange patches between the eyes and on the rump. The arms have a white patch with the belly being marbled black and white. The tadpoles are black and approximately 25 mm, the call is short grading and squelchy and can be heard all year round (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Distribution

This species is confined to the Sydney Basin occurring from Pokolbin in the north, Nowra in the south and west to Mt Victoria in the Blue Mountains (Thumm and Mahony 1999).

Habitat and ecology

This species occurs in open forests on sandstone and shelters under rocks, in dense vegetation and under leaf litter. This species periodically inhabits wet drainage lines below sandstone ridges that sometimes have shale lenses. This species appear to be restricted to the vicinity of breeding habitat and found in small colonies scattered along ridges coinciding with positions of suitable refuges. Thus this tendency to concentrate discrete populations, a small impact may have a significant impact upon a local population if it occurs on a favoured breeding or refuge site.

Breeding occurs in dense vegetation and debris beside ephemeral creeks and gutters. This species is highly sensitive to low or high levels of pH having not being recorded breeding in sites with pH levels outside the range of 5.5 to 6.5. Eggs are laid in moist leaf litter, from which they are washed downstream after rain. The frogs then disperse after breeding where they are found under rocks and logs on sandstone ridges where they forage amongst the leaf litter (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Threats

The Office of the Environment and Heritage has identified the following threats to the Red-crowned Toadlet:

„ loss of habitat through clearing particularly along ridges

„ reduction in water quality flowing from ridges, particularly near urban areas

„ high frequency fire, resulting in changing vegetation structure and composition

„ collection of bush rock

„ disease (chytrid fungus)

„ climate change.

Specific impacts

The Red-crowned Toadlet was not recorded in the survey area during surveys informing this report, however it has previously been recorded within the vicinity of the survey area. Habitat in the form of Woodland, Heath, Hanging Swamp and Aquatic were recorded within the survey area. A small area of potential habitat (approximately 0.42 ha) is likely to be impacted by the proposal.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-53 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

10.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for the Red-crowned Toadlet was identified within the survey area. While this species was not recorded during current surveys, it is assumed that this species would be present in suitable habitat as it has previously been recorded in the vicinity of the survey area. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal.

While it is estimated that a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on native vegetation at the interface of the existing road corridor. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Potential breeding habitats in the form of a small soaks was observed within the survey area within Hanging swamp habitats, however, this habitat type is not likely to be affected by the proposal. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, which would be suitable of Red-crowned Toadlet habitation. Therefore the proposal is not likely to have an adverse affect on the lifecycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated approximately 0.42 ha of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, of which is not considered good quality habitat given that it has been previously disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 and higher quality and potentially more suitable habitat available the adjacent vegetation.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land, within the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to previously disturbed areas at the

G-54 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

interface of the existing M1 Motorway. As the survey area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Remnant vegetation contained in the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest bordering the survey area provides a significant wildlife corridor. However, given that the proposal would generally occur in existing clearings no greater than 60 m, this would not present a significant barrier to the species. Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to result in the fragmentation or isolation of habitat any more than that currently occurring in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The survey area is mostly confined to previously disturbed lands associated with existing M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (about 0.42 ha) of potential habitat likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more substantial habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality suitable for the Red-crowned Toadlet habitation.

Therefore, given the relatively small amount of potential habitat to be disturbed, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species. Although, it is recognised that vegetation likely to be affected will add incrementally to the loss of habitat for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Red-crowned Toadlet to date. No areas within the survey area are considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan for the Red-crowned Toadlet has been produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Red-crowned Toadlet has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage has, however, identified 14 management actions to help recover the Red-crowned Toadlet (Table 10.1). The proposal is not likely to interfere with any recovery strategy.

Table 10.1 Management actions for the Red-crowned Toadlet

Management action for the Red-crowned Toadlet Likely to be affected by the proposal

Develop models of the preferred habitat of the species throughout its Distribution No

Develop a preferred habitat fire regime and mosaic burn, heap burn and other No burn strategies that reduce impacts to the species.

Develop a guide to fire trail, track and road construction and maintenance that No includes details of microhabitat manipulation likely to be beneficial to the species.

Develop best practice management strategies that buffer and protect important No headwater/ridge top breeding sites from changes to water flow, flow regimes and water quality changes.

Develop best practice habitat management strategies that reduce bushrock No removal from important habitat areas.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-55 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management action for the Red-crowned Toadlet Likely to be affected by the proposal

Prepare a guide to creating, rehabilitation or augmenting habitat for the species, No this might include provision of rock/log ground cover, diversion of water, provision of breeding sites and material.

Prepare species prescription under the IFOA to reduce impact of forestry No practices.

Develop educational strategies and raise awareness of actions land owners can No take to reduce the impact on the species.

Investigate methods of ameliorating or attenuating chytrid action. No

Develop strategies to minimise the use of bushrock in landscaping, i.e. No alternatives, artificial rocks, awareness raising of impacts of removing natural rock from the environment.

Monitor the various initiatives and trials of habitat manipulation for effectiveness. No

Maintain and support the declining frogs working group. No

Develop preferred mitigation measures to minimise impact of wildfire and/or No suppression operations.

Assess the threat of changed hydrological regimes on the habitat of this species. No Include the impacts of increasing urbanisation, groundwater extraction and climate change into this assessment.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes (KTPs) are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

The proposal has the potential to contribute to one Key Threatening Process, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is unlikely to significantly affect the Red-crowned Toadlet in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

Suitable habitat for the Red-crowned Toadlet was identified within the survey area. It is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. While a small area of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority is contained within marginal habitat or resulting on encroachment on suitable habitat. The survey area essentially followed regrowth vegetation associated with the existing M1 Motorway. Mitigation measures such as frog exclusion fencing, identification of potentially suitable translocation sites and preparation of a frog management plan will be required where pre-clearing surveys identify the presence of Red-crowned Toadlet. As the survey area is located along an existing disturbed road corridor, the proposal will not further fragment a known population. Furthermore, the survey area is surrounded by large areas of high quality vegetation contained within the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that is likely to contain more substantial habitat for this species. Consequently, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact on this species.

G-56 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

11. Threatened Woodland Birds

The Black-chinned Honeyeater (Melithreptus gularis gularis), Scarlet Robin (Petroica boodang) and Varied Sittella (Daphoenositta chrysoptera) have been grouped for assessment owing to similarities in ecology and habitat preference. These three threatened woodland birds generally share similar habitat requirements; threats that affect their recovery; and potential impacts as a result of the proposal (refer Table 11.1). All three species are listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Table 11.1 Details of threatened woodland birds

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Name Act Act

Black-chinned V - Found in dry eucalypt woodland The DECCW Threat-listed species Honeyeater particularly those containing ironbark and profile (DECCW 2010) lists the box. Occurs within areas of annual following threats to the species: rainfall between 400-700 mm. Feed on „ Clearing of remnant open forest insects, nectar and lerps (Garnett, 2000). and woodland habitat.

„ Poor regeneration of open forest and woodland habitats due to intense grazing.

„ May be excluded from smaller remnants by aggressive species such as the Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala).

Scarlet Robin V - In NSW, the Scarlet Robin occupies open The DECCW Threat-listed species forests and woodlands from the coast to profile (DECCW 2010) lists the the inland slopes. Some dispersing birds following threats to the species: may appear in autumn or winter on the „ Clearing, degradation and eastern fringe of the inland plains. It reduction in structural complexity prefers an open understorey of shrubs of habitat. and grasses and sometimes in open areas. Abundant logs and coarse woody „ Habitat modification due to debris are important structural overgrazing. components of its habitat. In autumn and „ Reduction of size of remnant winter it migrates to more open habitats patches. such as grassy open woodland or paddocks with scattered trees. It forages „ Reduction of the native ground from low perches, feeding on cover in favour of exotic grasses. invertebrates taken from the ground, tree „ Loss of nest sites, food sources trunks, logs and other coarse woody and foraging sites, such as debris (Higgins, 2002; Department of standing dead timber, logs and Environment Climate Change and Water, coarse woody debris. 2010). The species has been found to be absent from remnants surrounded by „ Predation by over-abundant cereal cropping, less common in isolated populations of Pied Currawong patches of 30 ha or less (where there (Strepera graculina), feral cats was no tree cover within 200 m and less (Felis cattus) and robbing of nests than 20% cover within 1 km), less and predation of fledglings by rats. common in sites surrounded by cattle „ Isolation of patches of habitat. grazing and more common in sites with native versus exotic grasses if ungrazed „ Dense regeneration due bushfires for more than 10 years (Barrett, 2003). or other disturbances.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-57 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Name Act Act

Varied Sittella V - The Varied Sittella inhabits most of The DECCW Threat-listed species mainland Australia except the treeless profile (DECCW 2010) lists the deserts and open grasslands. It inhabits following threats to the species: eucalypt forests and woodlands, „ Habitat clearing and isolation especially rough-barked species and mature smooth-barked gums with dead „ Reductions in tree species branches, mallee and Acacia woodland. diversity, tree canopy cover, shrub The Varied Sittella feeds on arthropods cover, ground cover, logs, fallen gleaned from crevices in rough or branches and litter. decorticating bark, dead branches, „ Dominance of Noisy Miners standing dead trees, and from small (Manorina melanocephala). in branches and twigs in the tree canopy. It woodland patches builds a cup-shaped nest of plant fibres and cobwebs in an upright tree fork high „ Habitat degradation through small- in the living tree canopy, and often re- scale clearing for fence lines and uses the same fork or tree in successive road verges, and firewood years (Department of Environment collection. Climate Change and Water, 2010)

Recovery actions

The following recovery actions for these species have been identified by Office of Environment and Heritage (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012):

„ Retain existing vegetation and remnant stands along roadsides and in paddocks.

„ Increase the size of existing remnants by planting trees and establishing buffer zones.

„ Retain and protect woodland, open forest, grassland and mallee habitat from clearing, fragmentation and disturbance; areas of 200 ha or greater within woody vegetation are particularly significant, though this species also uses treeless grasslands in the Southern Tablelands.

„ Expand and reconnect smaller fragments of habitat, by fencing and encouraging natural regeneration or applying revegetation techniques where regeneration fails. Where remnants have lost connective links, re-establish links by revegetating corridors or stepping stones.

„ Retain dead timber on the ground in open forest and woodland areas.

„ Limit firewood collection and retain dead timber in open forest and woodland areas.

„ Encourage regeneration of habitat by fencing remnant stands and managing the intensity and duration of grazing.

„ Control weeds in areas of known habitat especially the exotic, winter-fruiting shrubs such as cotoneasters, hawthorns, firethorns and privets that support Pied Currawongs.

„ Fence remnants to protect from long-term, intense grazing.

„ Increase the size of existing remnants, by planting trees and establishing buffer zones of un-modified, uncultivated pasture around woodland remnants.

„ Keep domestic cats indoors at night.

„ Report any new sightings of the speckled warbler to the Department of Environment and Conservation. Specific impacts

The Black-chinned Honeyeater, Scarlet Robin and Varied Sittella were not recorded in the survey area during current field surveys. However, approximately 52.89 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the survey area, of which approximately 0.42 ha (woodland and heath habitats) is likely to be affected as a result of the proposal.

G-58 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

11.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat would be affected by the proposal. Potential impacts associated with the proposal are small in area, with good connectivity within surrounding habitats to be retained post- construction. The proposal is not considered likely to significantly increase mobility issues or further fragment habitat in the survey area or locality. Furthermore, the small area of potential habitat likely to be affected would likely only occur as a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Consequently, the proposal is considered unlikely to impact threatened woodland birds such that a viable local population is placed at risk of extinction.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, of which is not considered good quality habitat given that it has been previously disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway and higher quality, more suitable habitat available the adjacent vegetation. ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs within previously disturbed land associated with the existing road corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected. Vegetation removal will largely be limited previously disturbed areas and the interface of the existing M1 motorway. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas it is not likely to further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat.

Remnant vegetation contained in the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest bordering the survey area provides a significant wildlife corridor. Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to result in the fragmentation or isolation of habitat any more than that currently occurring in the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-59 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long- term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The extent of potential habitat to be removed represents a small proportion of foraging habitat available within the proposal locality and wider landscape. Owing to the relatively small extent of potential habitat likely to be affected and the relative mobility of these species, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect their long-term survival; although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss of habitat in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Red-crowned Toadlet to date. No areas within the survey area are considered critical to the survival of threatened woodland birds.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been developed for threatened woodland birds, as produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Black-chinned Honeyeater, Scarlet Robin and the Varied Sittella have all been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation.

The Office of Environment and Heritage are currently developing a targeted approach for managing lands species such as these woodland birds and has identified 12 management actions to help recover threatened woodland birds (refer Table 11.2), which is inclusive of Black-chinned Honeyeater, Scarlet Robin and Varied Sittella). The proposal is not likely to interfere with any management action.

Table 11.2 Management actions for threatened woodland birds

Management action for the threatened woodland birds Likely to be affected by the proposal

Conduct ecological research to determine habitat and resource requirements, threats and No conservation issues (Black-chinned Honeyeater)

Conduct annual monitoring of key populations that are managed under property No agreements or are within OEH estate, conservation reserves, council reserves and crown reserves (Black-chinned Honeyeater)

Provide stewardship payments, develop property agreements and apply other land No management incentives for the protection and enhanced management of priority woodland vegetation that is used by the Black-chinned Honeyeater

Increase community awareness about Black-chinned Honeyeater through promotion of No OEH threatened species website and the development of education and extension material for threatened woodland birds

Implement sympathetic habitat management in OEH estate, conservation reserves, No council reserves, and crown reserves where the species occurs (Black-chinned Honeyeater)

Implement a cool patch burning regime in appropriate habitat (Scarlet Robin) No

Identify and secure appropriate habitat and improve management by erecting fences, No adding supplementary plantings, managing or reducing grazing, increasing size of habitat

G-60 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management action for the threatened woodland birds Likely to be affected by the proposal patches, planting stepping-stone linking patches and encourage the retention or placement of fallen logs, coarse woody debris and standing dead trees (Scarlet Robin)

Remove berry-bearing exotic plantings from farms (as these encourage increased Pied No Currawong populations) and replant using locally indigenous species, especially wattles (Scarlet Robin)

Implement feral cat control at priority sites (Scarlet Robin) No

Implement rodent control at priority sites (Scarlet Robin) No

Encourage habitat linkages through PVP process (Varied Sittella) No

Raise awareness about importance of microhabitats. Encourage retention of intact No foraging and breeding habitat through PVP process (Varied Sittella)

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

With respect to threatened woodland birds, the proposal is consistent with two key threatening processes, being clearing of native vegetation and removal of dead wood and dead trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively minor in terms of the available habitat for these species within the proposal locality.

Conclusion

The Black-chinned Honeyeater, Scarlet Robin and Varied Sittella are three threatened woodland birds considered to have potential habitat in the survey area. Whilst potential habitat existed within the survey area, the extent of habitat removal associated with the proposal is small, particularly in terms of potentially available habitat for these species in the locality. Although the loss of habitat will represent an incremental loss of woodland bird habitat, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact upon these species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-61 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

12. Gang-gang Cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum)

Status

Gang-gang Cockatoo is listed as a Vulnerable species under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW Scientific Committee 2005).

Distribution

This species range extends from southern Victoria through south and central-eastern New South Wales (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005). In New South Wales, the Gang-gang Cockatoo is distributed from the south-east coast to the Hunter region, and inland to the Central Tablelands and south- west slopes. It occurs regularly in the Australian Capital Territory. It is rare at the extremities of its range, with isolated records known from as far north as Coffs Harbour and as far west as Mudgee (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005).

Habitat

In summer, the Gang-gang Cockatoo occupies tall montane forests and woodlands, particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet sclerophyll forests (NSW Scientific Committee 2005). The species may also occur in sub-alpine Snow Gum Eucalyptus pauciflora woodland and occasionally in temperate rainforests (NSW Scientific Committee 2005). In winter, the Gang-gang Cockatoo occurs at lower altitudes in drier, more open eucalypt forests and woodlands, particularly in box-ironbark assemblages, or in dry forest in coastal areas (NSW Scientific Committee 2005). At this time the species may be observed in urban areas including parks and gardens (NSW Scientific Committee 2005).

Ecology

The species in general and crèches of young birds in particular, undertake nomadic as well as seasonal movements and may occur at apparently random points within the range described above. While this species is generally sedentary, it can be seasonally nomadic or part-migratory in Autumn to winter with wide dispersal from highland through coastal and sub-inland woodlands, farmlands and urban areas (Pizzey and Knight 2007).

Gang-gang Cockatoos, forage in small family groups or flocks and they feed primarily on eucalypt seed capsules, green pods of acacias, walnuts from gardens and insect larvae (Pizzey and Knight 2007). This species favours old growth forest for nesting with breeding season extending from October to January (Pizzey and Knight 2007).

Threats

Identified threats for this species include:

„ Clearing and degradation of habitat

„ High fidelity to roost sites

„ Climate change changes to habitat

„ Susceptible to Psittacine cirovirus disease (PCD) which is spread through contaminated nest chambers.

Specific impacts

The Gang-gang Cockatoo was not recorded within the survey area during surveys informing this report, however potential habitat for this species exists within the survey area. Approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal, in the form of woodlands, heath and regrowth habitats.

G-62 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

12.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

The Gang-gang Cockatoo was not recorded in the survey area during surveys informing this report. However, woodlands (13.95 ha), heath (38.89 ha) and regrowth (31.98 ha) fauna habitats located in the proposal area contained potential habitat for this species. A relatively small amount (about 12.52 ha) of potential habitat, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal. Due to the mobility, large home range and the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Indeed, although this species is considered sedentary, it does undertake movements from habitats of higher altitude to coastal (and sub-inland) woodlands during autumn and winter. Any identified population of Gang-gang Cockatoo would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality.

Furthermore, it is not considered likely that this species would seek breeding opportunities in potential habitat in the survey area, as nesting usually occurs in dense timbered areas and preferably in old growth forests (NSW Scientific Committee 2005).Whilst the proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential habitat for this species, 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Such habitat is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

iv) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

v) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 12.52 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal. However, the proposal area was largely considered to provide moderate to poor quality habitat for this species in that approximately 12.1 ha of potential habitat essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Any local population of Gang-gang Cockatoo would not be restricted to such habitat resources within the survey area. This species would likely use similar and likely more significant habitat resources within the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-63 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurred on previously disturbed land within the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 12.52 ha of potentially suitable habitat is likely to be affected along the approximate 8 km alignment. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to previously disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat.

Furthermore, given that the proposal generally occurs within an existing major road corridor, with the proposal essentially adding incrementally to the width of an existing (clearing generally no greater than 60 m width); this would not present a significant barrier to the Gang-gang Cockatoo. Given this species’ mobility and that similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The proposal will remove approximately 12.52 ha, of native vegetation which represents some potentially suitable foraging habitat for the Gang-gang Cockatoo. Vegetation to be removed within the proposal area is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of the Gang-gang Cockatoo, particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality. Furthermore, limited breeding habitat opportunities are available in the survey area. Therefore the importance of the habitat to be removed is considered to be low.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly).

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Gang-gang Cockatoo to date. The proposal area generally occurs in disturbed land within and adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. As such, it is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the Gang-gang Cockatoo under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Gang-gang Cockatoo has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Gang-gang Cockatoo. In the interim, the following eleven management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 12.1). The proposal is not likely to affect any of these management actions.

Table 12.1 Recovery actions for Gang-gang Cockatoo

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

G-64 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Provide input to National Park and local bushfire mgt. plans to minimise impacts of fire on critical No resources.

Determine the Status of representative local populations distributed across the species range. No

Investigate the impacts of wildfire and hazard reduction burns on foraging and nesting resources. No

Investigate the breeding biology of selected populations to improve understanding of threatening No processes.

Model the impact of global warming and develop mitigation strategies. No

Identify important nesting habitat on public lands. No

Negotiate management agreements and covenants over important areas of habitat. No

Prepare and distribute information to decision makers. No

Determine the disease Status of selected populations. No

Increase landholder and public awareness of status, threats and priorities actions No

Investigate movement patterns of selected populations. No

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes listed under the TSC Act.

With respect to Gang-gang Cockatoo, the proposal is consistent with one key threatening process, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing associated with the proposal is considered to be relatively minor in terms of available habitat for this species within the proposal locality and given that approximately 12.1 ha of habitat likely to be affected occurred as regrowth or planted native vegetation. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

Gang-gang Cockatoo foraging habitat to be disturbed is unlikely to be key to their viability in the locality, due largely to the degraded condition of habitat components within the survey area. Although the Gang-gang Cockatoo could occur in the proposal survey area, on at least an intermittent basis, the habitat to be affected by the proposal is not considered likely to have a significant impact on this species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-65 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

13. Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami)

Status

The Glossy Black-cockatoo is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

The Glossy Black-cockatoo is dependent on Allocasuarina and Casuarina trees, and prefers woodland dominated by Allocasuarina/ Casuarina, or open sclerophyll forests or woodlands, with middle stratum of Allocasuarina below Eucalyptus or Angophora; often confined to remnant patches in hills and gullies, surrounded by cleared agricultural land (Arnett & Pepper 1997; Higgins 1999). Glossy Black-cockatoos prefer to live in rugged country, where extensive clearing has not taken place (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a).Glossy Black-cockatoos mostly roost in the canopy of live, leafy trees; preferring eucalypt trees, but will use other species, usually a kilometre from a feeding site and during breeding season, within 30 metres of nesting tree.

Habitat and ecology

The Glossy Black-cockatoo is a dusky brown to black cockatoo with a massive, bulbous bill and a broad, red band through the tail. The Glossy Black-cockatoo has a patchy distribution in Australia; it is now distributed throughout an area which extends from the coast near Eungella in eastern Queensland to Mallacoota in Victoria. In New South Wales, the current distribution of the Glossy Black-cockatoo covers areas from the coast to the tablelands, and as far west as the Riverina and Pilliga Scrub (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a).

The species breeds in hollow stumps or spout of living or dead limb of eucalypt tree, or hole in trunk of tall tree. Breeds mainly within woodland or remnant woodland, but have also recorded in dead, ringbarked eucalypt in cleared country. Entrances to hollows are either a hole in side of trunk, broken top of stump, or end of spout or limb (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999a).

Threats

The following threats have been identified for the Glossy-black Cockatoo (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014):

„ Habitat loss

„ Illegal bird trade

„ Fragmentation of habitat

„ Changes to bushfire regimes

„ Predation from introduced pests

„ Nest competition form Galahs and introduced bees Specific impacts

Glossy Black-cockatoos were not recorded during current field surveys however have been previously recorded within the survey area. Approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat was identified within the survey area in the form of woodland, heath and regrowth habitats.

