DIXON SAND, MAROOTA (DA 250-09-01) Flora and Fauna

DIXON SAND, MAROOTA (DA 250-09-01)

Flora and Fauna Management Plan

For:

Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd

November 2016

Final

PO Box 2474 Carlingford Court 2118

Report No. 15107RP1

The preparation of this report has been in accordance with the brief provided by the Client and has relied upon the data and results collected at or under the times and conditions specified in the report. All findings, conclusions or recommendations contained within the report are based only on the aforementioned circumstances. The report has been prepared for use by the Client and no responsibility for its use by other parties is accepted by Cumberland Ecology.

Version Date Issued Amended by Details 1 22/12/2015 MF, KW Final Draft for OEH and Council review 2 28/11/2016 MF Final

Approved by: Dr David Robertson

Position: Director

Signed:

Date: 28 November, 2016

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28 NOVEMBER 2016

Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Conditions of Consent 1.1 1.2 Project Background 1.2

2 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Site Description 2.6 2.2 Soils 2.6 2.3 Topography and Aspect 2.7 2.4 Vegetation Communities 2.7 2.5 Threatened Flora 2.7 2.5.1 Melaleuca deanei 2.8 2.5.2 Tetratheca glandulosa 2.8 2.5.3 Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha 2.9 2.5.4 Kunzea rupestris 2.9 2.6 Threatened Fauna 2.9 2.7 Weed Species 2.11 2.7.1 Declared Noxious Weeds and Weeds of National 2.11 Significance

2.7.2 Feral Fauna 2.11 2.8 Wildlife Corridors 2.11

3 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

3.1 Introduction 3.1 3.2 Marking Clearing Limits 3.1 3.3 Pre-Clearance Surveys 3.1 3.3.1 Objectives 3.1 3.3.2 Procedure 3.2 3.3.3 Timing 3.2 3.3.4 Documentation of Pre-clearance Activities 3.2 3.4 Clearance Supervision 3.4 3.4.1 Objectives 3.4

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Table of Contents (Cont'd)

3.4.2 Procedure 3.4 3.4.3 Relocation 3.5 3.4.4 Timing 3.6 3.4.5 Documentation 3.7 3.5 Habitat Salvage 3.7 3.5.1 Objectives 3.7 3.5.2 Procedure 3.7 3.5.3 Timing 3.8 3.5.4 Documentation 3.8 3.6 Weed Management 3.8 3.6.1 Weed Control Strategy 3.9 3.6.2 Best Management Practice 3.9 3.6.3 Erosion Control/Sedimentation Management 3.10 3.6.4 Timing of Controls 3.10 3.6.5 Potential Corrective Actions 3.10 3.6.6 Documentation 3.10 3.7 Vegetation and Revegetation Management Measures 3.10 3.7.1 Buffer Areas and revegetation areas 3.11 3.7.2 Aboriginal Heritage 3.11 3.7.3 Establishing and maintaining vegetation 3.11 3.8 Wildlife Corridor Links 3.12 3.9 Monitoring Program 3.12 3.10 Responsibilities 3.13

REFERENCES

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List of Appendices

A. PHOTOGRAPHS OF THREATENED SPECIES

B. SPECIES LIST OF FLORA RECORDED ON THE SITE

List of Tables

1.1 Conditions of Consent relevant to the FFMP 1.1 3.1 Critical periods of use for microbats known to occur within the site 3.6 3.2 Management actions and responsible party 3.13 3.3 Species List B.1

List of Figures

1.1 The Site 1.4 1.2 Rehabilitation Offset and Buffer Areas of the Site 1.5 2.1 Locations of Threatened Species within the Site 2.13 3.1 Flow chart of fauna pre-clearance and clearance procedures 3.3

List of Photographs

1 Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act (Copyright Steve Douglas) A.1 2 Tetratheca glandulosa) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act (Copyright Steve Douglas) A.1 3 Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha – Endangered under the TSC Act (Copyright Australian National Botanic Gardens, Murray Fagg) A.2 4 Kunzea rupestris – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act TSC Act (Copyright Botanic Gardens Trust) A.2 5 Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright Bob Inglis) A.3 6 Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) – Vulnerable under the EPBC and TSC Act (Copyright Stewart Macdonald/Ug Media) A.3 7 East-coast Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) – Vulnerable under the

