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2.1.3 GIS ANALYSIS The GIS analysis included an initial assessment of the regionally mapped native vegetation types and threatened flora and fauna species records within the Proposal study area. Further desktop GIS analysis was undertaken to assess the potential presence of MNES within the Proposal study area as it relates to threatened species or communities. GIS analysis has also included the recent mapping of PCT’s within the proposal study area by WSP in 2019/20.

2.1.3.1 SPECIES RECORDS Searches of the State species profile search tool and Commonwealth Government’s Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) search was undertaken within a 20 km radius of the proposal study area to determine the location of moderate to highly likely threatened flora and fauna records listed under the EPBC Act within the locality. The threatened flora and fauna records that were revealed as present within the proposal study area were mapped using GIS. This GIS analysis helped inform the likelihood of occurrence assessment for threatened flora and fauna species.

2.1.3.2 AQUATIC ECOLOGY The desktop assessment of aquatic ecological values included a literature review of existing information, database searches, and GIS analysis of State published mapping.

2.1.4 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ASSESSMENT The likelihood of occurrence assessment was based upon publicly available species records and/or other information sources, such as field guides and web-based species profiles. The likelihood of threatened flora and fauna species and ecological communities occurring in the proposal study area, has been assessed against the criteria outlined in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Likelihood of occurrence assessment criteria

LIKELIHOOD OF ASSESSMENT CRITERIA OCCURRENCE Low No previous records of the species within the and one or more of the following criteria is met: — have not been recorded previously in the proposal study area and surrounds is beyond the current known geographic range — are dependent on specific habitat types or resources that are not present in the locality — considered extinct in the wild. Moderate Species previously recorded within the proposal study area and one or more of the following criteria is met: — previously recorded in proximity to the proposal study area (i.e. vagrant individuals) — potential habitat resources are present in the locality. High Species previously recorded within the proposal study area and one or more of the following criteria is met: — previously recorded in the locality dependent on habitats or habitat resources that are available in the locality — suitable habitats are available in the Proposal study area capable of supporting a resident population or individuals of the species. Known Flora species or ecological community identified during field surveys within the locality Fauna species recorded during field surveys within proposal study area or adjacent habitat.

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2.2 FIELD INVESTIGATIONS

Multiple survey sessions have been conducted within the proposal study area, with the main focus to field validate native vegetation communities as well as fauna habitats. WSP has been engaged to complete more detailed surveys for other sections of EnergyConnect, and these have currently been conducted mainly within the EnergyConnect (NSW – Western Section), and then between the areas of Buronga to Balranald which is relevant to this proposal. Due to the close proximity of the Western Section to the Eastern Section proposal study area, some of the field survey data collected for that section is considered relevant and referred to in this report. Where there has been limited accessibility in sections, broadscale mapping and desktop assessment has been relied on for this report. Overall, substantially more targeted field survey will be occurring in 2020 and into 2021 by WSP to inform the future EIS for the proposal. Table 2.2 summarises the field surveys that have been completed so far within the proposal study area.

Table 2.2 Survey summary within the proposal study area

SURVEY DATES LOCATION SURVEY TYPE 18 May – 3 June 2019 Buronga to Wagga Wagga Rapid data points (preliminary surveys part of options Targeted threatened flora surveys selection, only portions of the Vegetation mapping proposal study area)

25 November – 5 December SA/NSW border to Wagga Wagga Rapid data points 2019 (EnergyConnect NSW Western and BAM plots Eastern sections) Targeted threatened flora surveys Vegetation mapping Habitat assessments Targeted amphibian surveys Targeted bird surveys Targeted bat surveys (harp trapping and Anabats) Camera trapping installation

10–20 February 2020 Buronga to Balranald Rapid data points (portions of the proposal study Vegetation mapping area) BAM Plots Targeted threatened flora surveys Habitat assessments Targeted bat surveys (harp trapping and Anabats) Targeted amphibian surveys Nest box installation Camera trapping

A description of each survey method is described below.

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2.2.1 VEGETATION SURVEYS

2.2.1.1 RAPID DATA POINTS Rapid data points (RDPs) recorded the following:

— dominant exotic and native plant species present — percent cover of native groundcover — photograph of each location — assessment of vegetation against threatened ecological community Scientific Determinations and EPBC Act condition thresholds — threatened flora and/or fauna species identified — other opportunistic fauna sightings including any significant fauna habitat resources (such as tree hollow, rock piles and cracks and fissures present in wooden poles).

2.2.1.2 VEGETATION MAPPING Vegetation within the proposal study area had been previously mapped at the regional scale by broad-scale vegetation mapping (Office of Environment & Heritage 2016a). Field validation (ground-truthing) of the existing vegetation classifications undertaken by regional vegetation mapping was completed to confirm the vegetation structure, dominant canopy species, native diversity, condition and presence of threatened ecological communities. Field data was compared and analysed against the regional vegetation mapping key diagnostic species to confirm each vegetation type. Field verification of the vegetation type, class and formation was used to identify vegetation zones and conditions in accordance with the BAM (Office of Environment & Heritage, 2017)and NSW BioNet Vegetation Classification Database (Office of Environment, Energy and Science, 2020).

2.2.1.3 BAM VEGETATION INTEGRITY PLOTS Quantitative (quadrat/transect) vegetation integrity surveys (Figure 2.2, (Office of Environment & Heritage, 2017) were undertaken in accordance with BAM and methodology described below

Figure 2.2 Schematic diagram illustrating the layout of the nested 20 x 50 m, 20 x 20 m and 1 x 1 m sub-quadrats used for the assessment of condition attributes at each site

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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. Vegetation structure was recorded through estimates of percentage foliage cover, average height and height range for each vegetation layer.

— Native and exotic species richness (within a 400 m2 quadrat): This consisted of recording all species by systematically walking through each 20 x 20 m quadrat. The cover and abundance (percentage of area of quadrat covered) of each species was estimated. The growth form, stratum/layer and whether each species was native/exotic/high threat weed was also recorded.

— Number of trees with hollows (1,000 m2 quadrat): This was the frequency of hollows within living and dead trees within each 50 x 20 m quadrat. A hollow was only recorded if (a) the entrance could be seen: (b) the estimated entrance width was at least 5 cm across: (c) the hollow appeared to have depth: (d) the hollow was at least 1 m above the ground and the (e) the centre of the tree was located within the sampled quadrat.

— Number of large trees and stem size diversity (1,000 m2 quadrat): tree stem size diversity was calculated by measuring the diameter at breast height (DBH) (i.e. 1.3 m from the ground) of all living trees (>5 cm DBH) within each 50 x 20 m quadrat. For multi-stemmed living trees, only the largest stem was included in the count. Number of large trees was determined by comparing living tree stem DBH against the PCTs benchmarks.

— Total length of fallen logs (1,000 m2 quadrat): This was the cumulative total of logs within each 50 x 20 m quadrat with a diameter of at least 10 cm and a length of at least 0.5 m.

— Litter cover: This comprised estimating the average percentage groundcover of litter (i.e. leaves, seeds, twigs, branchlets and branches with a diameter <10 cm which is detached from a living plant) from within five 1 x 1 m sub- plots spaced evenly either side of the 50 m central transect.

— Evaluation of regeneration: This was estimated as the presence/absence of overstorey species present at the site that was regenerating (i.e. saplings with a diameter at breast height ≤5 cm).

2.2.1.4 VEGETATION CONDITION The overall condition of vegetation was assessed through general observation and analysis of Rapid Data Point floristic data. The quality of vegetation was assessed using parameters including community structure, native and exotic species diversity, native versus exotic species abundance, evidence of physical disturbance, and plant health. Three categories were used to describe the condition of vegetation communities:

— Good: 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.

— Moderate: Vegetation generally still retains much of its structural integrity but has been disturbed and has lost some component of its original species complement. Weed invasion can be significant in such remnants; this category includes derived shrublands and grasslands which are likely to be capable of natural regeneration to near-natural condition in the absence of on-going human disturbance and with minimal intervention.

— Poor: Vegetation that has lost most of its species and is significantly modified structurally. Often such areas have a discontinuous canopy of the original tree cover, with very few shrubs. Exotic species, such as introduced pasture grasses or weeds, replace much of the indigenous ground cover. Environmental weeds are often co dominant with the original indigenous species. This category includes vegetation that is unlikely to be capable of natural regeneration to near-natural condition without substantial and ongoing intervention such as weed control, seeding and revegetation.

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2.2.2 TARGETED FLORA SURVEYS Targeted threatened flora surveys have included a number of methods – a description of each is described below. Due to the large-scale of the proposal and drought conditions within the proposal study area, a systematic approach was taken and three distinct survey techniques were used. Additional surveys in 2020 will continue to add to the coverage of the proposal study area to enable detailed assessment.

2.2.2.1 RANDOM MEANDER Random meander transects were completed in accordance with the technique described by Cropper (1993) whereby the recorder walks in a meandering pattern throughout the site. Attributes recorded during random meander transects included variation in species composition and vegetation structure, the presence or absence of threatened or priority weed species of plant and boundaries between vegetation communities.

2.2.2.2 PARALLEL FIELD TRANSVERSES Parallel field transverses were used in vegetation types which were considered the most suitable habitat for non-drought affected threatened species. This involved two senior botanists walking on a fixed bearing at 30 metres apart, covering 60 metres each side of the centreline of the proposal study area that allowed for a total coverage of a 120 metre corridor. This approach was applied to PCT 171 – Spinifex linear dune mallee mainly of the Murray Darling Depression Bioregion which provided the most likely habitat to detect woody persistent threatened species that could be reliably surveyed during extreme drought conditions. Based on this rationale, all patches of this vegetation type were subject to this technique and searched along a grid of parallel field transverses.

2.2.2.3 REPRESENTATIVE PARALLEL FIELD TRAVERSES Representative sampling of one kilometre sections of the centreline of the proposal study area was undertaken in vegetation types which habitat considered moderately suitable for non-drought affected threatened species. This approach was considered appropriate given parallel field transverses across all areas of associated habitat within the centreline of the proposal study area was impractical. This involved two senior botanists walking on a fixed bearing at 30 metres apart, covering 60 metres each side of the centreline of the proposal study area that allowed for a total coverage of a 120 metre corridor for one kilometre representative sections. Vegetation types subject to this technique included:

— PCT 58 – Black Oak – Western Rosewood open woodland on deep sandy loams mainly in the Murray Darling Depression Bioregion — PCT 170 – Chenopod sandplain mallee woodland/shrubland of the arid and semi-arid (warm) zones — PCT 172 – Deep sand mallee of irregular dunefields of the semi-arid (warm) zone. For vegetation types considered unlikely to provide habitat for non-drought affected threatened species, representative sampling of 500 metre sections of other vegetation types were undertaken using the same method.

2.2.3 TARGETED FAUNA SURVEYS

2.2.3.1 TARGETED BIRD SURVEYS Targeted bird surveys were completed using the standard 20 minute search within a 2 ha area methodology as described in by Threatened birds – Survey Guidelines for Australia’s Threatened Birds (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010b). Surveys were generally completed in areas considered to have habitat for predicted threatened bird species. As far as practicable, bird surveys were completed during periods of high bird activity predominately, early morning or late afternoon, and optimum season. All birds were identified to the species level, either through direct observation or identification of calls.

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2.2.3.2 TARGETED BAT SURVEYS

HARP TRAPPING Harp trapping has been completed within the proposal study area during the summer season in 2019 and 2020. The harp- traps were generally set at the edge of an ecotone to maximise trapping success and harp-traps were checked every hour, commencing one hour after dusk. Captured bats were identified to species level, sexed, measured and weighed. Bats were released immediately after processing during the night. Reference calls were taken for some species on their release after processing. For Commonwealth listed microbats considered likely to occur (e.g. Corben’s Long-eared Bat) the intent of the ‘Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened bats: Guidelines for detecting bats listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999’ (Department of Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010) was followed. As the proposal study area exceeds 50 hectares, the recommended 20 trap nights over five (5) traps nights could not be completely achieved for Corben’s Long-eared Bat. In accordance with the survey guidelines for Corben’s Long-eared on large projects with landscape complexity harp-traps and Anabats were distributed strategically to provide good representation within the major habitat types. Harp-trapping surveys were undertaken on warm nights within the optimum seasonal requirements (October-April).

ANABAT BAT DETECTION Passive ultrasonic bat detection was used with up to three Anabat Express (Titley Scientific) units deployed at each survey location within the proposal study area for the entire night (a minimum of six hours) starting at dusk for two nights. This was to record and identify the echolocation calls of microchiropteran bats foraging within and adjacent to the proposal study area. Anabat Express units were placed where bat activity was expected to be higher, based on potential foraging and/or roosting habitats being present. The ZCA files (full night zero crossing analysis) recorded using the Anabat Express detectors were converted to zc sequence files using Anabat Insight (version 9.1) for analysis and to add metadata (e.g. species label, site identification etc). Calls were identified using zero- crossing analysis in both Analook W (version 4.9) and Anabat Insight (version 9.1) by visually comparing the time-frequency graph and call characteristics (e.g. characteristic frequency and call shape) with reference calls and/or species call descriptions from available reference material. The Bat calls of NSW: Region based guide to the echolocation calls of microchiropteran bats (Pennay, Law, & Reinhold, 2004) was used to assist call analysis. Call identification was also assisted by consulting distribution information for potential species (Churchill, 2008; Pennay et al., 2011; Van Dyke et al., 2013) and records from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife (Office of Environment, Energy and Science, 2020). During roost watches and spotlighting surveys, an EchoMeter Touch (Wildlife Acoustics, USA) was used to actively record calls of emerging and foraging microbats as well as reference calls for some species. Calls were identified using zero- crossing analysis and full-spectrum in Anabat Insight (version 9.1).

2.2.3.3 TARGETED AMPHIBIAN SURVEYS Survey methodologies used to target potential threatened amphibians within the proposal study area included the following;

— systematic diurnal habitat search, identifying appropriate potential habitat for night surveys (one hour per stratification unit) — nocturnal surveys within identified potential habitat i.e. damp and watery sites (30 minutes on two separate nights) — nocturnal watercourse searches (two hours per 200 m of water body edge) — nocturnal Call playback survey methodologies were also used were appropriate habitat was identified.

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Survey methodologies used were in accordance with the Threatened species survey and assessment guidelines: field survey methods for fauna – Amphibians (Department of Environment and Climate Change, 2009) (Department of the Environment Water Heritage and the Arts, 2010a). Due to limitations to some private property and chronic drought conditions, targeted surveys for threatened frog species were unable to be undertaken in accordance with Commonwealth survey guidelines in most locations. Instead opportunistic surveys were undertaken around farm dams and waterways.

2.2.3.4 SPOTLIGHTING Spotlighting surveys were completed on foot by four ecologists, targeting arboreal, flying and large ground-dwelling mammals, as well as nocturnal birds, reptiles and amphibians. At least one-person hour of survey effort was completed per site.

2.2.3.1 OPPORTUNISTIC RECORDING OF FAUNA SPECIES AND EVIDENCE OF FAUNA ACTIVITY Opportunistic sightings of animals were recorded during field surveys. Evidence of animal activity, such as scats, diggings, scratch marks, nests/dreys, burrows etc., was also noted. This provided indirect information on animal presence and activity. During these surveys, a hand-held GPS was used to record the locations of:

— hollow-bearing trees — aquatic habitat — rock outcrops.

2.2.3.2 FAUNA HABITAT ASSESSMENT Fauna habitat assessments were completed to assess the likelihood of species of animal occurring in the proposal study area. Habitat assessments included the assessment and identification of habitat features through targeted meander surveys at specific span locations, structures and access tracks where works are proposed. Opportunistic recordings of species were made through incidental sightings, aural recognition of calls and observations of indirect evidence of species presence (such as feeding signs, scratchings, nests/dreys, whitewash, owl pellets, 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.

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2.3 SIGNIFICANCE IMPACT ASSESSMENTS

The Significance Impact Assessments (SIAs) within this report describe potential impacts on MNES arising from the construction and operation of the transmission line and associated infrastructure and provides high level mitigation measures proposed to avoid or reduce potential impacts. An assessment of the potential residual impacts against the EPBC Significant Impact Criteria has also been provided, assuming the mitigation measures outlined are implemented. This assessment is based upon desktop review of available data and previous studies (Jacobs, 2019b), and preliminary field investigations and surveys conducted by WSP (as outlined above).

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3 PLANT COMMUNITY TYPES The Plant Community Types (PCTs) recorded and mapped are based on a combination of broad scale vegetation mapping and limited field validation these 10 vegetation formations are identified to contain a total of 54 native PCTs. An overview of each PCT, its associated vegetation formation, class, threat status, estimated historical percentage cleared (previously in the area) is presented in Table 3.1. Note that as surveys in 2020 and 2021 progress, detailed PCT mapping and impact calculations will completed for the entire proposal study area. The proposal study area has been identified to traverse a diverse range of native vegetation types including 10 broad NSW vegetation formations, being:

— grassy woodlands — grasslands — dry sclerophyll forests (shrubby sub-formation) — freshwater wetlands — forested wetlands — saline wetlands — semi-arid woodlands (grassy sub-formation) — semi-arid woodlands (shrubby sub-formation) — arid shrublands (acacia sub-formation) — arid shrublands (chenopod sub-formation).