G-66 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

13.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The Glossy Black-cockatoo was not recorded in the survey area during surveys informing this report. A relatively small amount of potentially suitable habitat, approximately 84.82 ha, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (13.95 ha), heath (38.89 ha) and regrowth (31.98 ha). Due to the mobility, large home range and the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Any identified population of Glossy Black-cockatoo would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality.

Furthermore, the proposal area contained only moderate quality habitat in that approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Such habitat is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat would be affected by the proposal. However, the proposal area contained only moderate quality habitat in that approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Furthermore, any local population of Glossy Black-Cockatoo would not be restricted to habitat resources within the survey area. This species would likely use similar and potentially more significant habitat resources within the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-67 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal, which include approximately 12.1 ha of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat.

Furthermore, given that the proposal generally occurs within an existing major road corridor, with the proposal essentially adding incrementally to the width of an existing (clearing generally no greater than 60 m width); this would not present a significant barrier to the Glossy Black-cockatoo. Given this species’ mobility and that similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The majority of the proposal area is confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 12.52 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, potential habitat occurring in the proposal area would only potentially be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The majority of the proposal area only contained moderate to poor quality habitat, in that approximately 12.1 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Glossy-black Cockatoo. The areas that may be impacted by the proposal are not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the Glossy-black Cockatoo under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Glossy Black-cockatoo has been assigned as a site managed species. Site managed species can be successfully secured by carrying out targeted conservation projects at specific sites around NSW. The Office of Environment and Heritage has established two management sites for conservation and management of this species, one of which is active and occurs in the central west of NSW while one other is proposed on the NSW north coast. The proposal does not occur in proximity to these identified management sites and the proposal is not likely to adversely affect any of the recovery actions of the Glossy Black- cockatoo.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

G-68 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to the Glossy-black Cockatoo, the proposal is consistent with three KTPs, being clearing of native vegetation, removal of dead wood and dead trees, and loss of hollow-bearing trees. These KTPs are not likely to significantly affect the Glossy Black-cockatoo in the locality. A threat abatement plan has not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 12.52 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, potential habitat occurring in the proposal area would only potentially be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The majority of the proposal area only contained moderate to poor quality habitat, in that approximately 12.1 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Thus, while the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of suitable habitat for this species in the locality, it is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Glossy Black-cockatoo.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-69 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

14. Threatened opportunistic blossom nomads

The Little Lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla) Regent Honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia (syn. Xanthomyza Phrygia)) and Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) have been grouped for assessment owing to similarities in ecology and habitat preference. These three threatened opportunistic blossom nomads loosely share similar habitat foraging preferences and threats that affect their recovery (Error! Reference source not found.). Under the TSC Act, the Little Lorikeet is listed as Vulnerable, while the Swift Parrot is listed as Endangered and the Regent Honeyeater is listed as Critically Endangered. Under the EPBC Act the Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater are listed as Endangered.

Table 14.1 Details of threatened opportunistic blossom nomads

Common Name TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Act Act

Little Lorikeet V - The Little Lorikeet is a small green The DECCW Threat-listed species lorikeet with black bill and red patch profile (DECCW 2010) lists the on forehead and throat. The following threats to the species: underside is yellow-green. Immatures „ Extensive clearing of woodlands for are duller with less red on face and agriculture has significantly brown bill. Found in forests, decreased food for the lorikeet. woodland, treed areas along watercourses and roads. Forages „ Small scale clearing, destroys mainly on flowers, nectar and fruit. habitat and foraging sites. Found along coastal east Australia „ Loss of hollow bearing trees has from Cape York in Queensland down reduced nest sites, and increased east coast and round to South competition with other native and Australia. Uncommon in southern exotic species for nest sites. Victoria (Higgins, 1999). „ Competition with the introduced Honeybee for both nectar and hollows.

Regent CE E Occurs mostly in box-ironbark forests The DECCW Threat-listed species Honeyeater and woodland and prefers wet, fertile profile (DECCW 2010) lists the sites such as along creek flats, broad following threats to the species: river valleys and foothills. Riparian „ Loss, fragmentation and forests with Casuarina degradation of habitat from cunninghamiana and Amyema clearing. cambagei are important for feeding and breeding. Spotted Gum and „ Loss of key habitat tree species and Swamp Mahogany forests are also remnant woodlands. important feeding areas in coastal „ Suppression of natural regeneration areas. Important food trees include of overstorey tree species and Eucalyptus sideroxylon (Mugga shrub species from overgrazing. Ironbark), E. albens (White Box), E. melliodora (Yellow Box) and E. „ Inappropriate forestry management leucoxylon (Yellow Gum) (Garnett, practices that remove large mature 2000). resource-abundant trees.

„ Competition from larger aggressive honeyeaters, particularly Noisy Miners, Noisy Friarbirds and Red Wattlebirds.

„ Egg and nest predation by native birds.

G-70 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Common Name TSC EPBC Habitat and distribution Threats Act Act

Swift Parrot E E Breeding occurs in Tasmania, The DECCW Threat-listed species majority migrates to mainland profile (DECCW 2010b) lists the Australia in autumn, over-wintering, following threats to the species: particularly in Victoria and central „ Loss of habitat through clearing for and eastern NSW, but also south- agriculture, and urban and industrial eastern Queensland as far north as development. Duaringa. Until recently it was believed that in New South Wales, „ Collisions with wire netting fences, swift parrots forage mostly in the windows and cars, during the western slopes region along the breeding season and winter inland slopes of the Great Dividing migration. Range but are patchily distributed along the north and south coasts including the Sydney region, but new evidence indicates that the forests on the coastal plains from southern to northern NSW are also extremely important. In mainland Australia is semi-nomadic, foraging in flowering eucalypts in eucalypt associations, particularly box-ironbark forests and woodlands. Preference for sites with highly fertile soils where large trees have high nectar production, including along drainage lines and isolated rural or urban remnants, and for sites with flowering Acacia pycnantha, is indicated. Sites used vary from year to year. (Garnett, 2000; Swift Parrot Recovery Team, 2001).

Specific impacts

The proposal will affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species that is potentially utilised as part of a larger home range.

14.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, the proposal area would only be a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to these species. Thus, the proposal is not considered likely to impact blossom nomads such that a viable local or intermittent seasonal population would be placed at a significant risk of extinction.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-71 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

iv) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable v) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: vi) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal. However, the proposal area was largely considered to provide only moderate quality habitat for blossom nomads in that the majority of this habitat occurred within and immediately adjacent existing disturbed areas in the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Any local population of blossom nomad species would not be restricted to such habitat resources within the proposal area. These species would likely use similar and likely more substantial habitat resources within the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. vii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing and that blossom nomad species are highly mobile, the proposal would not present a significant barrier to these species. It is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area. viii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The extent of potential habitat to be removed represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape. Owing to the small extent of potential habitat likely to be affected, the proposal is not likely to affect the long-term survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. The proposal area does not contain critical habitat for the any of the threatened blossom nomad species, nor is the proposal area critical for their survival.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the threatened blossom nomads under the TSC Act.

G-72 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Swift Parrot and the Little Lorikeet have been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. In the interim, the Department of Environment and Heritage have identified 15 management actions for the Little Lorikeet and Swift Parrot (refer

Table 14.2). The proposal is not likely to affect any of these management actions.

Table 14.2 Management actions for threatened blossom nomads (Little Lorikeet, Swift Parrot)

Management action for Little Lorikeet and Swift Parrot Likely to be affected by the proposal

Encourage retention of old-growth and hollow-bearing trees through community engagement and No other mechanisms including PVPs, BioBanking and EIA (Little Lorikeet)

Avoid burning woodland with old-growth and hollow-bearing trees (Little Lorikeet) No

Identify and map the extent and quality of Swift Parrot foraging and roosting habitat on private and No public land

Protect, manage and restore Swift Parrot habitat on private land through conservation agreements, No management agreements and incentive payments.

Develop and distribute EIA guidelines to decision makers (Swift Parrot) No

Enhance habitat for Swift Parrots by planting suitable tree species to complement natural No regeneration or to enhance remnants

Develop and distribute Swift Parrot habitat identification, management and enhancement guidelines No

Reduce the incidence of Swift Parrot collisions by raising community awareness of the threat of man- No made hazards

Coordinate volunteer surveys at known and potential Swift Parrot sites on private and public land No

Conduct Swift Parrot habitat research on both private and public land No

Employ community liaison officer to coordinate conservation actions for the species, including No maintenance of community and volunteer networks (Swift Parrot)

Consult and involve indigenous community through employment of community liaison officer (Swift No Parrot)

Compile, produce and distribute the annual Swift Parrot volunteer newsletter “Swifts Across the No Strait”

Manage the recovery process through the continued operation of the National Swift Parrot Recovery No Team

Finalise review of National Recovery Plan by 2007 (Swift Parrot) No

Regarding the Regent Honeyeater, the Office of Environment and Heritage has assigned this species as a site managed species and has established four management sites for conservation and management of this species, including Bundarra-Barraba (Gunnedah/Gwydir and Tamworth region), Lower Hunter Valley (Cessnock), Capertee Valley (Lithgow) and Taronga Zoo. The proposal does not occur in proximity to these identified management sites and the proposal is not likely to adversely affect any of the recovery actions of the Regent Honeyeater.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-73 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

With respect to the threatened blossom nomad species, the proposal is consistent with three key threatening processes, being clearing of native vegetation, loss of Hollow-bearing trees and removal of dead wood and dead trees.

The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small in terms of the available habitat for these species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally.

Conclusion

The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is small in terms of the available habitat for these species within the surrounding landscape. Although the loss of foraging habitat for blossom nomads is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact upon these species that would lead their extinction locally.

14.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot

The Swift Parrot and Regent Honeyeater are both listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1(Department of Environment 2013).

An action is likely to have a significant impact on an Endangered species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population of a species

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat for the Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot would be affected by the proposal. While limited habitat in the proposal area has the potential to be used by these species, it is not likely to be of high importance due to its relatively small area and availability of equal or greater quality habitat within the locality and wider region. Any identified population of Regent Honeyeater or Swift Parrot in the area would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area. Due to the species’ large home range and nomadic nature, similar foraging habitat can be accessed in the locality. Therefore, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly contribute to a long-term decline in the size of a population of these species.

Reduce the area of occupancy of the species

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species. Although the proposal will result in the loss of potential foraging habitat, the incremental loss of a small, linear area of potential habitat (approximately 0.42 ha over 8 km) along the interface of the existing M1 Motorway corridor, likely only represents a small component of similar locally occurring resources accessible to these species. Nevertheless, the removal of approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is considered to be a small incremental loss of suitable habitat locally and as such has the potential to reduce the area of occupancy for the Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot during seasons when individuals of this species may be reliant on local resources

Fragment an existing population into two or more populations

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing and that these species are highly mobile and

G-74 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

nomadic, the proposal would not present a significant barrier to these species. It is not considered likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat has been listed for the Regent Honeyeater or Swift Parrot to date.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of a population

Swift Parrots breed in Tasmania during spring and summer, migrating to south-eastern Australia during autumn and winter (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006). While Swift Parrots are dependent on flowering resources across a wide range of habitats (woodlands and forests) within their NSW wintering grounds, the removal of approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat is not likely to disrupt their movements to Tasmanian breeding grounds. As such the proposal is not likely to affect their breeding cycle.

The Regent Honeyeater is known to breed in two main areas in NSW, being the Bundarra-Barraba area and Capertee Valley (Geering and French 1998); although, several successful breeding attempts have been recorded in the Cessnock LGA (Alan Richardson, pers comm. 2010). This species is highly mobile and is known to disperse widely (Higgins, Peter et al. 2001). The relatively small area of potential habitat likely to be affected represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat is not likely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population of Regent Honeyeater.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

The Proposal would remove approximately o.41 ha of potential habitat for these species. The removal of approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally and as such has the potential to decrease the availability of potential foraging habitat for the Regent Honeyeater and Swift Parrot during seasons when individuals of this species may be reliant on local resources.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to an Endangered species becoming established in the Endangered species´ habitat

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are potentially harmful to the Regent Honeyeater or Swift Parrot would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

No. It is not likely that disease would be increased by the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

The Action Plan for Australian Birds (Garnett and Crowley 2000) notes pressure on Swift Parrot breeding areas from forestry and firewood collection in Tasmania. On the mainland though pressures relate to the loss of foraging habitats due to clearing for agriculture and residential development (Garnett and Crowley 2000). Further information includes investigation into the patterns of nectar production in forests used by Swift Parrots in the breeding and wintering (mainland) range (Garnett and Crowley 2000).

Specific objectives of the Swift Parrot Recovery Plan (Swift Parrot Recovery Team 2001) include:

„ Identify priority habitats and sites across the range of the Swift Parrot.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-75 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

„ Implement management strategies to protect and improve priority habitats and sites resulting in a sustained improvement in carrying capacity.

„ Reduce the incidence of collisions with man-made structures.

„ Determine population trends within the breeding range.

„ Quantify improvements in carrying capacity by monitoring changes in extent and quality of habitat.

„ Increase public awareness about the recovery program and to involve the community in the recovery.

Based on the potential ecological impacts of the proposal on the Swift Parrot, as discussed above, it is unlikely that the proposal would be in conflict any of the specific objects in the Swift Parrot Recovery Plan.

For the Regent Honeyeater, the Action Plan for Australian Birds (Garnett and Crowley 2000) addresses the need for further ecological research on the species and the conservation and protection of roosting habitat and identification of specific breeding requirements.

Specific objectives of the Regent Honeyeater Recovery Plan (Menkhorst, Schedvin et al. 1999) include:

„ Maintain and enhance the value of Regent Honeyeater habitat at the key sites and throughout the former range, by active participation in land-use planning processes and by active vegetation rehabilitation at strategic sites.

„ Monitor trends in the Regent Honeyeater population size and dispersion across its range to allow assessment of the efficacy of management actions

„ Facilitate research on strategic questions that will enhance the capacity to achieve the long-term objectives. In particular, determine the whereabouts of Regent Honeyeaters during the non-breeding season and during breeding season absences from known sites. Identify important sites and habitat requirements at these times.

„ Maintain and increase community awareness, understanding and involvement in the recovery effort

„ Maintain the captive population of Regent Honeyeaters at a size that will provide adequate stock to: provide insurance against the demise of the wild population; continuously improve captive-breeding and husbandry techniques; provide adequate stock for trials of release strategies; and maintain 90 % of the wild heterozygosity in the captive population.

Based on the potential ecological impacts of the proposal on this species, as discussed above, it is likely that the proposal would be in conflict with the first objective above to a small extent, by not improving habitat carrying capacity for the Regent Honeyeater.

Conclusion

The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered y small in terms of available habitat for the species within the survey area and greater locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. However, the irregular distribution of blossom resources, which is a key driver of nomadism of these species, may in some seasonal contexts promote the importance of those within the proposal locally. Although it is considered unlikely that the loss of potential foraging habitat will cause the local extinction of the Regent Honeyeater or Swift Parrot, the proposal will remove habitat that may be utilised by this species under some intermittent seasonal contexts. While there is an abundance of such foraging habitat locally, the significance of onsite blossom resources during periods when Swift Parrots occur locally, would depend upon local blossom distribution. The proposal therefore, is considered to represent an incremental loss of available local habitat (0.42 ha), although it is not likely to have a significant impact upon these species

G-76 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

15. Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)

Status

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act.

Distribution

The Grey-headed Flying is endemic to Australia and presently occurs along the east coast from Maryborough in Queensland to Melbourne, Victoria (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2003). This species is also occasionally found west of the Great Dividing Range to the western slopes of NSW and QLD. At any one time, the majority of animals only occupy a small proportion of this entire range (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001).

Habitat

The Grey-headed Flying-fox utilises subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests, woodlands, heaths, swamps and mangroves, as well as urban gardens and fruit crops for foraging (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001; Churchill 2008).

Ecology

This species is considered an important pollinator and seed disperser of native trees, as they forage on the nectar and pollen of eucalypts, angophoras, melaleucas and banksias, as well as fruit of rainforest trees and vines (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001; Van Dyck and Strahan 2008). While the majority of foraging events occur within 20 km of their day roost, some individuals will disperse and commute up to 50 km (Van Dyck and Strahan 2008).

Grey-headed Flying-foxes are highly mobile and as the availability of native fruits, nectar and pollen varies over time and throughout their range, they respond to this by migrating between camps up and down the east coast, sometimes travelling hundreds of kilometres (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001). When migration occurs they do not move as a colony, but as individuals or small groups resulting in the intermixing of sub-populations (Churchill 2008). The population concentrates in May and June in northern NSW and Queensland where animals exploit winter-flowering trees such as Swamp Mahogany, Forest Red Gum and Paperbark, dispersing south during the summer (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2003).

Grey-headed Flying-fox roost in large colonies of up to tens of thousands and may be shared with Little Red Flying-fox and Black Flying-fox (Churchill 2008). Camps are generally located in gullies with dense vegetation (such as mangrove, rainforest, Melaleuca and Casuarina), close to water and generally located within 20 km of a regular food source (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001). Site fidelity to camps is high with some camps in NSW used for over a century (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001).These bats usually return annually to particular camps for rearing young (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 2001).

Threats

Threats to Grey-headed Flying-fox include:

„ loss of foraging habitat

„ disturbance of roosting sites

„ unregulated shooting

„ electrocution on powerlines. Specific impacts

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-77 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Roosting camps occur regionally in the Watagan Mountains to the North and due to their highly mobile nature, individuals from these camps may visit the study area for foraging purposes. The survey area contained suitable eucalypt foraging habitat in the form of woodland/ open forest habitats containing Corymbia gummifera. The proposal will affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat for this species that would potentially be utilised as part of a larger home range.

15.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, the proposal area would only be a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Thus, the proposal is not considered likely to impact the Grey-headed Flying-fox such that a viable local or intermittent seasonal population would be placed at a significant risk of extinction.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: iii) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal. However, the proposal area was largely considered to provide only moderate quality habitat for Grey-headed Flying-fox in that the majority of this habitat occurred within and immediately adjacent existing disturbed areas in the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Any local population of Grey-headed Flying-fox would not be restricted to such habitat resources within the proposal area. These species would likely use similar and likely more substantial habitat resources within the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. iv) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor.

G-78 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing and that the Grey-headed Flying-fox is highly mobile, the proposal would not present a significant barrier to this species. It is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area. v) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

The extent of potential habitat to be removed represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape. Owing to the small extent of potential habitat likely to be affected, the proposal is not likely to affect the long-term survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. The proposal area does not contain critical habitat for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, nor is the proposal area critical for their survival.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Grey-headed Flying-fox has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Grey-headed Flying-fox. In the interim, the following 31 management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 15.1).

Table 15.1 Management Actions for Grey-headed Flying-fox

Management Action for Grey-headed Flying Fox Likely to be affected by the proposal?

Set priorities for protecting foraging habitat critical to the survival of Grey-headed Flying-foxes No and generate maps of priority foraging habitat.

Protect and enhance priority foraging habitat for Grey-headed Flying-foxes, for example No through management plans, local environmental plans and development assessments, and through volunteer conservation programs for privately owned land.

Increase the extent and viability of foraging habitat for Grey-headed Flying-foxes that is Yes a small productive during winter and spring (generally times of food shortage), including habitat incremental loss in restoration/rehabilitation works. foraging habitat.

Establish & maintain a range-wide database of Grey-headed Flying-fox camps, including No information on location, tenure, zoning & history of use, for distribution to land management/planning authorities, researchers & interested public.

Improve knowledge of Grey-headed Flying-fox camp locations, targeting regional areas and No seasons where information is notably incomplete, such as inland areas during spring and summer.

Protect roosting habitat critical to the survival of Grey-headed Flying-foxes, for example No through management plans, local environmental plans and development assessments, and through volunteer conservation programs for privately owned land.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-79 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Action for Grey-headed Flying Fox Likely to be affected by the proposal?

Determine characteristics of roosting habitat for Grey-headed Flying-foxes, exploring the No roles of floristic composition, vegetation structure, microclimate and landscape features, and assess the status of camps.

Enhance and sustain the vegetation of camps critical to the survival of Grey-headed Flying- No foxes.

Develop and promote incentives to reduce killing of flying-foxes in commercial fruit crops. No

Identify the commercial fruit industries that are impacted by Grey-headed Flying-foxes, to No provide an information base for use by the various stakeholders.

Systematically document the levels of flying-fox damage to the horticulture industry within the No range of the Grey-headed Flying-fox.

Develop methods for rapid estimates of flying-fox damage on commercial crops, allowing the No long-term monitoring of industry-wide levels and patterns of flying-fox damage.

Develop and implement a grower-based program to monitor trends in damage to commercial No fruit crops by flying-foxes, and use the results to monitor the performance of actions to reduce crop damage.

Develop methods to monitor landscape scale nectar availability trends, to explain/potentially No predict crop damage trends where crop protection is absent, & promote importance of foraging habitat productive in seasons critical to the horticulture industry.

Describe the species, age structure & demographics of flying-foxes killed in fruit crops to No improve the understanding of the impact by assessing trends in the species, sex, age & reproductive status of animals killed on crops.

Review & evaluate camp site management activities, summarising outcomes of past No experiences at controversial camps. Noise impacts on neighbours of camps to be considered. For use in managing future conflicts with humans at flying-fox camps.

Develop guidelines to assist land managers dealing with controversial flying-fox camps. No

Develop materials for public education & provide them to land managers & local community No groups working with controversial flying-fox camps, highlighting species status, reasons for being in urban areas, reasons for decline etc.

Assess the impacts Grey-headed Flying-fox camps have on water quality, and publish results No in a peer-reviewed journal.

Provide educational resources to improve public attitudes toward Grey-headed Flying-foxes. No

Monitor public attitudes towards flying-foxes. No

Review and improve methods used to assess population size of Grey-headed Flying-foxes. No

Conduct periodic range-wide assessments of the population size of Grey-headed Flying- No foxes to monitor population trends.

Assess the impacts on Grey-headed Flying-foxes of electrocution on powerlines and No entanglement in netting and barbed wire, and implement strategies to reduce these impacts.

Investigate the differences in genetic relatedness, sex, age etc. between sedentary and No transient Grey-headed Flying-foxes.

Investigate between-year fidelity of Grey-headed Flying-fox individuals to seasonal camps. No

Investigate the genetic structure within Grey-headed Flying-fox camps, including levels of No relatedness within and between members of adult groups, occupants of individual trees etc.

Investigate the patterns of juvenile Grey-headed Flying-fox dispersal and mortality, allowing No identification of the specific habitat requirements of juveniles.

Investigate the age structure and longevity of Grey-headed Flying-foxes. No

G-80 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Action for Grey-headed Flying Fox Likely to be affected by the proposal?

Complete national recovery plan. No

Grey-headed Flying-fox National Recovery Team to undertake an annual review of the No national recovery plan's implementation.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

With respect to the Grey-headed Flying-fox, the proposal is consistent with one key threatening processes, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small in terms of the available habitat for this species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally.