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List of Photographs

TSC Act (Copyright Pavel German) A.4 8 Little Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus australis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright G.B. Baker/Australian Museum) A.4 9 Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright Wildlife Images) A.5

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Glossary of Terms

CEEC Critically Endangered Ecological Community

DA Development Application

DoE Commonwealth Department of the Environment

EEC Endangered Ecological Community

EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

FFMP Flora and Fauna Management Plan

GPS Global Positioning Unit

LGA Local Government Area

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

Modification Approved quarry location under development application (DA) 250-09-01 Modification 4 Area (see Figure 1.1)

NSW New South Wales

NW Act NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993

OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

Project All works associated with development application (DA) 250-09-01

SEMP Site Environmental Management Plan

Site 4610, 4612, 4544 and 4572 Old Northern Road, Maroota (see Figure 1.1)

TSC Act NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

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Chapter 1

Introduction

Cumberland Ecology was commissioned by Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd (Dixon Sand) to prepare a Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP) for Development Application (DA) 250-09-01 (the ‘Project’). The Project involves the extraction of sand resources at Maroota. The Project has had four modifications since the original approval in 2001, with the latest, Modification 4 (the ‘Modification Area’), being approved in July 2015. The approval of the Modification Area (see Figure 1.1) has resulted in updates to the Conditions of Consent issued for the Project in the Land and Environment Court, pertaining to the clearance of native vegetation. This monitoring program has been developed in accordance with the requirements of Condition 6.3.i of the Conditions of Consent.

1.1 Conditions of Consent

Condition 6.3 requires the preparation of a number of management plans that are required to be incorporated into the Site Environmental Management Plan (SEMP). Condition 6.3.i requires a FFMP that details measures to minimise impacts on flora and fauna, particularly populations of threatened plants, on the site during the operation of the development. Table 1.1 identifies the Conditions of Consent relevant to the FFMP and where each has been addressed in this report. Condition 6.3.i also requires the FFMP to be developed in consultation with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) and The Hills Shire Council.

Table 1.1 Conditions of Consent relevant to the FFMP

DA Description Section/s Condition Addressed

6.3.i) i details of the creation, landscaping and management of on-site vegetation Sections 3.5, to provide habitat for fauna species likely to occur on the site 3.7

6.3.i) ii details of strategic vegetation management, outlining timeframes for Sections 3.4, clearing and re-vegetation activities and a map illustrating the Plan. The 3.7 Plan should aim to maximise scope for new vegetation to establish and restore ecological integrity

6.3.i) iii details of the schedule for clearing activities incorporating seasonal habitat Section 3.4 requirements for species such as bats and other mammals, with the objective of avoiding incidents during sensitive hibernation and breeding

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Table 1.1 Conditions of Consent relevant to the FFMP

DA Description Section/s Condition Addressed

periods.

6.3.i) iv detail of pre-clearance inspections, including the identification and Section 3.3 inspection of trees containing tree hollows, including stags, prior to clearing of any vegetation

6.3.i) v details of how micro habitats including dead trees, stags, stumps and Section 3.5 hollow branches will, where practical, be salvaged and relocated to areas depauperate of tree hollow habitat and in the recreation of habitat areas

6.3.i) vi details of measures to care for any animals injured or found during Section 3.4 clearing activities, including the use of WIRES to attend to fauna as necessary, and the methods for their relocation if appropriate. This shall include measures for harbouring and releasing nocturnal animals at night

6.3.i) vii measures to re-instate or relocate plants and vegetation communities and Section 3.7 to use local endemic species and local prevenance seed for revegetation

6.3.i) viii details of the methods for strategically placing felled trees between cleared Section 3.5 and remnant bushland to provide runways of ground cover for dispersion of animals

6.3.i) ix strategies for the establishment of wildlife corridor links to adjoining habitat Section 3.8 areas and integrations of rehabilitation works with nearby mines

