Okines Beach, Lewisham - Erosion Mitigation

Natural Values Assessment

For Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania

30 th June 2020 PWS014

Andrew North [email protected] Philip Barker [email protected] 163 Campbell Street Hobart TAS 7000 Telephone 03. 6231 9788 Facsimile 03. 6231 9877

Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment Table of Contents

1. PROJECT DETAILS 1 1.1 Background ...... 1

1.2 Site Characteristics ...... 2

1.3 Methods ...... 3

1.3 Limitations ...... 3

2. SITE VALUES 4 2.1 Vegetation ...... 4

2.2 Threatened Flora ...... 7

2.3 Threatened Fauna and Threatened Fauna Habitat ...... 8

2.4 Weeds ...... 10

3. IMPACT ASSESSMENT, MITIGATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS13 3.1 Background ...... 13

3.2 Vegetation ...... 13

3.3 Threatened Flora Species ...... 13

3.4 Significant Trees and Threatened Fauna ...... 13

3.5 Weeds ...... 14

4. LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS 14 4.1 Tasmanian Land Use and Planning Approvals Act 1993 ...... 14

4.2 Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ... 14

4.3 Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 ...... 15

4.4 Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999 (WMA) ...... 15

4.5 Sorell Interim Planning Scheme 2015 (SIPS)...... 15

5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 16 Appendix A: Vascular Plant Species List ...... 17

Appendix B: Flora species of conservation significance known or predicted as having suitable habitat within a 5 km radius of the study area ...... 7

Appendix C: Threatened and EPBCA protected fauna species previously recorded, or which may potentially occur, within 5 km of the site...... 13

Appendix D: EPBC Act Protected Matters Report ...... 7

i

Page

Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

1. Project Details

1.1 Background The Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife Service (PWS) is in the planning phase of an erosion mitigation project at Okines Beach in Lewisham (Figure 1). To assist with planning and determine potential impacts to natural values, North Barker Ecosystem Services (NBES) have been engaged to undertake a natural values assessment of the proposed project area.

Figure 1a: Survey area location, Okines Beach

1 Page

Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

Figure 2b: Survey area location, Okines Beach

1.2 Site Characteristics Okines beach is at the southern end of the town of Lewisham, approximately 35 km east of Hobart. The survey area is essentially flat, with the beach profile ranging from 0 – 4 m a.s.l. It comprises a substrate of unconsolidated sands of Quaternary deposition, grading into sandy Cenozoic cover sequences behind the dune, with Jurassic dolerite headlands to the north (Gwynns Point) and the south (Tigers Head, south of Head Beach, which adjoins Okines beyond the project area).

The affected foreshore area is approximately 570 m long and comprises areas badly eroded by coastal processes. The linear shoreline reserve ranges from as narrow as 8 m up to 27 meters at its widest point. Much of the foreshore area has been informally incorporated into parts of adjacent residential gardens and there are multiple examples of unauthorised erosion mitigation structures along this interface. The site constitutes a mixture of remanent coastal vegetation with garden species either planted or escaped from neighbouring properties. Much of the vegetation (including native) is heavily pruned by residents, with clippings used in attempted dune stabilisation by placing clumps along the face of the dune scarp. Localised erosion has nonetheless resulted in many small 2 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment landslips (collapses of the dune face), with numerous toppled trees, and many more at risk from this process.

1.3 Methods A flora survey and general fauna habitat assessment1 was undertaken along the northern extent of Okines Beach – the survey area comprises the affected foreshore area and will contain all works; however, given a precise works footprint is yet to be defined, the survey area is a broader area than required for works. The broader survey area gives the expected maximum scope for understanding the potential for indirect impacts.

The survey of plant species composition in this area consisted of an area search based on the Timed Meander Search Procedure 2. Vascular plant species lists were compiled using the current census of Tasmanian plants3 and vegetation communities cross referenced with units defined by TASVEG 3.0. The assessment has been structured as per the current recommendations from the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) for Natural Vales Surveys 4.

The Natural Values Atlas database was consulted for records of threatened species and vegetation types within a 5 km radius. The EPBCA Significant Matters database was also consulted. The possibility of the project area supporting threatened values known from within this radius has been considered in the interpretation of results and discussion.

1.3 Limitations The field survey was undertaken in early winter. Due to seasonal variations in detectability and identification, there may be some species that have been overlooked or were seasonally absent during our surveys. To compensate for these limitations to some degree, data from our field surveys are supplemented with data from the: • TASVEG version 3.0 digital layer; • Tasmanian Natural Values Atlas (NVA); • EPBCA Significant Matters database; and • RIMS database (State Growth); Buffers of 500 m and 5 km were used for identifying previous observations of natural values stored in these sources. Fauna habitat, including the presence of tree hollows and nests, was assessed from ground level only. Effort was made to capture as many species as possible in the site survey, however due to the high number of garden / exotic species from adjacent properties, some individual occurrences were not deemed naturalised and therefore not recorded. 3 Page

1 Note that a specific shorebird survey (by Eric Woehler) has been undertaken independently and included with the referral 2 F. G. Goff, G. A. Dawson, and J. J. Rochow, 1982. Site examination for threatened and endangered plant species. Environmental Management 6: 307–316. 3 de Salas, M.F. and Baker, M.L. (2016) A Census of the Vascular Plants of Tasmania, Including Macquarie Island. (Tasmanian Herbarium, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Hobart) www.tmag.tas.gov.au(PDF). 4 Natural and Cultural Heritage Division (2015) Guidelines for Natural Values Surveys - Terrestrial Development Proposals. Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment.