Conclusion

The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is small in terms of the available habitat for the Grey-headed Flying-fox within the surrounding landscape. Although the loss of foraging habitat for this species is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact upon this species that would lead their extinction locally.

15.2 EPBC Act significance assessment for Grey-headed Flying-fox

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

Grey-headed Flying-foxes occurs across a range of wooded habitats where their favoured food, eucalypt blossom occurs. They set up roosting camps in association with blossom availability, which are usually situated in dense vegetation and associated with water. Grey-headed Flying-foxes can migrate up to 75 km north during the winter and during this time young flying-foxes establish camps.

The survey area does not contain suitable habitat for roosting camps and such habitat does not occur within its close vicinity. Therefore, a population of Grey-headed Flying-fox in the survey area is not considered to be important, as no roost sites would be affected by the proposal.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Grey-headed Flying-fox occurring in the in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-81 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population of the species

Not applicable. Grey-headed Flying-fox occurring in the in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Not applicable. Grey-headed Flying-fox occurring in the in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ For activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal.

„ For the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators).

„ To maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ For the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a).

In accordance with the Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Department of Environment Climate Change and Water NSW 2009) all foraging habitat has the potential to be productive during general food shortages and to therefore provide a resource critical to survival. Foraging habitat that meets at least one of the following criteria can be explicitly identified as habitat critical to survival, or essential habitat, for Grey-headed Flying-foxes:

„ Productive during winter and spring, when food bottlenecks have been identified

„ Known to support populations of > 30,000 individuals within an area of 50 km radius (maximum foraging distance of an adult)

„ Productive during the final stages of fruit development and ripening in commercial crops affected by Grey-headed Flying-foxes

„ Known to support a continuously occupied camp.

The proposal would remove approximately 0.42 ha of suitable foraging habitat for this species, including one food tree species, Eucalyptus haemastoma, which flowers in autumn, winter and spring. Due to one species of eucalypt being potentially productive during identified winter and spring bottlenecks, habitat affected by the proposal could be viewed as critical to this species survival. However, as no Grey-headed Flying-fox roosts were identified in the survey area and as this species is highly mobile, foraging up to 50 km from roosts, it is likely that more suitable foraging resources could be accessed in the locality. Further, the removal of approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat, largely limited to a linear widening of an existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment would not be considered critical to the survival of this species.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Grey-headed Flying-fox occurring in the in the survey area is not part of an important population.

G-82 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal would only affect approximately 0.42 of suitable foraging habitat for this species. As this species is known to forage up to 50 km from roost sites, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to the Grey-headed Flying-fox would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

No. There are no known diseases that are likely to increase in the area as a result of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

Several overall objectives have been nominated for recovery of the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Department of Environment Climate Change and Water NSW 2009), including:

„ To reduce the impact of threatening processes on Grey-headed Flying-foxes and arrest decline throughout the species’ range

„ To conserve the functional roles of Grey-headed Flying-foxes in seed dispersal and pollination

„ To improve the standard of information available to guide recovery of the Grey-headed Flying-fox, in order to increase community knowledge of the species and reduce the impact of negative public attitudes on the species.

The loss of approximately 0.42 ha will add incrementally to the loss of potential foraging habitat for this species. However, as no roost camps are located in the vicinity of the survey area, habitat loss is largely limited to a linear widening of an existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment, and as no key winter or spring food resources (Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus robusta, Melaleuca quinquenervia) occurred in the survey area, the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

The Grey-headed Flying-fox frequents habitats that contain eucalypt blossom and native fruits such as figs, which are their favoured foods. The survey area contains a number of eucalypt dominated communities, the majority of which do not contain eucalypt species that is favoured by this species. A small amount of potentially suitable foraging habitat (0.42 ha) will be affected by the proposal, although this is unlikely to be significant to local populations, due to the abundance of similar and greater quality foraging habitat elsewhere within the survey area and in the wider locality. There were no Grey-headed Flying-fox camps within the survey area or its vicinity, but there are camps in the wider region. Therefore habitat attributes occurring within the survey area are not considered important to the long-term survival of the Grey-headed Flying-fox.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-83 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

16. Threatened raptors

The Little Eagle (Hieraaetus morphnoides) and Square-tailed Kite (Lophoictinia isura) have been grouped for assessment owing to family similarities and overlap in ecology and habitat preferences. The Little Eagle and Square-tailed Kite both occur from wooded open country through to open forests. These two threatened raptors overlap in their habitat requirements, and threats that affect their recovery. Details of each species are given below (refer Table 16.1). The Little Eagle and the Square-tailed Kite are listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Table 16.1 Details of threatened raptors

Common Name TSC EPBC Habitat and Distribution Threats Act Act Little Eagle V - The Little Eagle is distributed Over 50 % of forest and woodlands throughout the Australian mainland in NSW have been cleared (NSW occupying habitats rich in prey within Scientific Committee 2010). Thus, open eucalypt forest, woodland or the main threat affecting this open woodland. Sheoak or acacia species is further clearing and woodlands and riparian woodlands degradation of foraging and of interior NSW are also used. For breeding habitat (NSW Scientific nest sites it requires a tall living tree Committee 2009). On the NSW within a remnant patch, where pairs tablelands and western slopes, build a large stick nest in winter and important habitat is 53 – 84 % lay in early spring. Prey includes cleared and moderately to highly birds, reptiles and mammals, with stressed (NSW Scientific the occasional large insect and Committee 2009). Loss of breeding carrion. Most of its former native sites may bring this species into mammalian prey species in inland increasing interspecific competition NSW are extinct and rabbits now with the larger and more dominant form a major part of the diet Wedge-tailed Eagle. (Marchant and Higgins 1993). Square-tailed Kite V - This species hunts primarily over The DECCW Threat-listed species open forest, woodland and mallee profile (DECCW 2010) lists the communities as well as over following threats to the species: adjacent heaths and other low „ clearing, logging, burning, and scrubby habitats in wooded towns. It grazing of habitats resulting in a feeds on small birds, their eggs and reduction in nesting and feeding nestlings as well as insects. Seems resources to prefer structurally diverse landscapes (Garnett and Crowley „ disturbance to or removal of 2000). potential nest trees near watercourses

„ illegal egg collection and shooting.

Specific impacts

The Little Eagle and Square-tailed Kite were not recorded during surveys informing this report. However, approximately 84.82 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the proposal area, which was commensurate with woodland (13.95 ha), heath (38.89 ha) and regrowth (12.1 ha) habitat types. Approximately 12.52 ha of potential habitat may be removed by the proposal.

16.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Threatened raptors were not recorded in the survey area during surveys informing this report. A relatively small amount of potentially suitable habitat, approximately 12.52 ha, is likely to be affected by the proposal;

G-84 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.33 ha) and regrowth (12.1 ha) fauna habitats. Due to the mobility, large home range and the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Any identified population of threatened raptors would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality.

Furthermore, the proposal area contained only moderate quality habitat in that approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species, and it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

iv) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

v) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given these species’ high mobility and that similar and likely more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

A relatively small (12.52 ha) linear area of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Foraging opportunities will continue to exist and an abundance of similar and better quality foraging

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-85 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

opportunities will be retained both within the survey area and wider locality; particularly including the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Owing to the relatively small extent of potential habitat to be affected and high mobility of these species, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect their long-term survival, although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss of local habitat.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. The proposal area does not contain critical habitat for the Little Eagle or Square-tailed Kite, nor is the proposal area critical for their survival.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for threatened raptors under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Little Eagle and Square-tailed Kite has been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. In the interim, the Department of Environment and Heritage have identified three management actions for the Little Eagle and Square-tailed Kite (refer Table 16.2). The proposal is not likely to affect any of these management actions.

Table 16.2 Management actions for threatened raptors

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal Raise awareness non-target poisoning from baits (Little Eagle) No Identify and secure appropriate habitat and improve management by erecting fences, adding No supplementary plantings, managing or reducing grazing, increasing size of habitat patches, planting stepping-stone linking patches and encourage the retention or placement of fallen logs, coarse woody debris and standing dead trees (Little Eagle) Raise awareness of loss of habitat through population pressure and implement appropriate controls No in areas subject to urban expansion, including identification of appropriate habitat and implementation of improved management (Little Eagle) Ensure implementation of management strategies that reduce disturbance of riparian areas (Square- No tailed Kite) Identify and protect nest trees, and monitor reproduction (Square-tailed Kite) No Liaise with local field ornithologists to obtain data on the Square0tailed Kite in the area No

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

With respect to the Little Eagle and Square-tailed Kite, the proposal is consistent with one key threatening process, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small in terms of the available habitat for these species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally.

Conclusion

G-86 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The Little Eagle and the Square-tailed Kite are two threatened raptors considered to occur within the survey site with a moderate likelihood. Whilst potential habitat existed within the proposal area, the extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered small in terms of available local habitat for these species. Although the loss of habitat will represent an incremental loss of potentially suitable habitat, the proposal is not likely to have a significant impact upon these species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-87 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

17. Threatened forest owls

The Barking Owl (Ninox connivens), Sooty Owl (Tyto tenebricosa), Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae) and Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua) have been grouped for assessment owing to similarities in ecology and habitat preference. These four threatened forest owls generally share similar habitat requirements; threats that affect their recovery; and potential impacts as a result of the proposal (refer Table 17.1). The Barking Owl, Sooty Owl, Masked Owl and Powerful Owl are listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Table 17.1 Details of threatened forest owls.

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and Distribution Threats Name Act Act

Barking Owl V - The Barking Owl occurs in dry sclerophyll The DECCW Threat-listed woodland. In the south-west it is often species profile (DECCW 2010) associated with riparian vegetation while lists the following threats to the in the south-east it generally occurs on species: forest edges. It nests in large hollows in „ Clearing and degradation of live eucalypts, often near open country. It habitat. feeds on insects in the non-breeding season and on birds and mammals in the „ Removal of hollow-bearing breeding season (Garnett, 2000). trees and changes in forest structure.

„ Removal of fallen logs and felling of large dead trees.

„ Changed to understorey density due to frequent burning.

Sooty Owl V Occurs in wet eucalypt forest and The DECCW Threat-listed rainforest on fertile soils with tall species profile (DECCW 2010) emergent trees. Typically found in old lists the following threats to the growth forest with a dense understorey species: but also occurs in younger forests if „ Loss of mature hollow-bearing nesting trees are present nearby. It nests trees and changes to forest in large hollows within eucalypts and and woodland structure occasionally caves. It hunts in open and closed forest for a range of arboreal and „ Clearing of habitat terrestrial mammals including introduced „ Grazing and regular burning is species and sometimes birds (Garnett a threat, through the effects on and Crowley 2000). the quality of ground cover for mammal prey, particularly in open, grassy forests.

„ Secondary poisoning from rodenticides

Masked Owl V - This species occurs within a diverse The DECCW Threat-listed range of wooded habitats including species profile (DECCW 2010) forests, remnants and almost treeless lists the following threats to the inland plains. This species requires large- species: hollow bearing trees for roosting and „ Loss of mature hollow-bearing nesting and nearby open areas for trees and changes to forest foraging. They typically prey on terrestrial structure. mammals including rodents and marsupials but will also take other „ Clearing of habitat. species opportunistically. Also known to „ Changes in quality of ground occasionally roost and nest in caves cover from grazing and regular (Garnett, 2000). burning.

„ Secondary poisoning from rodenticides.

„ Being hit by vehicles.

G-88 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Common TSC EPBC Habitat and Distribution Threats Name Act Act

Powerful Owl V - The Powerful Owl is the largest owl in The DECCW Threat-listed Australasia. It is a typical hawk-owl, with species profile (DECCW 2010) staring yellow eyes and no facial-disc lists the following threats to the (DECCW 2010). It is a sedentary species species: with a home range of approximately 1000 „ Fragmentation and loss of hectares it occurs within open eucalypt, suitable woodland habitat. Casuarina or Callitris pine forest and woodland. It often roosts in denser „ Loss of hollow-bearing trees vegetation including rainforest of exotic and changes in forest pine plantations. Generally feeds on structure. medium-sized mammals such as „ Disturbance during the possums and gliders but will also eat breeding period. birds, flying-foxes, rats and insects. Prey are generally hollow dwelling and require „ High fire frequency. a shrub layer and owls are more often „ Road kills. found in areas with more old trees and hollows than average stands (Garnett, „ Secondary poisoning. 2000). „ Predation of fledglings by foxes, dogs and cats.

Recovery actions

The following recovery actions for these species have been identified by Office of Environment and Heritage (Office of Environment and Heritage 2012):

„ apply low-intensity, mosaic pattern fuel reduction regimes

„ searches for the species should be conducted in suitable habitat in proposed development areas and proposed forest harvesting compartments

„ retain at least a 200 metre buffer of native vegetation around known nesting sites

„ retain large stands of native vegetation, especially those containing hollow-bearing trees. Fence habitat remnants and protect from heavy grazing

„ protect and enhance riparian vegetation to preserve roosting areas

„ protect hollow-bearing trees for nest sites. Younger recruitment trees should also be retained to replace older trees in the long-term. Retain large fallen logs

„ minimise visits to nests and other disturbances, including surveys using call playback, when owls are breeding

„ assess the importance of the site to the species' survival. Include the linkages the site provides for the species between ecological resources across the broader landscape

„ limit the use of pesticides used in suitable native habitat

„ drive carefully at night through forest areas.

Specific impacts

Barking Owl, Sooty Owl, Masked Owl and Powerful Owl were not recorded in the survey area during field surveys informing this report. Approximately 12.52 ha of potentially suitable foraging habitat may be removed by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) habitats. Importantly, the majority of potentially suitable foraging habitat likely to be affected by the proposal comprised regrowth habitat that lacked important breeding requirements, including old-growth hollow-bearing trees. Accordingly, suitable breeding habitat for threatened forest owls was not identified in the proposal area, however, a low density of small and medium hollows were observed in dead and living trees within the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-89 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

17.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Threatened forest owls were not recorded in the survey area during field surveys informing this report. A small amount of potentially suitable habitat (approximately 12.52 ha), largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) fauna habitats. The proposal area largely only contained moderate to poor quality habitat in that approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor.

Due to the mobility, large home range and the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Furthermore, essential microhabitat elements, such as diversity of hollow-bearing trees and complex ground layer, necessary for these species and their prey was generally not abundant along much of the proposal area. Any identified population of threatened forest owls would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species, and it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species. However, approximately 12.08 ha occurred as low quality potential foraging habitat (regrowth and planted native vegetation) positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing M1 Motorway corridor.

G-90 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given these species’ high mobility (some using home ranges up to 1500 ha) and that similar and likely more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

A relatively small (12.52 ha) linear area of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Foraging opportunities will continue to exist and an abundance of similar and better quality foraging opportunities will be retained both within the survey area and wider locality; particularly including the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Owing to the relatively small extent of potential habitat to be affected and high mobility of these species, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect their long-term survival, although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss of local habitat.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for large forest owls.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has been prepared for Large Forest Owls (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006), in which a number of recovery actions are listed (Table 17.2). The plan covers the Powerful Owl, Masked Owl and Sooty Owl. The overall objective of the NSW Large Forest Owl Recovery Plan is to ensure that the three species persist in the wild in NSW in each region where they presently occur (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006).

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Powerful Owl, Masked Owl, Barking Owl and Sooty Owl have been assigned as landscape species. These species are distributed across large areas, are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Large Forest Owls. Due to the similarity between management actions and recovery actions for Large Forest Owls, the recovery actions from the Approved Recovery Plan fort Large Forest Owls (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006) are detailed in Table 17.2.

Table 17.2 Recovery actions for Large Forest Owls

Objective Recovery action Likely to be affected by proposal

Recovery action 1: To assess the Distribution Update and refine existing owl habitat models No and amount of high quality habitat for each owl using the best available information.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-91 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Objective Recovery action Likely to be affected by proposal species across public and private lands to get Map the amount of modelled habitat across No an estimate of the number and proportion of forested land in NSW. occupied territories of each species that are, and are not, protected. Design a sampling strategy to test the modelled No habitat for the presence of owls and locate identified sites.

Field validation of modelled habitat for the No presence of owls.

Estimate the areal amount of mapped modelled No habitat for each owl species that is occupied (based on the proportion of sample sites with owls in them) and use this estimate to further estimate the number of owl territories present within different land tenures (based on home range data).

Recovery action 2: To monitor trends in Develop a sampling methodology stratified across No population parameters (numbers, Distribution, different land tenures and disturbance histories, as territory fidelity and breeding success) across well as a set of standardised regional monitoring the range of the three species and across protocols. different land tenures and disturbance histories. Seek cooperative involvement of other agencies, No researchers and the community in the implementation of the regional monitoring program.

Implement a regional monitoring program. No

Recovery action 3: To assess the Investigate the implementation by DPI (Forests No implementation and effectiveness of forest NSW) of the forestry TSL owl prescriptions by management prescriptions designed to mitigate carrying out proactive audits targeting these the impact of timber-harvesting operations on prescriptions (DEC) and through IFOA monitoring the three owl species and, (if necessary), to use and reporting DPI (Forests NSW). this information to refine the prescriptions so that forestry activities on state forests are not Carry out post-harvest surveys in locations where No resulting in adverse changes in species owls were detected prior to logging to determine if abundance and breeding success. they are continuing to occupy the habitat.

Encourage student radio tracking projects No examining the use of logged and unlogged forest by the three owl species.

Make an assessment of the implementation and No effectiveness of forestry owl prescriptions using data collected in this action.

If necessary, refine the prescriptions and negotiate No changes to the forestry TSLs.

Recovery action 4: Ensure the impacts on large Prepare environmental impact assessment No forest owls and their habitats are adequately guidelines to assist consent and determining assessed during planning and environmental authorities and environmental consultants to assessment processes assess impacts of developments on the large forest owls.

Monitor and report on the effectiveness of No concurrence and licence conditions that have previously been applied to reduce the impacts of developments on the three large forest owl species or their habitats. This will involve keeping a record of such conditions, selecting case studies and then checking for the presence of owls at long intervals post development.

G-92 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Objective Recovery action Likely to be affected by proposal

Use this information to develop a set of prescriptive No guidelines that may be used to mitigate the impacts of developments on the three large forest owls.

Provide up to date and accurate large forest owl No and habitat information in the ‘PVP Developer Threatened Species Tool’, ensuring that broad- scale clearing is only approved under the NV Act if ‘improve or maintain’ test is met.

Facilitate the adequate consideration of large forest No owls during biodiversity certification of environmental planning instruments.

Provide up to date information and data for the Bio No Banking assessment methodology

Recovery action 5: Minimise further loss and Prepare guidelines addressing issues associated No fragmentation of habitat by protection and with habitat protection and management, and informed management of significant owl habitat survey assessment. Guidelines would provide (including protection of individual nest sites) detailed information on identification of significant owl habitat, appropriate strategies for its protection and for habitat creation as part of revegetation programs.

Encourage CMAs to invest in actions that actively No manage and/o or conserve large forest owl habitat and promote owl conservation on private lands.

Encourage private landholders to undertake No management options to conserve and/ or actively manage large forest owl habitat (and particularly nest sites) through incentive property management plans, voluntary conservation agreements and management incentives.

Recovery action 6: To improve the recovery and Promote awareness and involvement of the No management of the three large forest owls research and management needs of the tree large based an improved understanding of key areas forest owls among scientific and academic of their biology and ecology community.

Seek an Australian Research Council Linkage No grant or other joint funding opportunity to initiate research into identified key areas of the biology and ecology of large forest owls.

Seek scholarship funds for an aboriginal student to No investigate the cultural and historic significance of the three species.

Recovery action 7: To raise awareness of the Encourage and coordinate the involvement of No conservation requirements of the three large community-based groups (e.g. the Australian Bird forest owls amongst the broader community, to and Bat Study Association) and animal care groups involve the community in owl conservation (e.g. WIRES) in the implementation of recovery efforts and in so doing increase the information actions.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-93 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Objective Recovery action Likely to be affected by proposal base about owl habitats and biology. Set up a website linked to the DEC internet site No and targeted specifically at the community that will serve to provide information on owl identification (including photographs and samples of calls), habitat identification and protection, any current activities that they can be involved in as well as information on how and where to report sightings and other relevant information. Ensure this site has links to other key internet sites such as the Australasian Raptor Association.

Recovery action 8: To coordinate the Coordination of implementation of actions. No implementation of the recovery plan and continually seek to integrate actions in this plan Review of plan and rewrite in final year. No with actions in other recovery plans or conservation initiatives Convene a threatened owl workshop with relevant No experts and stakeholders to reassess the State conservation Status of the three large forest owls. This action will be undertaken upon Conclusion of the implementation of all of the above actions.

The proposal is not likely to significantly affect any of these recovery actions.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to large forest owls, the proposal is consistent with two KTPs, being clearing of native vegetation and removal of dead wood and trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small at 12.52 ha, of which 12.10 ha is essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species.

Conclusion

The Barking Owl, Sooty Owl, Powerful Owl and Masked Owl are threatened forest owls considered likely to occur within the survey area with a moderate likelihood. Whilst potential habitat exists within the survey area, the proposal area largely provided moderate to poor habitat for these species and their prey, and as such may only be visited irregularly. An abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest, Ourimbah State Forest and wider locality that are suitable for habitation by these species. The proposal therefore, is considered to represent an incremental loss of available local habitat (12.52 ha), although it is not likely to have a significant impact upon these species.

G-94 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

18. Long-nosed Potoroo (Potorous tridactylus)

Status

The Long-nosed Potoroo is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act.

Distribution

The Long-nosed Potoroo is found on the south-eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to eastern Victoria and Tasmania, including some of the Bass Strait islands. There are geographically isolated populations in western Victoria. In NSW it is generally restricted to coastal heaths and forests east of the Great Dividing Range, with an annual rainfall exceeding 760 millimetres (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005a).

Habitat

The Long-nosed Potoroo inhabits coastal heaths and dry and wet sclerophyll forests and woodland with a heathy understorey with the preferred habitat in north eastern NSW being dry and wet open shrubland. A dense understorey with occasional open areas is an essential part of habitat, and may consist of grass-trees, sedges, ferns or heath, or of low shrubs of tea-trees or melaleucas. Preferred habitat includes mallee heathland, Tree Broom Heathland, Scribbly Gum/Swamp Mahogany Forest and She-oak Heathland. A sandy loam soil is also a common feature.

Threats

The following threats for the Long-nosed Potoroo:

„ habitat loss and fragmentation

„ predation from foxes, dogs and cats

„ to frequent fires or grazing by stock that reduce the density and floristic diversity of understorey vegetation

„ logging regimes or other disturbances that reduce the availability and abundance of food resources

Specific impacts

Approximately 55.46 ha of potential habitat was identified within the survey area within woodland (13.95 ha), heath (38.89 ha), and Swamp (2.62 ha). Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging and sheltering habitat may be impacted by the proposal.