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Table 3.1 Overview of native plant community types within the proposal study area

VEGETATION TYPE VEGETATION CLASS BC ACT1 EPBC ACT2 PCT 70 – White Cypress Pine woodland on sandy loams in central NSW wheatbelt Floodplain Transition – – Woodlands PCT 74 – Yellow Box – River Red Gum tall grassy riverine woodland of NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and Endangered Critically Riverina Bioregion5 Endangered PCT 80 – Western Grey Box – White Cypress Pine tall woodland on loam soil on alluvial plains of NSW South Endangered Endangered Western Slopes Bioregion and Riverina Bioregion6 PCT 237 – Riverine Western Grey Box grassy woodland of the semi-arid (warm) climate zone6 PCT 266 – White Box grassy woodland in the upper slopes sub-region of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion5 Western Slopes Grassy Endangered / Critically Woodlands SAII Endangered PCT 276 – Yellow Box grassy tall woodland on alluvium or parna loams and clays on flats in NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion5 PCT 277 – Blakely's Red Gum – Yellow Box grassy tall woodland of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion5 PCT 44 – Forb-rich Speargrass – Windmill Grass – White Top grassland of the Riverina Bioregion Riverine Plain Grasslands – – PCT 45 – Plains Grass grassland on alluvial mainly clay soils in the Riverina Bioregion and NSW South Western – – Slopes Bioregion PCT 46 – Curly Windmill Grass – speargrass – wallaby grass grassland on alluvial clay and loam on the Hay Plain, Riverine Plain Grasslands – – Riverina Bioregion PCT 250 – Derived tussock grassland of the central western plains and lower slopes of NSW Western Slopes Grasslands – – PCT 346 – White Box – Blakely's Red Gum – White Cypress Pine shrubby woodland on metamorphic hills in the Western Slopes Dry – – Wagga Wagga – Cootamundra region of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion Sclerophyll Forests PCT 17 – Lignum shrubland wetland of the semi-arid (warm) plains (mainly Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Inland Floodplain – – Depression Bioregion) Shrublands PCT 24 – Canegrass swamp tall grassland wetland of drainage depressions, lakes and pans of the inland plains – – PCT 53 – Shallow freshwater wetland sedgeland in depressions on floodplains on inland alluvial plains and – – floodplains

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VEGETATION TYPE VEGETATION CLASS BC ACT1 EPBC ACT2 PCT 160 – Nitre Goosefoot shrubland wetland on clays of the inland floodplains – – PCT47 – Swamp grassland wetland of the Riverine Plain Inland Floodplain Swamps – – PCT182 – Cumbungi rushland wetland of shallow semi-permanent water bodies and inland watercourses – – PCT 5 – River Red Gum herbaceous-grassy very tall open forest wetland on inner floodplains in the lower slopes Inland Riverine Forests – – sub-region of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and the eastern Riverina Bioregion PCT 7 – River Red Gum – Warrego Grass – herbaceous riparian tall open forest wetland mainly in the Riverina Inland Riverine Forests – – Bioregion PCT 8 – River Red Gum – Warrego Grass – Couch Grass riparian tall woodland wetland of the semi-arid (warm) – – climate zone (Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion) PCT 9 – River Red Gum – wallaby grass tall woodland wetland on the outer River Red Gum zone mainly in the – – Riverina Bioregion PCT 10 – River Red Gum – Black Box woodland wetland of the semi-arid (warm) climatic zone (mainly Riverina – – Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion) PCT 11 – River Red Gum – Lignum very tall open forest or woodland wetland on floodplains of semi-arid (warm) – – climate zone (mainly Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion) PCT 249 – River Red Gum swampy woodland wetland on cowals (lakes) and associated flood channels in central – – NSW PCT 164 – Cotton Bush open shrubland of the semi-arid (warm) zone Inland Saline Lakes – – PCT 166 – Disturbed annual saltbush forbland on clay plains and inundation zones mainly of south western NSW – – PCT 13 – Black Box – Lignum woodland wetland of the inner floodplains in the semi-arid (warm) climate zone Inland Floodplain – – (mainly Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion) Woodlands PCT 15 – Black Box open woodland wetland with chenopod understorey mainly on the outer floodplains in south – – western NSW (mainly Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion) PCT 16 – Black Box grassy open woodland wetland of rarely flooded depressions in south western NSW (mainly – – Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion)

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VEGETATION TYPE VEGETATION CLASS BC ACT1 EPBC ACT2 PCT 26 – Weeping Myall open woodland of the Riverina Bioregion and NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion7 Riverine Plain Woodlands Endangered Endangered PCT 19 – Cypress Pine woodland of source-bordering dunes mainly on the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Riverine Sandhill Endangered – floodplains8 Woodlands PCT 20 – Buloke – Moonah – Black Box open woodland on sandy rises of semi-arid (warm) climate zone (mainly Endangered Endangered Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion9 PCT 21 – Slender Cypress Pine – Sugarwood – Western Rosewood open woodland on sandy rises mainly in the Endangered – Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression Bioregion8 PCT 23 – Yarran tall open shrubland of the sandplains and plains of the semi-arid (warm) and arid climate zones – PCT 28 – White Cypress Pine open woodland of sand plains, prior streams and dunes mainly of the semi-arid Endangered – (warm) climate zone9 PCT 57 – Belah/Black Oak – Western Rosewood – Wilga woodland of central NSW including the Cobar Peneplain Semi-arid Sand Plain Endangered – Bioregion10 Woodlands PCT 58 – Black Oak – Western Rosewood open woodland on deep sandy loams mainly in the Murray Darling Endangered – Depression Bioregion10 PCT 252 – Sugarwood open woodland of the inland plains mainly Murray Darling Depression Bioregion – – PCT 75 – Yellow Box – White Cypress Pine grassy woodland on deep sandy-loam alluvial soils of the eastern Riverine Sandhill Endangered – Riverina Bioregion and western NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion5 Woodlands PCT 170 – Chenopod sandplain mallee woodland/shrubland of the arid and semi-arid (warm) zones Sand Plain Mallee – – Woodlands PCT 171 – Spinifex linear dune mallee mainly of the Murray Darling Depression Bioregion Dune Mallee Woodlands – – PCT172 – Deep sand mallee of irregular dunefields of the semi-arid (warm) zone – – PCT 185 – Dwyer's Red Gum – White Cypress Pine – Currawang shrubby woodland mainly in the NSW South Inland Rocky Hill – – Western Slopes Bioregion Woodlands PCT 319 – Tumbledown Red Gum – White Cypress Pine hill woodland in the southern part of the NSW South Inland Rocky Hill – – Western Slopes Bioregion Woodlands

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VEGETATION TYPE VEGETATION CLASS BC ACT1 EPBC ACT2 PCT 143 – Narrow-leaved Hopbush – Scrub Turpentine – Senna shrubland on semi-arid and arid sandplains and Sand Plain Mulga Endangered – dunes9 Shrublands PCT 229 – Derived mixed shrubland on loamy-clay soils in the Cobar Peneplain Bioregion North-west Plain – – Shrublands PCT 157 – Bladder Saltbush shrubland on alluvial plains in the semi-arid (warm) zone including Riverina Bioregion Riverine Chenopod – – Shrublands PCT 159 – Old Man Saltbush shrubland mainly of the semi-arid (warm) climate zone (south western NSW) – –

PCT 163 – Dillon Bush (Nitre Bush) shrubland of the semi-arid and arid zones – – PCT 216 – Black Roly Poly low open shrubland of the Riverina Bioregion and Murray Darling Depression – – Bioregion PCT 236 – Derived Giant Redburr low shrubland on alluvial plains of the semi-arid (warm) climate zone – – PCT 153 – Black Bluebush low open shrubland of the alluvial plains and sandplains of the arid and semi-arid zones9 Aeolian Chenopod Endangered – Shrublands (1) Endangered, and SAII = Serious and Irreversible Impact under the Biodiversity Conservation Act (BC Act) (2) Endangered and Critically Endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act). (3) Recorded by either WSP field verification or using broad scale mapping (Office of Environment and Heritage, 2016b, 2016c, 2016d). (4) Listed as White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland under the BC Act (Endangered) and White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland under the EPBC Act (Critically Endangered). (5) Inland Grey Box Woodland in the Riverina, NSW South Western Slopes, Cobar Peneplain, Nandewar and Brigalow Belt South and Inland Grey Box Woodland in the Riverina, NSW South Western Slopes, Cobar Peneplain, Nandewar and Brigalow Belt South Bioregions under the EPBC Act (Endangered) (6) Listed as Myall Woodland in the Darling Riverine Plains, Brigalow Belt South, Cobar Peneplain, Murray-Darling Depression, Riverina and NSW South Western Slopes bioregions under the BC Act (Endangered) and Myall Woodland in the Darling Riverine Plains, Brigalow Belt South, Cobar Peneplain, Murray-Darling Depression, Riverina and NSW South Western Slopes bioregions under the EPBC Act (Critically Endangered) (7) Listed as Sandhill Pine Woodland in the Riverina, Murray-Darling Depression and NSW South Western Slopes bioregion under the BC Act (Endangered) (8) Listed as Acacia loderi shrublands under the BC Act (Endangered) (9) Listed as Allocasuarina luehmannii Woodland in the Riverina and Murray Darling Depression Bioregions under the BC Act (Endangered) and Allocasuarina luehmannii Woodland in the Riverina and Murray-Darling Depression Bioregions under the EPBC Act (Endangered)

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4 MATTERS OF NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE

4.1 WETLANDS OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE

Four wetlands of international importance (listed under the Ramsar Convention) were identified in the EPBC PMST. No RAMSAR wetlands or Wetlands of International importance are within 10 kilometres of the proposal study area. However, there is one located approximately 20 kilometres south of the proposal study area, Hattah-kulkyne Lakes. No wetlands of international importance (RAMSAR) are within the proposal study area or likely to be impacted by the proposed action. These RAMSAR wetlands are not considered further in this SIA. No nationally important wetlands occur within the proposal study area.

4.2 EPBC ACT THREATENED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

The Protected Matters Search Tool (refer Appendix A) returned six threatened ecological communities (TECs), listed under the EPBC Act, as having potential to occur within the proposal study area. The likelihood of occurrence for each TEC within the proposal study area was undertaken, by identifying the State Government PCTs mapped within the proposal study area, with the potential to constitute the definition of each respective TEC. This was further refined by preliminary field surveys, including PCT mapping of the actual proposal study area by WSP. Three TECs listed under the EPBC Act were recorded during preliminary field surveys within the proposal study area. These include:

— Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia – Endangered — Weeping Myall Woodlands – Endangered — White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland – Critically Endangered. Further detailed field surveys in 2020 and 2021 will be undertaken to understand the full extent of all recorded (and potentially additional) threatened ecological communities within the proposal study area.

4.3 EPBC ACT THREATENED FLORA SPECIES

Database searches have identified a total of 36 threatened flora species, listed under the EPBC Act, that are predicted or known to occur within the proposal locality. The results of likelihood of occurrence assessments have identified a total of 20 threatened flora species to have a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the proposal study area, as presented in Table 4.1. No threatened plants listed under the EPBC Act were recorded during preliminary field surveys.

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Table 4.1 Summary of flora species listed under the EPBC Act with a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence in the proposal study area

SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Acacia Purple-wood V V Grows in grassland and woodland in red, sandy soil; also found in Mulga Professional Moderate. carneorum Wattle communities on sand dunes, level sandy sites and alluvial accumulations along opinion Potential habitat present (PCT watercourses; recorded from inland semi-arid Acacia and Casuarina shrublands and 58) although no records occur woodlands. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 58. within 100 km of the proposal.

Ammobium Yass Daisy V V Found in moist or dry forest communities, Box-Gum Woodland and secondary BioNet; Moderate. craspedioides grassland derived from clearing of these communities. Associated vegetation types PMST Potential habitat present (PCT within the study area: PCT 266; 277. 266; 277) although all records within the locality occur from Livingstone National Park (about 15 km south of Wagga 330 STS.

Amphibromus Floating V V Amphibromus fluitans grows mostly in permanent swamps. The species needs BioNet; Moderate. fluitans Swamp wetlands which are at least moderately fertile and which have some bare ground, PMST Two records of this species Wallaby-grass conditions which are produced by seasonally-fluctuating water levels. (NSW-406628-1995) occur near Habitats in south western NSW include swamp margins in mud, dam and tank beds Grong Grong River Road, Grong in hard clay and in semi-dry mud of lagoons with Potamogeton and Chamaeraphis Grong (about 20 km north of the species. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 17; 160. proposal).

Atriplex A Saltbush V V Atriplex infrequens is associated with broad drainage tracts, clay flats and possibly Professional Moderate. infrequens occasionally inundated habitats. Very little ecological information is available for opinion Potential habitat within the study this species so it’s critical habitat components can only be speculated as relatively PMST area. undisturbed and ungrazed drainage lines and flats. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 17; 24; 139; 157; 159; 160; 163; 165; 166; 170; 216.

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Austrostipa A spear-grass V V Grows in sandy areas of the Murray Valley; habitats include sandhills, sandridges, BioNet; Moderate. metatoris undulating plains and flat open mallee country, with red to red-brown clay-loam to PMST Potential habitat within PCTs 7; sandy-loam soils. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 7; 19; 28; 19; 28; 170. There are records 70; 170. within the locality of the proposal study area south of Balranald near Kyalite road. (EES, 2020)

Austrostipa A spear-grass E E Grows on floodplains of the Murray River tributaries, in open woodland on grey, BioNet; Moderate. wakoolica silty clay or sandy loam soils; habitats include the edges of a lignum swamp with PMST Potential habitat in PCTs 17; 26; box and mallee; creek banks in grey, silty clay; mallee and lignum sandy-loam flat; 70; 74; 76; 80; 237; 250 occurs open Cypress Pine forest on low sandy range; and a low, rocky rise. Associated within the proposal study area. vegetation types within the study area: PCT 17; 26; 70; 74; 76; 80; 237; 250.

Brachyscome Claypan Daisy V V Grows in damp areas on the margins of claypans in moist grassland with BioNet; Moderate. muelleroides Pycnosorus globosus, Agrostis avenacea and Austrodanthonia duttoniana. Also, PMST The Claypan Daisy is predicted recorded from the margins of lagoons in mud or water, and in association with to occur in the Wagga Wagga, Calotis anthemoides. The Claypan Daisy occurs in the Wagga Wagga, Narranderra, Narranderra, Tocumwal and Tocumwal and Walbundrie areas. Associated vegetation types within the study Walbundrie areas. (ESS, 2020) area: PCT 44; 45; 46. The closest records are near Urana, and Buckingbong State Forest (EES, 2020)

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Brachyscome Mossgiel V V Recorded primarily in clay soils on Bladder Saltbush (Atriplex vesicaria) and BioNet; Moderate. papillosa Daisy Leafless Bluebush (Maireana aphylla) plains, but also in grassland and in Inland PMST Known distribution from Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) – Cypress Pine (Callitris spp.) woodland. Jerilderie area, the Hay Plain Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 13; 16; 24; 44; 45; 46; 76; (Maude and Oxley) and around 80; 157; 159; 160; 163; 164; 165; 216; 237. Darlington Point (ESS, 2020). There are no records for this species within the proposal study area, all records are to the north of Sturt Highway, located to within and around Yanga National Park (EES, 2020) Potential habitat within PCT 13; 16; 24; 44; 45; 46; 76, 80 157; 159; 160; 163; 164; 165; 216, 237.

Caladenia Sand-hill E E Occurs in woodland with sandy soil, especially that dominated by White Cypress BioNet; Moderate. arenaria Spider Orchid Pine (Callitris glaucophylla). Associated vegetation types within the study area: PMST Sand-hill Spider Orchid is PCT 28; 75; 76; 80. restricted to the Riverina in NSW and only occurs in five locations between Urana and Narranderra that are severely fragmented (EES, 2020). There are no records within proposal study area.

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Eleocharis Spike-Rush V V Grows in ephemerally wet situations such as roadside mitre drains and depressions, BioNet, Moderate. obicis usually in low-lying grasslands. Found near Condobolin and Hay, as well as being PMST Potential habitat occurs within known from an old collection from the Barrier Range near Broken Hill. Associated the study area. vegetation types within the study area: PCT 10; 11; 13; 17; 24; 26; 44; 45; 46; 74; 76; 157; 159; 160 163; 164; 216; 237.

Lepidium Spiny V V Found on ridges of gilgai clays dominated by Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla), BioNet Moderate. aschersonii Peppercress Belah (Casuarina cristata), Buloke (Allocasuarina luehmanii) and Grey Box Potential habitat occurs within (Eucalyptus microcarpa). In the south, has been recorded growing in Bull Mallee the study area. PCT 26; 74; 76; (Eucalyptus behriana). Often the understorey is dominated by introduced plants. 237. The species grows as a component of the ground flora, in grey loamy clays. Vegetation structure varies from open to dense, with sparse grassy understorey and occasional heavy litter. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 26; 74; 76; 237.