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

2. Site Values

2.1 Vegetation The project area is primarily mapped by TASVEG 3.0 as agricultural land (FAG). However, the site is not agricultural land and overall has > 5% native cover, although exotic species are a notable component of the flora. The site is a remnant and highly degraded patch of Eucalyptus viminalis/Eucalyptus viminalis coastal woodland (DVC). Although there is some scope to call this community one of the modified communities (potentially extra-urban miscellaneous with emergent Eucalyptus viminalis ), some of the understorey elements of this community remain (see the species list at Appendix A), and there are places that have a substantial native component. Accordingly, we have decided to map this as DVC, albeit a highly degraded patch with areas that have been severely disturbed (Plate 1). DVC is listed as a threatened community under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 (NCA). The landward section of the scarp is a narrow strip, varying between 8 - 27m wide (Plate 3). This section holds most of the site’s native natural values. It is a fragmented zone of vegetation in the ecotone between the urban environment (dominated by exotic/garden species) and DVC. The tree layer is dominated by Eucalyptus viminalis with some interspersed E. globulus. Some older and larger trees are found across the site; these are potentially important habitat trees with hollows (see section 2.3 below). The distribution of these significant trees is even across the site (Figure 2). Notably, many of the trees are near the erosion scarp and are under threat from erosion events in the near future. The native shrub layer (Plate 4) is comprised of sparsely distributed Allocasuarina verticillata, A. littoralis, Banksia marginata, Leptospermum laevigatum, Dodonaea viscosa, Acacia dealbata and Acacia longifolia subsp. sophorae. Exotic vegetation in the shrub layer is low generally but is notably interspersed with the highly invasive boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. Monilifera) and tree lucerne ( Chamaecytisus palmensis). Much of the denser areas of shrubs are confined to the northern and southern extents of the site, where the site is noticeably wider. The understory is degraded with introduced species forming a notable component of the flora. It is disturbed in many places due to the presence of a path the length of the site and access paths and is subject to edge effects. Native species include Poa labillardierei, Austrostipa stipoides, Carpobrotus rossii, Einadia nutans subsp. nutans, Lomandra longifolia, Lepidosperma concavum, Dianella brevicaulis, Chrysocephalum apiculatum and very occasionally small woody shrubs, such as Bossiaea cinerea and Pimelea humilis . Exotic species are regular and include Marram grass (Ammophila arenaria ), Agapanthus (Agapanthus praecox subsp. Orientalis), african daisy ( Arctotis stoechadifolia), Gazania (Gazania lineaaris) and cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata). The frontal seaward scarp of the site is heavily eroded and holds minimal signs of the original transition from the aquatic environment into native coastal vegetation. The zone is now dominated by exotic species including a mixture of predominantly Marram Grass (Ammophila arenaria ) and exotic succulents/herbs including the non-native yellow pigsface (Carpobrotus edulis), african daisy (Arctotis stoechadifolia), tree aeonium (Aeonium arboretum) and trailing daisy (Dimorphotheca fruticose). Patches of native Carpobrotus rossi, Tetragonia implexicoma and Austrostipa stipoides remain. In this area there are also many trees and shrubs that have succumbed to undermining of erosion (Plate 2), with many Banksia marginata, Allocasuarina spp. and Eucalyptus spp. having recently toppled over.

4 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

Plate 1: DVC showing the disturbed ground cover comprising mainly introduced species, the depauperate understorey and the canopy of occasional Eucalyptus viminalis

5 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

Plate 2: Drooping sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) succumbing to erosion and Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) showing clear signs of undermining and root exposure

Plate 3: Narrow landward section of the scarp, with a cluster of trees dominated by white gums ( Eucalyptus viminalis ), showing the mixed periurban understory of herbs, grasses, succulents and shrubs. 6

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

Plate 4: Shrub layer with Allocasuarina littoralis and Dodonaea viscosa, understory of Carpobrotus rossii and Marrum grass (Ammophila arenaria)

7

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania - Natural Values Assessment

Figure 3: Vegetation and significant trees 8 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

2.2 Threatened Flora Eighty-five vascular plant taxa were recorded within the project area (Appendix A), with thirty-nine of these being introduced species, five of which are listed as ‘Declared Weeds’ under the Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999 (WMA) . No flora species listed as threatened under the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 (TSPA) or the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBCA) were observed in the survey. One TSPA and EPBCA listed threatened species has been recorded within 500 m of the survey area according to the Tasmanian Natural Values Atlas (Table 1). A further 12 species have been recorded within 5 km (Table 2) and several additional species within 5 km have been identified in the EPBCA Significant Matters database as having the potential to occur (Appendix D). It is our assessment that no threatened species are thought likely to occur in the survey area; the area is either too disturbed or unsuitable for any of the potential threatened flora to occur. Details on the habitat preferences and the potential for occurrence for each species is presented in the Appendix B.

Table 1: Threatened flora attributed to within 500m of the project area; SS = Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, NS = Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Table 2: Threatened flora attributed to within 5 km of the project area; SS = Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, NS = Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

7 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

2.3 Threatened Fauna and Threatened Fauna Habitat During the site surveys one white-bellied sea-eagle ( Haliaeetus leucogaster) , listed as vulnerable under the TSPA 1995 was identified flying approximately 200 m south of the site. No other threatened fauna were recorded within the survey area. There is one recorded observation of threatened fauna within a 500 m buffer of the project area according to the Tasmanian Natural Values Atlas 5 (Table 3, eastern barred bandicoot (Perameles gunnii): EPBCA vulnerable). A further 15 species of threatened fauna have been recorded within a 5 km buffer of the project area 6 (Table 4). Additional species have been noted as having some potential to occur within 5 km of the project area based on range boundaries, these species are all addressed in Appendix C below 7. Pelagic species (e.g. humback whale) and pelagic seabird species (e.g. albatross species) are not considered in any detail as they have no chance of occurring. Other species have no chance of occurring based on a lack of suitable habitat (e.g. Gunns screw shell lives in the subtidal zone and green and gold frog lives in freshwater wetlands). Species that have some chance of occurring have been discussed below Table 4. Notably, the potential impact to certain fauna values relevant to this proposal has been addressed elsewhere and are not addressed in detail in this report. The red handfish (Thymichthys politus ) has been addressed in the following report: Red Handfish (Thymichthys Politus) Search at Okines Beach and Tiger Head Bay, South East Tasmania , February 2018 by Marine Solutions. Also, potential impact to shorebirds (including migratory species) has been addressed in Shorebirds and seabirds of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr Eric J Woehler.

Table 3: Threatened fauna attributed to within 500m of the project area; SS = Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, NS = Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Table 4: Threatened fauna attributed to within 5km of the project area; SS = Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, NS = Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

8 Eastern barred bandicoot ( Perameles gunnii ) Page

5 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 6 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 7 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 and EPBC Act Protected Matters Report, 18th May 2020 (Commonwealth of Australia, 2020)