18.1 TSC Act Significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The Long-nosed Potoroo was not recorded in the survey area during field surveys informing this report. A small amount of potentially suitable habitat (approximately 0.42 ha), largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha) and heath (0.34 ha) fauna habitats. The proposal area largely only contained moderate to poor quality habitat in that approximately 0.42 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-95 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Due to the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Any identified population of Long- nosed Potoroo would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to this species, and it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction?

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) Is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) Is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) The extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species positioned along the road verges and road cuttings of the existing M1 Motorway corridor.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality,

The extent of potential habitat to be affected represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape; particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. The area of potential habitat to be removed is unlikely to

G-96 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

be of critical importance to the long-term survival of the Long-nosed Potoroo as it is small in relation to the extent of habitat available in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Long-nosed Potoroo to date. The survey area is a predominantly disturbed site and as such is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the Long-nosed Potoroo under the TSC Act. However, targeted strategies for managing these species have been developed under the Office of Environment and Heritage ‘Saving our Species’ conservation program. The Long-nosed Potoroo has been assigned as a site-managed species, with five management sites (minimum number necessary) identified in NSW where conservation activities need to take place to ensure the conservation of this species in the long-term. The five management sites are:

„ Richmond Range in Kyogle LGA,

„ Mount Royal in Dungog, Singleton and Upper Hunter LGAs,

„ Barren Grounds-Bunderoo in Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven and Wingecarribee LGAs,

„ Kangaroo Valley in Shoalhaven LGA

„ South east forests in Bega Valley and Bombala LGAs.

The proposal does not occur near any of the assigned management sites.

Management activities to protect the Long-nosed Potoroo at the nominated sites variously include:

„ maintaining appropriate fire regimes

„ ensuring land management is sympathetic to the long-term requirements of the species

„ assess extent or mechanism of threatening processes

„ reduce pest species densities and maintain at low levels

„ Regular monitoring of species abundance, extent and condition to determine population trends through time. Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key Threatening Processes are listed in Schedule 3 of the TSC Act and at present there are 37 listed KTPs under the TSC Act. The Long- nosed Potoroo is subject to a number of key threatening processes as well as other threats (refer Table 18.1).

Table 18.1 Recognised threats for Long-nosed Potoroo

Threat to species Key Threatening Threat likely to Process increase as a result of the proposal

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-97 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Threat to species Key Threatening Threat likely to Process increase as a result of the proposal

Clearing of Native Vegetation Yes Yes

Habitat loss and fragmentation from land clearing for residential and No No agricultural development

High frequency fire- reduce the density and floristic diversity of Yes No understorey vegetation

Predation by European Red Fox Yes No

Fragmentation of habitat through clearing for agriculture and No No development in coastal areas.

Predation by cats Yes No

Grazing by stock that reduce the density and floristic diversity of No No understorey vegetation

Logging regimes or other disturbances that reduce the availability No No and abundance food resources, particularly hypogeous fungi, and ground cover

Predation from dogs No No

With respect to the Long-nosed Potoroo, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small at 0.42 ha. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to this species.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, potential habitat occurring in the proposal area would only potentially be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The majority of the proposal area only contained moderate to poor quality habitat, in that approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of these species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. While the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of suitable habitat for this species in the locality, it is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Long-nosed Potoroo.

18.2 EPBC Act Significance assessment for Long-nosed Potoroo

An important population is one that is necessary for a species' long-term survival and recovery. This may include populations that are:

„ key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ populations that are necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ populations that are near the limit of the species range. Is this part of an important population?

G-98 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The survey area contained potential habitat for the Long-nosed Potoroo in the form of woodland, heath and regrowth habitat types. The proposal area is relatively small in size, linear in nature running parallel to the existing M1 Motorway through largely modified habitats and unlikely to maintain a large population that would be necessary for maintain genetic diversity. In addition, the Long-nosed Potoroo is not at the limit of their range. Therefore, it is considered that any Long-nosed Potoroo within the survey area would not form part of an important population.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on an Endangered species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Will the action lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population of a species?

Not applicable. Long-nosed Potoroo potentially occurring in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Will the action reduce the area of occupancy of the species?

Not applicable. Long-nosed Potoroo potentially occurring in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Will the action fragment an existing population into two or more populations?

Not applicable. Long-nosed Potoroo potentially occurring in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Will the action adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species?

No critical habitat has been listed for this species to date. Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of the Environment and Heritage 2006a).

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat for this species. As the proposal will be generally limited to previously disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway, and given the abundance of potential habitat for this species in the surrounding vegetation, it is unlikely that the proposal will impact upon this species. Therefore, this would not meet the above criteria

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Long-nosed Potoroo potentially occurring in the survey area is not part of an important population.

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. However, the proposal area largely only contained low quality habitat in that approximately 0.42 ha

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-99 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings.

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. The survey area is largely confined to previously been disturbed areas and would not fragment or isolate and previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for Long-nosed Potoroo habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would lead to a decline in the species.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are harmful to the Long-nosed Potoroo would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

No. There are no known diseases that are likely to increase in the area as a result of the proposal.

Interfere with the recovery of the species

Due to the limited and largely low quality habitat likely to be affected by the proposal and the abundance of similar, and likely better quality habitat in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of the this species.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 12.49 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. The majority of the proposal area only contained low quality habitat, in that approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Thus, although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Long-nosed Potoroo.

G-100 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

19. Common Planigale (Planigale maculata)

Status

The Common Planigale is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

Occurs in coastal north-eastern NSW, coastal east Queensland and Arnhem Land. The species reaches their southern distribution limits in the NSW lower north coast (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005a).

Habitat

Common Planigales inhabit rainforest, eucalypt forest, heathland, marshland, grassland and rocky areas where there is surface cover, and usually close to water.

Ecology

Common Planigales are active at night and during the day shelter in saucer-shaped nests built in crevices, hollow logs, beneath bark or under rocks. They are fierce carnivorous hunters and agile climbers, preying on insects and small vertebrates, some nearly their own size, with breeding occurring from October to January.

Threats

Recognised threats to Common Planigales include:

„ predation by foxes, cats and cane toads

„ loss and fragmentation of

„ frequent burning and grazing that reduces ground cover such as hollow logs and bark

„ disturbance of vegetation surrounding water bodies

Specific impacts

Approximately 55.46 ha of potential habitat was identified within the survey area within woodland (13.95 ha), heath (38.89 ha), and Swamp (2.62 ha). Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging and sheltering habitat may be impacted by the proposal.

19.1 TSC Act Significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The Common Planigale was not recorded in the survey area during field surveys informing this report. A small amount of potentially suitable habitat (approximately 0.42 ha), largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha) and heath (0.34 ha) fauna habitats. The proposal area largely only contained moderate to poor quality habitat in that approximately 0.42 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor.

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Due to the linear nature of the proposal, potential habitat occurring within the

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-101 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

survey area would likely to be utilised as part of a larger home range. Any identified population of Common Planigale would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal area, as similar and likely better quality habitat occurs widely in the locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to this species, and it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction?

Not applicable

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) Is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) Is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

iv) The extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species positioned along the road verges and road cuttings of the existing M1 Motorway corridor.

v) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

vi) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality,

The extent of potential habitat to be affected represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape; particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. The area of potential habitat to be removed is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival of the Common Planigale as it is small in relation to the extent of habitat available in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

G-102 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Common Planigale to date. The survey area is a predominantly disturbed site and as such is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the Common Planigale under the TSC Act. As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage, the Common Planigale is listed as a partnership species, with eight interim management actions identified (refer Table 19.1). The proposal would not be in conflict with these management actions.

Table 19.1 Management actions for Common Planigale

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal?

DEC to provide information for education programs for Catchment Management Authorities, No Local Councils and landholders to prioritise protection and restoration of its habitat.

Forest management activities that include logging, grazing, burning, and feral predator control No needs to consider this species across all tenures.

The modelling requires refinement to implement more recently derived predictor variables, No including current vegetation mapping, and new records for the species.

Research into habitat use at all spatial scales (local, landscape, regional) should be encouraged. No Investigations into dispersal capability, use of corridors, preferred habitats, fire ecology, and impacts of feral animal control measures.

Foxes, cats and cane toads should be controlled in known and potential planigale habitats. No

Protect and enhance ground cover and understorey structure, especially near water. Stock No removal and fencing, protection and enhancement of understorey cover and feral predator control are measures that should be encouraged.

Fire planning within reserves should be undertaken so as to promote diverse understories and No ground cover structure.

Investigations into dispersal capability, use of corridors, preferred habitats, fire ecology and No impacts of feral animal control measures would be highly valuable to land managers.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key Threatening Processes are listed in Schedule 3 of the TSC Act and at present there are 37 listed KTPs under the TSC Act. The Common Planigale is subject to a number of key threatening processes as well as other threats (refer Table 19.2).

Table 19.2 Recognised threats for Common Planigale

Threat to species Key Threatening Threat likely to Process increase as a result of the proposal

Clearing of Native Vegetation Yes Yes

Loss and fragmentation of habitat through clearing for agricultural No No

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-103 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Threat to species Key Threatening Threat likely to Process increase as a result of the proposal and development in coastal areas

High frequency fire- reduce the density and floristic diversity of Yes No understorey vegetation

Predation by European Red Fox Yes No

Predation by cats Yes No

Over grazing that reduces ground cover No No

Predation and poisoning by cane toads No No

Disturbance of vegetation surrounding water bodies No No

Removal of dead wood and dead trees Yes Yes

With respect to Common Planigale, the proposal is consistent with two KTPs, being clearing of native vegetation and removal of dead wood and dead trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small at 0.42 ha. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, potential habitat occurring in the proposal area would only potentially be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The majority of the proposal area only contained moderate to poor quality habitat, in that approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of these species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. While the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of suitable habitat for this species in the locality, it is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Common Planigale.

G-104 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

20. Eastern Pygmy-possum (Cercartetus nanus)

Status

The Eastern Pygmy-possum is listed as Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act.

Distribution

The distribution is confined to south-eastern Australia from south-eastern Queensland to the south-eastern corner of South Australia and Tasmania. It is essentially limited to moister regions across its range, being the coastal strip, ranges and western slopes (Turner & Ward 1995).

Habitat

Eastern Pygmy-possums inhabit a range of vegetation structural types, including wet and dry forests and woodlands, heathlands, shrubby thickets and various combinations of these vegetation forms.

Ecology

Essentially a nocturnal species becoming active during the crepuscular period, they often spend much of the winter in torpor, but are also active during this period if temperatures and food resources permit. Periods of torpor are not confined to the colder seasons and individuals may spend days sometimes weeks in a state of torpor during the warmer seasons (Turner and Ward 1995).

Eastern Pygmy-possums are dependent on the nectar and pollen resources of myrtaceous and proteaceous trees and shrubs, which they gather by means of their brush-tipped tongue. They readily take a wide variety of invertebrate prey, including spiders, grasshoppers, mantis, beetles and their larvae, and moths. Prey is caught with the fore-paws, the wings of flying prey discarded and the body consumed (Turner and Ward 1995). The presence of foraging debris may be an indicator of their presence within suitable habitat and although they are often associated with habitats characterised by dense vegetation, they also occur within surprisingly open habitat.

They regularly build nests in hollows, but may use abandoned bird nests or build small nests around 6 cm in diameter. Nest building is generally undertaken by breeding females and due to their small size they are able to utilise nesting sites in small crevices such as under tree bark or in the forks of trees or shrubs (Turner and Ward 1995; Department of Environment and Conservation 2006).

There are distinct differences in the size of territories occupied by the different sexes with the home-range territories of male in the vicinity of 0.68 ha and those of females considerably smaller around 0.35 ha. The territories of males may overlap those of a number of females although individuals are generally solitary in habit and have only been observed to move up to 125 m in a single night (Turner and Ward 1995).

Breeding may occur during any month within mainland population if foraging resources are available; however, the breeding cycle is more usually confined to the warmer months between late spring and early autumn. Two litters are sometimes produced in a year with wild individuals living for about four years and one individual in captivity reaching eight (Turner and Ward 1995).

Threats

A range of threats to viability of local individuals and populations are attributable to loss and degradation of habitat and the introduction of predators, including:

„ loss and fragmentation of habitat as a consequence of land-clearing practices

„ reduction of nectar-producing plant species through change fire regimes

„ declines in understorey shrub diversity due to grazing by stock or introduced animals

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-105 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

„ predation by introduced predators, such as dogs, cats and foxes

„ loss of nest site opportunities by collection of firewood (Department of Environment and Conservation 2006).

Specific impacts

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat for the Eastern Pygmy- possum including woodland (0.08ha), heath (0.34ha) and regrowth (12.1ha). Native vegetation within the survey area were characterised by communities that contain an abundance of myrtaceous and proteaceous plants that offer the favoured food resources of this species. Although it was not observed during field surveys, field investigations were conducted during a period when this species is likely to be inactive and it is a very difficult species to observe due to its small size and cryptic habits.

20.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for the Eastern Pygmy-possum was identified in the survey area. While this species was not recorded during field surveys informing this report, it is assumed that the species is likely to be present in suitable habitat, due to its cryptic habits and that it has previously been recorded in vicinity of the proposal. Approximately 12.52 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) habitats. The proposal area largely only contained moderate to poor quality habitat in that approximately 12.10 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings.

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for Eastern Pygmy-possum habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

G-106 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species. However, approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs within previously disturbed land associated with the existing road corridor. Approximately 12.52 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected, including 12.1 ha that essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings. Vegetation removal will largely be limited previously disturbed areas at the interface of the existing M1 motorway. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas it is considered unlikely that suitable Eastern Pygmy-possum habitat would become significantly isolated or fragmented beyond that currently existing within the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The extent of potential habitat to be removed represents a small proportion of foraging habitat available within the survey area and wider proposal locality. Owing to the relatively small, linear extent of potential habitat likely to be affected and its position within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the long-term survival of the Eastern Pygmy-possum; although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of the Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for Eastern Pygmy- possum. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 12.52 ha of potentially suitable habitat (including 12.1 ha of regrowth habitat within and immediately adjacent previously disturbed areas would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for Eastern Pygmy-possum under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Eastern Pygmy-possum has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Eastern Pygmy-possum. In the interim, the following seven management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 20.1).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-107 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Table 20.1 Recovery actions for Eastern Pygmy-possum

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Conduct field surveys using "Elliot" traps in trees and on the ground and pitfall traps No to further delineate distribution and key populations. Avoid periods of cold weather. Areas identified for development should receive high priority.

Control and monitor abundance of feral predators, especially cats, where there are No known populations of EPP in areas of high quality habitat and encourage night-time curfews for cats on urban fringes adjacent to these habitats.

Provide map of known occurrences to Rural Fire Service and seek fire frequency of No >10 years on Bush Fire Risk Management Plan(s), risk register and/or operation map(s).

Reserve fire management strategies to include operational guidelines to protect this No species from fire, with fire frequency of >10 years.

Encourage research on appropriate fire and land management regimes for retention No and recruitment of EPP habitat.

Encourage research on the ecology, movements, habitat use and genetics of No populations.

Encourage and support land managers to undertake management actions that No benefit the species (see recovery information for land managers in our detailed species profile).

The proposal is not likely to adversely affect any of these management actions.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Eastern Pygmy-possum, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. As a result of the proposal, this KTP is not likely to significantly affect the Eastern Pygmy-possum in the locality. A threat abatement plan has not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 12.52 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. The majority of the proposal area only contained moderate to poor quality habitat, in that approximately 12.1 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Thus, although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Eastern Pygmy-possum.

G-108 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

21. Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus)

Status

The Spotted-tailed Quoll is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act and Endangered under the EPBC Act.

Description

The Spotted-tailed Quoll is about the size of a domestic cat, from which it differs most obviously in its shorter legs and pointed face (Cronin 2000). The average weight of an adult male is about 3500 grams and an adult female about 2000 grams. It has rich-rust to dark-brown fur above, with irregular white spots on the back and tail, and a pale belly. The spots may be indistinct on juvenile animals (Edgar and Belcher 1998).

Habitat

Spotted-tailed Quoll occur in a range of habitat types, including rainforest, open forest, woodland, coastal heath and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine zone to the coastline (Belcher 2003). Preferred habitat for Spotted-tailed Quoll includes dry and moist sclerophyll forests where they nest in include hollow-bearing trees, fallen logs, burrows, small caves, rock crevices, boulder-fields and rocky-cliff faces and will feed in nearby cleared areas (Edgar and Belcher 1998).

The range of the Spotted-tailed Quoll has contracted considerably since European settlement. It is now found in eastern NSW, eastern Victoria, south-east and north-eastern Queensland, and Tasmania. Only in Tasmania is it still considered relatively common (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999)

Ecology

Spotted-tailed Quoll is mostly nocturnal although it will hunt during the day. On cold winter days they often bask in the sun. It spends most of the time on the ground, although also an excellent climber and may raid possum and glider dens and prey on roosting birds. This species consumes a variety of prey, including gliders, possums, small wallabies, rats, birds, reptiles, bandicoots, rabbits and insects. It also eats carrion and takes domestic fowl (Edgar and Belcher 1998).

The average Spotted-tailed Quoll litter size is five with both sexes becoming mature at about one year of age (Kortner, Gresser et al. 2004). Individual animals use hollow-bearing trees, fallen logs, small caves, rock crevices, boulder fields and rocky-cliff faces as den sites. Dens are shared by family groups and are aggressively defended by both males and females. Females occupy large home ranges up to about 750 hectares and males up to 3500 hectares and they usually traverse their ranges along densely vegetated creeklines. This species has been recorded moving more than two kilometres overnight (Claridge, Paull et al. 2005).

Spotted-tailed Quoll use ‘latrine sites’, often on flat rocks among boulder fields and rocky cliff-faces; these may be visited by a number of individuals. Latrine sites can be recognised by the accumulation of the sometimes characteristic ‘twisty-shaped’ faeces deposited by animals (Triggs 1996).

Threats

Specific threats to Spotted-tailed Quoll identified by the Department of Environment and Conservation (2005) include:

„ loss, fragmentation and degradation of habitat

„ accidental poisoning during wild dog and fox control programs. Deliberate poisoning, shooting and trapping may also be an issue

„ competition with introduced predators such as cats and foxes.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-109 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Specific Impacts

The proposal may disturb 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat, in the form of woodland and heath vegetation, for the Spotted-tailed Quoll. Native vegetation within the survey area is characterised by communities, both wet sclerophyll, hanging swamp and dry heath ecosystems, known habitat of the Spotted-tailed Quoll. Although it was not observed during field surveys, this species is likely to be inactive and it is a very difficult species to observe due to its cryptic habits.

21.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The majority of the survey area is confined within previously disturbed areas associated with existing M1 motorway, with a relatively small amount (0.42 ha) of habitat is likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and greater quality habitat occurs in the adjacent vegetation including Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest that is suitable for Spotted-tailed Quoll habitation. The study are contains minimal den sites such as rock crevices, small rock caves and fallen timber which could be used by this species for breeding and sheltering. It is not expected that any rock caves, rock crevices or significant fallen timber present within the survey area will be removed as a result of the proposal. Due to the relatively small size of land clearing proposed (0.42 ha), and the fact that this species is highly mobile utilising a large home range of 350-3,500ha, it is considered unlikely that the proposal will have a significantly adverse affect upon local Spotted-tailed Quoll populations.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of suitable Spotted-tailed Quoll habitat would be affected by the proposal. However, local populations would not be restricted to habitat resources within the survey area as this species is likely to use similar, higher quality habitat resources within the locality given the large home range of this species (350 to 3,500 ha). An abundance of similar and greater quality habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and wider locality that is suitable for Spotted- tailed Quoll habitation.

G-110 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land associated with existing M1 motorway which currently divides Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Approximately 0.42 ha of vegetation is likely to be affected in the survey area and vegetation removal will be largely limited to previously disturbed areas adjacent to the existing M1. As such, it is considered unlikely that suitable Spotted-tailed Quoll habitat would become significantly isolated or fragmented beyond that currently existing within the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

Spotted-tailed Quoll populations in the locality of the survey area are largely undefined, with only a relatively small number of records over the past 15 years that occur in close proximity to the survey area. Although the survey area has suitable habitat attributes, vegetation removal is to be a relatively small area (0.42 ha), in areas immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway. Therefore, the removal of a relatively small amount of suitable habitat 0.42 ha and given the mobility of the species and the large size of their home range, the proposal is not considered likely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. There are four listed critical habitats and three habitats pending finalisation to date. No critical habitat has been listed for Spotted-tailed Quoll. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 0.42 ha of suitable foraging habitat would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for Spotted-tailed Quoll under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Spotted-tailed Quoll has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Spotted-tailed Quoll. In the interim, the following 35 management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 21.1). The proposal is not likely to adversely affect any of these management actions.

Table 21.1 Management actions for Spotted-tailed Quoll

Management Actions for Spotted-tailed Quoll Likely to be affected by the proposal

Establish and maintain regional working groups in southeast and northeast NSW to coordinate No research and management.

Review survey methods and assess effectiveness of different techniques to identify an optimal No survey protocol. Undertake research into new methods, if necessary.

Conduct field and community surveys for the Spotted-tailed Quoll in areas where its distribution is No poorly known. Areas identified for large-scale urban development (i.e. Far north coast, Hunter) and coastal reserves should be the highest priority.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-111 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Actions for Spotted-tailed Quoll Likely to be affected by the proposal

Map Spotted-tailed Quoll distribution and update as additional data becomes available. No

Identify study sites across the NSW range and within different habitat types at which long-term No population monitoring can be undertaken.

Conduct systematic monitoring at key sites. Monitoring sites will be distributed across the NSW No range of the Spotted-tailed Quoll and within different habitat types such as Kosciusko NP, Limeburner's Creek NR, northern tablelands and the Blue Mountains.

Develop a database and update it regularly to track population trends at monitoring sites, No particularly with respect to density and survival of breeding females.

Develop standard data collection protocol to maximise information obtained from field surveys. No Include procedure for monitoring disease status of wild animals and collecting and storing genetic samples.

Collect genetic samples from all Spotted-tailed Quoll populations during field surveys and regular No monitoring activities.

Continue to undertake research on genetic diversity of populations to guide identification of No appropriate genetic management units throughout range.

Conduct and publish ecological research on relationship between prey density, den availability No and density of females in different habitat types to determine measures of habitat quality.

Liaise with key aboriginal groups and document understanding of Spotted-tailed Quoll's local No distribution, abundance, ecology and threats.

Develop a licence agreement with managers of captive Spotted-tailed Quoll populations to enable No recruitment to captive populations from wild populations.

Develop agreement with captive management institutions to facilitate use of captive animals for No research when required.

Develop a communication strategy to raise public awareness of the Spotted-tailed Quoll, compile No education resources and distribute to identified target audience. Support community participation in survey and monitoring programs.