Lepidium Winged E E Occurs on seasonally moist to waterlogged sites, on heavy fertile soils, with a mean BioNet, Moderate. monoplocoides Peppercress annual rainfall of around 300–500 mm. Predominant vegetation is usually an open PMST Four historical (over 90 years woodland dominated by Allocasuarina luehmannii (Bulloak) and/or eucalypts, old) ALA records occur between particularly Eucalyptus largiflorens (Black Box) or Eucalyptus populnea (Poplar Mildura and Buronga. There are Box). The field layer of the surrounding woodland is dominated by tussock grasses. no OEH records within the Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 13; 15; 16; 24; 26; 45; 46; Proposal study area. Potential 74; 80; 159; 160; 163; 170; 216; 237. habitat occurs within the proposal study area; PCT 13; 15; 16; 24; 26; 45; 46; 159; 160; 163; 170; 216, 237.

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Maireana cheelii Chariot V V Usually found on heavier, grey clay soils with Atriplex vesicaria (Bladder BioNet, High Wheels Saltbush). Recorded on the Hay Plain in Atriplex vesicaria, Maireana aphylla and PMST Potential habitat occurs within Acacia homalophylla shrublands. Soils include heavy brown to red-brown clay- the proposal study area. This loams, hard cracking red clay, other heavy texture-contrast soils. Associated species has been recorded near vegetation types within the study area: PCT 26; 44; 46, 157; 164. the study area at the intersection of Maude Road and Booroorban – Tchelery Road. Also, recorded from numerous locations across the Hay Plain.

Prasophyllum Tarengo Leek E – The Tarengo Leek Orchid occurs on relatively fertile soils in grassy woodland or PMST Moderate. petilum Orchid natural grassland. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 276; 277. No records in the locality. Potential habitat within PCT 276; 277 in the proposal study area

Sclerolaena Turnip E E Confined to remnant grassland habitats on clay-loam soils. Grows on level plains in BioNet, Moderate. napiformis Copperburr tussock grassland of Austrostipa nodosa and Chloris truncata, in grey cracking clay PMST Potential habitat occurs within to red-brown loamy clay. Known from only a few small populations in remnant the study area. PCT 26; 44; 46. grassland in the southern Riverina of NSW and north-central Victoria. NSW populations are confined to the area between Jerilderie and Moama on travelling stock routes and road reserves. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 26; 44; 46.

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Solanum Menindee V V Grows in occasionally flooded depressions with heavy soil, including level river BioNet, Moderate karsense Nightshade floodplains of grey clay with Black Box and Old Man Saltbush, and open treeless PMST There are historic records in the plains with solonized brown soils. Habitats are generally lake beds or floodplains of locality, near Balranald and heavy grey clays with a highly self-mulching surface. Also found on sandy Buronga (EES, 2020). Potential floodplains and ridges and in calcareous soils, red sands, red-brown earths and habitat occurs within the study loamy soils. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 13; 15; 16; 17; area PCT 13; 15; 16; 17; 24; 160; 24; 160; 166. 166.

Swainsona Slender V V The species has been collected from clay-based soils, ranging from grey, red and BioNet, High. murrayana Darling Pea brown cracking clays to red-brown earths and loams. Grows in a variety of PMST Historic record and current vegetation types including bladder saltbush, black box and grassland communities observation of this species within on level plains, floodplains and depressions and is often found with Maireana the study area on the Hay Plain. species. Plants have been found in remnant native grasslands or grassy woodlands Potential habitat present in the that have been intermittently grazed or cultivated. Associated vegetation types form of: PCT 15; 16; 23; 26; 28; within the study area: PCT 15; 16; 23; 26; 28; 44; 45; 46; 76; 80; 157; 163; 165; 44; 45; 46; 76, 80, 157; 163; 165; 216; 237. 216, 237..

Swainsona Red Darling V V Grows on flat grassland and in heavy red soil, often on roadsides and especially in BioNet Moderate. plagiotropis Pea table drains. Soils are derived from quaternary sediments and are usually red-brown Populations of this species has clay-loams. The species is absent from black low-lying soils. Recorded from been recorded north of the roadsides, rail reserves, stock routes and areas of lightly grazed unimproved pasture proposal study area at Jerilderie comprising Austrodanthonia, Enteropogon acicularis and Austrostipa grassland and Urana. Potential habitat communities. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 26; 44; 45; occur within the study area. PCT 46; 165. 26; 44; 45; 46; 165.

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SCIENTIFIC COMMON EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF NAME NAME ACT1 ACT2 OCCURRENCE

Swainsona Yellow V V Grows in mallee scrub on sandy or loamy soil, usually found only after fire. Sites BioNet, Moderate. pyrophila Swainson-pea include cleared and burnt mallee scrub on red loam to sand, previously burnt PMST Potential habitat occurs within Eucalyptus dumosa mallee, disturbed woodland in sheltered aspects, a bulldozed the study area. PCT 170; 171. firebreak adjacent to wheat paddocks, roadsides, claypans and at the edge of fire ash. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 170; 171.

Swainsona recta Small Purple- V E Grows in association with understorey dominants that include Kangaroo Grass BioNet, Moderate. pea Themeda triandra, poa tussocks Poa spp. and spear-grasses Austrostipa spp. PMST There is one historic record of Associated vegetation types within the study area:; 266; 276; 277. this species at Wagga Wagga, where it is now thought to be extinct. Associated vegetation types occur within the proposal study area.; 266; 276; 277. (1) V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered under the EPBC Act. (2) V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered, CE = Critically Endangered, EX = Presumed Extinct under the BC Act (3) Source; Professional opinion = ESS expert advice of predicted threatened species areas provided as spatial data, PMST = The Department of the Environment and Energy’s EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool, BioNet = ESS’s Bionet Atlas of NSW Wildlife.

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4.4 EPBC ACT THREATENED FAUNA SPECIES

Database searches have identified a total of 49 threatened fauna species, listed under the EPBC Act, that are predicted or known to occur within the proposal locality. Database searches have identified an additional 19 migratory bird species, listed under the EPBC Act, that are predicted or known to occur within the proposal locality (marine listed species are discussed in Section 4.5.3). Based on the presence of species records within the area, and the vegetation communities and fauna habitat identified during preliminary field surveys, a likelihood of occurrence assessment has been conducted to determine those threatened species with potential to occur within the proposal study area. The results of likelihood of occurrence assessments have identified a total of 26 threatened and 17 migratory fauna species to have a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the proposal study area, as presented in Table 4.2. Three threatened fauna species listed as Vulnerable under the EPBC Act were recorded within the proposal study area during field surveys, including:

— Regent Parrot (eastern subspecies) (Polytelis anthopeplus monarchoides) — Superb parrot (Polytelis swainsonii) — Corben's Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus corbeni). Freshwater aquatic habitats such as waterways and lakes are found within the proposal study area. The proposal currently does not propose any construction works or potential disturbance to these aquatic habitats within the proposal study area. Six aquatic species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act have moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence within the proposal study area, however only within waterways which would be avoided and protected by the proposal. Where waterway crossings of the transmission line occur, the alignment would span these habitats only and no towers or structures would be placed in waterways. Therefore, no significant impacts are anticipated for these species. Whereby more detailed information becomes available to suggest such aquatic habitat would for some reason be subject to greater impacts, the EIS would further assess the impacts at that time.

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Table 4.2 Summary of fauna species listed under the EPBC Act with a moderate or higher likelihood of occurrence in the proposal study area

COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1

Amphibians

Booroolong Litoria E E Live along permanent streams with some fringing vegetation cover such as Professional Moderate. Frog booroolongensis ferns, sedges or grasses. Associated vegetation types within the study area: opinion The closest records are to the east of PCT 346 and water bodies Wagga Wagga associated with areas and waterbodies in and around Tumut (over 50 km away). Associated habitat, PCT 346 and water bodies, recorded.

Southern Bell Litoria E V Usually found in or around permanent or ephemeral Black BioNet, Moderate. Frog raniformis Box/Lignum/Nitre Goosefoot swamps, Lignum/Typha swamps and River PMST Recorded within locality, specifically Red Gum swamps or billabongs along floodplains and river valleys. They near one of the priority management are also found in irrigated rice crops, particularly where there is no available sites at Coleambally (EES, 2020). natural habitat. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 7; Associated habitat PCT 7; 11; 13; 17; 11; 13; 17; 24; 238 and water bodies. 24; 238 and water bodies recorded.

Birds

Australasian Botaurus E E Favours permanent freshwater wetlands with tall, dense vegetation, BioNet, Moderate. Bittern poiciloptilus particularly bullrushes (Typha spp.) and spikerushes (Eleocharis spp.). PMST Records occur within locality, records Hides during the day amongst dense reeds or rushes and feed mainly at near the Murray River between night on frogs, fish, yabbies, spiders, insects and snails. Wentworth, Mildura and Buronga. (EES, 2020). Species may occur intermittently in freshwater wetlands recorded.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Australian Rostratula E E Prefers fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas where there is a BioNet, Moderate. Painted Snipe australis cover of grasses, lignum, low scrub or open timber. PMST Potential habitat recorded. OEH and ALA records within the locality of the proposal study area at Mildura and north-east of Buronga in water habitat (EES, 2020)

Bar-tailed Limosa V, M – It is found mainly in coastal habitats such as large intertidal sandflats, BioNet, Moderate. Godwit lapponica baueri banks, mudflats, estuaries, inlets, harbours, coastal lagoons and bays. Less PMST May occur intermittently around (Western frequently it occurs in salt lakes and brackish wetlands, sandy ocean saltlakes and wetlands. Targeted surveys Alaskan) beaches and rock platforms. not required as it is assumed present if within an ‘important area’.

Bar-tailed Limosa CE, M – The bar-tailed godwit (both subspecies combined) has been recorded in the PMST Moderate. Godwit lapponica coastal areas of all Australian states. It is widespread in the Torres Strait and May occur intermittently around (Northern menzbieri along the east and south-east coasts of Queensland, NSW and Victoria. The saltlakes and wetlands. Targeted surveys Siberian) bar-tailed godwit (northern Siberian) occurs mainly in coastal habitats such not required as it is assumed present if as large intertidal sandflats, banks, mudflats, estuaries, inlets, harbours, within an ‘important area’. coastal lagoons and bays. It has also been recorded in coastal sewage farms and saltworks, saltlakes and brackish wetlands near coasts, sandy ocean beaches, rock platforms, and coral reef-flats

Black-eared Manorina E CE Birds are restricted to large tracts (30,000 hectares or greater) of mature, BioNet, Moderate. Miner melanotis unfragmented mallee on the more fertile soils. Associated vegetation types PMST Potential habitat in the form of PCT 170 within the study area: PCT 170 and 171. and PCT 171 recorded within the proposal study area.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Black-tailed Limosa limosa M V Primarily a coastal species which is usually found in sheltered bays, BioNet Moderate. Godwit estuaries and lagoons with large intertidal mudflats and/or sandflats. Further May occur rarely in wetland habitats. inland, it can also be found on mudflats and in water less than 10 cm deep, Targeted surveys not required as it is around muddy lakes and swamps. assumed present if within an ‘important area’.

Caspian Tern Hydroprogne M – The Caspian Tern is found in sheltered coastal embankments preferring BioNet Moderate. caspia sandy or muddy margins. Also found in near-coastal or inland terrestrial May occur intermittently in wetland wetlands. It forages in open wetlands, preferring sheltered shallow water habitats. near the margins.

Common Tringa nebularia M – Occurs in a range of inland and coastal environments. Inland, it occurs in BioNet Moderate. Greenshank both permanent and temporary wetlands, billabongs, swamps, lakes May occur intermittently in wetland floodplains, sewage farms, saltworks ponds, flooded irrigated crops. On the habitats. 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.

Common Actitis M – The Common Sandpiper frequents a wide range of coastal wetlands and BioNet Moderate. Sandpiper hypoleucos some inland wetlands, with varying levels of salinity. It is mostly May occur intermittently in wetland encountered along muddy margins or rocky shores and rarely on mudflats. habitats. It has been recorded in estuaries and deltas of streams, banks farther upstream; around lakes, pools, billabongs, reservoirs, dams and claypans, and occasionally piers and jetties. Roost sites are typically on rocks or in roots or branches of vegetation, especially mangroves.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Curlew Calidris CE E This species generally occupies littoral and estuarine habitats, and in New BioNet, Moderate. Sandpiper ferruginea South Wales is mainly found in intertidal mudflats of sheltered coasts. It PMST May occur intermittently in wetland also occurs in non-tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons on the coast and habitats. Targeted surveys not required sometimes inland. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT as it is assumed present if within an 24, 47, 238 and waterbodies. ‘important area’.

Fork-tailed Apus pacificus M – Breeds in the northern hemisphere, wintering south to Australia. It is almost BioNet Moderate. Swift exclusively aerial, flying from less than 1 m to at least 300 m above ground. May occur in aerial habitats over the It mostly occurs over inland plains but sometimes above foothills or in proposal study area on a seasonal basis. coastal areas over cliffs, beaches, islands and well out to sea. It also occurs over towns and cities. It mostly occurs over dry and/or open habitats, including riparian woodland and tea-tree swamps, low scrub, heathland or saltmarsh, grassland, spinifex sandplains, farmland and sand-dunes. It sometimes occurs above forests. It probably roosts aerially, but has occasionally been observed to land.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis M – It feeds in very shallow water and nests in freshwater or brackish wetlands BioNet Moderate. falcinellus with tall dense stands of emergent vegetation (e.g. reeds or rushes) and low Records within locality and may utilise trees or bushes. It shows a preference for marshes at the edges of lakes and in wetland habitats (EES, 2020). rivers, as well as lagoons, flood-plains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs, sewage ponds, rice-fields and irrigated cultivation.

Gull-billed Gelochelidon M – Prefer shallow, often ephemeral, terrestrial wetlands, either fresh or saline, BioNet Moderate. Tern nilotica especially lakes, swamps and lagoons, particularly those with mudflats; May occur intermittently in wetland sometimes on inundated ground, including saltpans, claypans and saltmarsh habitats or watercourses and associated floodplains.

Latham's Gallinago M – Occurs in freshwater or brackish wetlands generally near protective BioNet Moderate. Snipe hardwickii vegetation cover. This species feeds on small invertebrates, seeds and May occur intermittently in wetland vegetation. It migrates to the northern hemisphere to breed. habitats.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Little Curlew Numenius M – On passage the species shows a preference for foraging and resting in BioNet Moderate. minutus swampy meadows near lakes and along river valleys. It overwinters on dry May occur intermittently in wetland inland grassland, bare cultivation, dry mudflats and coastal plains of black habitats. soil with scattered shallow pools of freshwater, swamps, lakes or flooded ground.

Long-toed Calidris M – The Long-toed Stint is a migratory summer visitor to Australia, but BioNet Moderate. Stint subminuta uncommon in the east. This species occurs in a variety of terrestrial May occur intermittently in wetland wetlands. They prefer shallow freshwater or brackish wetlands including habitats. lakes, swamps, river floodplains, streams, lagoons and sewage ponds.

Mallee Emu- Stipiturus mallee E – The mallee emu-wren is found in the mallee country on the South BioNet Moderate. wren Australian and Victorian border. It occurs in areas of spinifex sometimes Potential habitat including Mallee with an overstorey of mallee woodland. It prefers dense stands (hummocks) woodland communities recorded. of long unburnt spinifex.

Malleefowl Leipoa ocellata V E Predominantly inhabit mallee communities, preferring the tall, dense and BioNet, Moderate. floristically-rich mallee found in higher rainfall (300–450 mm mean annual PMST Potential habitat of Mallee and Box- rainfall) areas. Utilises mallee with a spinifex understorey, but usually at Gum Woodland communities were lower densities than in areas with a shrub understorey. Less frequently recorded within the potential proposal found in other eucalypt woodlands, such as Inland Grey Box, Ironbark or study area. Bimble Box Woodlands with thick understorey, or in other woodlands such dominated by Mulga or native Cypress Pine species. There are OEH and ALA records within Proposal study area and within the locality, specifically between Buronga and Balranald, i.e. Mallee Cliffs National Park.

Marsh Tringa M – Occurs in coastal and inland wetlands (salt or fresh water), estuarine and BioNet Moderate. Sandpiper stagnatilis mangrove mudflats, beaches, shallow or swamps, lakes, billabongs, May occur intermittently in wetland temporary floodwaters, sewage farms and saltworks ponds. habitats.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Painted Grantiella picta V V Inhabits Boree/ Weeping Myall (Acacia pendula), Brigalow BioNet, Moderate. Honeyeater (A. harpophylla) and Box-Gum Woodlands and Box-Ironbark Forests. A PMST Potential habitat of Weeping Myall and specialist feeder on the fruits of mistletoes growing on woodland eucalypts Box-Gum Woodland recorded with the and acacias. Prefers mistletoes of the genus Amyema. proposal study area.

Pectoral Calidris M – In Australasia, the Pectoral Sandpiper prefers shallow fresh to saline BioNet Moderate. Sandpiper melanotos wetlands. The species frequents coastal lagoons, estuaries, bays, swamps, May occur intermittently in wetland lakes, inundated grasslands, saltmarshes, river pools, creeks, floodplains habitats and artificial wetlands. It is usually found in coastal or near coastal habitat but occasionally further inland. It prefers wetlands that have open fringing mudflats and low, emergent or fringing vegetation, such as grass or samphire. It has also been recorded in swamp overgrown with lignum. They forage in shallow water or soft mud at the edge of wetlands.