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

It is quite possible that this species uses the site on occasions as it can persist in residential areas with suitable cover and patches of native vegetation. Given the tolerance of this species to persist in suburban areas, it is not considered likely that the site is critical to the persistence of this (or any other) species of threatened fauna at a local level or higher. Tasmanian wedge tailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) Requires large sheltered trees for nesting and is highly sensitive to disturbance during the breeding season. No suitable nest habitat presents on the land nor within 500 m or 1 km line of sight. The nearest known nest is 5.4 km to the east. No potential impacts to nesting is associated with the proposal. There is some chance the species may fly over the area on occasion but given the level of development in the area it is highly unlikely the species will remain or hunt in the area. Quolls and Tasmanian devil ( Dasyurus spp. and Sarcophilus harrisii ) Although these species can be tolerant to some extent of peri-urban areas, given the level of development and the high frequency of human and vehicular traffic on the nearby road and beach, it is highly unlikely that this patch would serve as persistent habitat for any of the threatened carnivore species. Additionally, our fauna habitat assessment established that the project area does not contain any observable habitat elements on the ground (burrows, dens etc) that could be considered critical to the persistence of threatened fauna species at a local level or higher. The spotted-tailed quoll records are from 2008 and are from ~ 5 km north of the area, there are no more recent or nearer records and it is unlikely this species occurs. Records of the Tasmanian devil are more regular in the broader area but there are no records nearer than 2 km from the site (from 2010). Accordingly, we conclude that the chances of finding either quoll species, or Tasmanian devil at the site as low. White-bellied sea eagle ( Haliaeeatus leucogaster) This species was observed near the survey area and is expected to occur in the area from time to time. No nests were observed. Although this species can nest relatively near urban areas and that some of the trees on the site may be suitable structurally, they are all very near residences and/or a road. So, although it is possible that this species may utilise these trees for nesting, this is not considered likely. The nearest nest records for this species are 2.6 and 2.7 km to the east where more extensive, less disturbed native habitat can be found. Swift parrot (Lathamus discolor ) The nearest record of this species to the site is 2 km to the south east from 1978; more recent records (2000 and 2010) are found approximately 8 km to the east. Two Eucalyptus globulus , a foraging resource for this species, are present on and very near the site, including a single tree that may offer potential nesting habitat (just outside the site). According to TASVEG, a small and degraded patch of potential foraging habitat is mapped approximately 1 km to the south (more extensive, less disturbed patches are ~ 4 km to the east). The two trees may indeed serve as a foraging resource for this species (and one of these may offer potential breeding habitat) but given the sparsity of E. globulus on the site and in the immediate area, and the paucity of records of the parrot in the area, it is not expected to be regular. Although no tree hollows were visible from the ground, the survey was limited to a ground survey and more extensive surveys would need to be undertaken to confirm if hollows exist higher in the canopy. Tasmanian masked owl ( Tyto novaehollandiae castanops ) The nearest records are between 4 and 5 km away to the north and south of the site; these records are relatively old (from the 1980s and 90s) and have an accuracy of 5 km. Although no tree hollows were visible from the ground, the survey was limited to a ground

survey and more extensive surveys would need to be undertaken to confirm if hollows exist 9 higher in the canopy. Regardless, given the near of the site to housing and roads, we

consider the chances of this species occurring on the site as low. Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

2.4 Weeds Five species listed as declared weeds under the Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999 (WMA) and four weeds listed as Weeds of National Significance (WONS) were observed in the survey (Figure 4). Four of the declared weeds are classified as Zone B and one as Zone A under the statutory weed management plan for the municipality of Sorell (Table 7). Many environmental weeds were common throughout the site, due to the peri urban nature of the area. Various environmental weeds such as velvet cotoneaster ( Cotoneaster pannosus ) and largeleaf cotoneaster (Cotoneaster glaucophyllus var. serotinus) were also surveyed, however due to the overwhelming presence of exotic/garden species, only significant woody weeds in small clusters were recorded. Notably, the highly invasive marram grass (Ammophila arenaria ) is fairly extensive across the site and poses a challenge to native vegetation restoration, particularly on the frontal erosion scarp.

Table 7: Declared weeds and weeds of national significance found at the site

Weed Comment Status Zone (Sorell) Boneseed Boneseed was the most WMA and WONS B (Chrysanthemoides common weed throughout monilifera subsp. the project area. monilifera) Montpellier broom Present at numerous sites, WMA and WONS B (Genista however may sit outside the monspessulana) actual project footprint. African boxthorn Two occurrences of were WMA and WONS B (Lycium recorded, both within the ferocissimum) erosion zone (Plate 5). Bridal Creeper Recorded in one location WMA and WONS A (Asparagus at the northern extent of asparagoides) the site. Fennel (Foeniculum One large stand of was WMA B vulgare) recorded at the northern extent of the site (Plate 6).

10 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Plate 5: African boxthorn ( Lycium ferocissimum) found within the eroded scarp, behind erosion mitigation wall.

Plate 6: Fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare ) at the northern extent of the site 11

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Figure 4: Declared and woody environmental weeds

12 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

3. Impact Assessment, Mitigation and Recommendations

3.1 Background The proposed erosion mitigation project has the potential to have a positive effect on the condition of the native vegetation/habitat at Okines Beach. Importantly, if the site was left to continue under its current trajectory of erosion, we could reasonably expect the site to be entirely eroded in the coming years. Under projections put forward by SGS Economics and Planning 8 sea levels are expected to rise up to 0.24 m for 2050 and 0.84 m for 2100 respectively; this will have a substantial effect on the site, with recession models placing erosion hazard lines on the edge of the cadastral property lines by 2050, effectively eroding most if not all of the site. Efforts to stabilise the erosion can serve to prevent the loss of this habitat. The precise impact of the mitigation efforts has not been defined as the various options will have a varying potential impact. Accordingly, impact can be discussed in terms of total loss of the current native values at the site (a worst-case scenario), although this is not expected.

3.2 Vegetation Given the precise impact is unknown, the impact cannot be quantified with certainty. If all the site were to be impacted there would be a loss of 1.36 ha of DVC, albeit a high degraded patch throughout, with a large component of this community entirely modified except for the canopy or eroded. This community is listed as threatened under the NCA.

3.3 Threatened Flora Species The erosion mitigation proposal will have no impact on threatened flora species and does not require any targeted mitigation for this aspect.

3.4 Significant Trees and Threatened Fauna Significant trees are mapped as Ev ( Eucalyptus viminalis ) and Eb ( Eucalyptus globulus ) in Figure 3 show 11 trees in within the project area (and two trees just outside the northern end). No hollows were observed in these trees but given their size these do offer some potential for containing hollows. Given the proximity to a built area and roads, and the records of threatened fauna in the area, it is not expected that these trees will serve as breeding habitat. Regardless, before these trees are impacted, they should be surveyed by an arborist to check they do not contain hollows that are potentially in use by either masked owl or swift parrot. Two of the trees also offer potential foraging habitat for swift parrot. The potential loss of two E. globulus does not constitute a significant impact to this species. Impact to eastern barred bandicoot is not expected to be significant. The proposal area is unlikely to support a population or be important to the survival of a local population for this species. Given the low likelihood of any additional threatened fauna species using the site with any regularity, it is our assessment that impact the site is not likely to constitute a significant impact to any threatened fauna species. Regardless, if impact to the trees can be minimised the area can serve as habitat for native species. This function can be strengthened if efforts at remediating the understorey with native plantings and weed

removal compliment efforts to retain trees and areas of native vegetation. 13 Page

8 Erosion mitigation options at Okines beach, Lewisham (Final Report) 2020. SGS Economics and Planning PTY LTD

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

The potential impact to certain fauna values relevant to this proposal has been addressed elsewhere and are not addressed in detail in this report. The red handfish ( Thymichthys politus ) has been addressed by Marine Solutions 2018: Red Handfish (Thymichthys Politus) Search at Okines Beach and Tiger Head Bay, South East Tasmania . Also, potential impact to shorebirds (including migratory species) has been addressed in Shorebirds and seabirds of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr Eric J Woehler.