Consult with Aboriginal land managers regarding intended conservation management efforts for No Spotted-tailed Quolls on lands of interest to them.

Erect signs in areas where road kills are common to alert drivers to the presence of Spotted- No tailed Quolls.

Identify sections of roads where Spotted-tailed Quolls are frequently killed on roads. Conduct a No media campaign to ask for public records of road kills and use data held by the relevant government agencies.

At sections of roads where Spotted-tailed Quolls are frequently killed, incorporate methods to No reduce the numbers of animals killed. Assess the effectiveness of different mitigation methods.

Prepare brochure detailing designs of 'quoll-proof' poultry runs and aviaries and distribute within No relevant locations.

Seek funding or sponsorship to subsidise landholder costs of modifying poultry runs and aviaries. No

Habitat requirements of Spotted-tailed Quolls to be adequately conserved within environmental No planning instruments and through other legislative protection mechanisms, including property vegetation plans.

Develop environmental impact assessment guidelines for the Spotted-tailed Quoll, which includes No information on adequate survey methods, survey effort, inappropriate development projects, impact mitigation measures.

G-112 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Actions for Spotted-tailed Quoll Likely to be affected by the proposal

Reserve Fire management Strategy(s) include operational guidelines that protect rocky outcrops No and riparian zones within areas of known habitat.

Research and publish findings to determine impact of wildfires and prescription burns on No populations, with emphasis on prey resources, refugia, impacts of foxes, cats and wild dogs/dingoes.

Research disturbance thresholds and adequacy of existing prescriptions for retention of habitat of No breeding females in timber production forests.

Renegotiate habitat retention prescriptions in IFOAs if they are found to be inadequate following No research into disturbance thresholds and habitat requirements of breeding females.

Research to investigate interactions between native and exotic predators and their prey to better No understand the consequences of 1080 baiting at an ecosystem level.

Based on research, develop and implement a protocol for use of poison baits that further reduces No impacts on individual Spotted-tailed Quolls.

Investigate the demographics of Spotted-tailed Quoll populations and use results to develop No viability models for quoll populations.

Investigate the impact of fox and wild dog baiting on Spotted-tailed Quoll populations. No

Assess potential risk Cane Toads pose to populations of quolls. No

Monitor survival of Spotted-tailed Quoll populations in habitat newly colonised by cane toads. No

The threat of cane toads to be assessed as part of the DEC Cane Toad Action Plan. No

Seminar on quoll biology and conservation. No

The proposal is not likely to interfere with any of the above-mentioned management activities.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Spotted-tailed Quoll, the proposal is consistent with one KTP:

„ clearing of native vegetation

None of these KTPs are likely to significantly affect Spotted-tailed Quoll in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

While the survey area provides potential habitat for the Spotted-tailed Quoll (0.42ha) the majority of the survey area has previously been disturbed associated with the existing adjacent M1 motorway. Vegetation clearance will be generally restricted to existing disturbed areas, with approximately 0.42 ha of native vegetation likely to be affected. Furthermore, native vegetation to be removed will be largely represented by the removal of non-hollow bearing trees and disturbed low quality habitat. An abundance of similar and higher quality foraging habitat will remain available in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and in the wider locality. No evidence of recent Spotted-tailed Quoll habitation was noted within the survey area during field surveys. No den potential den sites such as rock caves, rock crevices or fallen

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-113 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

timber will be removed as a result of the proposal. Given that the proposal will be generally restricted to existing cleared areas associated with the existing M1, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for this species. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on locally occurring Spotted-tailed Quoll.

21.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

The Spotted-tailed Quoll is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act and it can be considered to be declining within the survey area and the wider locality. This species is therefore assessed using the threatened species criteria of the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the EPBC Act, population of a species is defined as:

„ a geographically distinct regional population, or collection of local populations; or

„ a population, or collection of local populations, that occurs within a particular bioregion.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on an Endangered species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Will the action lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population of a species?

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for the Spotted-tailed Quoll would be affected by the proposal. While habitat in the survey area has the potential to be used by this species, it is not considered to be of high importance due to the relatively small areas of habitat (0.42 ha) to be disturbed given their large home range (350-3,500 ha). This relatively small area of potential habitat only represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Any identified population of Spotted-tailed Quoll in the area would not be restricted to habitat contained within the survey area, as this species has a large home range. As there is similar foraging and breeding habitat that occurs within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State forest and locality, it is therefore unlikely that the proposal will result in a long- term decline in the size of a population.

Will the action reduce the area of occupancy of the species?

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat would be affected by the proposal. Due to the proposal’s small disturbance area and location in previously disturbed land, the proposal would disturb relative small areas of marginal quality habitat 0.42 ha). The relatively small areas of potential habitat represent a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species, as this species has a large home range (350-3,500 ha) and is mobile. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat is not likely to reduce the area of occupancy for the Spotted-tailed Quoll.

Will the action fragment an existing population into two or more populations?

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land associated with the existing M1 motorway. Approximately 0.42 ha of habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. As the survey area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas and will incrementally widen the existing linear corridor, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat.

Will the action adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species?

No critical habitat has been listed for the Spotted-tailed Quoll to date. The relatively small area of potential habitat likely to be affected represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat would not be considered critical to the survival of this species.

G-114 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Will the action disrupt the breeding cycle of a population?

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat would be affected by the proposal. The survey area does contain marginal den sites for this species in the form of rock crevices, small rock caves and fallen timber. However, the proposal will not remove or impact upon any of this potential den or sheltering habitat for this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is not likely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population.

Will the action modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline?

The proposal would remove approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species. It is not expected that the action will significantly modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat for the Spotted-tailed Quoll to cause the species to decline. The survey area is located immediately adjacent to the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest which contain similar and higher quality habitat than that contained within the survey area. This species is known to have a large home range in which to hunt its prey species and the survey area would represent a small portion of this range. The relatively small area of potential habitat likely to be affected represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this highly mobile species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat, is unlikely to cause the Spotted-tailed Quoll to decline.

Will the action result in invasive species that are harmful to an Endangered species becoming established in the Endangered species´ habitat?

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are potentially harmful to the Spotted- tailed Quoll would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Will the action introduce disease that may cause the species to decline?

No. It is not likely that disease would be increased by the action.

Will the action interfere with the recovery of the species?

A recovery plan has not been prepared for the Spotted-tailed Quoll. Due to the limited habitat likely to be affect by the proposal (0.42 ha), the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

The survey area is located in a previously disturbed area associated with the existing M1 motorway, with a relatively small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of vegetation likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality. While the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of suitable habitat for this species, given that the proposal is generally restricted to previously disturbed areas associated with the M1, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to have a significant adverse affect on the Spotted-tailed Quoll.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-115 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

22. Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis)

Status

The Squirrel Glider is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

The Squirrel Glider is widely though sparsely distributed in eastern Australia, from northern Queensland to western Victoria (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999).

Habitat

Squirrel Gliders inhabit mature or old growth Box, Box-Ironbark woodlands and River Red Gum forest west of the Great Dividing Range and Blackbutt/ Bloodwood forests with a heath understorey in coastal areas. Suitable vegetation communities include at least one species of plant that flowers heavily in winter and one or more of the smooth-barked eucalypts (Department of Environment and Conservation 2005).

Ecology

Squirrel Gliders are nocturnal and display seasonal trends in feeding behaviour that are in accordance with phenological patterns consists of trees and shrubs (Goldingay and Sharpe 1998). Their diet includes acacia gum, eucalypt sap, nectar, honeydew and manna, lichens with invertebrates and pollen providing protein (NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 1999).

Squirrel Gliders are agile climbers and can glide for more than 50 m in one movement. Nightly movements are estimated at between 300 m and 500 m. Home-ranges have been estimated at between 0.65 ha and 8.55 ha and movements tend to be greater for males than females. The home-range of a family group is likely to vary according to habitat quality and availability of resources, with more productive forests attributed to smaller home ranges (Quin 1995).

Tree hollows greater than five centimetres diameter, in both living and dead trees as well as hollow stumps, are used as den sites for refuge and nesting (Gibbons and Lindenmayer 2000). Studies in Queensland showed that Squirrel Gliders used ironbark eucalypts and stags more than the hollows of smooth barked eucalypts and non-eucalypt tree species (Rowston 1998).

Squirrel Gliders use tree hollows for diurnal shelter either alone or in family groups of up to six individuals and offspring that occupy the same hollow simultaneously. The size and composition of groups of gliders occupying a particular hollow varies from day to day because gliders regularly swap den trees (van der Ree 2002). The nests are bowl-shaped and lined with leaves within tree hollows (Triggs 1996).

Threats

A range of threats to viability of local individuals and populations are attributable to loss and degradation of habitat, including:

„ loss and fragmentation of habitat

„ loss of hollow-bearing trees

„ loss of flowering understorey and midstorey shrubs in forests.

Specific impacts

This species was not recorded within the survey area during targeted surveys. The proposal may disturb approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat for this species, in the form of woodland and heath vegetation.

G-116 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

22.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat, predominantly foraging habitat, would be affected by the proposal. Potential habitat occurring within the survey area is likely to be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The habitat to be cleared is only a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species as an abundance of similar and higher quality habitat is available in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat is not likely to impact the species such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction. Nevertheless, the proposal will represent and incremental loss of local habitat for this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable. is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat, predominantly foraging habitat, would be affected by the proposal. Potential habitat occurring within the survey area is likely to be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The habitat to be cleared is only a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat, is not likely to impact the species such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction. Nevertheless, the proposal will represent an incremental loss of local habitat for this species. whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

It is considered that the proposal is unlikely to significantly fragment or isolate potential habitat for these species any further that what already occurs within the survey area. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land associated with the existing M1 motorway. Approximately 0.42 ha of vegetation is likely to be affected in the survey area. The proposal would not fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat and it is considered unlikely that potential Squirrel Glider habitat would become significantly isolated or fragmented beyond that currently existing within the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-117 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The extent of potential habitat to be removed represents a relatively small proportion of foraging and shelter habitat available within the surrounding landscape. Owing to the relatively small extent of potential habitat removal and the mobility of this species, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect its long-term survival locally, although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss of local habitat.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. There are four listed critical habitats and three habitats pending finalisation to date. No critical habitat has been listed for the Squirrel Glider. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 0.42 ha of suitable foraging/ nesting habitat would be affected by the proposal, much of which is contained within previously disturbed land, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for Squirrel Gliders under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Squirrel Glider has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Squirrel Glider. In the interim, the following nine management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 22.1).

Table 22.1 Recovery actions for Squirrel Glider

Management Action Likely to be affected by the Proposal Conduct surveys on the Far South Coast, from Murramarong National Park south to Eden, to No determine population size and extent and connectivity of populations (surveys should incorporate potential habitat on public as well as private land). Model and predict the distribution of Squirrel Gliders across the south west slopes. No Delineate boundaries of population to identify the extent to which populations are interconnected No (to determine propensity to move across cleared land). Ensure the largest hollow bearing trees (including dead trees) are given highest priority for No retention in PVP assessments and other environmental planning instruments, or other land assessment tools. Prepare EIA guidelines which address the retention of hollow bearing trees maintaining diversity of No age groups, species diversity. Give priority to largest hollow bearing trees. Investigate the effectiveness of logging prescriptions. No Prepare a recovery plan for the Squirrel Glider. No Conduct surveys and assessments of less known sites to confirm presence of species and No negotiate, develop and implement conservation management agreements for high priority sites. Control feral horses at relevant sites to promote retention and growth of mid-storey shrubs. No

The proposal is unlikely to affect any of these recovery actions.

G-118 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 34 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to Squirrel Glider, the proposal is consistent with two KTPs:

„ clearing of native vegetation

„ clearing of hollow-bearing trees

Given the marginal quality habitat to be removed and the abundance of similar higher quality habitat in the nearby Brisbane Waters National Park and Strickland State Forest neither of these KTPs are likely to significantly affect Squirrel Glider in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat, predominantly foraging habitat, would be affected by the proposal. Potential habitat occurring within the survey area is likely to be used by this species as part of a larger home range. The habitat to be cleared is only a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. The proposal is not likely to significantly fragment or isolate other habitat for this species any more than what already occurs in the survey area. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of foraging habitat is not likely to impact the species such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction. Nevertheless, the proposal will represent an incremental loss of local habitat for this species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-119 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

23. Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Status

The Koala is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act and the EPBC Act.

Distribution

The Koala occurs along the east coast of Australia and extends into Woodland, Mulga and River Red Gum forests west of the Great Dividing Range (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008). The range of the Koala covers all such suitable areas of NSW.

Habitat

The Koala inhabits eucalypt woodlands and forests.

Ecology

The diet is generally restricted to Eucalypt leaves (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008), although on occasion, non-eucalypt foliage is eaten. The foliage of Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. parramattensis, E. robusta, E. amplifolia, E. microcorys and E. viminalis are the primary feed tree species in the Central Coast Koala Management Area (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008). Koalas use a wide variety of tree sizes, and do not preferentially use large or tall trees in NSW forests, although this has been listed as a habitat preference in areas where trees are generally small, stunted or nutrient deprived. Individual home ranges range from one to two ha in high quality habitat, to around 100 ha in more arid country where territories are usually discrete (Strahan and Van Dyck 2008).

Threats

Threats to Koala include:

„ human-induced climate change, especially drought

„ loss, modification and fragmentation of habitat

„ predation by feral and domestic dogs

„ intense fires that scorch or kill the tree canopy

„ road kills.

Specific impacts

Native vegetation in the survey area contained tree species that are listed as Koala feed tree species under the Central Coast Koala Management Area (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008) and Schedule 2 of State Environmental Planning Policy 44 (SEPP 44); being, Eucalyptus punctata and E. haemastoma. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat may be disturbed as part of the proposal. The habitat contained within the survey area however, is marginal and an abundance of similar and higher quality habitat is available in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and wider locality. Based on NSW OEH BioNet Atlas of NSW Wildlife (Office of Environment and Heritage 2014), several historical records for the Koala occur in proximity of the proposal. These records include observations between 1981 and 2000 (Figure G23).

G-120 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff UPGRADE OF KARIONG INTERCHANGE RAMPS, AND KARIONG TO SOMERSBY WIDENING, M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY, BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT NSW ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES

K E E R C PEATS RIDGE ROAD Y E N O O M Y E N O O M R EK E OB RE L INSON C T T I L

STO NE WISEMANS Y !( FERRY ROAD C R E E SOMERSBY K !( STRICKLAND STATE Y DRIVE FOREST LLE A NARA V RA CR EEK A R A R A N

HOWE ABORIGINAL M1 PACIFIC MOTORWAY AREA NARARA

HUNTER CREEK

K REE N C TAI UN FO

D

A

O

R

Y

R

R

E FLOODS CREEK F K

E S

E N

R A

C M MANNS ROAD S E

E S I

L

I

W P

K E E R WEST GOSFORD C

K

S

MOONEY MOONEY A E ABORIGINAL L GOSFORD AREA !( RACECOURSE ROAD

CENTRAL COAST HIGHWAY !(

K BRISBANE WATER !( EE CR KARIONG NE NATIONAL PARK BI THE M BRISBANE WATER DRIVE U BROAD OR CO WATER

!( !( POINT CLARE

WOY WOY ROAD

!(

!( RAT GULLY POINT FREDERICK !( [ \\Apsydfil03\proj\R\Roads_Maritime_Services\2113226A_KARIONG_INTERCHANGE_TO_SOMERS\10_GIS\Projects\Drawings_Figures_Sketches\2113226A_GIS_F033_A1.mxd Author: MitchellEm 3/12/2014Author: \\Apsydfil03\proj\R\Roads_Maritime_Services\2113226A_KARIONG_INTERCHANGE_TO_SOMERS\10_GIS\Projects\Drawings_Figures_Sketches\2113226A_GIS_F033_A1.mxd Source: Google (2013); Topographic data from LPI digital topographic database (2010); NSW OEH BioNet Atlas of NSW Wildlife, December 2014 TASCOTT0 0.5 1 1.5 km Motorway Survey area Historical Koala sighting !( 1993 State road LGA boundary !( 1981 !( 1995 Figure G23 Regional road !( 1982 !( 1998 Koala records in proposal locality (NSW OEH BioNet Atlas of NSW !( Railway 1985 Wildlife, December 2014) Creek lines Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

23.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

The majority of the survey area is confined to previously disturbed land associated with existing M1 motorway, with a relatively small amount (0.42 ha) of vegetation likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and higher quality habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and wider locality that are suitable for Koala habitation. Consequently, it is unlikely that the proposal will have a significantly adverse affect upon local Koala populations.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable. is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat would be affected by the proposal However, local Koala populations would not be restricted to habitat resources within the survey area as this species is likely to use similar habitat resources within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and wider locality. whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the survey area occurs on previously disturbed land associated with the existing M1 motorway. Approximately 0.42 ha of vegetation is likely to be affected in the survey area and vegetation removal will be largely limited to previously disturbed habitat. As such, it is considered unlikely that potential Koala habitat would become significantly isolated or fragmented beyond that currently existing within the survey area. the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The amount of marginal foraging habitat (which includes sparsely distributed feed trees) proposed for removal is considered to be relatively small (0.42 ha). The habitat proposed for removal is insignificant in relation to the amount of undisturbed good quality habitat that will remain within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and locality.

G-122 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The home range of Koala varies with quality of habitat, ranging from less than two hectares to several hundred hectares in size (Lunney et al. 2000). The feed trees proposed for removal include scattered trees which occur at the margin of an existing vegetation stand that will remain unaffected and the nature of clearing will not fragment habitat. The proposal will not create a significant barrier to the movement of Koala between areas of habitat any further than what already occurs in the survey area.

The quality and importance of habitat proposed for removal is not considered to be significant for the local Koala population.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. There are four listed critical habitats and three habitats pending finalisation to date. No critical habitat has been listed for Koala. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 0.42 ha of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

A recovery plan has been prepared for Koala (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008), in which a number of recovery actions are listed (Table 23.1). The overall objective of this recovery plan is to reverse the decline of the Koala in NSW, to ensure adequate protection, management and restoration of Koala habitat, and to maintain healthy breeding populations of Koalas throughout their current range (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008).

Table 23.1 Recovery plan objectives for Koala

Objective Specific objective Likely to be affected by proposal?

Conserve Koalas in their existing Identify and conserve habitat important for Koala No habitat conservation

Assess the impact of habitat loss and fragmentation on Koala No populations

Integrate Koala habitat conservation into local and state No government planning processes

Develop appropriate road risk management in Koala habitat No

Implement strategies which minimise the impacts of dogs on No Koala populations

Develop and implement strategies to reduce the impact of No fires on Koala populations

Rehabilitate and restore Koala habitat Revegetate and rehabilitate selected sites No and populations Make appropriate use of translocation No

Develop a better understanding of the Not Applicable No conservation biology of Koalas

Ensure that the community has Prepare and distribute educational material and involve the No access to factual information about community in Koala conservation the distribution, conservation and management of Koalas at a national, Understand the cultural significance of Koalas No state and local scale

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-123 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Objective Specific objective Likely to be affected by proposal?

Manage captive, sick or injured Not Applicable No Koalas and orphaned wild Koalas to ensure consistent and standards of care

Manage over-browsing to prevent Not Applicable No both Koala starvation and ecosystem damage in discrete patches of habitat

Coordinate, promote the Not Applicable No implementation, and monitor the effectiveness of NSW Koala Recovery Plan across NSW

The proposal is not likely to significantly affect any of these recovery objectives.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Koala has been assigned as a Ionic species. Iconic species are important socially, culturally and economically, and the community expects them to be effectively managed and protected. Table 21.1 outlines the management actions that are already underway or are proposed to be undertaken as part of the Saving Our Species for the Koala proposal(refer Table 23.2).

Table 23.2 Management actions for the Koala

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Provide incentives to landholders to manage and improve priority koala habitat No on their land.

Identify koala habitat and threats, and recommend mitigation measures for No councils and the community.

Evaluate the effectiveness of previous tree plantings to better target future No conservation actions.

Investigate where remedial actions can be most effective in providing drought No refuges and reducing the impact of disease.

Undertake community surveys to track changes in koala populations. No

Develop a standard approach to mapping koala habitat. No

Working with private land holders to protect and rehabilitate koala habitat, and No establish regional habitat corridors.

Assisting local councils to identify and map koala habitat and prepare No comprehensive koala plans of management.

Better protecting koalas in national parks by managing wild dogs and designing No hazard reduction burns to minimise impacts on koala habitat.

Assessing the restoration of koala habitat, such as on the Liverpool Plains No around Gunnedah to provide guidance on restoration options.

Working with koala rehabilitation groups to determine why koalas go into care. No

Sustaining community based koala surveys to monitor change. No

The proposal is unlikely to adversely affect any of these recovery actions.

G-124 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 36 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

The proposal would include clearing of native vegetation which is listed as a Key Threatening Process under the TSC Act. The areas of potential habitat required for clearing is minimal (0.42 ha) and is not considered significant to the survival of the species. The proposal would be unlikely to result in the increase in any other recognised threat for this species (Table 23.2).

With respect to Koala, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is not likely to significantly affect Koala in the locality. A threat abatement plan has not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

While the survey area provides marginal quality habitat, with scattered suitable foraging resources for the Koala. Vegetation removal will require approximately 0.42 ha of native vegetation including Koala feed tree Eucalyptus haemastoma. Canopy foraging opportunities that occur within the survey area will continue to exist throughout the life of the proposal as an abundance of similar and higher quality foraging habitat will be retained within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and in the wider locality. No records or secondary evidence of recent Koala habitation was noted within the survey area during field surveys. Given that the proposal will be generally restricted to existing disturbed areas and that vegetation removal will be small in size, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for this species. Therefore, the proposed development is not likely to have a significant adverse affect on locally occurring Koalas.

23.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

The Koala is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

The Koala occurs along the east coast of Australia and extends into Woodland, Mulga and River Red Gum forests west of the Great Dividing Range (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008). The range of the Koala covers all such suitable areas of NSW.

What is of most importance to this species is the presence of tree species listed in Schedule 2 of the SEPP 44. The survey area contained two feed tree species Eucalyptus punctata and E. haemastoma. These feed tree species also occur in abundance within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and greater region further afield. Although the site does provide potential foraging habitat due to the presence of feed tree species, similar suitable habitat occurs widely within the vicinity of the survey area and the wider locality. As a consequence, foraging habitat within the site is not considered critical to maintaining populations.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-125 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Potential occurrences of this species within the survey area are not at the limits of the species’ distribution and as such the site can only be considered to represent a part of the range of widely occurring individuals. For these reasons, if present within the site, individuals of this species would not be considered to be part of an important population.

Does the proposal area contain habitat critical to the survival of the Koala?

Based on the habitat assessment tool in the Draft EPBC Act referral guidelines for the Vulnerable Koala (Department of the Environment 2013), habitat in the proposal area was not considered to contain habitat critical to the survival of the Koala (refer Table 23.3).