6.3.i) x details of strategies for the exclusion of grazing stock on areas of native Section 3.7 bushland reconstruction

6.3.i) xi measure to monitoring the success of revegetated areas, and plant Section 3.9 additional species where necessary

6.3.i) xii consideration of aboriginal heritage management to ensure that activities Section 3.7 under the Plan do not impact on Aboriginal heritage values

6.3.i) xiii details of the flora and fauna monitoring required under this consent. Section 3.9

1.2 Project Background

Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd (Dixon Sand) currently owns and operates an existing sand quarry under development application (DA) 250-09-01 at 4610, 4612, 4544 and 4572 Old Northern Road, Maroota (the ‘site’) (Figure 1.1). Dixon Sand has been given approval for a modification to the existing quarry with conditions under DA 250-09-01 Modification 4, to extend the existing quarry into the Modification Area identified in Figure 1.1.

The site covers an area of approximately 58.43 ha within The Hills Local Government Area (LGA) and encompasses four land parcels, namely Lots 1 and 2 of DP 547255 and Lots 29 and 196 DP 752025, located on the western side of Old Northern Road, Maroota. The site is bounded to the south by existing sand quarry areas, with extensive areas of unreserved

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vegetation occurring to the west. Immediately to the east of the site are private land holdings that are primarily used for agriculture. Marramarra National Park adjoins these private land holdings further to the east.

As part of the DA for the Project, Cumberland Ecology undertook a Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment of the Modification Area in 2013 (Cumberland Ecology, 2013). The Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment described the ecological values of the site, assessed the project’s impacts on flora and fauna, particularly threatened species, populations and communities, and provided mitigation and compensatory measures to ameliorate any impacts of the Project.

The Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment determined that the vegetation of the Modification Area is comprised of heath, woodland and grassland communities that reflect the site’s topography, geology, drainage and disturbance history. No threatened ecological communities were found to occur; however, two threatened flora species and five threatened fauna species were identified. Threatened flora identified included Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) and Tetratheca glandulosa. Threatened fauna identified included Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami), Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri), Eastern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis), Little Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus australis) and Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis). To ameliorate the impacts of the project on the site’s vegetation and associated habitat, Cumberland Ecology’s Report outlined mitigation measures which included:

 Minimising vegetation and habitat loss;

 Staged Clearing;

 Translocation of topsoil;

 Pre-clearance Assessments;

 Rehabilitation; and

 Monitoring.

A Rehabilitation Offset was proposed a mitigation measure for the impacts of the Modification Area on native vegetation and threatened species habitat in the Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment. The location of the Rehabilitation Offset is shown on Figure 1.2. The Rehabilitation Offset would then provide a connecting link through the site from the Buffer Area (shown on Figure 1.2) in the east of the site to the expanse of native vegetation to the west of the site. The Buffer Area was established in accordance with Condition 3.1 of the Conditions of Consent, to provide an exclusion area between the quarry and nearby land uses. The Buffer Area is formed around Maroota Public School (250m buffer) and a dwelling in Lot 1 DP547255 (50m buffer).

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I:\...\15107\Figures\RP1\20151109\Figure 1. The Site Grid North Figure 1.2. Rehabilitation Offset and Buffer Area of the Site the of Area Buffer and Offset Rehabilitation 1.2. Figure 00 50 Coordinate System: Zone MGA 56(GDA 94) Image © 2015Aerometrex © Image 50 (dated 01-01-2014) Image Source: Image 100 150 200 m

I:\...\15107\Figures\RP1\20151119\Figure 1.2. Rehabilitation and Buffer Areas_Site Grid North

Chapter 2

Existing Environment

This chapter provides a description of the site including the threatened species and vegetation communities that have been recorded, as well as a description of the threats to these values presented by weeds and feral animals.