3.5 Weeds There are five declared weeds within the project area. Depending on the scale of works and scope for revegetation, a weed management plan may be required as a part of the works contract. As a guide, a weed management plan may include; a. plan for targeted pre-works control to reduce propagule pressure during works; b. ensure excavated soil from weed affected areas is not spread to weed free areas and preferably is buried beneath 500 mm of fill; c. include prescriptions for hygiene measures during work; and d. allow for targeted weed treatment on completion of works and during follow-up. This should include annual weed control on the site for up to five years following completion, to specifically target weeds that have exploited the disturbances associated with earthworks. As a measure of reducing the potential for introducing new weeds (and spreading the ones present), all machinery must be clean upon entering the site and cleaned before exiting. In addition, the following should be followed for best practice prescriptions: a. Keeping it clean - A Tasmanian field hygiene manual to prevent the spread of freshwater pests and pathogens (Allen and Gartenstein, 2010) b. Weed and Disease Planning and Hygiene Guidelines - Preventing the spread of weeds and diseases in Tasmania (DPIPWE, Stewart and Askey-Doran, 2015) c. Wetlands and Waterways Works Manual (DPIPWE, 2003)

4. Legislative Implications

4.1 Tasmanian Land Use and Planning Approvals Act 1993 LUPAA states that ‘in determining an application for a permit, a planning authority must (amongst other things) seek out the objectives set out in Schedule 1’. Schedule 1 includes the ‘objectives of the Resource Management and Planning System of Tasmania’, which includes (amongst other things): ‘to promote sustainable development of natural and physical resources and the maintenance of ecological processes and genetic diversity’. Sustainable development includes ‘avoiding, remedying or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment’. By conforming to the required Acts and following the recommendations below, the proponent will satisfy the requirements of LUPAA.

4.2 Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Activities that impact on matters of national environmental significance (MNES) trigger assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. This includes activities that are likely to impact on listed threatened species and ecological communities. It is our assessment that the potential impact to the species considered in this report is not likely to constitute a MNES. 14 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

4.3 Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995

The Threatened Species Protection Act includes the listing of native species which are threatened by restrictions to their abundance, range or habitat, or threatening processes that may result in reductions in their population. Management of threatened species can include declaring areas of critical habitat, recovery and threat-abatement plans, and interim protection orders, the latter of which prevail over planning schemes and can prohibit activities likely to affect habitats. No such constraints are known to apply in this case. No action required.

4.4 Tasmanian Weed Management Act 1999 (WMA) The Weed Management Act 1999 is the principal legislation concerned with the management of declared weeds in Tasmania. Under the Act, the State Government may: • Prohibit the introduction of declared weeds into Tasmania. • Undertake the eradication of declared weed species. • Take action aimed at preventing the spread of declared weeds within Tasmania. • Require that action be taken against declared weed species where this is necessary to alleviate or prevent a particular problem. The proposed works must comply by controlling declared weeds on reserved land. Note that as per the Statutory Weed Management Plan for Sorell municipality, four of the declared weeds within the site are not deemed eradicable as Zone B. One of the declared weeds Bridal Creeper ( Asparagus asparagoides ) is deemed to be a Zone A, which are deemed to be eradicable. Given the small infestation that occurs on the site, it is feasible that this weed could be eradicated from the site in total. “Zone A ” includes those Tasmanian municipalities for which eradication of a declared weed is the principal management objective. These municipalities are either free of the declared weed, host only small, isolated infestations, or host larger infestations which are deemed eradicable because a strategic management plan exists and the resources required to implement it have been or are likely to be secured. “Zone B” includes those Tasmanian municipalities for which containment of the declared weed is the principal management objective. Such municipalities host large, widespread infestations of the declared weed that are not deemed eradicable because the feasibility of effective management is low at this time. These municipalities lack a strategic management plan for the weed and/or resources to undertake control actions at a level required for eradication have not been secured

4.5 Sorell Interim Planning Scheme 2015 (SIPS) Zoning The site is classified within ‘Zone 29 - Environmental Management’ under the Sorell Interim Planning Scheme 2015. Purposes of this zone include: • To provide for the protection, conservation and management of areas with significant ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic value, or with a significant likelihood of risk from a natural hazard. • To facilitate passive recreational opportunities which are consistent with the protection of natural values in bushland and foreshore areas. Given the works are required to prevent the erosion of the site, that will ultimately and entirely undermine the natural values of the site, the works are consistent with the purpose

of the Zone. 15

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Planning Overlays The only overlay relevant to natural values considered in this assessment is the Waterway and Coastal Protection Code (E11). Under E11.1.1 it is stated that: The purpose of this provision is to manage vegetation and soil disturbance in the vicinity of wetlands, watercourses and the coastline in order to: a) minimise impact on water quality, natural values including native riparian vegetation, river condition and the natural ecological function of watercourses, wetlands and lakes; b) minimise impact on coastal and foreshore values, native littoral vegetation, natural coastal processes and the natural ecological function of the coast; c) protect vulnerable coastal areas to enable natural processes to continue to occur, including the landward transgression of sand dunes, wetlands, saltmarshes and other sensitive coastal habitats due to sea-level rise. d) minimise impact on water quality in potable water supply catchment areas. The proposed efforts to mitigate the impact of erosion to the site are in line with the purpose of the Code where the works are an attempt to block processes that are destroying the littoral vegetation. On the other hand the proposal conflicts with the purpose of enabling natural processes to occur. Under the buildings and works standard the proposal can meet the Code under P3 – Coastal protection works initiated by the private sector (should the works be considered as initiated by the private sector by lobbying government). The proposal can satisfy P3 by meeting the performance criteria below (a) be designed by a suitably qualified person; (b) minimise adverse impact on coastal processes that may lead to increased risk of inundation, including wave action and behaviour, sediment dynamics, current and tidal flows in the area. 5. Conclusion and Recommendations NBES have completed a natural values survey of the proposed erosion mitigation project site at Okines Beach, Lewisham. The project is not expected to have a significant impact on any threatened flora or fauna. The terrestrial area is a highly degraded patch of DVC, a threatened community under the NCA. No shore bird nesting habitat will be affected by the proposal. No red handfish were located and in general the habitat is not suitable save for small areas of reef in the north of the site.