Table 23.3 Koala habitat assessment tool (Department of the Environment 2013)

Attribute Score Coastal Proposal area score1

Koala occurrence +2 (high) Evidence of one or more Koalas within the last 2 - years

+1 (medium Evidence of one or more Koalas within 5 km of - the edge of the impact area within the last 5 years

0 (low) None of the above 0

Vegetation +2 (high) Has forest or woodland with 2 or more known +2 composition Koala food tree species in the canopy

+1 (medium Has forest or woodland with only 1 species of - known Koala food tree present in the canopy

0 (low) None of the above -

Habitat connectivity +2 (high) Area is part of a contiguous landscape >500 ha -

+1 (medium Area is part of a contiguous landscape < 500 ha, - but > 300 ha

0 (low) None of the above 0

Key existing threats +2 (low) Little or no evidence of Koala mortality from - vehicle strike or dog attack at present in areas that score 1 or 21 for Koala occurrence

+1 (medium) Evidence of infrequent or irregular Koala - mortality from vehicle strike or dog attack at present in areas that score 1 or 2 for Koala occurrence

0 (high) None of the above 0

Recovery value +2 (high) Habitat is likely to be important for achieving the - interim recovery objectives for the relevant context, as outlined in Table 1 (Department of the Environment 2013)

+1 (medium Uncertainty exists as to whether the habitat is - important for achieving the interim recovery objectives for the relevant context, as outlined in Table 1 (Department of the Environment 2013)

0 (low) Habitat is unlikely to be important for achieving 0 the interim recovery objectives for the relevant context, as outlined in Table 1 (Department of the Environment 2013)

Total score +2

G-126 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Note: 1: Impact areas that score five or more using the habitat assessment tool for the Koala contain habitat critical to the survival of the Koala. Impact areas that score four or less using the Koala habitat assessment tool are not considered to contain habitat critical to the survival of the Koala (Department of the Environment 2013).

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable, not part of an important population see above.

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population of the species

Not applicable, not part of an important population see above.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Not applicable, not part of an important population see above.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of Environment 2013).

The relatively small area of potential habitat likely to be affected (0.42 ha) represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat would not be considered critical to the survival of this species.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable, not part of an important population see above.

Will the action modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline?

The proposal would remove approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species. It is not expected that the action will significantly modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat for the Koala to cause the species to decline. The survey area is located immediately adjacent to the Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest which contains similar and higher quality habitat than that contained within the survey area. This species is known to be highly mobile in which to seek out preferable feeding resources and the survey area would represent a small portion of this foraging area. The relatively small area of potential habitat likely to be affected represents a small component of locally occurring resources that would be accessible to this highly mobile species. Therefore, the removal of about 0.42 ha of potential habitat, is unlikely to cause the Koala to decline.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-127 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species´ habitat

It is not likely that invasive species (such as introduced predators) that are potentially harmful to the Koala would become further established as a result of the proposal.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

No. It is not likely that disease would be increased by the action.

Will the action interfere with the recovery of the species?

The NSW Recovery plan for the Koala (Department of Environment and Climate Change 2008) addresses the need for further ecological research on the species and the conservation and protection of roosting habitat and identification of specific breeding requirements. Specific objectives of the Koala recovery plan include:

„ conserving koalas in their existing environment;

„ rehabilitating and restoring koala habitat and populations;

„ developing a better understanding of the conservation biology of koalas;

„ ensuring the community has access to factual information about the distribution, conservation and management of koalas at a national, state and local scale;

„ managing captive, sick or injured koalas and orphaned wild koalas to ensure consistent and high standards of care;

„ managing overbrowsing to prevent both koala starvation and ecosystem damage in discrete patches of habitat; and

„ coordinating, promoting of implementation, and monitoring of the effectiveness of the NSW Koala Recovery Strategy across NSW.

Based on the potential ecological impacts of the proposal, the limited and largely low quality habitat likely to be affected, and the better quality habitat in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

The survey area is located in a previously disturbed area associated with the existing M1 motorway, with a relatively small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of vegetation likely to be affected. An abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat occurs in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and wider locality. While the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of suitable habitat for this species, given that the proposal is generally restricted to previously disturbed areas associated with the existing M1 motorway, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposal is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Koala.

G-128 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

24. Microchiropteran bats

Microchiropteran bats fall into two broad groups based on their roosting requirements, cave-dwelling species and hollow-dwelling species. Each group will be dealt with separately within the following test of significance, due to their different roosting habitat preferences.

24.1 Hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats

The following hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats were considered have potential foraging and roosting habitat within the survey area:

„ Eastern False Pipistrelle (Falsistrellus tasmanienisis)

„ Eastern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis)

„ Greater Broad-nosed Bat (Scoteanax rueppellii)

„ Yellow-bellied Sheathtail Bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris)

These species have been assessed as a guild because of their similarity in habitat usage and habits, which are described in Table 24.1.

Table 24.1 Details of threatened species of hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bat

Hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats

Common Name (Scientific Threats Habitat and Distribution TSC EPBC Name) Act1 Act

Eastern False Pipistrelle Its population and Distribution Usually roosts in tree hollows V are suspected to be reduced. in higher rainfall forests. (Falsistrellus tasmaniensis) It faces severe threatening Sometimes found in caves processes. (Jenolan area) and abandoned buildings It is an ecological specialist (it (Churchill 2008). depends on particular types of diet or habitat).

Eastern Freetail-bat Vulnerable to loss of tree Thought to live in Sclerophyll V (Mormopterus norfolkensis) hollows and loss of feeding forest and woodland. Small grounds by forestry activities, colonies have been found in clearing for agriculture and tree hollows or under loose housing. Its population is bark. It feeds on insects above suspected to have been the forest canopy or in reduced. It is an ecological clearings at the forest edge specialist and depends on (Churchill 2008). particular types of diet or habitat (Churchill 2008).

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-129 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Hollow-dwelling microchiropteran bats

Common Name (Scientific Threats Habitat and Distribution TSC EPBC Name) Act1 Act

Yellow-bellied Sheath-tail Bat This species is widespread V through tropical Australia and (Saccolaimus flaviventris) migrates to southern Australia in summer. Occurs in eucalypt forest where it feeds above the canopy and in mallee or open country where it feeds closer to the ground. Generally a solitary species but sometimes found in colonies of up to 10. It roosts and breeds in tree hollows but has also been recorded roosting under exfoliating bark, in burrows of terrestrial mammals, in soil cracks and under slabs of rock and in the nests of bird and sugar gliders (Churchill 2008).

Greater Broad-nosed Bat Its population is suspected to The preferred hunting areas of V (Scoteanax rueppellii) have been reduced. this species include tree-lined creeks and the ecotone of It is an ecological specialist (it woodlands and cleared depends on particular types paddocks but it may also of diet or habitat). forage in rainforest. Typically it forages at a height of 3-6 metres but may fly as low as one metre above the surface of a creek. It feeds on beetles, other large, slow-flying insects and small vertebrates. It generally roosts in tree hollows but has also been found in the roof spaces of old buildings (Churchill 2008).

Key: 1: V = Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Specific impacts:

Suitable habitat for hollow-dwelling microbats was identified in the survey area (84.82 ha). Approximately 12.52 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.33 ha) and regrowth (12.1 ha) habitats.

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for hollow-dwelling microbats was identified in the survey area. Approximately 12.52 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.33 ha) and regrowth (12.1 ha) habitats. The proposal area largely only contained poor quality habitat in that approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings.

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of

G-130 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

the existing road corridor. The survey area has previously been disturbed for the construction of the existing M1 Motorway. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for hollow-dwelling microbat habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potential foraging habitat for these species. However, approximately 12.1 ha essentially occurred as low quality potential foraging habitat (regrowth and planted native vegetation) positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 12.52 ha of potential habitat is likely to be affected, including 12.1 ha that essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor, along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given these species’ high mobility and that similar and likely more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

A relatively small (12.52 ha) linear area of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal. Foraging opportunities occurring in the survey area, including ecotonal zones, will continue to exist and an abundance of similar and better quality foraging opportunities will be retained both within the survey area and wider locality; particularly including the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-131 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Ourimbah State Forest. Owing to the relatively small extent of potential habitat to be affected and high mobility of these species, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the long-term survival of populations in the locality, although the loss of such habitat must be considered to be an incremental loss of local habitat.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for any microchiropteran bat to date. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 12.52 ha of potentially suitable habitat (including 12.1 ha of regrowth habitat within and immediately adjacent previously disturbed areas) would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for threatened hollow-dwelling microbats under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat has been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat. In the interim, the Office of Environment and Heritage have identified 16 management actions for the Eastern False Pipistrelle, Greater Broad-nosed Bat and Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat (refer Table 24.2). The proposal is not likely to affect any of these management actions.

Table 24.2 Management actions for threatened hollow-dwelling microbats

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Ensure the largest hollow bearing trees (including dead trees) are given highest priority for No retention in PVP assessments or other land assessment tools

Prepare EIA guidelines which address the retention of hollow bearing trees maintaining diversity of No age groups, species diversity, and structural diversity. Give priority to largest hollow bearing trees

Investigate the effectiveness of logging prescriptions No

Undertake long-term monitoring of populations cross tenure in conjunction with other bat species No to document changes

Identify the effects of fragmentation in a range of fragmented landscapes e.g. cleared Tableland No landscapes. For example genetic isolation, movement and persistence across a range of fragment sizes

Study the ecology, habitat requirements and susceptibility to logging and other forestry practices of No this little-known species

Identify areas of private land that contain high densities of large hollow-bearing trees as areas of No high conservation value (HCV) planning instruments and land management negotiations e.g. LEP, CAPs, PVPs

Promote the conservation of these HCV private land areas using measures such as incentive No funding to landholders, off-setting and biobanking, acquisition for reserve establishment or other means

Develop and promote State-wide bat awareness programs for schools, CMAs, landholders and No

G-132 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal industry groups etc

Research the effectiveness of rehabilitation measures intended to increase bat populations in No degraded landscapes, such as revegetating and installing bat boxes

Quantify any benefits to local bat populations from reducing the impact of insect pests on No commercial crops

Ensure the Code of Practice for private native forestry includes adequate measures to protect No large, hollow-bearing trees and viable numbers of recruit trees

Research the roosting ecology of tree-roosting bats. For example identifying the attributes of key No roosts

Research the degree of long-term fidelity to roost trees and roosting areas in order to assess their No importance and the effects of their removal

Identify important foraging range and key habitat components for this species No

Research the effect of different burning regimes No

Undertake a systematic survey of productive coastal river valleys to quantify the importance of No private land relative to public lands (Greater Broad-nosed Bat only)

Raise awareness of the effects of pesticides (Greater Broad-nosed Bat, Yellow-bellied Sheathtail- No bat)

Study the susceptibility of this to pesticide accumulation (Greater Broad-nosed Bat, Yellow-bellied No Sheathtail-bat)

Research to quantify any benefits of local bat populations to reducing the impact of insect pests on No commercial crops

Use radio-tracking to identify important foraging range and help interpret density of records No (Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat)

Study the Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat biology such as reproductive capacity, longevity, mortality No rate and life history, or thermal and energy requirements to better determine capacity to respond to changes in climate or recover from losses in the population

Establish a community program to encourage the reporting of roost trees (Yellow-bellied No Sheathtail-bat)

Research the potential for long distance/seasonal movement (Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat) No

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Eastern Freetail-bat is listed as data deficient species. There are approximately 180 or 18% of NSW listed threatened species allocated to the data-deficient species management stream, including the 72 species that are presumed extinct. There is insufficient information available on these species to allocate them to another management stream. One research action identified to address priority knowledge gaps in order to develop an appropriate management approach for this species, being conduct targeted survey of the species’ known habitat and census all populations. Eighteen state-wide conservation management actions have been identified for this species and are outlined below in Table 24.3. The proposal is not likely to affect this identified research or state wide conservation management actions.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-133 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Table 24.3 State wide Management Actions for Eastern Freetail-bat

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Ensure the largest hollow bearing trees, inc. dead trees and paddock trees, are given No highest priority for retention in PVP assessments. Offsets should include remnants in high productivity.

Prepare EIA guidelines which address the retention of hollow bearing trees maintaining No diversity of age groups, species diversity, structural diversity. Give priority to largest hollow bearing trees.

Investigate the effectiveness of logging prescriptions. No

Undertake long-term monitoring of populations cross tenure in conjunction with other bat No species to document changes.

Identify the effects of fragmentation in a range of fragmented landscapes i.e. the No farmland/forest interface and the urban/forest interface e.g. movement and persistence across a range of fragment sizes.

Study the ecology, habitat requirements and susceptibility to logging and other forestry No practices of this little-known species.

Identify areas of private land that contain high densities of large hollow-bearing trees as No areas of high conservation value planning instruments and land management negotiations e.g. LEP, CAPs, PVPs.

Promote the conservation of these private land areas using measures such as incentive No funding to landholders, off-setting and biobanking, acquisition for reserve establishment or other means.

Develop and promote State-wide bat awareness programs for schools, CMAs, No landholders and industry groups etc.

Research the effectiveness of rehabilitation measures intended to increase bat No populations in degraded landscapes, such as revegetating and installing bat boxes.

Quantify any benefits of local bat populations to reducing the impact of insect pests on No commercial crops. .

Ensure the Code of Practice for private native forestry includes adequate measures to No protect large, hollow-bearing trees and viable numbers of recruit trees. .

Research the roosting ecology of tree-roosting bats. For example identifying the attributes No of key roosts. .

Research the degree of long-term fidelity to roost trees and roosting areas in order to No assess their importance and the effects of their removal.

Identify important foraging range and key habitat components for this species. No

Identify the susceptibility of the species to pesticides. No

Better define species distribution through survey in coastal lowlands on- and off-reserve. No

Research the effect of different burning regimes. No

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to threatened hollow-dwelling microbats, the proposal is consistent with two KTPs, being clearing of native vegetation and removal of dead wood and trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing

G-134 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small at 12.52 ha, of which 12.1 ha is essentially occurred as regrowth and planted native vegetation positioned along the road verges, median strip and road cuttings of the existing road corridor. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential foraging habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species. As a result of the proposal, these KTPs are not likely to significantly affect hollow-dwelling microbats in the locality. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a relatively small amount (approximately 12.52 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. The majority of the proposal area only contained poor quality habitat, in that approximately 12.1 ha of potential habitat likely to be affected consisted of regrowth and planted native vegetation associated with road verges, median strip and cuttings of the existing road corridor. Microhabitat foraging opportunities, such as ecotonal edges that occur within the proposal area will continue to exist and an abundance of higher quality habitat will be retained within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of these species, and although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on threatened hollow-dwelling microbats.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-135 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

24.2 Cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats

The following cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats were considered to be limited to foraging potential only within the survey area, due to the lack of suitable cave roosting opportunities:

„ Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri)

„ Little Bentwing-at (Miniopterus australis)

„ Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis)

„ Southern Myotis (Myotis macropus)

„ Eastern Cave Bat (Vesadelus troughtoni)

These species have been assessed as a guild because of their similarity in habitat usage and habits, which are described in Table 24.4.

Table 24.4 Details of threatened cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats

Cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats

Common Name Threats Habitat and Distribution TSC EPBC Act Act (Scientific Name)

Large-eared Pied Bat Clearing and isolation of Occurs in moderately wooded habitats V V forest and woodland and roosts in caves, mine tunnels and the (Chalinolobus dwyeri) habitats near cliffs, caves abandoned, bottle-shaped mud nests of and old mine workings for Fairy Martins. Thought to forage below agriculture, forestry or the forest canopy for small flying insects development. (Churchill 2008). Damage to roosting and maternity sites from mining operations and recreational caving activities. Use of pesticides.

Southern Myotis Found in most habitat types in V (Myotis macropus) association with streams and permanent waterways usually at low elevations in flat or undulating landscapes from northern areas of Western Australia, and the Northern Territory, down the entire east coast and the southern coast of Australia to just west of the Victoria/South Australia border and inland along the Murray River. Roosts in caves, tree hollows, in clumps of dense vegetation (e.g. Pandanus), mines, tunnels, under bridges, road culverts and stormwater drains often in abandoned, intact Fairy Martin nests. Roost sites are strongly associated with bodies of water where this species commonly feeds on aquatic insects, shrimp and small fish at the water surface, however, aerial foraging for other insects is also known(Churchill 2008). Breeding habitat likely to coincide with roosting habitat (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

G-136 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Cave-dwelling microchiropteran bats

Common Name Threats Habitat and Distribution TSC EPBC (Scientific Name) Act Act

Little Bent-wing Bat The species is an Feeds on small insects beneath the V ecological specialist (it canopy of well-timbered habitats (Miniopterus australis) depends on particular including rainforest, Melaleuca swamps types of diet or habitat) and and dry Sclerophyll forests. Roosts in it concentrates (individuals caves and tunnels and has specific within populations of the requirements for nursery sites. species congregate or Distribution becomes coastal towards the aggregate at specific southern limit of its range in NSW. locations). Nesting sites are in areas where limestone mining is preferred (Strahan 1995).

Eastern Bent-wing Bat Loss of habitat, feral Distributed across the east coast of V predators such as cats and Australia, rests in caves, old mines, (Miniopterus foxes, disturbances of stormwater channels and comparable schreibersii) winter roosts, relies on very structures including occasional buildings few nursery caves at high (Dwyer 1998),. Typically found in well- density (Dwyer 1998). timbered valleys where it forages, above tree canopy on small insects (Churchill 2008).

Eastern Cave Bat A cave-dwelling species found in eastern V (Vespadelus Australia from Cape York to NSW. They troughtoni) inhabit tropical mixed woodland and wet sclerophyll forests on the coast and the dividing range, but extend into drier forests on the western slopes (Churchill 1998). Breeding habitat includes caves, rocky outcrops, cliffs, scarps and old mine workings. Roosting habitat includes breeding habitat types and very small crevices in rocky areas or boulder piles or old mine workings and Fairy martin nests. Foraging habitat includes suitable native vegetation within 5km of breeding habitat (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

Specific impacts

Suitable habitat for cave-dwelling microbats was identified in the survey area; however no preferred roosting habitat was identified in the survey area for these species. Approximately 12.52 ha of foraging habitat, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) habitats.

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for cave-dwelling microbats was identified in the survey area; however no preferred roosting habitat was identified in the survey area for these species. Approximately 12.52 ha of foraging habitat, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) habitats. These species often prefer to forage along the ecotonal edges between open and wooded habitats and these types of foraging opportunities will continue to exist throughout the survey and proposal area.

While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable foraging habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-137 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

interface of the existing road corridor. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for cave-dwelling microbat habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of suitable foraging habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

Approximately 12.52 ha of foraging habitat only, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal; comprising woodlands (0.08 ha), heath (0.34 ha) and regrowth (12.10 ha) habitats. These species often prefer to forage along the ecotonal edges between open and wooded habitats and these types of foraging opportunities will continue to exist throughout the survey and proposal area. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for cave-dwelling microbat habitation.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action\

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 12.52 ha of suitable foraging habitat only is likely to be affected. Vegetation removal will largely be limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given these species’ high mobility and that similar and likely more significant habitat occurs widely in the locality, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

A relatively small (12.52 ha) linear area of suitable foraging habitat only is likely to be affected by the proposal. Important habitat features, such as caves, suitable for roosting or breeding requirements were not observed in the survey area during field surveys. Foraging opportunities occurring in the survey area, including ecotonal zones, will continue to exist and an abundance of similar and better quality foraging

G-138 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

opportunities will be retained both within the survey area and wider locality; particularly including the Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Owing to the relatively small extent of suitable foraging habitat to be affected and the high mobility of these species, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the long-term survival of populations in the locality; although the loss of such habitat must be considered an incremental loss of local habitat.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for any microchiropteran bat to date. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 12.52 ha of suitable foraging habitat only would be affected by the proposal. As such, is not considered critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for threatened cave-dwelling microbats under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Eastern Cave Bat has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. In the interim, the Office of Environment and Heritage have identified 13 management actions for the Eastern Cave Bat (refer Table 24.5). The proposal is not likely to affect any of these management actions.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat has been assigned as a site managed species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage has proposed four management site for the Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat, including:

„ Willi Willi (Armidale, Dumaresq/ Kempsey) (Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat)

„ Drum Cave (Goulburn, Palerang, Shoalhaven, Upper Lachlan) (Eastern Bentwing-bat only)

„ Church Cave (Gundgai, Harden, Tumut) (Eastern Bentwing-bat only)

„ Hibernacular sites (Eastern Bentwing-bat only)

The proposal does not occur in proximity to these proposed management sites and the proposal is not likely to adversely affect any of the recovery actions of the Little Bentwing-bat or Eastern Bentwing-bat.

The Large-eared Pied Bat is listed as data-deficient species as part of the Saving Our Species Program with three research actions identified to address priority knowledge gaps in order to develop an appropriate management approach for this species:

„ Investigate the environmental features that predict occupancy

„ Investigate habitat features that influence selection of maternity roost sites

„ Investigate fidelity of local populations to roosting cave(s). The proposal is not likely to affect these research actions. In addition to the research actions 17 state wide conservation actions have also been identified (refer

Table 24.6) and proposal is unlikely to affect these actions.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-139 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Table 24.5 Management actions for the Eastern Cave Bat

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Identify the effects of fragmentation on the species in a range of fragmented landscapes such as No the farmland/forest interface. For example movement and persistence across a range of fragment sizes

Prepare EIA guidelines which address the retention of hollow bearing trees maintaining diversity of No age groups, species diversity, and structural diversity. Give priority to largest hollow bearing trees

Identify and protect natural roost habitat such as caves and overhangs No

Promote roosting habitat in new artificial structures within the species range No

Identify the susceptibility of the species to pesticides No

Study the ecology, habitat requirements and susceptibility to logging and other forestry practices of No this little-known species

Restrict access where possible to known maternity sites. (e.g. signage; bat-friendly, preferably No external, gating of caves)

Monitor the breeding success of a representative sample of maternity colonies in roosts over a No number of years to determine the viability of regional populations

Measure the genetic population structure among roosts of maternity colonies to estimate dispersal No and genetic isolation, and thus vulnerability of regional populations to extinction

Promote bats throughout the rural community as ecologically interesting and important, but No sensitive to disturbance at caves/overhangs

Control feral goats in rock overhangs and caves in the species range No

Identify important foraging range and key habitat components for this species No

Survey areas of potential habitat No

Table 24.6 State wide conservation management actions for Large-eared Pied Bat

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Ensure protection of caves and overhangs in area of suitable geology when undertaking PVP No assessments (offsets should include nearby remnants in high productivity) or other land assessment tools.

Prepare EIA guidelines which address the retention of hollow bearing trees maintaining diversity of No age groups, species diversity, structural diversity. Give priority to largest hollow bearing trees.

Identify the effects of fragmentation on the species in a range of fragmented landscapes such as No the farmland/forest interface. For example movement and persistence across a range of fragment sizes. .