Plains- Pedionomus CE E Plains-wanderers live in semi-arid, lowland native grasslands that typically BioNet, Moderate. wanderer torquatus occur on hard red-brown soils. Habitat structure appears to play a more PMST Widely recorded and associated important role than plant species composition. Preferred habitat of the vegetation recorded. There is a cluster Plains-wanderer typically comprises 50% bare ground, 10% fallen litter, ALA and OEH records within the and 40% herbs, forbs and grasses. Associated vegetation types within the proposal study area, specifically south study area: PCT 44 and 46. of Hay, west of Coleambally and north of Deniliquin. This is a dual credit species, mapped important areas are a species credit, these areas do not require survey. Mapped areas are primary habitat are within the proposal study area.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Red Knot Calidris canutus E – In NSW the Red Knot mainly occurs in small numbers on intertidal BioNet Moderate. mudflats, estuaries, bays, inlets, lagoons, harbours and sandflats and sandy Mainly restricted to coastal beaches of sheltered coasts. It is occasionally found on sandy ocean beaches environments. Rare occurrences cannot or shallow pools on exposed wave-cut rock platforms and is a rare visitor to be discounted. terrestrial saline wetlands and freshwater swamps.

Red-lored Pachycephala V CE Found in mallee woodland with a shrub layer, usually of Broombush and Professional Moderate. Whistler rufogularis native pine such as Mallee Pine (Callitris verrucosa), with occasional Opinion Potential habitat recorded. Population is patches of spinifex and emergent mallee, forming a relatively dispersed known to extend to Mildura (EES, 2020) canopy. Associated vegetation types within the study area: PCT 171.

Red-necked Calidris M – Mostly found in coastal areas, including sheltered inlets, bays lagoons and BioNet Moderate. Stint ruficollis estuaries. They also occur in shallow wetlands near the coast or inland, May occur intermittently in wetland including lakes, waterholes and dams. They forage in mudflats, shallow habitats. water, sandy open beaches, flooded paddocks and in samphire feeding along the edges. The species roosts on sheltered beaches, spits, banks or islets, of Recorded within nearby Chowilla sand, mud, coral or shingle. regional reserve during field surveys.

Regent Anthochaera CE CE The Regent Honeyeater is a flagship threatened woodland bird whose BioNet, Moderate. Honeyeater phrygia conservation will benefit a large suite of other threatened and declining PMST There are no records of these species woodland fauna. The species inhabits dry open forest and woodland, within the proposal study area, the particularly Box-Ironbark woodland, and riparian forests of River Sheoak. records within the area largely confined Regent Honeyeaters inhabit woodlands that support a significantly high to the National Parks (Murray Valley abundance and species richness of bird species. These woodlands have National Park) and State forest to the significantly large numbers of mature trees, high canopy cover and south. abundance of mistletoes.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Regent Parrot Polytelis V E The species nests within River Red Gum forests along the Murray, Wakool BioNet, Recorded. (eastern anthopeplus and lower Murrumbidgee Rivers, and possibly the Darling River PMST This species was recorded during subspecies) monarchoides downstream of Pooncarie. Typical nest trees are large, mature healthy trees surveys Potential habitat, forested with many spouts (though dead trees are used) and are usually located close wetlands, Mallee and River Red Gum to a watercourse. habitat recorded. There are multiples records within and near the proposal study area, specifically associated with the Murray River.

Ruff Philomachus M – The Ruff is a rare but regular visitor to Australia, being recorded in all BioNet Moderate. pugnax States and Territories. Though most NSW records come from the Sydney May occur intermittently in wetland region, the species has also found around the Riverina, including habitats. Windouran Swamp, Wanganella, Fivebough Swamp and the Tullakool Saltworks. In Australia the Ruff is found on generally fresh, brackish of saline wetlands with exposed mudflats at the edges. It is found in terrestrial wetlands including lakes, swamps, pools, lagoons, tidal rivers, swampy fields and floodlands

Sharp-tailed Calidris M – Occurs in a variety of habitats: tidal mudflat, mangrove swamps, BioNet Moderate. Sandpiper acuminata saltmarshes, shallow fresh, brackish, salt inland swamps and lakes; flooded May occur intermittently in wetland and irrigated paddocks, sewage farms and commercial saltfields. habitats. Recorded within nearby Chowilla regional reserve during field survey.

Superb Parrot Polytelis V V Inhabit Box-Gum, Box-Cypress-pine and Boree Woodlands and River Red BioNet, Recorded. swainsonii Gum Forest. In the Riverina the birds nest in the hollows of large trees PMST Recorded within River Red Gum (dead or alive) mainly in tall riparian River Red Gum Forest or Woodland. communities. There are many records On the South West Slopes nest trees can be in open Box-Gum Woodland or within and near the proposal study area, isolated paddock trees. Species known to be used are Blakely’s Red Gum, specifically concentrated from Yellow Box, Apple Box and Red Box. Coleambally to Wagga Wagga.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Swift Parrot Lathamus CE E Migrates to the Australian south-east mainland between February and BioNet, Moderate. discolor October. On the mainland they occur in areas where eucalypts are flowering PMST Records within locality. Associated profusely or where there are abundant lerp (from sap-sucking bugs) habitats, including River Red Gum infestations. Favoured feed trees include winter flowering species such as riparian communities, recorded. Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus robusta, Spotted Gum Corymbia maculata, Red Bloodwood C. gummifera, Forest Red Gum Eucalyptus tereticornis, Mugga Ironbark Eucalyptus sideroxylon, and White Box Eucalyptus albens.

White- Hirundapus V, M – In eastern Australia, it is recorded in all coastal regions of Queensland and BioNet Moderate. throated caudacutus NSW, extending inland to the western slopes of the Great Divide and May occur in aerial habitats over the Needletail occasionally onto the adjacent inland plains. It is almost exclusively aerial, proposal study area on a seasonal basis. from heights of less than 1 m up to more than 1000 m above the ground. Because they are aerial, it has been stated that conventional habitat descriptions are inapplicable, but there are, nevertheless, certain preferences exhibited by the species. Although they occur over most types of habitat, they are probably recorded most often above wooded areas, including open forest and rainforest, and may also fly between trees or in clearings, below the canopy, but they are less commonly recorded flying above woodland. They also commonly occur over heathland, but less often over treeless areas, such as grassland or swamps.

White-winged Chlidonias M – In Australia, and elsewhere in their non-breeding range, the species mostly BioNet Moderate. Black Tern leucopterus inhabits fresh, brackish or saline, and coastal or subcoastal wetlands. It May occur intermittently in wetland frequents tidal wetlands, such as harbours, bays, estuaries and lagoons, and habitats particularly, rivers and their associated tidal sandflats and mudflats. Terrestrial wetlands, including terrestrial wetlands. swamps, lakes, billabongs, rivers, floodplains, reservoirs, saltworks, sewage ponds and outfalls are also inhabited. They rarely occur on inland wetlands in Australia.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Wood Tringa glareola M – The Wood Sandpiper uses well-vegetated, shallow, freshwater wetlands, BioNet Moderate. Sandpiper such as swamps, billabongs, lakes, pools and waterholes. They are typically May occur intermittently in wetland associated with emergent, aquatic plants or grass, and dominated by taller habitats. fringing vegetation, such as dense stands of rushes or reeds, shrubs, or dead or live trees, especially Melaleuca and River Red Gums Eucalyptus camaldulensis and often with fallen timber. They also frequent inundated grasslands, short herbage or wooded floodplains, where floodwaters are temporary or receding, and irrigated crops. They are also found at some small wetlands only when they are drying.

Fish

Silver Perch Bidyanus CE – The most abundant remaining natural population occurs in the central PMST Moderate. Vulnerable – bidyanus Murray River downstream of Yarrawonga Weir as well as several of its The proposal study area traverses Local FM Act anabranches and tributaries. The central Murray population is considered Government Areas that contain mapped secure and self-sustaining. There have also been reports of self-sustaining key fish habitats (Strahler 4/5 Order populations in other rivers, including the MacIntyre and Macquarie Rivers streams). in northern NSW and the Warrego River in Queensland, mostly from recreational anglers. Little is currently known about the status of these populations.

Murray Craterocephalus E – Murray hardyhead live along the edges of slow-flowing lowland rivers, as PMST Moderate. Hardyhead fluviatilis well as in lakes, billabongs and backwaters. They are often found amongst The proposal study area traverses Local Critically aquatic weeds, in both fresh and quite saline waters. They were once Government Areas that contain mapped Endangered – widespread and abundant in the Murray and Murrumbidgee river systems in key fish habitats by DPI’s key fish FM Act southern NSW and northern Victoria; however, they have suffered a serious habitat mapping (Strahler 4/5 Order population decline, and now seem to be limited to a few sites, mainly in streams). northern Victoria. Since 2000, only one individual has been collected in extensive surveys in NSW.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Flathead Galaxius CE – Flathead Galaxias, also known as Murray jollytail are a small native fish PMST Moderate Galaxias rostratus that are known from the southern part of the Murray Darling Basin. They The proposal study area traverses Local Critically have been recorded in the Macquarie, Lachlan, Murrumbidgee and Murray Government Areas that contain mapped Endangered Rivers in NSW. Despite extensive scientific sampling over the past 15 years key fish habitats by DPI’s key fish FM Act there have been very few recorded sightings of Flathead Galaxias. They habitat mapping (Strahler 4/5 Order have not been recorded and are considered locally extinct in the lower streams) Murray, Murrumbidgee, Macquarie and Lachlan Rivers. The species is now only known from the upper Murray River near Tintaldra and wetland areas near Howlong.

Murray Cod Maccullochella V – The Murray Cod was historically distributed throughout the Murray-Darling PMST Moderate. peelii Basin (the Basin), which extends from southern Queensland, through New The proposal study area traverses Local South Wales (NSW), the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Victoria to Government Areas that contain mapped South Australia, except for the upper reaches of some tributaries. The key fish habitats (Strahler 4/5 Order species still occurs in most parts of this natural distribution, up to streams) approximately 1000 m above sea level. It utilises a diverse range of habitats from clear rocky streams, such as those found in the upper western slopes of NSW (including the ACT), to slow-flowing, turbid lowland rivers and billabongs. Preferred microhabitat consists of complex structural features in streams such as large rocks, snags (pieces of large submerged woody debris), overhanging stream banks and vegetation, tree stumps, logs, branches and other woody structures. (Department of the Environment, 2016)

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Trout Cod Maccullochella E – The Trout Cod is endemic to the southern Murray-Darling river system, PMST Moderate. Endangered macquariensis including the Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers, and the Macquarie River The proposal study area traverses Local FM Act in central NSW. The species was once widespread and abundant in these Government Areas that contain mapped areas but has undergone dramatic declines in its distribution and abundance key fish habitats by DPI’s key fish over the past century. The last known reproducing population of Trout Cod habitat mapping (Strahler 4/5 Order is confined to the Murray River below Yarrawonga downstream to streams) Tocumwal.

Macquarie Macquaria E – Macquarie Perch are found in the Murray-Darling Basin (particularly PMST Moderate. Perch australasica upstream reaches) of the Lachlan, Murrumbidgee and Murray rivers, and The proposal study area traverses Local Endangered – parts of south-eastern coastal NSW, including the Hawkesbury/Nepean and Government Areas that contain mapped FM Act Shoalhaven catchments. Macquarie Perch are found in both river and lake key fish habitats by DPI’s key fish habitats; especially the upper reaches of rivers and their tributaries. It habitat mapping (Strahler 4/5 Order prefers clear water and deep, rocky holes with lots of cover. As well as streams) aquatic vegetation, additional cover may comprise of large boulders, debris and overhanging banks. Spawning occurs just above riffles (shallow running water).

Mammals

Spotted-tailed Dasyurus E V Recorded across a range of habitat types, including rainforest, open forest, Bionet Moderate. Quoll maculatus woodland, coastal heath and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine zone Few records for this species occur to the coastline. Individual animals use hollow-bearing trees, fallen logs, within the locality (nearest to Wagga small caves, rock outcrops and rocky-cliff faces as den sites. Wagga)

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Greater Glider Petauroides V – The greater glider is restricted to eastern Australia, occurring from the PMST Moderate. volans Windsor Tableland in north Queensland through to central Victoria with an Professional There are no records within the proposal elevational range from sea level to 1200 m above sea level. The greater Opinion study area or within the locality. All glider is an arboreal nocturnal marsupial, largely restricted to eucalypt records are to the east associated with forests and woodlands. It is primarily folivorous, with a diet mostly more preferred forested habitat of the comprising eucalypt leaves, and occasionally flowers. It is typically found National Parks and State forest of the in highest abundance in taller, montane, moist eucalypt forests with Great Dividing range. The proposal relatively old trees and abundant hollows. The distribution may be patchy study area occurs in habitats where this even in suitable habitat. The greater glider favours forests with a diversity species known distribution is mapped of eucalypt species, due to seasonal variation in its preferred tree species. (EES, 2020).

Koala Phascolarctos V V The Koala has a fragmented distribution throughout eastern Australia from Bionet Moderate. cinereus north-east Queensland to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. In NSW it PMST The proposal study area occurs in mainly occurs on the central and north coasts with some populations in the habitats where this species known west of the Great Dividing Range. It was briefly historically abundant in the distribution is mapped (EES, 2020). 1890s in the Bega District on the south coast of NSW, although not There are no records within the proposal elsewhere, but it now occurs in sparse and possibly disjunct populations. study area , majority of the records are Koalas are also known from several sites on the southern tablelands. Inhabit associated with Riverine Habitat along eucalypt woodlands and forests. Feed on the foliage of more than 70 the Murray River. The closest records eucalypt species and 30 non-eucalypt species, but in any one area will select are at Jerilderie and Narrandera. preferred browse species. Some preferred species include Forest Red Gum, Grey Gum. In coastal areas, Tallowwood and Swamp Mahogany are important food species, while in inland areas White Box, Bimble Box and River Red Gum are favoured. Home range size varies with quality of habitat, ranging from less than two hectares to several hundred hectares in size.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Grey-headed Pteropus V V Grey-headed Flying-foxes are generally found within 200 km of the eastern Bionet Moderate. Flying-Fox poliocephalus coast of Australia, from Rockhampton in Queensland to Adelaide in South PMST The proposal study area occurs in Australia. In times of natural resource shortages, they may be found in habitats where this species known unusual locations. Occur in subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall distribution is mapped. sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and swamps as well as urban gardens and cultivated fruit crops. Roosting camps are generally located There are species records at Wagga within 20 km of a regular food source and are commonly found in gullies, Wagga. No known camps or large close to water, in vegetation with a dense canopy. roosting areas occur within the locality. Closest known recorded camp is at Albury (120 km to the south).

Corben's Nyctophilus V V Overall, the distribution of the south eastern form coincides approximately PMST Recorded. Long-eared corbeni with the Murray Darling Basin with the Pilliga Scrub region being the Trapped within Black Oak Woodland Bat distinct stronghold for this species. Inhabits a variety of vegetation types, and Mallee Woodland. including mallee, bulloke and box eucalypt dominated communities, but it is distinctly more common in box/ironbark/cypress-pine vegetation that occurs in a north-south belt along the western slopes and plains of NSW and southern Queensland. Roosts in tree hollows, crevices, and under loose bark.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1 Reptiles

Pink-tailed Apraisia V V The Pink-tailed Legless Lizard is only known from the Central and Professional Moderate. Worm-Lizard parapulchella Southern Tablelands, and the South Western Slopes. There is a Opinion The proposal study area occurs in concentration of populations in the Canberra/Queanbeyan Region. Other habitats where this species known populations have been recorded near Cooma, Yass, Bathurst, Albury and distribution is mapped (EES, 2020). West Wyalong. This species is also found in the Australian Capital

Territory. Inhabits sloping, open woodland areas with predominantly native grassy groundlayers, particularly those dominated by Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis). Sites are typically well-drained, with rocky outcrops or scattered, partially- buried rocks. Commonly found beneath small, partially-embedded rocks and appear to spend considerable time in burrows below these rocks; the burrows have been constructed by and are often still inhabited by small black ants and termites.

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COMMON SCIENTIFIC EPBC BC ASSOCIATED HABITAT SOURCE3 LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE NAME NAME ACT2 ACT1

Striped Delma impar V V The Striped Legless Lizard occurs in the Southern Tablelands, the South Professional Moderate. Legless West Slopes, the Upper Hunter and possibly on the Riverina. Populations Opinion The proposal study area occurs in Lizard are known in the Goulburn, Yass, Queanbeyan, Cooma, Muswellbrook and habitats where this species known Tumut areas. Found mainly in Natural Temperate Grassland but has also distribution is mapped (EES, 2020). been captured in grasslands that have a high exotic component. Also found

in secondary grassland near Natural Temperate Grassland and occasionally in open Box-Gum Woodland. Habitat is where grassland is dominated by perennial, tussock-forming grasses such as Kangaroo Grass Themeda australis, spear-grasses Austrostipa spp. and poa tussocks Poa spp., and occasionally wallaby grasses Austrodanthonia spp. Sometimes present in modified grasslands with a significant content of exotic grasses. Sometimes found in grasslands with significant amounts of surface rocks, which are used for shelter.

1) V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered, M = Migratory under the EPBC Act. 2) V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered, CE = Critically Endangered, EX = Presumed Extinct under the BC Act 3) Source; Professional opinion = ESS expert advice of predicted threatened species areas provided as spatial data, PMST = The Department of the Environment and Energy’s EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool, BioNet = ESS’s Bionet Atlas of NSW Wildlife.