The following are recommended based on our results and scope of works: • Avoid causing sediment accumulation in potential red handfish habitat by timing works to coincide with the lowest tide period with predicted low wave energy. • Several large trees occur on the site and should be assessed by an arborist before removal to see if they contain hollows that may support masked owl or swift parrot. • The impact to the habitat trees on the site should be minimised if possible and efforts should be made to remediate the site with native plantings and removal of Declared weeds. • Follow best practice weed and hygiene management processes.

16 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Appendix A: Vascular Plant Species List

Status codes: ORIGIN NATIONAL SCHEDULE STATE SCHEDULE i - introduced EPBC Act 1999 TSP Act 1995 d - declared weed WM Act CR - critically endangered e - endangered en - endemic to Tasmania EN - endangered v - vulnerable t - within Australia, occurs only in Tas. VU - vulnerable r - rare

Name Common name Status

DICOTYLEDONAE AIZOACEAE Carpobrotus edulis yellow pigface i Carpobrotus rossii native pigface Disphyma crassifolium subsp. clavellatum roundleaf pigface Mesembryanthemum cordifolium heartleaf iceplant i Tetragonia implexicoma bower spinach

APIACEAE Apium prostratum sea celery Foeniculum vulgare fennel d

APOCYNACEAE Vinca major blue periwinkle i

ASTERACEAE Arctotis stoechadifolia african daisy i Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera boneseed d Chrysocephalum apiculatum common everlasting Delairea odorata cape ivy i Dimorphotheca fruticosa trailing daisy i Euryops abrotanifolius winter euryops i Gazania linearis tufted gazania i Senecio angulatus scrambling groundsel i Senecio linearifolius var. linearifolius common fireweed groundsel Senecio quadridentatus cotton fireweed Taraxacum officinale common dandelion i

BORAGINACEAE Echium candicans pride of madeira i

CARYOPHYLLACEAE Spergularia tasmanica coastal seaspurrey i Stellaria media garden chickweed i

CASUARINACEAE Allocasuarina littoralis black sheoak Allocasuarina verticillata drooping sheoak

CHENOPODIACEAE Atriplex cinerea grey saltbush 17 Einadia nutans subsp. nutans climbing saltbush Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Rhagodia candolleana subsp. candolleana coastal saltbush Suaeda australis southern seablite

CRASSULACEAE Aeonium arboreum tree aeonium i Aeonium haworthii Haworth's aeonium i Cotyledon orbiculata pig's ear i Crassula tetragona subsp. robusta miniature pine tree i#

ERICACEAE Astroloma humifusum native cranberry

FABACEAE Acacia dealbata subsp. dealbata silver wattle Acacia iteaphylla Flinder's Range wattle i Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia sydney coast wattle i Acacia longifolia subsp. sophorae coast wattle Acacia mearnsii black wattle Bossiaea cinerea showy bossiaea Chamaecytisus palmensis tree lucerne i Genista monspessulana canary broom d Indigofera australis subsp. australis native indigo Kennedia prostrata running postman Podalyria sericea silky sweetpeabush

GERANIACEAE Pelargonium Xasperum rose-oil geranium i Pelargonium Xdomesticum garden geranium i

HEMEROCALLIDACEAE Dianella brevicaulis shortstem flaxlily

MYRTACEAE Eucalyptus globulus subsp. globulus tasmanian blue gum Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. viminalis white gum Leptospermum laevigatum coast teatree

OXALIDACEAE Oxalis sp. woodsorrel

PITTOSPORACEAE Bursaria spinosa subsp. spinosa prickly box

POLYGALACEAE Polygala myrtifolia myrtleleaf milkwort i

PROTEACEAE Banksia marginata silver banksia

ROSACEAE Cotoneaster glaucophyllus var. serotinus largeleaf cotoneaster i Cotoneaster pannosus velvet cotoneaster i 18

RUBIACEAE Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Coprosma repens mirrorbush i

RUTACEAE Correa alba var. alba white correa

SANTALACEAE Exocarpos cupressiformis common native-cherry

SAPINDACEAE Dodonaea viscosa subsp. spatulata broadleaf hopbush

SOLANACEAE Lycium ferocissimum african boxthorn d

THYMELAEACEAE Pimelea humilis dwarf riceflower

GYMNOSPERMAE CUPRESSACEAE Hesperocyparis macrocarpa monterey cypress i

PINACEAE Pinus radiata radiata pine i

MONOCOTYLEDONAE AGAPANTHACEAE Agapanthus praecox subsp. orientalis agapanthus i

AGAVACEAE Agave americana century plant i

ALOEACEAE Aloe maculata soap aloe i

ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus asparagoides bridal creeper d Lomandra longifolia sagg

CYPERACEAE Ficinia nodosa knobby clubsedge Lepidosperma concavum sand swordsedge

IRIDACEAE Chasmanthe floribunda african cornflag i Watsonia meriana watsonia i POACEAE Ammophila arenaria marram grass i Austrostipa stipoides coast speargrass Cenchrus clandestinus kikuyu grass i Dactylis glomerata cocksfoot i 19 Distichlis distichophylla australian saltgrass Ehrharta erecta panic veldtgrass i Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Ehrharta longiflora annual veldtgrass i Lagurus ovatus harestail grass i Poa labillardierei silver tussockgrass Rytidosperma setaceum bristly wallabygrass

PTERIDOPHYTA DENNSTAEDTIACEAE Pteridium esculentum subsp. esculentum bracken

20

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Appendix B: Flora species of conservation significance known or predicted as having suitable habitat within a 5 km radius of the study area

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

REPORTED FROM WITHIN 500 m 10

Pterostylis wapstrarum is restricted to the Midlands and south-east of Tasmania where it endangered/ occurs in native grassland and possibly grassy woodland. It has been reported from basalt Pterostylis wapstrarum CRITICALLY soils. fleshy greenhood None ENDANGERED The nearby record is a historical record from 1925 and has an accuracy of 1000 m; there is no suitable habitat in the survey area and there is o chance this species occurs on the site.