Identify and protect roost habitat artificial structures (eg culverts, old buildings and derelict mines). No

Undertake long-term monitoring of populations cross tenure in conjunction with other bat species No to document changes.

Identify the susceptibility of the species to pesticides. No

Undertake a targeted survey to determine distribution and status in parts of their range, such as No the western edge of range.

G-140 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Determine location and attributes of maternity sites and restrict access where possible. (e.g. No signage; bat-friendly, preferably external, gating of caves).

Restrict access where possible to known maternity sites (e.g. signage; bat-friendly, preferably No external, gating of caves).

Measure the genetic population structure among roosts of maternity colonies to estimate dispersal No and genetic isolation, and thus vulnerability of regional populations to extinction.

Promote bats throughout the rural community as ecologically interesting and important, but No sensitive to disturbance at caves/overhangs.

Control feral goats in rock overhangs and caves in the species range. No

Identify important foraging range and key habitat components for this species. No

Study the ecology, habitat requirements and population dynamics. No

Determine suitable geology for roosting habitat for this species. No

Implement key threat abatement actions for longwall mining. No

Research the effect of different burning regimes. No

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 37 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to threatened cave-dwelling microbats, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered relatively small at 12.52 ha. Although the proposal will represent the loss of suitable foraging habitat, such habitat would only be a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species. As a result of the proposal, this KTP is not likely to significantly affect cave-dwelling microbats in the locality. A threat abatement plan has not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

The Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat were recorded in the survey area during recent surveys via Anabat recordings. Furthermore, suitable habitat for cave-dwelling microbats was identified in the survey area; however no preferred roosting habitat was identified therein. Approximately 12.52 ha of suitable foraging habitat, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal. While it is estimated that a relatively small area of suitable foraging habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Microhabitat foraging opportunities, such as ecotonal edges that occur within the proposal area will continue to exist and an abundance of higher quality habitat will be retained within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Although the proposal will represent the loss of suitable foraging habitat in the locality, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have significant impact on these species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-141 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

24.3 EPBC Act significance assessment for Large-eared Pied Bat

The Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range. Is this part of an important population?

The Large-eared Pied Bat occurs across a wide range of different vegetation contexts, from rainforest edges and the wet sclerophyll forests of the coast and ranges to dry woodlands and Callitris pine dominant woodlands west of the divide. What is of most importance to this species is the presence of escarpments and rocky outcroppings in association with the above vegetation types, which provide caves and crevices for roosting and breeding purposes. The survey area provided no such roosting/breeding opportunities, although these habitats do occur in the wider locality. Although the survey area does provide foraging opportunities, due to the presence of insect attracting canopy foliage, such habitat occurs widely within the vicinity of the survey area and the wider locality. As a consequence, foraging resources within the proposal area are not considered critical to maintaining populations.

Potential occurrences of this species within the survey area are not at the limits of the species’ distribution and as such the proposal area can only be considered to represent a part of the foraging range of widely occurring individuals. For these reasons, if present within the proposal area, individuals of this species would not be considered to be part of an important population.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Large-eared Pied Bat potentially occurring in the proposal area are not considered to be part of an important population.

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population

Not applicable. Large-eared Pied Bat potentially occurring in the proposal area are not considered to be part of an important population.

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Not applicable. Large-eared Pied Bat potentially occurring in the proposal area are not considered to be part of an important population.

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

G-142 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of Environment 2013).

The proposal would remove approximately 12.52 ha of suitable foraging habitat only for this species. As no important habitat features, such as caves, were identified in the survey area, this would not meet the above criteria.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Large-eared Pied Bat potentially occurring in the proposal area are not considered to be part of an important population.

Modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal is only likely to affect approximately 12.52 ha of potentially suitable foraging habitat only. As no important habitat features, such as caves, were identified in the proposal area, the proposal is not likely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat

The proposal is not likely to increase the likelihood of an invasive species becoming established in the habitat of the Large-eared Pied Bat.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

The proposal is not likely to increase the likelihood of a disease becoming established or proliferating in a local population that would result in a decline of the Large-eared Pied Bat.

Interfere substantially with the recovery of the species

Due to the limited foraging habitat likely to be affect by the proposal (about 12.52 ha) and as no roosting or breeding habitat was identified within the proposal area, the proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

Conclusion

The Large-eared Pied Bat forages across a wide range of vegetation types, potentially including those within the survey area. However, the presence of escarpment and rocky outcrop habitats in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, which offer roosting and breeding caves/crevices are of prime importance to the viability and maintenance of ‘important populations’ and these habitat attributes did not occur within the proposal. Although a relatively small area (approximately 12.52 ha) of potentially suitable foraging habitat will likely be affected, there is an abundance of similar or higher quality habitat in the locality; particularly including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. As a consequence, potentially suitable foraging habitat to be removed is not considered to be significant to this species. Therefore, Large-eared Pied Bat is not likely to be significantly affected by the proposal.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-143 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

25. Pale-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bitorquatus)

Status

The Pale-headed Snake is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Description

The Pale-Headed Snake is a medium-sized largely tree-dwelling snake to 90 cm long. It is a uniform light brown or grey above with a white or cream band on the nape, bordered by a narrow blackish bar which may be solid, or broken in the middle. The top of the head is grey, and may have a series of black spots, which are most prominent along the edge of the white nape. The lips may have black vertical bars. The belly is creamy grey sometimes with darker flecks (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

Distribution

It has a patchy distribution from north-east Queensland to north-east NSW. In NSW it occurs from the coast to the western side of the Great Divide as far south as Tuggerah.

Habitat and ecology

The species is found mainly in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands, cypress woodland and occasionally in rainforest or moist eucalypt forest. It favours streamside areas, particularly in drier habitats. It is known to shelter during the day between loose bark and tree-trunks, or in hollow trunks and limbs of dead trees (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

This snake eats a variety of vertebrates, particularly tree-dwelling species, including frogs, geckos, skinks and bats. Examination of museum specimens revealed that frogs were the most common prey item (77 per cent of 26 prey items). Pale-headed Snakes hunt out in the open at night: however during the day they may remain active within their shelter and ambush other creatures also taking refuge.

Mating behaviour has been observed mostly in captive individuals. Behaviour interpreted as courtship took place in both spring (October) and autumn (April), and actual mating in spring (September), summer (February) and autumn (March, May). In the wild, females with very large follicles have been found in mid- spring (October) and gravid females have been found in early summer (January). The species is live- bearing, and give birth to between 2 and 11 young measuring around 26-27 cm long.

Threats

Threats to the Pale-headed Snake include:

„ clearing and fragmentation of habitat

„ forestry practices which result in loss of old or dead trees

„ too frequent burning for fuel reduction or grazing management which destroys old and dead trees and removes understorey vegetation

„ illegal collection of snakes from the wild (Office of Environment and Heritage 2011).

Specific impacts

The Pale-headed Snake was not recorded during surveys informing this report. However, approximately 52.84 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the survey area, which was commensurate with woodland (13.95 ha) and heath (38.89 ha) habitat types. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat will be impacted by the proposal.

G-144 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

25.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for the Pale-headed Snake was identified in the survey area. While this species was not recorded during field surveys informing this report, it is assumed that the species is likely to be present in suitable habitat due to its cryptic habits. Approximately 0.42 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal. While it is estimated that a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for Pale-headed Snake habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of these species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-145 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The extent of potential habitat to be affected represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape; particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. The area of potential habitat to be removed is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival of the Pale-Headed Snake as it is small in relation to the extent of available habitat that occurs in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

No critical habitat has been listed for the Pale-headed Snake to date. It is estimated that approximately 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal: Suitable habitat occurring in the proposal area is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

There is no recovery plan for the Pale-headed Snake as produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Pale-headed Snake has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Spotted-tailed Quoll. In the interim, the following 13 management actions have been identified for this species Table 25.1.

Table 25.1 Management Actions for Pale-headed Snake

Management Actions Likely to be affected by the proposal

Encourage the community (via incentives) to implement habitat rehabilitation and protection No (especially of dead and mature trees).

Ensure the Threatened Species Hazard Reduction List is updated with the requirements of this No species and that personnel undertaking burns are aware of its presence and fire sensitivity.

Develop EIA guidance for consent and determining authorities with regard to development and No other activities.

Audit the success of and improve IFOA prescriptions. No

Implement management strategies that reduce disturbance and recover riparian areas within the No range of the species on the western slopes and plains.

Retain, rehabilitate or create corridors to reduce isolation between sub-populations. No

Identify two targeted populations (per year over initial three years) and focus recovery actions No there, applying adaptive management strategies to determine and ameliorate threats.

Conduct further research into the ecology and habitat requirements of the species in NSW. No

Address the threat of illegal collection. No

Develop management strategies for water flow regimes to sustain riparian habitat. No

G-146 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Management Actions Likely to be affected by the proposal

Review / include operational guidelines for Warrumbungles NP, Pilliga NR, Pilliga West, Kilarney No and Merriwindi CCA's Reserve Fire Management Strategies to protect this species habitat from fire (add prescription if known).

Provide map of known occurrences to Rural Fire Service and seek inclusion of mitigative No measures on Bush Fire Risk Management Plan(s), risk register and/or operation map(s).

Reserve Fire Management Strategy to include operational guidelines to protect this species from No fire.

The Office of Environment and Heritage has identified management action which will be interfered with by the proposal, being the retention hollow-bearing trees.

Owing to the small area of potential habitat for the Pale-Headed Snake to be removed (0.42 ha) and the extent of similar or greater quality habitat within the surrounding landscape, the proposal is not likely to interfere substantially with the recovery of this species.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

With respect to the Pale-headed Snake, the proposal is consistent with two key threatening processes, being clearing of native vegetation and loss of hollow-bearing trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered small in terms of the available habitat for these species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Thus, although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Pale- headed Snake.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-147 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

26. Stephen’s Banded Snake (Hoplocephalus stephensii)

Status

The Stephen’s Banded Snake is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

Coast and Ranges from southern Queensland to Gosford NSW.

Description

Stephens' Banded Snake is a medium-sized partly tree-dwelling snake up to one metre long. It is brown or yellow-brown above, with a series of irregular, broad, dark cross bands. The head is black with a brown crown and a brown or cream patch on either side of the nape and the lips are barred with black and cream (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

The Stephen’s Banded Snake can be found in rainforest and eucalypts forests and rocky areas up to 950m in altitude. The species is nocturnal, and shelters between loose bark and tree trunks, amongst vines, or in hollow trunk limbs, rock crevices or under slabs during the day. At night it hunts for frogs, lizards, birds and small mammals (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Threats

Identified threats to the Stephen’s Banded Snake (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014) include:

„ Clearing and fragmentation of habitat

„ Forestry practices which result in loss of old or dead trees

„ Too frequent burning or fuel reduction or grazing management which destroys old and dead trees and removes understorey vegetation.

„ Illegal collection of snake from the wild.

Potential impacts

The Pale-headed Snake was not recorded during surveys informing this report. However, approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the proposal area, commensurate with woodland (0.08 ha) and heath (0.33 ha) habitat types and may be impacted by the proposal.

26.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for Stephen’s Banded Snake was identified in the survey area. While this species was not recorded during field surveys informing this report, it is assumed that the species is likely to be present in suitable habitat due to its cryptic habits. Approximately 0.42 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal. While it is estimated that a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for Stephen’s Banded Snake

G-148 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species.

ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The extent of potential habitat to be affected represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape; particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. The area of potential habitat to be removed is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival of Stephen’s Banded Snake as it is small in relation to the extent of habitat available in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Department of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for Stephen’s Banded Snake. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat within and

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-149 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

immediately adjacent previously disturbed areas would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

There is no recovery plan for Stephen’s Banded Snake as produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Stephen’s Banded Snake has been assigned as a landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Stephen’s Banded Snake. In the interim, the Office of Environment and Heritage have identified 13 management actions for Stephen’s Banded Snake (refer Table 26.1). The proposal is unlikely to affect any of the management actions.

Table 26.1 Management Actions for Stephen’s Banded Snake

Management Action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Develop models of preferred habitat. No

Determine Vegetation Associations. No

Reserve Fire management Strategy include operational guidelines to protect this No species from fire.

Develop a prescription for this species to be applied under relevant IFOAs. No

Investigate taxonomic or other differences between Northern and southern No populations.

Investigate ecological differences between Northern and Southern populations of No the species.

Establish a captive colony for breeding purposes in a number of facilities. No

Coordinate development and implementation of the recovery plans actions. No

Continue to assess the threats operating on the species and develop further No recovery strategies as necessary.

Monitor survey/study sites and assess any changes in measures of viability. No

Develop management strategies that protect, retain and perhaps augment stands No of native vegetation, connectivity between stands and retain stags or hollow bearing trees.

Develop a licensing policy on retaining this species in captivity under strict No guidance.

Design and implement an ecological burn (Dinner Creek) including habitat No requirements of the species in Demon Nature Reserve.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

With respect to Stephen’s Banded Snake, the proposal is consistent with two key threatening processes, being clearing of native vegetation and loss of hollow-bearing trees. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered small in terms of the available habitat for

G-150 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

these species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for these processes.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. Thus, although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on Stephen’s Banded Snake.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-151 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

27. Heath Monitor (Varanus rosenbergi)

Status

The Heath Monitor is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

Distribution

Rosenberg's Goanna occurs on the Sydney Sandstone in Wollemi National Park to the north-west of Sydney, in the Goulburn and ACT regions and near Cooma in the south. There are records from the South West Slopes near Khancoban and Tooma River. Also occurs in South Australia and Western Australia (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Habitat and ecology

The Heath Monitor is found in heath, open forest and woodland associated with termites, the mounds of which the species nests in. Termite mounds are a critical habitat component for this species. Individuals require large areas of habitat and feeds on carrion, birds, eggs, reptiles and small mammals. The species shelters in hollow logs, rock crevices and in burrows, which they may dig for themselves, or they may use other species' burrows, such as rabbit warrens (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2014).

Threats

The following threats have been identified by the Office of Environment and Heritage for this species:

„ Habitat loss and fragmentation as land is cleared for residential, agricultural and industrial developments.

„ Removal of habitat elements, such as termite mounds and fallen timber.

„ Animals are killed by moving vehicles - upgrading of dirt roads to bitumen, which increases the speed of through traffic, is likely to increase the instances of road kills.

„ Predation by cats and dogs. Potential impacts

The Heath Monitor was not recorded during surveys informing this report. However, approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the proposal area, commensurate with woodland (0.08 ha) and heath (0.33 ha) habitat types and maybe impacted by the proposal.

27.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Suitable habitat for the Heath Monitor was identified in the survey area, with approximately 0.42 ha, largely linear in shape, is likely to be affected by the proposal. While it is estimated that a small area of suitable habitat would be affected by the proposal, the majority of this is likely to result in a small encroachment on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Further, it is likely that an abundance of similar and potentially more significant habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest, which would be suitable for Heath Monitor habitation. Although the proposal will represent the loss of potential habitat, it is not likely to constitute important habitat that if impacted, would have an adverse affect on the life cycle of this species.

G-152 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

iv) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

v) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

vi) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is likely to affect approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat for this species.

vii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The majority of the proposal area occurs on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. Approximately 0.42 ha of potential foraging habitat is likely to be affected by the proposal with vegetation removal largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. As the proposal area is largely confined to previously disturbed areas, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat. Furthermore, given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

viii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The extent of potential habitat to be affected represents a small proportion of habitat available within the locality and surrounding landscape; particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest. The area of potential habitat to be removed is unlikely to be of critical importance to the long-term survival of the Heath Monitor as it is small in relation to the extent of habitat available in the locality.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Office of Environment and Heritage. No critical habitat has been listed for the Heath Monitor. Furthermore, it is estimated that about 0.42 ha of potentially suitable habitat within and immediately adjacent previously disturbed areas would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of this species.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-153 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

There is no recovery plan for the Heath Monitor as produced under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Heath Monitor has been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Heath Monitor. In the interim, the Office of Environment and Heritage have identified nine management actions for the Heath Monitor (refer Table 27.1). The proposal is unlikely to affect any of the management actions.

Table 27.1 Management Actions for Heath Monitor

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Undertake investigations into general biology and ecology of the species, particularly movement No patterns and tree use, rock crevice use and termitaria use.

Undertake investigations into taxonomic distinctions/genetic (DNA) differences between the No various forms of the ‘species’.

Identify key habitats or areas for protection and enhanced management on private land through No management agreements and incentives.

Identify suitable habitat across the range of the species with reference to satellite imagery and No vegetation surveys.

Undertake surveys for the species within identified suitable habitat. No

Develop habitat identification, management and enhancement guidelines. No

Implement management strategies that reduce the prevalence of bush rock removal, including No surveillance.

Develop and undertake community education strategy that reduces demand for bush rock as No landscaping material and provides/promotes alternatives.

Provide map of known occurrences to Rural Fire Service and seek protection of rocky outcrops No and riparian zones on Bush Fire Risk Management Plan(s), risk register and/or operation map(s).

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

With respect to the Heath Monitor, the proposal is consistent with one key threatening process, being clearing of native vegetation. The extent of native vegetation clearing and habitat removal associated with the proposal is considered small in terms of the available habitat for this species within the surrounding landscape, although it is considered to be an incremental loss of suitable habitat locally. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

The majority of the proposal area was confined to cleared and disturbed areas within and immediately adjacent to the exiting M1 Motorway corridor, with a small amount (approximately 0.42 ha) of habitat, largely linear in shape, likely to be affected. Thus, potential habitat likely to be affected by the proposal is considered to be of low importance to the long-term survival of this species; particularly in light of the abundance of higher quality habitat in the locality, including Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and

G-154 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Ourimbah State Forest. Thus, although the proposal would add incrementally to the loss of potentially suitable habitat in the locality, due to the linear nature of the proposed impacts, marginally widening an existing disturbed road corridor, it is not considered likely to have a significantly adverse affect on the Heath Monitor.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-155 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

28. Broad-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bungaroides)

Status

The Broad-headed Snake is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and Vulnerable under the EPBC Act.

Description

The Broad-headed Snake is generally black above with yellow spots forming narrow, irregular cross-bands. Other yellow scales may link these cross-bands laterally to form a straight or zigzagged stripe along the body. These cross-bands help distinguish it from the similar-looking but harmless juvenile Diamond Python. Its head is flattened on top and distinct from the body. The belly is grey or greyish-black. The average length is about 60 cm, with a maximum of around 150 cm (Webb 1996).

Distribution

The Broad-headed Snake is largely confined to Triassic and Permian sandstones, including the Hawkesbury, Narrabeen and Shoalhaven groups, within the coast and ranges in an area within approximately 250 km to south of Sydney and 100 km north of Sydney (Webb 1996).

Habitat and Ecology

The Broad-headed Snake is an aggressive nocturnal snake largely confined to the Hawkesbury Sandstone, where it is found on rock ridges under large rock slabs or in rock crevices. This species does occur in tree hollows especially in winter. This species bears live young with females with four to twelve borne in January to March. This species largely feeds on lizards and especially geckos, it will however eat small mammals and frogs (Webb and Shine 1994).

Threats

Being hit by vehicles, with increasing human use and vehicular traffic leading to many deaths of adults and youngs.

„ removal of bushrock from sandstone escarpments

„ unintentional or intentional killing of snakes discovered during bushrock collecting or other outdoor activities

„ illegal collection of individuals by reptile collectors

„ removal of large hollow-bearing trees adjacent to sandstone escarpments

„ damage to habitat by feral goats.

Specific impacts

This species was not recorded in the survey area during surveys informing this report. However, approximately 0.42 ha of potential habitat was recorded in the proposal area, commensurate with woodland (0.08 ha) and heath (0.34 ha) habitat types and may be impacted by the proposal.

G-156 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

28.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

There are sheltering opportunities for this species associated with the bush rocks and rock crevices present in the survey area and in the wider locality. There are large tracts of native vegetation (Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest) adjacent to the survey area which represents abundant foraging and sheltering opportunities for this species. It is expected that the proposal will impact approximately 0.42 ha of marginal potential foraging and sheltering habitat for this species. Furthermore, similar habitat opportunities will continue to exist throughout the survey area, particularly in adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest.

Therefore, the proposal is unlikely to cause significantly adverse affects upon the Broad-headed Snake, with minimal impacts upon marginal foraging and sheltering habitats). Similar foraging and sheltering habitat adjacent to the survey area will remain intact post-development.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

Potential foraging and sheltering habitat for the Broad-headed Snake was recorded within the survey area during field surveys. Approximately 0.42ha of potential foraging and sheltering habitat may be removed by the proposal. However, potential foraging ad sheltering habitat within the survey area is likely to represent only a small part of a greater home range for local species and as such is not of great significance, due to the abundance of habitat of similar or higher quality in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and in the wider locality.

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

While the majority of the survey area occurs within predominantly disturbed lands associated with the existing M1 Motorway, vegetation removal will be largely limited to areas of potential foraging habitat along the edges of existing breaks in vegetation associated with M1 motorway. As a consequence the proposal is unlikely to represent significant increases to habitat isolation and/or fragmentation, any further than what already is present within the survey area. .

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-157 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

The survey area provides a relatively small amount of potential foraging and sheltering habitat for this species, approximately 0.42ha of potential foraging and sheltering habitat may be impacted by the proposal. Furthermore, marginal quality foraging and sheltering habitat within the survey area will continue to exist and in addition to an abundance of similar and higher quality foraging opportunities within the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and in the wider locality. The proposal would not impact habitat considered critical to the long-term survival of populations in the locality and is unlikely to further create a barrier to movement for this species.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

Critical habitat refers to those areas of land listed in the Register of Critical Habitat kept by the Director General of Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. There are four listed critical habitats and three habitats pending finalisation to date. No critical habitat has been listed for any snake species to date. Furthermore, no habitat for the Broad-headed Sake would be affected by the proposal, and as such, is not considered critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

No recovery plan has been prepared for the Broad-headed Snake under the TSC Act.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Broad-headed Snake has been assigned as a site managed species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage has proposed three management sites for the Broad-headed Snake including:

„ Royal National Park at Sutherland south of Sydney

„ Woronora Plateau (Campbelltown/Shellharbour/Sutherland/Wingecarribee/Wollondilly/Wollongong)

„ Morton National Park (Shoalhaven)

The study area is not within the vicinity of any of the management sites for this species.

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

A Key Threatening process means a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities. Key threatening processes are listed under the TSC Act. At present there are 34 listed key threatening processes under the TSC Act.