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4.5 OTHER MATTERS PROTECTED BY THE EPBC ACT

4.5.1 COMMONWEALTH LAND The PMST search returned 20 sites listed as Commonwealth Land within the locality of proposal study area. Sites in NSW include Commonwealth buildings or infrastructure including the Defence Barracks at Mildura and Kapooka. No Commonwealth Land is located within the proposal study area, and no sites will be impacted by the proposed action. These other protected matters ONLY apply where the proposed activity significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, or where the action is undertaken by the Commonwealth or a Commonwealth Agency.

4.5.2 COMMONWEALTH HERITAGE PLACES The PMST search returned no Commonwealth heritage places within the proposal study area. No Commonwealth heritage places have been identified during preliminary investigations and no Commonwealth Heritage Places are anticipated to be impacted by the proposed action.

4.5.3 LISTED MARINE SPECIES The PMST search identified 29 listed marine bird species as occurring, possibly occurring or likely to occur within the proposal locality. Two were recorded within the proposal study area during preliminary field surveys, Rainbow Bee-eater and White-bellied Sea-eagle. Listed Marine Species under the EPBC Act are only afforded protection in Commonwealth Marine areas including water, air and seabed that are NOT in state or territory waters, hence discussion of these species is not relevant to this proposal study area.

4.5.4 CRITICAL HABITAT The PMST search returned no critical habitat: within the locality of proposal study area. No critical habitats are anticipated to be impacted by the proposed action.

4.5.5 INTERNATIONALLY IMPORTANT SHOREBIRD LOCATIONS In addition, whilst not listed under the EPBC Act, there is a list of internationally important shorebird locations that is maintained by BirdLife Australia. The majority of these sites are coastal, however there is one inland site that occurs to the north of the proposal study area being Lake Gol Gol. This lake has historically supported large numbers (6000) of Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (DEE, 2019), a migratory bird species listed under the EPBC Act.

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5 EPBC ACT SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENTS The Matters of National Environmental Significance Significant Impact Guidelines 1.1 EPBC Act (Significant Impact Guidelines) is designed to inform proponents who propose to undertake an action (development), to decide whether or not they should submit a referral to DoAWE. The purpose of the significant impact assessments is to inform an EPBC Referral to the Commonwealth Minister of Environment to assess the proposal’s eligibility as a controlled action under the EPBC Act. Under the EPBC Act an action will require approval from the Minister if the action has, will have, or is likely to have, a significant impact on an MNES.

5.1 SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT DEFINITIONS

The Significant Impact Guidelines provide definitions for the significant impact assessment criteria used herein:

— population of a species — important population — habitat critical to the survival of a species or ecological community — important habitat for migratory species — ecologically significant proportion (migratory species) — population of a migratory species — invasive species. These definitions are key considerations when conducting a significant impact assessment for threatened and migratory species listed under the EPBC Act. The definition for each is presented below.

5.1.1 POPULATION OF A SPECIES A ‘population of a species’ is defined by the Significant Impact Guidelines as: ‘An occurrence of the species in a particular area. In relation to critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable threatened species, occurrences include but are not limited to:

— a geographically distinct regional population, or collection of local populations, or — a population, or collection of local populations, that occurs within a particular bioregion’.

5.1.2 IMPORTANT POPULATION An ‘important population’ is defined by the Significant Impact Guidelines as: “An ‘important population’ is a population that is necessary for a species’ long-term survival and recovery. This may include populations identified as such in recovery plans, and/or 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.”

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5.1.3 HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES OR ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY ‘Habitat critical to the survival of a species’ is defined by the Significant Impact Guidelines as: “Habitat critical to the survival of a species or ecological community’ refers to areas that 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. Such habitat may be, but is not limited to:

— habitat identified in a recovery plan for the species or ecological community as habitat critical for that species or ecological community; and/or — habitat listed on the Register of Critical Habitat maintained by the minister under the EPBC Act.” Critical habitat can be further explained as an identified area of viable habitat that contains habitat attributes that are essential for the conservation of a threatened species. These areas are typically under a regime of special protection and management to ensure the critical habitat remains a stronghold for the species to ensure its long-term survival and viability in the wild. Critical habitat may also include an area of land not currently occupied by the species, but can act as a sanctuary by possessing the necessary whole of life cycle habitat attributes to facilitate the recovery of a declining population of the species.

5.1.4 IMPORTANT HABITAT FOR A MIGRATORY SPECIES An area of ‘important habitat for a migratory species’ is defined by the Significant Impact Guidelines as:

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

5.1.5 ECOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION (MIGRATORY SPECIES) Listed migratory species cover a broad range of species with different life cycles and population sizes. Therefore, what is an ‘ecologically significant proportion’ of the population varies with the species (each circumstance will need to be evaluated). Some factors that should be considered include the species’ population status, genetic distinctiveness and species’ specific behavioural patterns (for example, site fidelity and dispersal rates).

5.1.6 POPULATION OF A MIGRATORY SPECIES ‘Population’, in relation to migratory species, means the entire population or any geographically separate part of the population of any species or lower taxon of wild animals, a significant proportion of whose members cyclically and predictably cross one or more national jurisdictional boundaries including Australia.

5.1.7 INVASIVE SPECIES An ‘invasive species’ is an introduced species, including an introduced (translocated) native species, which out-competes native species for space and resources or which is a predator of native species. Introducing an invasive species into an area may result in that species becoming established. An invasive species may harm listed threatened species or ecological communities by direct competition, modification of habitat or predation.

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5.1.8 SPECIES AT RISK OF SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS 20 flora species are considered to have a high or moderate likelihood of occurrence within the proposal study area. These species include:

— Acacia carneorum (Purple-wood Wattle) — Lepidium aschersonii (Spiny Peppercress) — Ammobium craspedioides (Yass Daisy) — Lepidium monoplocoides (Winged Peppercress) — Amphibromus fluitans (Floating Swamp Wallaby- — Maireana cheelii (Chariot Wheels) grass) — Prasophyllum petilum (Tarengo Leek Orchid) — Atriplex infrequens (A saltbush) — Sclerolaena napiformis (Turnip Copperburr) — Austrostipa metatoris (A spear-grass) — Solanum karsense (Menindee Nightshade) — Austrostipa wakoolica (A spear-grass) — Swainsona murrayana (Slender Darling Pea) — Brachyscome papillosa (Mosgiel Daisy) — Swainsona plagiotropis (Red Darling Pea) — Brachyscome muelleroides (Claypan Daisy) — Swainsona pyrophila (Yellow Swainson-pea) — Caladenia arenaria (Sand-hill Spider Orchid) — Swainsona recta (Small Purple-pea). — Eleocharis obicis (Spike-Rush) The following species 26 threatened and migratory fauna species are considered to have a high or moderate likelihood of occurrence:

— Critically endangered species listed under EPBC Act including: — Regent Honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia) — Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolour) — Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) — Bar-tailed Godwit (Northern Siberian) (Limosa — Plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) lapponica menzbieri). — Endangered species listed under EPBC Act including: — Australian Bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus) — Black-eared Miner (Manorina melanotis) — Red Knot (Calidris canutus) — Australian Painted Snipe (Rostratula australis) — Spotted-tailed Quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) — Mallee Emu-wren (Stipiturus mallee). — Booroolong Frog (Litoria booroolongensis) — Vulnerable species listed under EPBC Act including: — Southern Bell Frog (Litoria raniformis) — Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus — Pink-tailed Worm-Lizard (Apraisia monarchoides) parapulchella) — Superb Parrot (Polytelis swainsonii) — Striped Legless Lizard (Delma impar) — Greater Glider (Petauroides volans) — Painted Honeyeater (Grantiella picta) — Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) — White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus — Grey-headed Flying-Fox (Pteropus caudacutus) poliocephalus) — Malleefowl (Leipoa ocellate) — South-eastern Long-eared Bat or Corben’s — Bar-tailed Godwit (Western Alaskan) (Limosa Long-eared Bat (Nyctophilus corbeni) lapponica baueri) — Red-lored Whistler (Pachycephala rufogularis). The following six EPBC Act listed threatened aquatic species have been considered to have moderate likelihood of occurrence, including:

— Murray Hardyhead (Craterocephalus fluviatilis) – listed as Endangered under EPBC Act — Murray Cod (Maccullochella peelii) – listed as vulnerable under EPBC Act — Flathead Galaxias (Galaxius rostratus) – listed as Critically Endangered under EPBC Act — Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus) – listed as Critically Endangered under EPBC Act — Trout Cod (Maccullochella macquariensis) – listed as Endangered under EPBC Act — Macquarie Perch (Macquaria australasica) – listed as Endangered under EPBC Act.

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In addition, 17 EPBC Act listed migratory bird species are considered to have a high or moderate likelihood of occurrence, including:

— Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) — Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia) — Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) — Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) — Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata) — Little Curlew (Numenius minutus) — Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos) — Ruff (Philomachus pugnax) — Red-necked Stint (Calidris ruficollis) — Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) — Long-toed Stint (Calidris subminuta) — Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola) — White-winged Black Tern (Chlidonias leucopterus) — Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) — Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) — Marsh sandpiper (Tringa stagnatilis). — Gull-billed Tern (Gelochelidon nilotica) A significant impact assessment in accordance with the Significant Impact Guidelines has been undertaken for each of the above listed species against the significant impact criteria for their respective conservation status under the EPBC Act, as presented in the following sections.

5.2 THREATENED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

Three Endangered ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act were recorded during surveys within the proposal study area. The potential impacts to the following communities from the proposed action have been considered below:

— White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland listed Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act — Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia listed Endangered under the EPBC Act — Weeping Myall Woodlands listed Endangered under the EPBC Act. Broadscale mapping projects referred to in the threatened ecological communities impact assessments include:

— State Vegetation Type Map: Riverina Region Version v1.2 – VIS_ID 4469 (Office of Environment & Heritage 2016a) — State Vegetation Type Map: Central West/Lachlan Region Version v1.3 – VIS_ID 4468 (Office of Environment & Heritage 2016b) — State Vegetation Type Map: Western Region Version v1.0 – VIS_ID 4492 (Office of Environment & Heritage 2016c).

5.2.1 WHITE BOX-YELLOW BOX-BLAKELY’S RED GUM GRASSY WOODLAND

5.2.1.1 STATUS The White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland (Box Gum Woodland) ecological community is listed Critically Endangered under EPBC Act and Endangered under the BC Act.

5.2.1.2 DESCRIPTION Box Gum Woodland is characterised by a species-rich understorey of native tussock grasses, herbs and scattered shrubs, and the dominance, or prior dominance, of White Box (Eucalyptus albens), Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora) and Blakely’s Red Gum (Eucalyptus blakelyi). Tree-cover is generally discontinuous and consists of widely-spaced trees of medium height.

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In its pre-1750 state, this ecological community was characterised by:

— a ground layer dominated by tussock grasses — an overstorey dominated or co-dominated by White Box, Yellow Box or Blakely’s Red Gum, or Grey Box in the Nandewar bioregion — a sparse or patchy shrub layer. The Australian Government listing of White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland is slightly different to the NSW listing. Areas that are part of the Australian Government listed ecological community must have either:

— an intact tree layer and predominately native ground layer; or — an intact native ground layer with a high diversity of native plant species but no remaining tree layer. Box Gum Woodland occurs along the western slopes and tablelands of the Great Dividing Range from southern Queensland through New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory to Victoria. Due to the ecological community’s occurrence on fertile soils it has been extensively cleared for agriculture and intact remnants, including both trees and unmodified understory, are now extremely rare. Clearing and fragmentation for urban, rural residential, agricultural and infrastructure development remain on-going threats to this ecological community, while degradation resulting from inappropriate management and weed invasion by introduced perennial grasses continues to erode the conservation value of remnant areas.

5.2.1.3 SPECIFIC IMPACTS Box Gum Woodland has been recorded within the proposal study area, however the exact extent still needs to be confirmed though detailed surveys. For the purpose of this report, a preliminary impact area was estimated mostly using broadscale mapping (OEH, Riverina, Central West/Lachlan and Western Region) in combination with limited field verified vegetation mapping and a precautionary approach was taken in assuming what vegetation communities would meet this EPBC listed community. However, much of the proposed study is highly modified, so actual extent is predicted to be much lower. An assessment of each PCT against the EPBC condition criteria could find that the vegetation in the study area does not meet the required native species diversity EPBC Act listing for Box Gum Woodland. A precautionary assessment has been made here and future survey to define the actual impact to this TEC is recommended. The following vegetation types recorded within the study area were considered consistent with the EPBC Act Box Gum Woodland listing;

— PCT 74 – Yellow Box – River Red Gum tall grassy riverine woodland of NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and Riverina Bioregion — PCT 266 – White Box grassy woodland in the upper slopes sub-region of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion — PCT 277 – Blakely's Red Gum – Yellow Box grassy tall woodland of the NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion. The proposed action is estimated to impact upon of 1.3 ha of the Box Gum Woodland. This impact area is a precautionary estimate and needs to be confirmed through further survey. The impact area will be subject to change through design refinement and field verification of the extent of these TECs through further field surveys in 2020 and 2021. The final disturbance footprint will be determined during the EIS process.

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5.2.1.4 EPBC ACT SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland community is critically 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 CRITICALLY ENDANGERED OR ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL:

— REDUCE THE EXTENT OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY. The proposed action would result in a reduction of the extent of the Box Gum Woodland. Approximately 1.3 ha of this community would be impacted by the proposed action. These potential impacts are considered to reduce the extent of the community within study area, but it is unlikely to significantly reduce the extent of the community within the region.

— FRAGMENT OR INCREASE FRAGMENTATION OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, FOR EXAMPLE BY CLEARING VEGETATION FOR ROADS OR TRANSMISSION LINES. The proposed action would require the removal and /or disturbance to 1.3 ha Box-Gum Woodland within areas of existing disturbance. This community generally occurs within a fragmented landscape, by other impacts such as agriculture. The proposed action would increase fragmentation of Box-Gum Woodland marginally within the area.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY No critical habitat has been listed for the Box-Gum Woodlands ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Department of Environment and Energy, 2017). Habitat critical to the survival of ecological communities also refers to areas that are necessary:

— 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 proposed action would require the removal of up to 1.3 ha of Box-Gum Woodlands. Any large-scale excavation that occurs in close proximity to the community or to marginal patches would involve mitigation measures to minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially modify or destroy these abiotic factors.

— CAUSE A SUBSTANTIAL CHANGE IN THE SPECIES COMPOSITION OF AN OCCURRENCE OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, INCLUDING CAUSING A DECLINE OR LOSS OF FUNCTIONALLY IMPORTANT SPECIES, FOR EXAMPLE THROUGH REGULAR BURNING OR FLORA OR FAUNA HARVESTING. The proposed action would require the removal and/or disturbance to 1.3 ha Box-Gum Woodland within areas of existing disturbance. Additionally, the community generally occurs in a highly modified condition as a result of existing disturbance practices in the area. This has resulted in the modification of the communities structurally integrity i.e. absence of one or more strata. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially change the species composition of an occurrence of this community.

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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. Box-Gum Woodlands within the proposal area are currently subject to weed and pest invasion. Additionally, the majority of the proposed action occurs within previously disturbed land. Therefore, it is considered unlikely that the proposed action would substantially reduce the quality or integrity of the community’s occurrence or significantly increase the spread of invasive species. Additionally, mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS, such as weed and pest management plans, vegetation clearing protocols, installation vehicle wash stations and sediment and control measures, to minimise the likelihood of spread of weeds or pathogens into the site. These mitigation measures would aid in reducing potential impacts associated with the proposed action that may otherwise result in the further reduction of the community’s quality.

INTERFERE WITH THE RECOVERY OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY A national recovery plan was written for Box Gum Woodlands by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water in 2010 and was adopted by the Commonwealth in 2013. The following are the objectives of the National Recovery Plan:

— achieving no net loss in extent and condition of the ecological community throughout is geographic distribution — increasing protection of sites with high recovery potential — increasing landscape functionality of the ecological community through management and restoration of degraded sites — increase transitional areas around remnants and linkages between remnants; and — bringing about enduring changes in participating land manager attitudes and behaviours towards environmental protection and sustainable land management practices to increase extent, integrity and function of Box Gum Woodlands. The proposed action is likely to remove a small area of this CEEC (1.3 ha) which is likely to interfere with the recovery of Box Gum Woodlands. However, further surveys will be conducted to confirm the extent and condition of this CEEC within the proposal study area.

CONCLUSION The proposed action would result in a reduction of the extent of the Box-Gum Woodlands within the proposal study area. Approximately 1.3 ha of the EPBC listed ecological community would be removed. This impact area is a precautionary estimate calculated using broadscale mapping, which will be confirmed through further survey and is likely to be less once survey. The proposed action would interfere with the recovery of this CEEC, if all patches meet EPBC Act listing criteria. The proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially modify or destroy these abiotic factors. Additionally, mitigation measures would aid in reducing potential impacts associated with the proposed action otherwise result in the further reduction of the community’s quality. For these reasons, the proposed action is considered unlikely to have a significant impact on this community locally.