2.1 Site Description

The site covers an area of approximately 58.43 ha within The Hills Local Government Area (LGA). It encompasses four land parcels, namely Lots 1 and 2 of DP 547255 and Lots 29 and 196 of DP 752025, located on the western side of Old Northern Road, Maroota. The site is wholly contained within the Hawkesbury River Sub-catchment and the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

The site is bounded to the south by existing sand quarry areas, with extensive areas of unreserved vegetation occurring to the west. Immediately to the east of the site are private land holdings that are primarily used for agriculture. Marramarra National Park adjoins these private land holdings further to the east. There are a number of conservation areas surrounding the site, including:

 Marramarra National Park – located approximately 1 km to the east;

 Dharug National Park - located approximately 6 km to the north-east;

 Parr State Conservation Area – located approximately 6 km to the north-west;

 Muogamara Nature Reserve – located approximately 17 km to the south-east;

 Berowra Valley National Park – located approximately 19 km to the south-east; and

 Cattai National Park - located approximately 13 km to the south-west.

The Hawkesbury River winds from the south west, around the Maroota area at Wiseman’s Ferry to the north before meandering toward the south-east.

2.2 Soils

Geology in the locality is dominated by Hawkesbury Sandstone and has some areas of shale capping. The geological landscape of the site is largely ‘Quartz-sandstone with some shale’ with a small eastern portion of the site lies within the geological landscape ‘Sand, silt, clay and gravel’ (Bryan, 1966).

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The site consists of two different soil landscapes. The most widespread soil landscape is ‘Sydney Town’ with the ‘Colo Heights’ soil landscape occurring less frequently. Both are erosional soil landscapes characterised by undulating and rolling hills on Hawkesbury Sandstone.

2.3 Topography and Aspect

The Hawkesbury area contains rugged rock outcropping and benches with narrow crests and ridges and rugged to rolling hills (Chapman and Murphy, 1989). The Maroota area is located on a relatively flat ridge. The site is located on the western side of this ridge, and is relatively flat with some sections sloping gradually to the west. The topography of the site has been modified, particularly in the western and northern areas but also where dams have been formed.

2.4 Vegetation Communities

The site supports a vegetation cover of heath, woodland and grassland communities that reflects topography, geology, drainage and disturbance history. The Hills Shire Council has mapped the vegetation communities of the site as Map Unit 11 - Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence), Map Unit 10 – Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland, Map Unit 9 – Sydney Sandstone Heath and Map Unit 8 –Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest (Baulkham Hills Shire Council, 2008). Cumberland Ecology has subsequently identified the following communities within the Modification Area as part of the Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment for Modification 4:

 Banksia ericifolia – Leptospermum trinervium Heath;

 Angophora costata – Corymbia gummifera Woodland;

 Eucalyptus punctata – Acacia parramattensis Woodland; and

 Cynodon dactylon – Axonopus fissifolius Exotic Grassland.

Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, a Critically Endangered Ecological Community (CEEC) listed Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) listed under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), was previously mapped within the site by Fanning et al. (1998) and The Hills Shire Council (2008). However, detailed investigations by Hawkeswood (2010) and Cumberland Ecology (2011) determined that Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest CEEC is not present within the site.

2.5 Threatened Flora

A number of threatened flora species are known to occur in the locality of the site. Comprehensive vegetation surveys have been conducted within the site over a number of years and the following threatened species have been recorded within the site:

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 Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act;

 Tetratheca glandulosa – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act;

 Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha – Endangered under the TSC Act; and

 Kunzea rupestris – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act.

The locations of the known threatened species within the site are shown in Figure 2.1. Example photographs of each of these species are provided in Appendix A and a discussion of these species and their occurrence within the site is provided below.

2.5.1 Melaleuca deanei

Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act. This species was recorded at one location within the site within Angophora costata – Corymbia gummifera Woodland. Due to the suckering nature of this species, obtaining counts of plants was difficult, so clumps of stems considered to represent one individual were recorded. A total of 18 clumps were recorded within the site by Cumberland Ecology (Cumberland Ecology, 2013).

Due to this species producing flowers and seed at infrequent intervals of up to several years, identification of the plant is not restricted to seasonal variation and as such can be surveyed throughout the year. Identification of this species should be based on its habitat, alternate position of leaves and the shape of the leaves (DECCW, 2010).