REPORTED FROM WITHIN 5 km 11

The species occurs in heathy and open eucalypt forest and woodland, often with sheoaks, and in heathland on sandy and loamy soils. It is most often found on sunny north-facing sites in lowland areas of northern, eastern and southeastern Tasmania. The species is also cryptic, avoiding detection as it tends to flower and be identifiable infrequently, often only flowering Caladenia caudata Vulnerable/ in response to disturbance such as fire. tailed spider-orchid Very low VULNERABLE The nearest recent records are approximately 4 km south of the survey area in coastal woodland at Dodges Ferry. The condition of the ground cover at the present site is highly degraded; it is subject to edge effects and there are regular occurrences of introduced species throughout. No orchid species of any sort were recorded during the survey and we consider the chances of this species occurring here as very low. 7 Page

9 Includes comments from DPIPWE threatened species note sheets and www.threatenedspecieslink.tas.gov.au 10 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 11 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

Caladenia saggicola is known from two sites in south-east Tasmania. At Cambridge, the species grows amongst Lomandra longifolia (sagg) tussocks in Eucalyptus viminalis woodland on well-drained, grey sandy loam.

The nearest recent records are approximately 4 km south of the survey area in coastal Caladenia saggicola endangered/ woodland at Dodges Ferry. The plants were located in a remnant patch of native sagg spider-orchid CRITICALLY Very low vegetation, dominated by Allocasuarina verticillata (drooping sheoak) and E. viminalis, on ENDANGERED yellow to grey sandy loam over sandstone.

The condition of the ground cover at the present site is highly degraded; it is subject to edge effects and there are regular occurrences of introduced species throughout. No orchid species of any sort were recorded during the survey and we consider the chances of this species occurring here as very low.

Dianella amoena occurs mainly in the northern and southern Midlands, where it grows in Rare Dianella amoena native grasslands and grassy woodlands on fertile soils, usually overlaying basalt. grassland flaxlily Nil ENDANGERED No suitable habitat on site.

Juncus amabilis is a tufted pin rush with characteristic blue/green stems and tight globular flower heads. It is associated with low-lying sites in paddocks and on the margins of farm Juncus amabilis Rare/ dams. Often it persists in large numbers where few other natives remain. Most of its natural gentle rush Nil habitat (lowland Poa grassland and black gum woodland on flats) has been lost to land - clearance and agricultural improvement.

No suitable habitat on site.

Lepilaena preissii Lepilaena preissi occurs in fresh and brackish lagoons, and estuaries. slender watermat rare/ - Nil No suitable habitat on site. 8 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

Ruppia megacarpa occurs in estuaries and lagoons along the east and south-east coasts, Ruppia megacarpa and brackish lagoons in the Midlands; there is also an historic record from the Tamar estuary largefruit seatassel rare/ - Nil in the States’ north. No suitable habitat on site.

Ruppia tuberosa has been recorded from the State’s south-east at Ralphs Bay and Ruppia tuberosa Blackman Bay, where it grows in holes and channels in saltmarshes. tuberous seatassel rare/ - Nil No suitable habitat on site.

Vittadinia gracilis occurs in dry grassy habitats, often in relatively degraded grasslands and grassy woodlands. It has been found to occur in low- rainfall areas, on a range of substrates. Vittadinia gracilis Rare/ woolly new holland Very low There is some chance this species could occur in the survey area although it is unlikely to daisy - have been overlooked. We consider the chance of this species as occurring and not being observed as very low.

Vittadinia muelleri occurs in dry native grasslands and grassy woodlands particularly in open areas with lighter grass cover and patches of bare ground such as rock plates. It freely Vittadinia muelleri colonises disturbed sites such as roadside cuttings. It is widely dispersed through the Midlands and South East. narrowleaf new-holland- rare/ - Very low daisy There is some chance this species could occur in the survey area although it is unlikely to have been overlooked. We consider the chance of this species as occurring and not being observed as very low.

Wilsonia humilis is locally common within saltmarshes in the Pitt Water-Sorell area near Wilsonia humilis Hobart, with occurrences at Moulting Lagoon, Cape Portland and Flinders Island. Small silky wilsonia rare/ - Nil colonies have also been recorded from Boomer Marsh near Dunalley and, atypically, from the margins of a (brackish) wetland in the Northern Midlands where it co-occurs with the

rare Wilsonia rotundifolia. The species’ coastal habitat includes graminoid and succulent 9 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

saltmarsh, with species such as Austrostipa stipoides (coast speargrass), Sarcocornia spp ., and Tecticornia arbuscula (glasswort) and Samolus repens (creeping brookweed).

No suitable habitat on the site.

PREDICTED BY HABITAT MAPPING ONLY 12

Boronia hippopala occurs in the Eastern Tiers, in wet scrubby heath dominated by Melaleuca (paperbark) species, Leptospermum (teatree) species and Gahnia grandis Boronia hippopala Vulnerable/ (cutting grass), as well as in adjacent Eucalyptus pauciflora–E. dalrympleana woodland. The velvet boronia Nil underlying substrate is dolerite, and drainage is moderate to poor. VULNERABLE This is far removed from the current location and there os no chance of this species occurring on the site.

Conospermum hookeri usually occurs in coastal and near-coastal heathland and heathy forest/woodland dominated by Eucalyptus amygdalina or E. tenuiramis . It extends from Bruny Island to the Furneaux islands, on granite or sandy, acid, low-nutrient soils. There are Conospermum hookeri vulnerable/ some inland occurrences in heathy E. amygdalina forest on granite substrates (e.g. near Nil tasmanian smokebush VULNERABLE Avoca, Royal Ruby Flats). The nearest record is on Bruny Island many 10s km away.This is a distinctive species and it is highly unlikely this species occurs and was overlooked. The site is also marginal for this species.

Glycine latrobeana occurs in a range of habitats, geologies and vegetation types. Glycine latrobeana Vulnerable/ Nil Soils are usually fertile but can be sandy when adjacent to or overlaying fertile soils. clover glycine VULNERABLE The species mainly occurs on flats and undulating terrain over a wide geographical range, including near-coastal environments, the Midlands, and the Central 10 Page

12 EPBC Act Protected Matters Report, 18th May 2020 (Commonwealth of Australia, 2020)

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

Plateau. It mainly occurs in grassy/heathy forests and woodlands and native grasslands. No suitable habitat and the nearest record is over 30 km away.

A species of the growth suppression zone of native and exotic trees (particularly conifers) with grassy environments. Many populations are found on roadsides. Lepidium Endangered/ hyssopifolium Very low Potential habitat for this species is widespread in Tasmania and although there is basalt peppercress ENDANGERED theoretically some chance of this species occurring it is not considered likely in this small, degraded patch of coastal woodland. Leucochrysum albicans var. tricolor occurs in the west and on the Central Plateau and the Midlands, mostly on basalt soils in open grassland. This species would have Leucochrysum Endangered/ originally occupied Eucalyptus pauciflora woodland and tussock grassland, albicans var. tricolor Nil though most of this habitat is now converted to improved pasture or cropland. grassland paper daisy ENDANGERED This is far removed from the current location which includes no suitable forest habitats.