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5.2.2 GREY BOX GRASSY WOODLANDS AND DERIVED NATIVE GRASSLANDS

5.2.2.1 STATUS Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia (Grey Box Woodlands) is listed as an Endangered Ecological Community under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

5.2.2.2 DESCRIPTION Grey Box Woodlands occupy a position in the landscape that is transitional between the temperate woodlands and forests of the lower slopes and tablelands of south-eastern Australia, and the semi-arid communities further inland. The ecological community typically occurs in landscapes of low-relief on productive soils derived from alluvial or colluvial materials but may occur on a range of substrates. The ecological community tends to occupy drier sites of the belt of grassy woodlands in south-eastern Australia, within a rainfall zone of 375–700 mm/year (Department of the Environment, 2016a). This community includes those woodlands in which the dominant tree species is Eucalyptus microcarpa (Inland Grey Box) and is often found in association with Eucalyptus populnea subsp. bimbil (Bimble or Poplar Box), Callitris glaucophylla (White Cypress Pine), Brachychiton populneus (Kurrajong), Allocasuarina luehmannii (Bulloak) or Eucalyptus melliodora (Yellow Box), and sometimes with Eucalyptus albens (White Box). Shrubs are typically sparse or absent, although this component can be diverse and may be locally common, especially in drier western portions of the community. A variable ground layer of grass and herbaceous species is present at most sites. At severely disturbed sites the ground layer may be absent. The community generally occurs as an open woodland 15–25 m tall, but in some locations the overstorey may be absent as a result of past clearing or thinning, leaving only an understorey (Department of the Environment, 2016a).

5.2.2.3 DISTRIBUTION Grey Box Woodlands occurs from central-western NSW, through northern and central Victoria into South Australia. Occurring predominantly within the Riverina and South West Slopes regions of NSW down to the Victorian border (Department of the Environment, 2016a).

5.2.2.4 SPECIFIC IMPACTS Grey Box Woodlands has been recorded within the proposal study area, the exact extent still needs to be confirmed though detailed surveys. For the purposes of this assessment the broadscale mapping has been used the map the extent of this EEC. However, much of the proposed study is highly modified, so actual extent is predicted to be much lower. An assessment of each PCT against the EPBC condition criteria could find the vegetation in the study area does not meet the required native species diversity of the EPBC Act listing for Grey Box Woodlands. A precautionary approach has been undertaken in assuming that the two PCTs outlined below would meet this EPBC listed community. Further surveys are recommended to define the actual impact to this TEC within the proposal study area. The following vegetation types recorded within the proposal study area were considered consistent with the EPBC Act Grey Box Woodlands listing:

— PCT 80 – Western Grey Box – White Cypress Pine tall woodland on loam soil on alluvial plains of NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion and Riverina Bioregion — PCT 237 – Riverine Western Grey Box grassy woodland of the semi-arid (warm) climate zone. The proposed action is estimated to impact upon of 6.7 ha of the Grey Box Woodlands. This impact area is a precautionary estimate and needs to be confirmed through further survey.

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5.2.2.5 EPBC ACT SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT Grey Box Woodlands 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 CRITICALLY ENDANGERED OR ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL:

— REDUCE THE EXTENT OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY. This community occurs in between Wagga Wagga and Urana. The community occurs as small scattered remnants within the locality. The proposed action would result in a reduction of the extent of the Grey Box Woodlands. Approximately 6.7 ha of this community would be impacted by the proposed action. These potential impacts are considered to reduce the extent of the community within the region.

— FRAGMENT OR INCREASE FRAGMENTATION OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, FOR EXAMPLE BY CLEARING VEGETATION FOR ROADS OR TRANSMISSION LINES. The proposed action involves the installation of a transmission line and would require the removal and/or disturbance to 6.7 ha Grey Box Woodlands within areas of existing disturbance. Grey Box Woodlands generally occurs within a fragmented landscape, by other impacts such as agriculture. The proposed action would increase fragmentation of Grey Box Woodlands within the proposal study area and the wider region.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY No critical habitat has been listed for the Grey Box Woodlands ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Department of Environment and Energy, 2017). Habitat critical to the survival of ecological communities also refers to areas that are necessary:

— 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 proposed action would require the removal of up to 6.7 ha of Grey Box Woodlands. Any large-scale excavation that occurs in close proximity to Grey Box Woodlands or to marginal patches would involve mitigation measures to minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially modify or destroy these abiotic factors.

— CAUSE A SUBSTANTIAL CHANGE IN THE SPECIES COMPOSITION OF AN OCCURRENCE OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, INCLUDING CAUSING A DECLINE OR LOSS OF FUNCTIONALLY IMPORTANT SPECIES, FOR EXAMPLE THROUGH REGULAR BURNING OR FLORA OR FAUNA HARVESTING. The proposed action would require the removal and /or disturbance to 6.7 ha Grey Box Woodlands within areas of existing disturbance. Additionally, Grey Box Woodlands generally occurs in a highly modified condition as a result of existing disturbance practices in the area. This has resulted in the modification of the communities structurally integrity i.e. absence of one or more strata.

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Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially change the species composition of an occurrence of this community.

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. Grey Box Woodlands within the proposal study area is currently subject to weed and pest invasion. Additionally, the majority of the proposed action occurs within previously disturbed land. Therefore, it is considered unlikely that the proposed action would substantially reduce the quality or integrity of the Grey Box Woodland’s occurrence or significantly increase the spread of invasive species. Additionally, mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to be implemented during construction to minimise the likelihood of spread of weeds or pathogens into the proposal study area and minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts.

INTERFERE WITH THE RECOVERY OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY To date, no recovery plan has been developed by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for Grey Box Grassy Woodlands. Conservation Advice on Grey Box Woodlands recognises the main ongoing threats to this EEC to include: incremental clearance of vegetation; inappropriate grazing regimes; fragmentation; loss and/or decline of mature trees; weed invasion; inappropriate use of fertilisers and herbicides (Department of the Environment, 2010). The Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-Eastern Australia Conservation Advice (Department of the Environment, 2010) also provides a number research priorities, and priority recovery and threat abatement actions. The proposed action would involve clearing of this EEC and therefore the proposed action would interfere with the recovery of this EEC.

CONCLUSION This community occurs in between Wagga Wagga and Urana. The community occurs as small scattered remnants within the locality. The proposed action is likely to fragment this community and reduce the extent within the locality. Where possible the clearing of this community will be avoided during detailed design and mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS, such as weed control to reduce impacts. However, despite these mitigation measures, the proposed action is expected to result in a reduction in the extent of both this TECs within the locality and may marginally increase fragmentation at the local scale. Therefore, it is possible that the proposed action may have a significant impact on Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands in the locality.

5.2.3 WEEPING MYALL WOODLANDS

5.2.3.1 STATUS Weeping Myall Woodland is an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

5.2.3.2 DESCRIPTION The Weeping Myall Woodlands range open woodlands to woodlands, generally 4 to 12 m high. The overstorey is dominated by Weeping Myall (Acacia pendula) trees and in some cases this species may be the only tree canopy species. Weeping Myall Woodlands typically occurs on textured red or brown alluvial soils that received approximately 375–500 mm mean annual rainfall.

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5.2.3.3 DISTRIBUTION This community occurs as scattered remnants within the alluvial plains of the Murray-Darling river system within the Local Government Areas of Berrigan, Bland, Bogan, Carrathool, Conargo, Coolamon, Coonamble, Corowa, Forbes, Gilgandra, Griffith, Gwydir, Inverell, Jerilderee, Lachlan, Leeton, Lockhart, Moree Plains, Murray, Murrumbidgee, Narrabri, Narranderra, Narromine, Parkes, Urana, Wagga Wagga and Warren.

5.2.3.4 SPECIFIC IMPACTS Weeping Myall Woodland has been recorded within the proposal study area; the exact extent still needs to be confirmed though detailed surveys. For the purposes of this assessment broadscale mapping has been utilised to map the extent of Weeping Myall Woodlands and a precautionary approach has been undertaken in assuming that PCT 26 would meet this EPBC listed community. The following vegetation types recorded within the study area were considered consistent with the EPBC Act Weeping Myall Woodland listing;

— PCT 26 – Weeping Myall open woodland of the Riverina Bioregion and NSW South Western Slopes Bioregion. The proposed action is estimated to impact upon of 30.3 ha of the Weeping Myall Woodland. This impact area is a precautionary estimate and needs to be confirmed through further survey.

5.2.3.5 EPBC ACT SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT Weeping Myall Woodland 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 CRITICALLY ENDANGERED OR ENDANGERED ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL:

— REDUCE THE EXTENT OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY. This community occurs in between Urana and Oolambeyan National Park. The proposed action would result in a reduction of the extent of the Weeping Myall Woodland. Approximately 30.3 ha of this Weeping Myall Woodlands would be impacted by the proposed action. This potential impact is considered to reduce the extent of the community within the region.

— FRAGMENT OR INCREASE FRAGMENTATION OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, FOR EXAMPLE BY CLEARING VEGETATION FOR ROADS OR TRANSMISSION LINES. The proposed action involves the installation of a new transmission line and would require the removal and/or disturbance to 30.3 ha Weeping Myall Woodland within areas of existing disturbance. Weeping Myall Woodland generally occurs within a fragmented landscape, caused by impacts such as agriculture. The proposed action would increase fragmentation of Weeping Myall Woodland within the area.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY No critical habitat has been listed for the Weeping Myall Woodland ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2020). Habitat critical to the survival of ecological communities also refers to areas that are necessary:

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Weeping Myall Woodland recorded within the survey area currently occurs as highly fragmented. These areas are unlikely to be habitat critical for the community based on the above criteria given the current disturbed condition.

— 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 proposed action would require the removal of up to 30.3 ha of Weeping Myall Woodland. Any large-scale excavation that occurs in close proximity to Weeping Myall Woodland or to marginal patches would involve mitigation measures to minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially modify or destroy these abiotic factors.

— CAUSE A SUBSTANTIAL CHANGE IN THE SPECIES COMPOSITION OF AN OCCURRENCE OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY, INCLUDING CAUSING A DECLINE OR LOSS OF FUNCTIONALLY IMPORTANT SPECIES, FOR EXAMPLE THROUGH REGULAR BURNING OR FLORA OR FAUNA HARVESTING. The proposed action would require the removal and /or disturbance to 30.3 ha Weeping Myall Woodland within areas of existing disturbance. Furthermore, Weeping Myall Woodland generally occurs in a highly modified condition as a result of existing disturbance practices in the area. This has resulted in the modification of the communities structurally integrity i.e. absence of one or more strata. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to substantially change the species composition of an occurrence of this community.

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. Weeping Myall Woodland within the proposal study area is currently subject to weed and pest invasion. Furthermore, the majority of the proposed action occurs within previously disturbed land. Therefore, it is considered unlikely that the proposed action would substantially reduce the quality or integrity of the community’s occurrence or significantly increase the spread of invasive species. Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to minimise the likelihood of spread of weeds or pathogens into the site and as well as sedimentation and hydrological impacts.

INTERFERE WITH THE RECOVERY OF AN ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITY To date, no recovery plan has been developed by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for Weeping Myall Woodlands. Conservation Advice on Weeping Myall Woodlands recognises the main ongoing threats to this EEC to include clearing and ongoing degradation, clearing for cropping, over grazing regimes; weed invasion; and herbivory by caterpillars of the Bag-shelter Moth. (Department of the Environment Water, Heritage and the Arts (2008). The proposed action would result in clearing of this EEC and therefore would interfere with the recovery of this EEC.

CONCLUSION This community occurs in between Urana and Oolambeyan National Park. Weeping Myall woodland occurs as scattered remnants within the locality. The proposed action is likely to fragment this community and reduce the extent within the locality. Where possible the clearing of this community will be avoided and mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS such as weed control to reduce impacts. However, despite these mitigation measures, the proposed action is expected to result in a reduction in the extent of both this TECs within the locality and may marginally increase fragmentation at the local scale. Therefore, it is possible that the proposed action may have a significant impact on Weeping Myall Woodland.

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5.3 CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES

5.3.1 REGENT HONEYEATER (ANTHOCHAERA PHRYGIA)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Regent Honeyeater is listed as Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

DESCRIPTION The Regent Honeyeater is a nomadic and partially migratory woodland bird, which has a patchy distribution between south-east Queensland and central Victoria. Some predictable seasonal movements have been observed, and breeding varies between regions and corresponds with flowering of key eucalypt and mistletoe species (DoE, 2020a). The species is predominantly found along inland slopes of the Great Dividing Range in areas containing moist, fertile soils. It prefers box-ironbark eucalypt woodland and dry sclerophyll forest, but also inhabits riparian vegetation including She-oak (Casuarina spp.). Lowland coastal forest may also act as a refuge habitat during periods of drought, and they may also be found in remnant patches of farmland and urban areas (DoE, 2015). The Regent Honeyeater primarily feeds on nectar which is obtains from eucalyptus flowers and mistletoes, but also feeds on invertebrates and their exudates (lerp, honeydew), and occasionally fruit. This species roosts communally in small groups or large flocks, in trees with dense foliage, and foraging trees are rarely used for roosting (DoE, 2015). Breeding appears to correspond with the flowering of key eucalypt and mistletoe species and varies between regions, usually occurring from August to January. Cup shapes nests are constructed usually in the canopy of mature trees with rough bark, and a clutch consists of 2 to 3 eggs (DoE, 2015). Listed threats include:

— clearing, fragmentation and degradation of habitat, particularly the removal of large mature trees important for feeding or breeding — competition for resources with birds such as the Noisy Minor and (Manorina melanocephala) and Noisy Friarbird (Philemon corniculatus), and nest predation by Pied Currawongs (Strepera graculina) (DoE, 2015).

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT Clearing of suitable woodland habitat for foraging and roosting.

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL:

— LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION Any identified population Regent Honeyeater in the area would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal study area. Due to the species’ large home range, nomadic nature and higher quality foraging habitat elsewhere in the locality and region, the proposed action is not considered likely to significantly contribute to a long-term decline in the size of a population of these species. Avoidance of large tracts of suitable woodland habitat through proposal design refinement would reduce potential impacts to this species. Therefore, even if further field studies recorded this species, the avoidance of large tracts of woodland habitat during vegetation clearing means that the proposed action is unlikely to cause a long-term decrease in the size of a population, or significantly reduce the area of occupancy for the species.

— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES This habitat is highly modified by previous land uses in this area (i.e. cropping and agricultural grazing). Although the proposed action would result in the loss of potential foraging habitat, it is of marginal quality and is likely to only represent a small component of locally occurring resources accessible to these species.

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— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS The proposal study area is already largely fragmented, and habitat remaining occurs as disjunct remnant patches and as scattered paddock trees within the locality. Furthermore, these species are highly mobile and is known to disperse widely (Higgins et al., 2001), the proposed action would not present a significant barrier to these species. It is considered unlikely that the proposed action would fragment an existing population into two or more populations given the ecology of the two species and current fragmented state of potential habitat.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES No critical habitat has been listed for the Regent Honeyeater. However, there are key breeding areas identified for this species. The proposed action does not impact upon the any of the key breeding areas which are known to be Bundarra- Barraba, Capertee Valley and Hunter Valley districts in New South Wales, and the Chiltern area in north-east Victoria. The study area does not occur within these known breeding areas. There are no records of these species within the proposal study area, the records within the area largely confined to the National Parks (Murray Valley National Park) and State forest to the south, where better quality habitat would be present. Hence it is unlikely that this proposal would adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of these species.

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION The proposed action does not impact upon the any of the key breeding areas for this species. These are the Bundarra- Barraba, Capertee Valley and Hunter Valley districts in New South Wales, and the Chiltern area in north-east Victoria. The study area does not occur within these known breeding areas. As such the proposed action is unlikely to affect their breeding cycle.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE Potential habitat occurred within the survey area as already disjunct remnant patches of highly modified woodland, scattered across a fragmented landscape. Potential habitat has been previously and/or currently disturbed by agricultural cropping and grazing. The higher quality habitat occurred along road reserves and areas were grazing has been excluded. Given the highly modified nature of observed habitats, land uses of these areas (i.e. cropping and agricultural grazing) and the poor condition of Woodland habitat observed it is unlikely that the proposed action would modify, destroy, remove or isolate habitat for this species to the extent that is 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 Adhering to mitigation measures such as weed and pest management plans, and vehicle weed hygiene, would prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests such as rabbits, cats and foxes establishing in wetland habitat areas.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE

No. It is unlikely that disease would be increased by the proposal. Mitigation measures would be prepared to minimise the likelihood of spread of pathogens into the habitat of these species

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES 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. Recovery strategies outlined in Regent Honeyeater Recovery Plan (Department of the Environment, 2016b) include:

— improve the extent and quality of regent honeyeater habitat — bolster the wild population with captive-bred birds until the wild population becomes self-sustaining — increase understanding of the size, structure, trajectory and viability of the wild population — maintain and increase community awareness, understanding and involvement in the recovery program.

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Based on the potential impacts of the proposed action on this species, as discussed above, it is likely that the proposed action would be in conflict with the first objective above to a small extent, by not improving the extent of habitat for the Regent Honeyeater.

CONCLUSION Although potentially suitable woodland habitat has been mapped within the proposal study area, records within the area are rare and intermittent. Additionally, clearing of large tracts of suitable woodland would be minimised or avoided during design refinement to prevent significant loss of habitat in the case that the species is found in the proposal study area during future targeted surveys. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to have a significant impact on the Regent Honeyeater.

5.3.2 CURLEW SANDPIPER (CALIDRIS FERRUGINEA)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Curlew Sandpiper is listed as Critically Endangered and Migratory under the EPBC Act and listed as Endangered under the BC Act.