With respect to the Broad-headed Snake, the proposal is consistent with one KTP, being clearing of native vegetation. This KTP is not likely to significantly affect this species in the locality given the relatively small area to be cleared (0.42ha) and the abundance of similar, higher quality habitat in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. A threat abatement plan has not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

G-158 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

While the survey area contains potential foraging and sheltering habitat for the Broad-headed Snake, approximately 0.42ha of marginal quality habitat may be disturbed by the proposal. Broad-headed Snake foraging and sheltering opportunities, such as rock ledges, crevices and bush rock, will remain available in the survey area (52.84 ha). Similarly, an abundance of similar and higher quality foraging/sheltering habitat will be retained within the wider locality in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland Sate Forest. Given that the proposal will be generally restricted to previously disturbed areas associated with eth existing M1 motorway and that vegetation removal will be a relatively small area, it is not likely to further fragment or isolate potential habitat for this species. Therefore, the proposed development is not likely to have a significantly adverse affect on this species.

28.2 EPBC Act significance assessment

The Broad-headed Snake is listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act The following assessment has been undertaken following the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 (Department of Environment 2013). Under the Act, important populations are:

„ likely to be key source populations either for breeding or dispersal

„ likely to be necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or

„ at or near the limit of the species range.

Is this part of an important population?

The Broad-headed Snake is largely confined to Triassic and Permian sandstones, including the Hawkesbury, Narrabeen and Shoalhaven groups, within the coast and ranges in an area within approximately 250 km of Sydney. What is of most importance to this species is the presence of escarpments, rock crevices and flat sandstone rocks on exposed cliff edges, which provide crevices for foraging and sheltering purposes. The survey area provides some rocky outcrop habitat, however these habitats also occur in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and greater region further afield. Although the site does provide potential foraging and sheltering habitat due to the presence of bush rocks and rocky outcrops, similar suitable habitat occurs widely within the vicinity of the survey area and the wider locality. As a consequence, foraging and sheltering habitat within the site are not considered critical to maintaining populations.

Potential occurrences of this species within the survey area are not at the limits of the species’ distribution and as such the site can only be considered to represent a part of the range of widely occurring individuals. For these reasons, if present within the site, individuals of this species would not be considered to be part of an important population.

An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will result in one or more of the following:

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

Not applicable. Broad-headed Snake in the survey area is not part of an important population (refer to above).

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population

Not applicable. Broad-headed Snake in the survey area is not part of an important population (refer to above).

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-159 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Not applicable. Broad-headed Snake in the survey area is not part of an important population (refer to above).

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species

No critical habitat is listed for this species under the EPBC Act.

Habitat critical to the survival of a species may also include areas that are not listed on the Register of Critical Habitat if they are necessary:

„ for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal

„ for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators)

„ to maintain genetic diversity and long-term evolutionary development, or

„ for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community (Department of Environment 2013).

The proposal may remove a relatively small amount of low quality foraging and sheltering habitat (0.42 ha) for this species, however an abundance of similar, higher quality habitat will remain available in the survey area (52.84 ha) and the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest.

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population

Not applicable. Broad-headed Snake in the survey area is not part of an important population (refer to above).

Modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No. The proposal may remove a relatively small area (approximately 0.42 ha) of marginal quality habitat for this species. An abundance of suitable higher quality habitat will be retained within the survey area (52.84 ha) and the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest. As such, the proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the availability of quality habitat for this species.

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat

The proposed development is not likely to increase the likelihood of an invasive species becoming established in the habitat of the Broad-headed Snake.

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline

The proposed development is not likely to increase the likelihood of a disease becoming established or proliferating in a local population that would result in a decline of the Broad-headed Snake.

Interfere substantially with the recovery of the species

Whilst suitable habitat was identified within the survey area and a relatively small area of marginal quality habitat may be removed by the proposal (0.42 ha) a substantial area of habitat will be retained within the survey area (52.84 ha). The proposal is unlikely to substantially interfere with the recovery of the species.

Conclusion

G-160 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

The Broad-headed Snake utilises rocky outcrops, rock ledges and crevices for foraging and sheltering. Suitable habitat for the Broad-headed Snake was identified within the survey area, however only a minimal area of marginal quality habitat will be impacted by the proposal. Furthermore, similar escarpment and rocky outcrop habitats will remain available to the species in the survey area (52.84 ha) and adjacent Brisbane Water National Park and Strickland State Forest, which offer an abundance of suitable foraging and sheltering crevices. Therefore, the Broad-headed Snake is not likely to be significantly affected by the proposal.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-161 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

29. Threatened invertebrates

Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly and the Giant Dragonfly have been grouped for assessment owing to similarities in ecology and habitat preferences. These two threatened invertebrates loosely share similar habitat preferences and threats that affect their recovery (refer Table 29.1). The Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly is listed as Endangered under both the TSC Act and FM Act and Giant Dragonfly is listed as Endangered under the FM Act.

Table 29.1 Details of threatened invertebrates

Common EPB TSC FM Habitat and Distribution Threats Name C Act Act Act

Adam's - - E Only five adults have ever been collected, and the The following threats Emerald species is only known from a few sites in the have been identified for Dragonfly greater Sydney region. Larvae have been found in this species: small creeks with gravel or sandy bottoms, in „ Habitat degradation narrow, shaded riffle zones with moss and rich riparian vegetation (Department of Environment „ Water pollution and and Conservation 2007). sedimentation

Adult dragonflies generally fly away from the water „ Natural disasters to mature before returning to breed. Males fly actively at breeding sites and often guard a territory. This species has a low natural rate of recruitment and limited dispersal abilities.

Giant - E E The Giant Dragonfly is found along the east coast The following threats Dragonfly of NSW from the Victorian border to northern NSW. have been identified for It is not found west of the Great Dividing Range. this species: There are known occurrences in the Blue „ Changes to natural Mountains and Southern Highlands, in the fire regimes Clarence River catchment, and on a few coastal swamps from north of Coffs Harbour to Nadgee in „ Loss of habitat and the south (NSW Office of Environment and habitat degradation Heritage 2014). „ Weed invasion, Found in permanent wetlands, both coastal and „ Damage to habitat upland (Department of Environment and by feral pigs and Conservation 2005). Adults spend majority of their domestic stock. time settled on low vegetation on adjacent to the swamp. The hunt for flying insects over the swamp „ Decreasing water and long its margins. Females lay eggs into moss, quality of swamps under other soft ground layer vegetation, and into „ Use of pesticides moist litter and humic soils, often associated with groundwater seepage areas within appropriate „ Changes to swamp swamp and bog habitats. The species does not hydrology utilise areas of standing water wetland, although it „ Overuse of walking may utilise suitable boggy areas adjacent to open trails and water wetlands (NSW Office of Environment and unauthorised use of Heritage 2014). off-road vehicles

„ Climate change

Specific impacts

Suitable habitat for Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly and Giant Dragonfly was identified in the proposal survey area. Important habitat features for these species including hanging swamps and small to medium sized creeks with gravel/sand substrate. However, the proposal is not likely to affect potential habitat for these species.

G-162 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

29.1 TSC Act significance assessment

In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly has only been recorded at four localities in NSW, with the proposal area occurring in proximity to one these locations, being the Somersby Falls site in the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park. Records for this species at sites near Gosford (Somersby Falls and Floods Creek, both of which occur in Brisbane Water National Park) are historic records (pre 1980) with no records post 1980. Within the survey are habitat features potentially suitable for this species were identified in the form of small to moderate sized creeks with gravel/sandy bottoms.

The Giant Dragonfly is found in permanent swamps and bogs along the east coast of NSW from the Victorian border to northern NSW, with known occurrences in the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands, in the Clarence River catchment, and a few coastal swamps from north of Coffs Harbour to Nadgee in the south. The Giant Dragonfly was not recorded in the survey during current surveys; although field surveys were completed outside the short-lived adult stage (October to late January) and the larval stage is cryptic that typically lasts for 10 years or more. Potentially suitable habitat identified within the survey area consisted of hanging swamp habitat.

The proposal is not likely to impact any potentially suitable habitat features identified within the survey area for these species. The limited vegetation removal associated with the proposal was linear in shape and largely encroached on previously disturbed habitat at the interface of the existing road corridor. Furthermore, it is likely that similar and potentially more substantial habitat would occur in the locality, particularly including the adjacent Brisbane Water National Park, Strickland State Forest and Ourimbah State Forest that would potentially be suitable for threatened dragonfly habitation. Therefore, as the proposal will not impact any habitat features potentially suitable for these species, it is not likely to have an adverse affect on any potentially occurring local population.

In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

i) is likely to have an adverse affect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

Not applicable.

ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Not applicable.

In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

iii) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed

The proposal is not likely to affect any habitat features identified as been potentially suitable for these species within the survey area.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-163 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

iv) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action

Habitat connectivity is not likely to be affected by the proposal. The proposal area occurred on previously disturbed land within and immediately adjacent to the existing M1 Motorway corridor. The limited vegetation removal associated with the proposal is largely limited to a linear widening of the existing road corridor over an approximate 8 km alignment. Thus, the proposal would not further fragment or isolate any previously undisturbed patches of habitat and given that the proposal would add incrementally to the width of an existing clearing, it is considered not likely that habitat would become further isolated or fragmented significantly beyond that currently existing in the survey area.

v) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality

It is not expected that any potential suitable habitat features for this species would be removed, modified or fragmented as a consequence of the proposal.

Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse affect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)

No critical habitat has been listed for Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly or the Giant Dragonfly to date and potentially suitable habitat features for these species identified within the survey are not expected to be affected by the proposal. Thus the proposal is not considered to have an adverse affect on habitat critical to the survival of these species.

Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan

There is no recovery plan for Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly or the Giant Dragonfly as produced under the FM Act or TSC Act.

The Department of Primary Industries has identified three conservation and recovery actions for Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly, including:

„ Rehabilitate degraded habitats. Protect riparian vegetation and encourage the use of effective erosion and sediment control measures in catchments where the dragonfly may occur

„ Protect the few remaining sites that still support the species, and address key threats such as habitat degradation and water quality decline from expanding development

„ Conduct further research into the species’ biology and distribution.

The proposal is not likely to interfere with the recovery of this species.

As part of the Saving Our Species program (SOS) being developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage the Giant Dragonfly has been assigned as landscape species. There are approximately 130 or 14% of threatened species in this management stream, these species are distributed across large areas, or they are highly mobile and threatened across the landscape by habitat loss and degradation. The Office of Environment and Heritage is currently developing a targeted approach for managing Landscape species such as the Giant Dragonfly. In the interim, 19 management actions have been identified for this species (refer Table 29.2). The proposal is not likely to interfere with any of the management actions for this species.

G-164 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Table 29.2 Management actions for the Giant Dragonfly

Management action Likely to be affected by the proposal

Identify and map potential habitat and undertake targeted survey to assess potential habitat for No presence of dragonfly

Research demographics, life history (duration of stages), habitat requirements and threatening No processes. Including a population genetic study

Develop and implement a monitoring program for adults and larvae across the species range No

Maintain gates and barriers to prevent vehicular, particularly recreational 4WD and trail bike, No access to fire trails that access swamps with records of this species

Prepare and distribute identification guide for this species to assist the survey actions No

Exclude pigs and cattle from areas containing actual and potential breeding habitat No

Control invasion of Pinus species into Penrose Swamp, at swamp habitat within or adjoining No Newnes SF and control weeds at sites adjoining urban areas or impacted by runoff from the Great Western Highway

Maintain ongoing coordination of the Blue Mountains multispecies recovery team No

Maintain hydrological regimes of swamp habitats and protect water flows and water quality. No Assess known sites for threats, monitor changes in site condition, and develop and implement strategies to address threats

Assess known sites for threats, monitor changes in site condition, and develop and implement No strategies to address threats

Ensure all bores and springs within the Blue Mountains LGA are mapped, licensed and have No meters installed to measure water use. Establish a ceiling on the number of bores in the Blue Mountains

Develop and implement strategies to reduce impacts of urban runoff on upland swamps. Impacts No include erosion and channelisation, sedimentation, changes in water quality and spread of weeds

Manage fire trails and unsealed roads to reduce sedimentation impacts on this species' habitat No

Undertake rehabilitation and restoration works as required on this species' habitat to repair No damage such as sedimentation, erosion and channelisation, as well as weed invasion

Liaise with relevant landholders at freehold sites containing this species about the significance of No this species and how best to manage it. Provide incentives to promote best practice management

Undertake a community education and involvement program in conjunction with existing landcare No and bushcare groups and other catchment based programs

Where impacts of bushwalkers or use of informal trails are a problem install signage that conveys No the significance of this species and the sensitive nature of its habitat

Assess the threat of changed hydrological regimes on the habitat of this species. Include the No impacts of increasing urbanisation, groundwater extraction, longwall mining and climate change into this assessment

Ensure that impacts of longwall mining on this species are assessed appropriately and where No possible avoided. Where they cannot be avoided then minimise and appropriately offset any damage to habitat

Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

With respect to Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly and the Giant Dragonfly, the proposal could be considered as not being consistent with one key threatening process, being the degradation of native riparian vegetation along

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-165 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

NSW water courses, which is listed as a KTP under the FM Act. Threat abatement plans have not been prepared for this process.

Conclusion

Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly is extremely rare, having only been collected in small numbers at a few sites in the greater Sydney region. One of those localities was Somersby Falls and Floods Creek in Brisbane Water National Park, near Gosford, which occurs adjacent to the proposal. However, records for this species within Brisbane Water National Park are historic (pre 1980) with no records post 1980. Although it is unlikely that a viable population of Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly exists within the survey area, habitat features potentially suitable for this species were identified therein, in the form of small to moderate sized creeks with gravel/sandy bottoms. Notwithstanding this, it is not likely that any such habitat will be affected by the proposal.

The Giant Dragonfly was not recorded in the survey during current field surveys, however this species is extremely cryptic, spending the majority of its life in the larval stage of development; thus highlighting the difficulty in detecting this species. Potentially suitable habitat in the form of hanging swamp habitat was identified in the survey, although it is not expected that any of this fauna habitat will be affected by the proposal, including changes in their hydrological conditions.

The proposal is largely linear in in shape, occurring within cleared and disturbed areas of the existing M1 Motorway corridor. As such, it is not likely that habitat features potentially suitable for these species would be impacted by the proposal. Thus, it is not likely that the proposal would have a significant impact on Adam’s Emerald Dragonfly or the Giant Dragonfly potentially occurring in the locality.

G-166 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

30. Attachment G References

Belcher, C. A. (2003). "Demographics of Tiger Quoll (Dasyurus macalatus) populations in south-eastern Australia." Australian Journal of Zoology 51(2): 611-626.

Bell, S. (2009). The Natural Vegetation of the Gosford Local Government Area, Central Coast, New South Wales, Revised and Updated Version 3.0, An unpublished report prepared for Gosford City Council.

Bell S (2009). "Vegetation and floristics of Columbey National Park, lower Hunter Valley, New South Wales." Cunninghamia 11(2): 241-275.

Benson, D. and L. McDougall (1998). "Ecology of Sydney Plant Species - Part 6 Dicotyledon Family Myrtaceae." Cunninghamia 5(4): 808-987.

Churchill, S. (1998). Australian Bats. Sydney, Reed New Holland.

Churchill, S. (2008). Australian Bats. Sydney, Allen & Unwin.

Claridge, A. C., D. Paull, et al. (2005). "Home range of the Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus), a carnivorous marsupial, in a rainshadow woodland " Wildlife Research 32(1): 7-14.

Cogger, H. G. (2000). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Sydney, Reed Books.

Cronin, L. (2000). Key guide to Australian mammals. Annandale, NSW, Envirobooks.

DECCW (2010). "Threatened Species Profile - Square-tailed Kite." from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/profile.aspx?id=10495.

Department of Environment (2013). Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. D. o. Environment. Canberra, ACT, Commonwealth of Australia.

Department of Environment and Climate Change (2007). Threatened species assessment guidelines. The assessment of significance. Hurstville, Department of Environment and Climate Change.

Department of Environment and Climate Change (2008). Approved Recovery Plan for the Koala

D. o. E. a. C. C. NSW.

Department of Environment and Climate Change (2008). Recovery Plan for the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) (Approved). Sydney, Department of Environment and Climate Change: 124.

Department of Environment and Conservation (2005). "Gang-gang Cockatoo - Profile." Retrieved 24 July 2009, from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/profile.aspx?id=10975.

Department of Environment and Conservation (2005). "Threatened species, populations and ecological communities." 2006, from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/index.aspx.

Department of Environment and Conservation (2006). "Recovery Plan for the Large Forest Owls: Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua), Sooty Owl (Tyto tenebricosa), Masked Owl (Tyto novaehollandiae).".

Department of Environment and Conservation (2006). "Threatened species, populations and ecological communities." 2006, from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/index.aspx.

Department of Environment and Conservation (2007). "Threatened species, populations and ecological communities." 2006, from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/index.aspx.

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-167 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Department of Environment Climate Change and Water NSW (2009). Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus Sydney, Department of Environment Climate Change and Water NSW.

Department of the Environment (2013). Draft EPBC Act referral guidelines for the vulnerable Koala (combined populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory). Department of the Environment. Canberra.

Department of the Environment and Heritage (2003). EPBC Act Administrative Guidelines on Significance - Supplement for the Grey-headed Flying-fox. Canberra, Department of the Environment and Heritage.

Dwyer, P. D. (1998). Common Bent-wing Bat. . The Mammals of Australia. R. Strahan. Sydney, New Holland Publishers.

Edgar, R. and C. A. Belcher, Eds. (1998). Spotted-tailed Quoll. Mammals of Australia. Sydney, New Holland Publishers.

Garnett, S. T. and G. M. Crowley (2000). The Action Plan for Australian Birds. Canberra, Environment Australia.

Geering, D. and K. French (1998). "Breeding biology of the Regent Honeyeater Xanthomyza phrygia in the Capertree Valley, New South Wales." EMU 98: 104-116.

Gibbons, P. and D. B. Lindenmayer (2000). Conserving hollow-dependent fauna in timber-production forests. Environmental Heritage Monograph. Canberra, Australian National University, Centre for Resource and Environmental Studies.

Goldingay, R. L. and D. J. Sharpe (1998). "Feeding behaviour of the Squirrel Glider at Bungawalbin Nature Reserve, north-eastern New South Wales." Wildlife Research 25(1): 243-254.

Higgins, P. J., J. M. Peter, et al., Eds. (2001). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds Volume 5: Tyrant-flycatchers to Chats. Melbourne, Oxford University Press.

Kortner, G., S. Gresser, et al. (2004). "Population structure, turnover and movement of Spotted-tailed Quolls in the New England tablelands." Wildlife Research.

Marchant, S. and P. J. Higgins, Eds. (1993). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds Volume 2: Raptors to Lapwings. Volume 2: Raptors to Lapwings. Melbourne, Oxford University Press.

Menkhorst, P., N. Schedvin, et al. (1999). Regent Honeyeater (Xanthomyza phrygia) Recovery Plan 1999- 2003. Canberra, Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (2000). Somersby Mintbush Prostanthera junonis Recovery Plan. N. N. P. W. Service. Hurstville, NSW: 67.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (1999). Spotted-tailed Quoll threatened species information. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (1999). Squirrel Glider threatened species information. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001). Giant Burrowing Frog threatened species information. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001). Grey-headed Flying Fox threatened species information. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (2011). "Duffys Forest ecological community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion - endangered ecological community listing." 2014, from

G-168 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/DuffysForestEcologicalCommunitySydneyEndComListin g.htm.

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (2012). "Coastal Upland Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion - Endangered Ecological Community listing final determination." from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/coastaluplandswampfd.htm.

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "Duffys Forest Ecological Community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion - profile." from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10254.

NSW Scientific Committee (1999). Final determination to list the Giant Barred Frog as an endangered species. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW Scientific Committee (2003). Final determination to list the Stuttering Frog as an endangered species. Hurstville, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

NSW Scientific Committee (2005). Final Determination to list Gang-gang Cockatoo as a Vulnerable Species. Hurstville, NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change.

NSW Scientific Committee (2009). Little Eagle (Hieraaetus morphnoides) - proposed vulnerable species listing. Hurstville, NSW, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.

NSW Scientific Committee (2010). Little Eagle (Hieraaetus morphnoides) Vulnerable species listing. Hurstville, NSW, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2011). "Threatened Species, Populations and Communities Database." from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2011). "Threatened species, populations and ecological communities of NSW online database." from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/index.aspx.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2012, 01/09/2005). "Threatened Species, Populations and Communities Database." from http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/browse_geo.aspx.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "BioNet the Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database Search." from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/atlaspublicapp/UI_Modules/ATLAS_/AtlasSearch.aspx.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "Darwinia glaucophylla - profile." Retrieved 30 June, 2014, from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10204.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "Somersby Mintbush - profile." Retrieved 30 June, 2014, from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10678.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "Spreading Guinea Flower - profile." Retrieved 30 June 2014, from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10401.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2014). "Threatened species, populations and communities database." from .

Penman, T. D., M. J. Mahony, et al. (2005). "Bioclimatic analysis of disjunct populations of the Giant Burrowing Frog Heleioporus australiacus." Journal of Biogeography 32: 397-405.

Pizzey, G. and F. Knight (2007). Field Guide to the Birds of Australia. Sydney, Harper and Collins.

Quin, D. G. (1995). "Population ecology of the Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) and the Sugar Glider (P. breviceps) (Maruspialia : Petauridae) at Limeburners Creek, on the central north coast of New South Wales " Wildlife Research 22(4): 471 - 505

Parsons Brinckerhoff | 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA G-169 Roads and Maritime Services Biodiversity Impact Assessment for Kariong Interchange Ramps and Kariong to Somersby Widening of the M1 Pacific Motorway

Rowston, C. (1998). "Nest and refuge-tree usage by Squirrel Gliders, Petaurus norfolcensis, in south-east Queensland." Wildlife Research 25(2): 157 - 164.

Strahan, R. (1995). The Mammals of Australia. Sydney, Reed New Holland.

Swift Parrot Recovery Team (2001). Swift Parrot Recovery Plan. W. a. E. T. Department of Primary Industries. Hobart, Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment.

Thumm, K. and M. J. Mahony, Eds. (1999). Loss and degradation of Red-crowned Toadlet habitat in the Sydney region. Declines and Disappearances of Australian Frogs. Canberra, Environment Australia.

Triggs, B. (1996). Tracks, scats and other traces: a field guide to Australian mammals. Melbourne, Oxford University Press.

Turner, V. and S. J. Ward (1995). Eastern Pygmy-possum. The Mammals of Australia. R. Strahan. Sydney, Reed New Holland: 217-218. van der Ree, R. (2002). "The population ecology of the Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) within a network of remnant linear habitats." Wildlife Research 29(4): 329 - 340.

Van Dyck, S. and R. Strahan (2008). Mammals of Australia. Sydney, Reed New Holland.

Webb, J. K. (1996). "Ecology and Conservation of the Threatened Broad-headed Snake Hoplocephalus bungaroides.".

Webb, J. K. and R. Shine (1994). Habitat use by the broad-headed snake, Hoplocephalus bungaroides. Canberra, Environment Australia.

G-170 2190705A-ENV-REP-1 RevA | Parsons Brinckerhoff