An endemic Tasmanian orchid found mainly in near-coastal heathland and heathy Prasophyllum Vulnerable/ woodland. apoxychilum Nil tapered leek-orchid ENDANGERED The nearest record is > 30 km west. There is no suitable habitat for this species in the survey area.

Senecio psilocarpus is known from six widely scattered sites in the northern half of the State, including King and Flinders islands. It occurs in swampy habitats including Senecio psilocarpus endangered/ broad valley floors associated with rivers, edges of farm dams amongst low-lying Nil swamp fireweed VULNERABLE grazing/cropping ground, herb-rich native grassland in a broad swale between stable sand dunes, adjacent to wetlands in native grassland, herbaceous 11 marshland and low-lying lagoon systems. Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Potential to Status TSPA / Species occur if not Observations and preferred habitat 9 EPBCA observed

There is no suitable habitat for this species in the survey area.

Stenanthemum pimeleoides is restricted to Tasmania’s central East Coast and the Northern Midlands, where it occurs in dry sclerophyll forest or woodland with an open heathy or Stenanthemum shrubby understorey. The topography tends to be flat to gently sloping. The species occurs vulnerable/ pimeleoides Nil in the drier parts of the State with rainfall between 500-800 mm per year, and usually at VULNERABLE propeller plant elevations below 100 m.

There is no suitable habitat for this species in the survey area.

Xerochrysum palustre has a scattered distribution with populations in the north-east, east coast, Central Highlands and Midlands, all below about 700 m elevation. It occurs in Xerochrysum palustre vulnerble/ wetlands, grassy to sedgy wet heathlands and extends to associated heathy Eucalyptus Nil swamp everlasting VULNERABLE ovata woodlands. Sites are usually inundated for part of the year.

There is no suitable habitat for this species in the survey area.

12 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Appendix C: Threatened and EPBCA protected fauna species previously recorded, or which may potentially occur, within 5 km of the site. NOTE: Marine species (whales and fish) have not been assessed here. Previous records 13 and potential habitats 14

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Known within 500 m

It is quite possible that this species uses the site on occasions as it is able to persist in residential areas with suitable cover and areas of Perameles gunnii -/ native vegetation. Given the tolerance of this species to persist in Moderate eastern barred bandicoot VULNERABLE suburban areas, it is not considered likely that the site is critical to the persistence of this or any other species threatened fauna species at a local level or higher.

Known within 5000 m

BIRDS

Requires large sheltered trees for nesting and is highly sensitive to disturbance during the breeding season. No suitable nest habitat present on the land nor within 500 m or 1 km l ine of sight. The nearest Nesting: Nil Aquila audax Endangered/ known nest is 5.4 km to the east. No potential impacts to nesting is Foraging: wedge-Tailed Eagle ENDANGERED associated with the proposal. Very low There is some chance the species may fly over the area on occasion but given the level of development in the area it is highly unlikely the species will remain or hunt in the area.

Occurs in coastal habitats and large inland waterways. Species

Halliaeetus leucogaster Vulnerable/ Nesting: 13 may occasionally forage in the area, but no breeding habitat is white-bellied sea eagle MARINE Very low present. Nearest known nest is on Wood Island, to the south of the Page

13 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 14 Natural Values Report: nvr_1_29-Apr-2020 and EPBC Act Protected Matters Report, 18th May 2020 (Commonwealth of Australia, 2020) 15 Bryant & Jackson 1999

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Foraging: causeways. Moderate It is likely that the species will fly over the ar ea on occasion however there are no potential impacts associated with the proposal to this species nesting habitat, and likely none to feeding habitat.

The nearest record of this species to the site is 2 km to the south east from 1978 ; more recent records (2000 and 2010) are found approximately 8 km to the east. Two Eucalyptus globulus , a foraging resource for this species, are present on and very near the site, including a single tree that may offer potential nesting habitat (just outside the site). According to TASVEG, a small and degraded Nesting: patch of potential foraging habitat is mapped approximately 1 km Endangered/ Lathamus discolour Very low to the south (more extensive, le ss disturbed patches are ~ 4 km to CRITICALLY swift Parrot Foraging: the east). The two trees may indeed serve as a foraging resource ENDANGERED Very low for this species (and one of these may offer potential breeding habitat) but given the sparsity of E. globulus on the site and in the immediate area, and the paucity of records of the parrot in the area, it is not expected to be regular. Although n o tree hollows were visible from the ground, the survey was limited to a ground survey and more extensive surveys woul d need to be undertaken to confirm if hollows exist higher in the canopy.

Pterodroma lessonii Vulnerable/ None A pelagic species white-headed petrel -

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds sterna striata Vulnerable/ of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr N/A white-fronted tern MARINE Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs. 14 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Thinornis rubricollis rubricollis of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr -/VULNERABLE NA hooded plover (eastern) Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

The nearest records are between 4 and 5 km away to the north and south of the site; these records are relatively old (from the 1980s and Nesting: 90s) and have an accuracy of 5 km. Although n o tree hollows were Tyto novaehollandiae castanops Endangered/ Low visible from the ground, the survey was limited to a ground survey Tasmanian masked owl VULNERABLE Foraging: and m ore extensive surveys would need to be undertaken to Low confirm if hollows exist higher in the canopy. Regardless, given the near of the site to housi ng and roads, we consider the chances of this species occurring on the site as low.

MAMMALS

The spotted-tailed quoll records in the area are from 2008 and are from ~ 5 km north of the area, there are no more recent or nearer Dasyurus macalatus subsp. maculatus Nesting: records and it is unlikely this species occurs. spotted-tailed quoll Rare/ Very low Ou r fauna habitat assessment established that the project area VULNERABLE Foraging: does not contain any observable habitat elements on the g round Very low (burrows, dens etc) that could be considered critical to the persistence of threatened fauna species at a local level or higher.

Records of Tasmanian devil are not uncommon in the broader area Nesting: but there are no records nearer than 2 km from the site (from 2010). Sarcophilus harrisii Endangered/ Very low It is highly unlikely that this disturbed patch near a road and Tasmanian Devil ENDANGERED Foraging: residences would serve as persistent habitat for any of the Very low threatened carnivore species

INVERTEBRATES 15 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Antipodia chaostola Endangered/ None No suitable habitat present. chaostola skipper ENGANGERED

The larval foodplant of this species is the coastal saltbush Rhagodia Theclinesthes serpentata subsp. Lavara candolleana is present but this species is typically found in saltmarsh Rare/ - Very low chequered blue environments and it is highly unlikely that this species occurs in this severely disturbed environment.

Gazameda gunnii Lives subtidally and offshore on sand. Widespread in Tasmanian Vulnerable / - None Gunn’s screw shell waters but only locally common as a beached shell.