DESCRIPTION The Curlew Sandpiper is a migratory species that is widespread across Australia, occurring around the coasts and in smaller numbers inland. Records occur in all Australian states during the non-breeding season, and many one year old birds remain during the breeding season while others migrate north. The species does not breed in Australia. In NSW, they are widespread east of the Great Divide, especially in coastal regions. They are occasionally recorded in the Tablelands and are widespread in the Riverina and south-west NSW, with scattered records elsewhere. They are gregarious, often occurring in large flocks (DoE, 2020b). Curlew Sandpipers mainly occur on intertidal mudflats in sheltered coastal areas, such as estuaries, bays, inlets and lagoons, non-tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons near the coast, and ponds in saltworks and sewage farms. They are also recorded less often inland, including around ephemeral and permanent lakes, dams, waterholes and bore drains, usually with bare edges of mud or sand. They occur in both fresh and brackish waters. They forage at the edges of shallow pools and drains of intertidal mudflats and sandy shores, and in non-tidal wetlands, they usually wade in water 15–30 mm, but up to 60 mm, deep. Their diet consists of mainly invertebrates, including worms, molluscs, crustaceans, and insects, as well as seeds (DoE, 2020b). Threats for this species include:

— loss of feeding and roosting habitat — fragmentation or isolation of sites within feeding areas resulting in decreasing abundance — human disturbance at roost and feeding sites — disturbance by dogs at roost and feeding sites — pollution. Core coastal habitat does not occur within the proposal study area, but the species may be an occasional visitor to inland water habitats such as Lake Gol Gol which is listed as an internationally important shorebird location by Birdlife Australia, which is located just north of Buronga (about 2 km from proposal study area). Few ALA records occur within locality and are primarily in riverine and wetland habitat locations. Targeted surveys for this species are planned and are required to determine the presence or absence of this species within the proposal study area.

SPECIFIC IMPACTS The Curlew Sandpiper is known to migrate at night, and therefore may potentially collide with powerline conductors during periods of lower visibility causing injury or mortality. The proposed action would potentially clear vegetation within wetland habitat suitable for foraging and roosting.

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SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION The Curlew Sandpiper is a migratory shorebird with a global population, and is widespread throughout Australia, including inland habitats. Due to the low number of occurrence records within the Proposal study area, as well as generally lower occurrences of this species this far inland in contrast with coastal areas, collision with the transmission line is not considered likely to significantly affect or decrease the size of a population. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population

— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES The species is only considered likely to occur intermittently within the proposal study area between periods of migration, or possibly as one year old non-breeding individuals, as the wetland habitat within the proposal study area is not the preferred or coastal habitat for this species. Additionally, wetland and riverine habitat clearing would be minimised or avoided through design. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of a species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS The Curlew Sandpiper is a migratory shorebird with a global population, and is widespread throughout Australia, including inland habitats. The proposed action is a linear disturbance limiting the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur. Furthermore, these species are highly mobile and is known to disperse widely and the proposal would not present a significant barrier to these species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to fragment an existing population into two or more populations.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed by the EPBC or OEH as critical to the survival of the species and falls outside of the range covered by the DoAWE’s Marine bioregional plans biologically important areas (OEH, 2019; DoEE, 2019).

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION The action is considered unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population, as the Curlew Sandpiper does not breed in Australia.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE The proposal study area does not contain wetland habitat preferred by the Curlew Sandpiper, as the species prefers coastal areas such as intertidal mudflats and is only recorded in low numbers around these inland wetland habitats. Additionally, vegetation clearing in wetland habitat for the project in general is likely to be minimal or avoided, therefore, the proposed action is unlikely to result in the modification, removal, isolation, or decreased availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely 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 Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests such as cats and foxes establishing in wetland habitat areas.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE There are no known diseases causing potential species decline to the Curlew Sandpiper.

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INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES Conservation actions listed by the EPBC relate to loss of key habitat only within the East China Sea. Australian conservation actions relate to reducing impacts from human disturbance, habitat loss, and invasive plants at key feeding grounds. Key feeding grounds do not occur within the proposal study area, therefore, with mitigation measures, the proposed action would not interfere with the recovery of the species. Local recovery plans occur as part of the Saving our Species recovery strategy, and key management sites do not occur within the proposal study area.

CONCLUSION The action is considered unlikely to significantly impact upon the Curlew Sandpiper. This species is a migratory, widely distributed species that does not breed in Australia, and no important habitats exist within the proposal study area. Additionally, preferred wetland habitat such as coastal mudflats do not occur within the proposal study area, and species records show a low number of occurrences within the locality. Regardless, vegetation clearing to any suitable wetland habitat would be avoided preventing significant loss of habitat in the case that the species is found in the proposal study area. Additionally, collision with transmission lines causing injury or death is considered minimal due to the indicated relatively low abundance of the species in the proposal study area.

5.3.3 PLAINS-WANDERER (PEDIONOMUS TORQUATUS)

CONSERVATION STATUS Listed as Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act, listed as Endangered under the BC Act.

DESCRIPTION Plains Wanderers are ground dwelling birds living in semi-arid, lowland native grasslands that typically occur on hard red-brown soils in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. Habitat structure appears to play a more important role than plant species composition. Preferred grassland habitat of the Plains Wanderer typically comprises 50% bare ground, 10% fallen litter, and 40% herbs, forbs and grasses (TSSC, 2015). Surveys indicate that Plains Wanderers appear to avoid being in close proximity to living or dead trees, with no records of any birds within 300 m of trees of 10 m or greater in height across their strongholds in New South Wales and Victoria. In the Riverina region, the home range of individual Plains Wanderers vary in size from 7–21 hectares (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). They feed on a mixture of seeds, leaves and invertebrates, with seeds and leaves accounting for nearly 60% of the annual diet. Seeds and leaves are taken from grasses (including native species of Austrostipa, Sporobolus, Panicum, Austrodanthonia, and Eragrostis and occasionally exotic species of Vulpia), chenopods (including species of Atriplex, Maireana, Chenopodium and Sclerolaena) and other plants (such as native species of Asperula, Galium, and Euphorbia and possibly exotic species of Spergularia and Carthamus). They occasionally occur in other types of habitat such as in stubble; amongst low cereal crops; and in low, sparse chenopod shrubland (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). Plains Wanderers breed in solitary pairs, although may be polyandrous, and create nests in the ground in the form of a scrape lined with grass, amongst native grasses and herbs and sometimes crops (TSSC, 2015). Threats to this species include:

— habitat loss and fragmentation as a result of land conversion for the cultivation of crops, including the introduction of pasture species, weeds, and woody vegetation — inappropriate grazing, including both over and under grazing by domestic livestock and rabbits. — low population size, which increases the risk of extinction — predation by foxes, cats, and birds of prey — pesticide use, particularly for the historical control of the Australian plague locust — planting and natural recruitment of trees in or near native grasslands. The proposed action would potentially impact known habitat for this species which used by the Western Riverina populations.

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Targeted surveys will be undertaken in 2020 and 2021and will confirm the presence or absence of the Plains Wanderer within the proposal study area. Detailed habitat assessments for this species in areas mapped as grassland or derived grassland will also be undertaken. Suitable grassland habitat is mapped as occurring for this species in the proposal study area, including derived grassland areas. Non-preferred habitat that the Plains Wanderer may potentially occur in within shrubland.

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Potential removal of suitable grassland habitat in areas where this species has been mapped as likely to occur (DoE & DEWNR, 2016).

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION There is a cluster of ALA and OEH records within the proposal study area, specifically south of Hay, west of Coleambally and north of Deniliquin. The proposed action would potentially impact areas where this species has been mapped as likely to occur in the National Recovery Plan (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). Further field studies are required to understand population numbers in these areas predicted to be impacted.

— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES The proposed action is likely to reduce the area of occupancy of known mapped area. Plains wanderers have an average home range size of 12 hectares (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). The proposed action is likely to reduce area marginally. Further field studies are required to understand just how much habitat the proposed action is likely to remove and how this species is utilising the study area. Avoidance of large tracts of suitable grassland habitat through proposal design refinement would reduce potential impacts to this species. The proposed action comprises of the installation of a transmission line and has the potential to fragment any potential populations that may be detected during future targeted surveys. If large tracts of grassland habitat are avoided during vegetation clearing, the proposed action is unlikely to cause a long-term decrease in the size of a population or reduce the area of occupancy for the species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS The Plains Wanderer is affected by fragmentation primarily due to land conversion for agriculture, which involves land clearing in large patches causing isolation of populations (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). As the proposed action comprises of the installation of a transmission line, clearing large tracts of suitable grassland habitat would be avoided and removal of vegetation is not expected to occur at a large enough scale to cause isolation and fragmentation of populations of the Plains Wanderer. In addition, majority of the proposal study area is centred on an existing high-voltage transmission line and other linear infrastructure such as roads which minimises the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES According to the National Recovery Plan for the Plains Wanderer, habitat critical to the survival of the species includes any region where the species is mapped as likely to occur, and any newly discovered locations that extend the likely range of the Plains Wanderer (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). The proposed action would potentially impact areas where this species has been mapped as likely to occur. The proposed action would potentially impact core habitat areas for the Plains Wanderer being the area south of Hay, west of Coleambally and north of Deniliquin, as identified by ESS (2020). Therefore, the proposed action has the potential to adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of the species.

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— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS, including targeted surveys for nests prior to clearing as well as prioritizing avoidance of clearing native grassland habitat suitable for foraging and breeding during detailed design if the species is found to occur within the proposal study area.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE As vegetation clearing large tracts of suitable native grassland habitat is likely to be minimal or avoided during design refinement, and species records are low for the proposal study area, the proposed action is unlikely to result in the modification, removal, isolation, or decreased availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely 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 Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests such as rabbits, cats and foxes establishing in wetland habitat areas.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE There are no known diseases causing potential species decline to the Plains Wanderer.

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES National Recovery Plan for the Plains Wanderer identifies a number of actions and priorities for recovery for the species (DoE & DEWNR, 2016). The proposed action would interfere with Strategy 3 which is to Enhance protection, improve the quality and increase the extent of habitat suitable for the plains-wanderer. The proposed action would result in the removal of habitat within core habitat areas being the area south of Hay, west of Coleambally and north of Deniliquin, as identified by ESS (2020). Therefore, the proposed action would interfere with the recovery of this species.

CONCLUSION The National Recovery Plan (DoE & DEWNR, 2016) for the Plains Wanderer identified habitat critical to the survival of the species includes any region where the species is mapped as likely to occur. These areas occur within the proposal study area. Further field studies and detailed habitat assessments will be undertaken in 2020 and 2021 to better understand how this species is using the study area. Clearing of large tracts of suitable grassland habitat would be minimised or avoided during design refinement where possible to prevent significant loss of habitat, in the case that the species is found in the proposal study area during future targeted surveys. However, without further survey, a precautionary approach should be applied and given the proposed action may affect mapped areas where this species is known to occur the proposed action is may significantly impact on Plains Wanderer populations in this area.

5.3.4 SWIFT PARROT (LATHAMUS DISCOLOR)

CONSERVATION STATUS Listed as Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

DESCRIPTION Breeding occurs in Tasmania, majority migrates to mainland Australia in autumn, over-wintering, particularly in Victoria and central and eastern NSW, but also south-eastern Queensland as far north as Duaringa. Until recently it was believed that in New South Wales, swift parrots forage mostly in the western slopes region along the inland slopes of the Great Dividing 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,

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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 and Crowley, 2000a) (Swift Parrot Recovery Team, 2001) Threats for this species include:

— loss of habitat through clearing for agriculture, and urban and industrial development — collisions with wire netting fences, windows and cars, during the breeding season and winter migration.

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Clearing of suitable woodland habitat for foraging and roosting.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION Any identified population Swift Parrot in the area would not be restricted to habitat within the proposal study area. Due to the species’ large home range, nomadic nature and higher quality foraging habitat elsewhere in the locality and region, the proposed action is not considered likely to significantly contribute to a long-term decline in the size of a population of these species. Avoidance of large tracts of suitable woodland habitat through proposal design refinement would reduce potential impacts to this species. Therefore, even if further field studies recorded this species, the avoidance of large tracts of woodland habitat during vegetation clearing means that the proposed action is unlikely to cause a long-term decrease in the size of a population or reduce the area of occupancy for the species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS The proposal study area is already largely fragmented, and habitat remaining occurs as disjunct remnant patches and as scattered paddock trees within the locality. Furthermore, these species are highly mobile and nomadic, the proposed action would not present a significant barrier to these species. It is considered unlikely that the proposed action would fragment an existing population into two or more populations given the ecology of the two species and current fragmented state of potential habitat.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES No critical habitat has been listed for the Swift Parrot to date. There are no records of these species within the proposal study area, the records that occur within the locality are largely confined to the state forest within the greater region, where better quality habitat would be present. Hence it is unlikely that this proposal would adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of these species.

— 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, 2006b). 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 a small amount of potential foraging habitat is unlikely to disrupt their movements to Tasmanian breeding grounds. As such the proposed action is unlikely to affect their breeding cycle.

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— RESULT IN INVASIVE SPECIES THAT ARE HARMFUL TO A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES BECOMING ESTABLISHED IN THE ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES’ HABITAT Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests such as rabbits, cats and foxes establishing in wetland habitat areas.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE

No. It is unlikely that disease would be increased by the proposed action. Mitigation measures would be prepared to minimise the likelihood of spread of pathogens into the habitat of these species

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES The Action Plan for Australian Birds (Garnett and Crowley, 2000b) 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, 2000b). A National Recovery Plan for the Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor was prepared in 2011 (Saunders, 2011). Recovery actions outlined in this plan include:

— identify the extent and quality of habitat — manage and protect swift parrot habitat at the landscape scale — monitor and manage the impact of collisions, competition and disease — monitor population and habitat. Based on the potential ecological impacts of the proposed action on the Swift Parrot, as discussed above, it is likely the proposed action would be in conflict with the second recovery action above, to manage and protect swift parrot habitat at the landscape scale.

CONCLUSION Although potentially suitable woodland habitat has been mapped within the proposal study area, records within the area are rare and intermittent. Additionally, clearing of large tracts of suitable woodland habitat would be minimised or avoided during design refinement to prevent significant loss of habitat in the case that the species is found in the proposal study area during future targeted surveys. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to have a significant impact on the Swift Parrot.

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5.3.5 WESTERN ALASKAN BAR-TAILED GODWIT (LIMOSA LAPPONICA BAUERI) AND NORTHERN SIBERIAN BAR-TAILED GODWIT (LIMOSA LAPPONICA MENZBIERI)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Northern Siberian Bar-tailed Godwit is listed as Critically Endangered and Migratory, and the Bar-tailed Godwit (Baueri) is listed as Vulnerable and Migratory under the EPBC Act.

DESCRIPTION The Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) contains one nominate species and three subspecies, two of which have the potential to occur within the proposal study area:

— The Bar-tailed Godwit (Western Alaskan) (Limosa lapponica baueri) — The Bar-tailed Godwit (Northern Siberian) (Limosa lapponica menzbieri). The Bar-tailed Godwit (Western Alaskan) and Bar-tailed Godwit (Northern Siberian) are migratory shorebird species and are found mainly in coastal habitats such as large intertidal sandflats, banks, mudflats, estuaries, inlets, harbours, coastal lagoons and bays. They less frequently occur in salt lakes and brackish wetlands, sandy ocean beaches and rock platforms. They are widespread in the Torres Strait and along the east and south-east coasts of Queensland, NSW and Victoria. During the non-breeding period, their distribution is predominately New Zealand, northern and eastern Australia, and adults are thought to have high site fidelity in the non-breeding season (DoE, 2020c). The Bar-tailed Godwit (Western Alaskan) and Bar-tailed Godwit (Northern Siberian) forage near the edge of water or in shallow water, mainly in tidal estuaries and harbours, with a mainly carnivorous diet of worms, molluscs, crustaceans, insects and some plant material. They prefer exposed sandy or soft mud substrates on intertidal flats, banks and beaches, and usually roosts on sandy beaches, sandbars, spits and in near-coastal saltmarsh (TSSC, 2016; TSSC, 2016b). The Bar-tailed Godwit (Western Alaskan) leaves Australia to breed in north-east Siberia from around the Kolyma River to east of the Chukotski Peninsula. They also breed in west Alaska, from Wales to Barrow. The Northern Siberian Bar- tailed Godwit leaves Australia to breed in northern Siberia, between the Khatanga River and the delta of the Kolyma River (DoE, 2020c). Threats to the species are listed as:

— habitat loss and degradation including environmental pollution, reduced river flows, reclamation for tidal power plants, industrial use and urban expansion. These threats are more prominent in tidal areas in Asia such as mudflats used for staging by the species — climate change and associated sea level rise, which are likely to have long -term impacts on breeding, staging, and non-breeding grounds — pollution and contamination on passage and in non-breeding areas — human disturbance from recreation activities — disease such as avian influenza if future outbreaks were to occur — direct mortality by collision with large structures such as windfarms and aircraft (TSSC, 2016; TSSC, 2016b). There are several internationally important populations listed for these species within Australia, the closest of which occurs at Hunter Estuary, NSW, over 1,000 km north east of the proposal study area. PMST indicated that species or species habitat is likely to occur around Lake Hawthorn and Lake Ranfurly, Mildura. Atlas of Living Australia records indicate nine records of the nominate species (Limosa lapponica) within the locality, mainly located around Lake Hawthorn and Lake Ranfurly. Additionally, Lake Gol Gol, listed as internationally important shorebird location by BirdLife Australia, may provide suitable (although not preferred) habitat for these species.

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SPECIFIC IMPACTS Potentially collide with transmission lines and conductors causing injury or mortality. The proposed action would potentially clear vegetation within wetland and riverine habitat suitable for foraging and roosting of over-wintering individuals.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION The Bar-tailed Godwit (Bauri) and Northern Siberian Bar-tailed Godwit are migratory shorebird species with a global population, and are widespread throughout Australia, preferring coastal habitats. Locations where species records for Limosa lapponica occur, including Lake Hawthorn and Lake Ranfurly and Lake Gol Gol, are not likely to be cleared or impacted by the proposal. Due to the low number of occurrence records within the proposal study area, as well as generally lower occurrences of this species this far inland in contrast with coastal areas, collision with the transmission line is not considered likely to significantly affect or decrease the size of a population. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population.

REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES These subspecies are only considered likely to occur intermittently within the proposal study area between periods of migration, as the wetland habitat within the proposal study area is not the preferred or internationally important coastal habitat for these species. Additionally, wetland and riverine habitat clearing would be minimised or avoided through design. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of a species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS The Bar-tailed Godwit (Bauri) and Northern Siberian Bar-tailed Godwit are migratory shorebird species with a global population, and are widespread throughout Australia, preferring coastal habitats. The proposed action is a linear disturbance limiting the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur. Furthermore, these species are highly mobile and are known to disperse widely and the proposed action would not present a significant barrier to these species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to fragment an existing population into two or more populations.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed as critical to the survival of these species within the proposal study area.

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION These species do not breed in Australia, and migration to the proposal study area is not considered important in the breeding cycle. Therefore, the proposed action is unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE The proposal study area does not contain wetland habitat preferred for these species, as they prefer coastal intertidal areas. Additionally, vegetation clearing in wetland habitat for the project in general is likely to be minimal or avoided, therefore, the proposed action is unlikely to result in the modification, removal, isolation, or decreased availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely 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 Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests such as cats and foxes establishing in wetland habitat areas.

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— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE Avian influenza is not currently present in Australian bird populations (DoA, 2017). The action is not considered likely to introduce or cause the spread of Avian Influenza in the case of future outbreaks.

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES Recovery actions for these two subspecies occur at the international, national, state and local levels, which would not be affected by the proposed action. No key management sites are known to occur within the proposal study area.

CONCLUSION The action is considered unlikely to significantly impact upon The Bar-tailed Godwit (Bauri) and Northern Siberian Bar-tailed Godwit. These two subspecies are migratory, widely distributed, and do not breed in Australia, and no important habitats (such as Lake Gol Gol) would be impacted by the proposed action. Additionally, preferred wetland habitat such as coastal intertidal areas do not occur within the proposal study area, and species records show a low number of occurrences within the locality. Regardless, vegetation clearing to any suitable wetland habitat would likely be minimal or avoided through design refinement. Additionally, collision with transmission lines causing injury or death is considered minimal due to the relatively low abundance of the species in the locality.

5.3.6 SILVER PERCH (BIDYANUS BIDYANUS) AND FLATHEAD GALAXIAS (GALAXIUS ROSTRATUS)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Silver Perch and Flathead Galaxias are listed as Critically Endangered the EPBC Act.

DESCRIPTION Silver Perch were once widespread and abundant throughout most of the Murray-Darling river system. They have now declined to low numbers or disappeared from most of their former range. Only one remaining secure and self-sustaining population occurs in NSW in the central Murray River downstream of Yarrawonga weir, as well as several anabranches and tributaries. Flathead Galaxias, are a small native fish that are known from the southern part of the Murray Darling Basin. They have been recorded in the Macquarie, Lachlan, Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers in NSW. Despite extensive scientific sampling over the past 15 years there have been very few recorded sightings of Flathead Galaxias. They have not been recorded and are considered locally extinct in the lower Murray, Murrumbidgee, Macquarie and Lachlan Rivers. The species is now only known from the upper Murray River near Tintaldra and wetland areas near Howlong.

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Indirect impacts from the proposed action near waterways. The potential excavation works and clearing vegetation in riverine habitats or near waterways.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION No significant impacts are anticipated for these species from the proposed action due to the avoidance of clearing and construction works within waterways, especially those containing potentially suitable habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population.

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— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES No significant impacts are anticipated for these species from the proposed action due to the avoidance of clearing and construction works within waterways, especially those containing potentially suitable habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of a species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS No significant impacts are anticipated for these species from the proposed action due to the avoidance of clearing and construction works within waterways, especially those containing potentially suitable habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to fragment an existing population into two or more populations.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed as critical to the survival of these species within the proposal study area.

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION No significant impacts are anticipated for these species from the proposed action due to the avoidance of clearing and construction works within waterways, especially those containing potentially suitable habitat for these species. Therefore, the proposed action is unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of a population.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE The proposed action is likely to have minimal impact to wetlands, riverine, and waterways habitats suitable for these species. Therefore, the proposed action is unlikely to result in the modification, removal, isolation, or decreased availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely 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 Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to prevent invasive weeds and vertebrate pests establishing in wetland habitat areas.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to limit the spread of pathogens and disease as well as sedimentation and hydrological impacts.

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES Recovery actions would not be affected by the proposed action. No key management sites are known to occur within the proposal study area.

CONCLUSION

These species have the potential to occur within the proposal study area, however only within waterways which would be avoided and protected by the proposed action. Where waterway crossings of the transmission line occur, the alignment would span these habitats only, and no towers or structures would be placed in waterways. Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to minimise indirect impacts to these species through the spread of weeds, pathogens and disease. Therefore, no significant impacts are anticipated for these species, due to the avoidance of clearing and construction works within waterways containing potentially suitable habitat and implementation of mitigation measures.

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5.4 ENDANGERED SPECIES

5.4.1 AUSTROSTIPA WAKOOLICA (A SPEAR-GRASS)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Austrostipa wakoolica is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

DESCRIPTION Austrostipa wakoolica is a perennial spear-grass that grows to 1 meter tall. This species is confined to the floodplains of the Murray Darlin River tributaries of central-western and south-western NSW. It grows in open woodland on grey silty clay or sandy loam soils, and recorded habitats include the edge of a lignum swamp in brown loam with box and mallee, creek banks in grey silty clay, mallee and lignum sandy loam flat, open cypress pine forest on low range sandy soils and a low rock rise fenced off from stock. This species flowers in response to rain and has been recorded flowering from October to December (DoE, 2014). Listed threats include:

— habitat reduction and modification from pastoral development, irrigation and altered flooding regimes — grazing pressure from rabbits, domestic stock and kangaroos — drought or prolonged dry periods affecting the flowering season — weed invasion and competition, particularly from exotic grasses (DoE, 2014).

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Possible small-scale clearance of individual plants or potential habitat. Introduction of invasive weed species.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION This species was not recorded during preliminary field surveys and does not have records within the proposal study area. The closest records are adjacent to the Sturt Highway, near Narrandera (20 kilometres from proposal study area). It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area. However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population.

— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area. However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of the species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS It is unknown at this stage if this species occurs within the proposal study area. The proposed action comprises of the installation of a transmission line and has the potential to fragment any potential populations that may be detected during future targeted surveys. Clearing of vegetation in potential habitats comprise of PCTs 17; 26; 70; 74; 76; 80; 237; 250. Possible locations of threatened species would be avoided during design refinement where possible, if detected. In addition, the proposal study area is within an already fragmented landscape by agriculture and linear infrastructure, thereby limiting the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of the species or fragment an existing population.

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— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed as critical to the survival of the species occurring within the proposal study area.

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION This species flowers from October to December, mainly in response to rain. Seed dispersal is mainly by wind, rain and flood events which would unlikely be impacted the proposed action. The pollinator of this species is unknown, but likely to be insects. The proposed action would not have an impact upon climatic events which are required for the reproductive mechanisms for this species. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle for any populations that be recorded during future targeted surveys.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE It is recommended that if individuals or populations of Austrostipa wakoolica are located during targeted surveys, that they be flagged and avoided. Therefore, it is considered unlikely that the action would modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely 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 The proposed action has potential to result in minor increases in the establishment, density or diversity of weed species. Mitigation measures would be recommended as part of the EIS to reduce and manage any invasive species.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE There are no known diseases that may cause the decline of Austrostipa wakoolica.

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES No recovery plan is required and the recovery actions within the approved conservation advice are sufficient (Austrostipa wakoolica (SPRAT https://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=66623). However, the proposed action would not interfere substantially with recovery actions outlined in the approved conservation advice, as they primarily aim to increase surveys effort and protect existing known populations. The proposal study area does not contain any priority management sites under the Saving our Species program.

CONCLUSION Although the proposed action may require potential habitat to be cleared, the species is not known to occur within the proposal study area. If this species is detected during targeted surveys populations of this species would be avoided of clearing. Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to limit the spread of weeds, pathogens and disease and minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to significantly impact upon Austrostipa wakoolica.

5.4.2 CALADENIA ARENARIA (SAND-HILL SPIDER ORCHID)

CONSERVATION STATUS The Caladenia arenaria is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act and BC Act.

DESCRIPTION Caladenia arenaria is restricted to the Riverina in NSW and only occurs in five locations between Urana and Narranderra that are severely fragmented, including: roadside north of Narrandera; on a private property near Urana; and in Lonesome, Buckingbong and Pine State Forests (DoE, 2020e; TSSC, 2015). Recent collections of Caladenia arenaria have all been from white cypress pine woodland (DoE, 2020e).

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Listed threats include:

— habitat clearance and disturbance — grazing pressure from domestic stock and feral herbivores — genetic hybridization (DoE, 2020e).

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Possible small-scale clearance of individual plants or potential habitat. Introduction of invasive weed species.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION This species was not recorded during preliminary field surveys and does not have records within the proposal study area. One record for this species occurs south of the proposal study area at Lake Urana. It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area . However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population.

REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area . However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of the species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS It is unknown at this stage if this species occurs within the proposal study area. The proposed action comprises of the installation of a transmission line and has the potential to fragment any potential populations that may be detected during future targeted surveys. The proposed action has the potential to clear vegetation in potential habitats comprised of PCT 28; 75; 76; 80. Possible locations of threatened species would be avoided, if detected, during design refinement. In addition, the proposal study area is within an already fragmented landscape by agriculture and linear infrastructure, thereby limiting the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of the species or fragment an existing population.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed as critical to the survival of this species occurring within the proposal study area.

— DISRUPT THE BREEDING CYCLE OF A POPULATION Connectivity within a plant population relates to the ability of individuals to disperse and cross pollinate. Populations of this species are likely to cover a small area and not disperse beyond the immediate area given the limited seed dispersal of the species. The proposed action may further fragment habitat due to the linear removal of vegetation, however the landscape within the study area is already highly fragmented. Given this, the proposed action is considered unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of any potential populations that may occur.

— MODIFY, DESTROY, REMOVE OR ISOLATE OR DECREASE THE AVAILABILITY OR QUALITY OF HABITAT TO THE EXTENT THAT THE SPECIES IS LIKELY TO DECLINE It is recommended that if individuals or populations of Caladenia arenaria are located during targeted surveys, that they be flagged and avoided. Therefore, it is considered unlikely that the action would modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline.

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— RESULT IN INVASIVE SPECIES THAT ARE HARMFUL TO A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES BECOMING ESTABLISHED IN THE ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES’ HABITAT The proposed action has potential to result in minor increases in the establishment, density or diversity of weed species. Mitigation measures would be recommended as part of the EIS to reduce and manage any invasive species.

— INTRODUCE DISEASE THAT MAY CAUSE THE SPECIES TO DECLINE There are no known diseases that may cause the decline of Caladenia arenaria.

INTERFERE SUBSTANTIALLY WITH THE RECOVERY OF THE SPECIES No national recovery plan for this Caladenia arenaria has been written. However, there is an NSW recovery plan (Department of Environment and Conservation, 2004). The proposed action would not interfere substantially with recovery actions outlined in the NSW recovery plan, as they primarily aim to increase surveys effort and protect existing known populations. The proposal study area does not contain any priority management sites under the Saving our Species program.

CONCLUSION Although the proposed action may require potential habitat to be cleared, the species is not known to occur within the proposal study area. Targeted surveys will be undertaken in 2020 and 2021, and avoidance of clearing in potential habitat will be considered during design refinement. Mitigation measures would be recommended in the EIS to limit the spread of weeds, pathogens and disease and minimise sedimentation and hydrological impacts. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to significantly impact upon Caladenia arenaria.

5.4.3 LEPIDIUM MONOPLOCOIDES (WINGED PEPPERCRESS)

CONSERVATION STATUS Lepidium monoplocoides is listed as Endangered under the EPBC Act and the BC Act.

DESCRIPTION Lepidium monoplocoides is a small annual herb growing to about 20 cm tall, and occurs in NSW and Victoria, predominantly in mallee scrub in semi-arid areas. The species occurs in the Murray Darling Depression, Riverina, Darling Riverine Plains and Cobar Peneplain Bioregions (Mavromihalis, 2010). It occurs in open, sparsely vegetated sites in a range of habitats on heavy clay or clay-loam soils and sites are seasonally moist to water-logged with heavy, fertile soils and a mean annual rainfall of around 300 to 500 mm (Mavromihalis, 2010). The predominant vegetation is usually an open-woodland dominated by Allocasuarina leuhmannii and/or eucalypts, particularly Eucalyptus largiflorens (Black Box) or Eucalyptus populnea (Poplar Box), and chenopod shrublands dominated by Atriplex, Maireana and/or Nitraria species. The field layer of the surrounding woodland is dominated by tussock grasses (notably Danthonia spp. and Stipa spp.), but the seasonally waterlogged sites preferred by Lepidium monoplocoides also support a number of moisture dependent herbs, such as Marsilea spp. This species is also known from riparian woodland. It flowers from August to October (DoEE, 2019). Locations where the species occurs tend to be ephemeral, and it may be an opportunistic species able to take advantage of seasonally available habitat (Mavromihalis, 2010). The population size is ~6,000 plants and is subject to seasonal fluctuations, existing over 13 populations, seven of which are in NSW. Recovery actions include survey for and mapping of habitat that is critical to the survival of the species (Mavromihalis, 2010).

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Listed threats include:

— wide-scale clearing of grassland and grassy woodland habitats across the inland plains — altered hydrology and flooding regimes, increased salinity, and site drying — weed invasion — physical damage from vehicles — grazing by kangaroos, rabbits and sheep — drought and climate change (Mavromihalis, 2010). Mapping by DoAWE suggests that species or species habitat may occur near the proposal study area around Mildura. The OEH profile suggests predicted to occur in small area north of Wentworth. There are no OEH records within the Proposal study area. Associated vegetation types within the study area include PCT 13 (Black Box – Lignum woodland wetland), PCT 15 (Black Box open woodland wetland with chenopod understorey mainly on the outer floodplains), PCT 58 (Black Oak – Western Rosewood open woodland), PCT 170 (Chenopod sandplain mallee woodland/shrubland) and PCT 221 (Black Oak – Pearl Bluebush open woodland). Targeted surveys are planed within the next 12 months and are required to determine the presence or absence of Lepidium monoplocoides.

SPECIFIC IMPACTS Small-scale clearance of individual plants, construction of access tracks. Introduction of invasive weed species.

SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AN ACTION IS LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON AN ENDANGERED OR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES IF THERE IS A REAL CHANCE OR POSSIBILITY THAT IT WILL: — LEAD TO A LONG-TERM DECREASE IN THE SIZE OF A POPULATION This species was not recorded during preliminary field surveys and does not have records within the proposal study area. Records for this species occur within the proposal locality south of Hay, Lake Urana, and at Balranald. It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area . However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population.

— REDUCE THE AREA OF OCCUPANCY OF THE SPECIES It is unknown if this species occurs within the proposal study area . However, any individuals and/or populations identified in future targeted field surveys will be avoided, where possible, during design refinement. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to reduce the area of occupancy of the species.

— FRAGMENT AN EXISTING POPULATION INTO TWO OR MORE POPULATIONS It is unknown at this stage if this species occurs within the proposal study area. The proposed action comprises of the installation of a transmission line and has the potential to fragment any potential populations that may be detected during future targeted surveys. The proposed action has the potential to clear vegetation in potential habitats comprised of PCT 13; 15; 58; 170 and 221. Possible locations of threatened species would be avoided during design refinement where possible, if detected. In addition, the proposal study area is within an already fragmented landscape by agriculture and linear infrastructure, thereby limiting the potential for any substantial additional fragmentation to occur. Therefore, the proposed action is considered unlikely to fragment an any potential populations that may occur.

— ADVERSELY AFFECT HABITAT CRITICAL TO THE SURVIVAL OF A SPECIES There is no habitat listed as critical to the survival of the species occurring within the proposal study area.

Project No PS117658 WSP EnergyConnect (NSW - Eastern Section) August 2020 EPBC Act Protected Matters Significant Impact Assessment Page 85 TransGrid