REPTILES

Pseudemoia pagenstecheri Vulnerable/ - None No suitable habitat tussock skink

AMPHIBIANS

Litoria raniformis Vulnerable/ None No suitable habitat. Green and gold frog VULNERABLE

FISH

The red handfish ( Thymichthys politus ) has been addressed in the Endangered/ Brachionichthys hirsutus following report: Red Handfish (Thymichthys Politus) Search at CRITICALLY NA spotted handfish Okines Beach and Tiger Head Bay, South East Tasmania , February ENDANGERED 2018 by Marine Solutions.

Known within 5000 m (Based on Range Boundaries)

BIRDS

Accipiter novaehollandiae Endangered/ Highly unlikely due to the absence of suitable foraging and nesting Very low grey goshawk - habitat. May be transient in the area. 16 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Botaurus poiciloptilus - / None No suitable habitat Australasian Bittern ENDANGERED

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Calidris ferruginea - / CRITICALLY of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr NA Curlew sandpiper ENDANGERED Eric J Woehler) . Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

Ceyx azureus diemenensis Endangered / None No suitable habitat. Tasmanian Azure Kingfisher ENDANGERED

Diomedea antipodensis gibsoni - / None A pelagic species gibson's albatross VULNERABLE

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Limosa lapponica baueri of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr -/VULNERABLE NA Bar-Tailed Godwit Eric J Woehler) . Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and sea birds Limosa lapponica menzbieri -/CRITICALLY of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr NA northern Siberian bar-tailed godwit ENDANGERED Eric J Woehler) . Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

Thalassarche bulleri platei - / None A pelagic species northern Buller's albatross VULNERABLE

MIGRATORY MARINE BIRDS

Ardenna grisea - / sooty shearwater MIGRATORY None of these species has any chance of occurring – they are all None Diomedea antipodensis - / pelagic species antipodean albatross VULNERABLE 17 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Diomedea epomophora - / southern royal albatross VULNERABLE

Diomedea exulans Endangered / wandering albatross VULNERABLE

Diomedea sanfordi - / northern royal albatross ENDANGERED

Macronectes giganteus Vulnerable / southern giant-petrel ENGANGERED

Macronectes halli Rare / northern giant petrel VULNERABLE

Sternula albifrons - / Little Tern MIGRATORY

Thalassarche bulleri - / Buller's albatross VULNERABLE

Thalassarche cauta cauta Vulnerable / shy albatross VULNERABLE

Thalassarche chrysostoma Endangered / grey-headed albatross ENDANGERED

Thalassarche impavida Endangered / Campbell albatross VULNERABLE 18 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Thalassarche melanophris - / black-browed albatross VULNERABLE

Thalassarche salvini - / Salvin's Albatross VULNERABLE

Thalassarche cauta steadi - / white-capped albatross VULNERABLE

MIGRATORY TERRESTRIAL BIRDS

An aerial species most likely unaffected by terrestrial habitat Hirundapus caudacutus - / Very low alteration outside of its Northern Hemisphere breeding range. white-throated needletail VULNERABLE Uncommonly recorded but widespread in Tasmania.

An aerial insectivore occasionally recorded in Tasmania. Most Apus pacificus - / records of the Fork-tailed swift are from Bass Strait Islands with fewer Very low Fork-tailed swift MIGRATORY on mainland northern Tasmania. Almost exclusively an aerial species.

An interstate migrant, of which some of the population spends the summer breeding months in Tasmania. Widely distributed across Myiagra cyanoleuca - / Migratory Very low forested environments but is sensitive to fragmentation and canopy satin flycatcher thinning. Riparian habitats are preferred, and the species is infrequently recorded within regrowth and suburban environments.

MIGRATORY WETLAND BIRDS

Actitis hypoleucos Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds -/Migratory NA common sandpiper of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr 19 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Arenaria interpres Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that any of -/Migratory ruddy turnstone these species occurs.

Calidris acuminate -/Migratory sharp-tailed sandpiper

Calidris alba -/Migratory sanderling

- Calidris canutus /ENDANGERE red knot D

Calidris ferruginea -/CRITICALLY curlew sandpiper ENDANGERED

Calidris melanotos -/Migratory pectoral sandpiper

Calidris ruficollis -/Migratory red-necked stint

Calidris tenuirostris -/Migratory Great knot

Charadrius bicinctus -/Migratory double-banded plover

Charadrius mongolus - / 20 lesser Sand Plover ENDANGERED Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Charadrius veredus -/Migratory Oriental plover

Gallinago hardwickii -/Migratory Latham's snipe

Limosa limosa -/Migratory Black-Tailed Godwit

Endangered/ Numenius madagascariensis CRITICALLY Eastern Curlew ENDANGERED

Numenius phaeopus -/Migratory Whimbrel

Philomachus pugnax -/Migratory ruff

Pluvialis fulva -/Migratory Pacific Golden-Plover

Pluvialis squatarola -/Migratory Grey plover

Tringa brevipes -/Migratory Grey-tailed tattler

Tringa nebularia -/Migratory Common Greenshank

Xenus cinereus -/Migratory 21 terek sandpiper Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

MARINE BIRDS

Ardea alba -/Marine great egret

Regular migrants, arriving in PWOL during spring/summer. Habitat Bubulcus ibis utilisation is broad, including intertidal flats, saltmarsh, and -/Marine None cattle egret surrounding pasture and river lands. No suitable habitat in the survey area.

Egretta garzetta -/Marine little egret

Catharacta skua -/Marine None A pelagic species. Great skua

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Charadrius ruficapillus of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr -/Marine NA Red-Capped Plover Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Himantopus himantopus of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr -/Marine NA Pied Stilt Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species occurs.

Puffinus carneipes -/Marine None A pelagic species. flesh-footed shearwater

Shorebirds are dealt with in another report ( Shorebirds and seabirds Recurvirostra novaehollandiae of Okines Beach, Tasmania, Report to North Barker, May 2020, by Dr -/Marine red-necked avocet Eric J Woehler). Regardless, it is not considered likely that this species 22 occurs. Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Status Potential Species Comments, habitat niche 15 , previous records, etc . TSPA/EPBCA to occur

Dasyurus viverrinus -/ Very low No nearby records and not considered likely to occur. eastern quoll Endangered

23 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

Appendix D: EPBC Act Protected Matters Report

7

Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

8 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

9 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

10 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

11 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

12 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

13 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

14 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

15 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

16 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

17 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

18 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

19 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment 20 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014 Okines Beach, Lewisham – Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania Natural Values Assessment

7 Page

North Barker Ecosystem Services 30_06_2020 PWS014