2.5.2 Tetratheca glandulosa

Tetratheca glandulosa is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act. This species is a small spreading shrub to 20-50cm high (OEH, 2013). Tetratheca glandulosa is distributed from Sampons Pass (Yengo National Park) in the north to West Pymble (Lane Cover National Park) in the south and Ingleside (Pittwater LGA) in the east and East Kurrajong (Wollemi National Park) in the west (OEH, 2013). It is associated with shale- sandstone transition habitat where shale-cappings occur over sandstone and it typically occupies ridgetops, upper-slopes and to a lesser extent mid-slope sandstone benches (OEH, 2013).

Approximately 40 to 50 plants were recorded by Gunninah Environmental Consultants (Fanning et al., 1998) and five plants were recorded by Hawkeswood (2010) within the site. The Atlas of NSW Wildlife has records of this species at two locations within the site. Recent surveys in 2015 by Onsite Environmental Management (OSEM) (OSEM, 2015) have recorded two locations of this species within the site.

Optimal survey time for this species is between July and November. Surveys outside this time may detect flowers, but should not be relied upon for a confident assessment of the plant’s presence/absence and/or population size (NSW NPWS, 2000).

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2.5.3 Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha

Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and is not listed under the EPBC Act. This species is an erect spreading shrub that reaches 0.3 m high (DEC (NSW), 2005). The species is restricted to the Maroota area and is estimated to have a population of 500 individuals. It is associated with sandstone shallow soils on rock platforms in rocky heath.

The NSW Wildlife Atlas has one record of Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha that falls within the site. Apart from this, no other records of this species have been identified during previous surveys within the active quarry area. However, recent surveys conducted by OSEM have recorded a population in the south-west corner of the site (OSEM, 2015).

Whilst there is no seasonal restriction for searches, this species is more easily identified during the flowering period from spring to summer.

2.5.4 Kunzea rupestris

Kunzea rupestris is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act and EPBC Act. This species is a clonal shrub reaching 1.5 m high. It is associated with heathland or tall shrubland on flat sandstone rock outcrops. No individuals of Kunzea rupestris have been recorded within the active quarry area, however a known population exists in the south-west of the site (OSEM, 2011).

Surveys can be conducted year round as there are no seasonal restrictions on identification of this species. However, it is more easily identified during the flowering period in spring.

2.6 Threatened Fauna

The current condition of habitat within the site is a significant determining factor in the likelihood of occurrence of many of the threatened fauna species known to occur in the locality. The site has been historically disturbed and remains relatively isolated from larger, more intact habitats in the wider locality as a result of surrounding clearing and quarrying. Habitat values of the site are therefore limited to more mobile species such as birds and bats. Other threatened fauna, particularly smaller terrestrial or arboreal species, are less likely to occur within the site as these species are less able to re-colonise isolated habitats.

The following threatened species have been recorded within the site:

 Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act;

 Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and the TSC Act;

 Eastern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act;

 Little Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus australis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act; and

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 Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

The locations of these species within the site are shown in Figure 2.1. Example photographs of each threatened species are provided in Appendix A and a discussion of these species and their occurrence within the site is provided below. i. Glossy Black-cockatoo

The Glossy Black-cockatoo is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. The site provides suitable forage habitat for the Glossy Black-cockatoo. A preferred feed tree for this species, Allocasuarina littoralis, is present in all woodland and heath communities within the site; however there are no large hollow trees within the site that would provide suitable nesting habitat for the species. It is therefore likely that this species would only occasionally visit the site to forage as part of a much larger range.

The Glossy Black-cockatoo has been recorded in most conservation areas in the locality, including Marramarra National Park, Dharug National Park, Parr State Conservation Area and Berowra Valley National Park. These conservation areas provide large areas of intact forage and breeding habitat for this species in the locality. ii. Microchiropteran Bats

A total of four threatened microchiropteran bats (microbats) were recorded within or adjacent to the site during surveys conducted by Cumberland Ecology (2010). These are; Large- eared Pied Bat, Eastern Freetail-bat, Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat.

All vegetation communities within the site and surrounding lands provide suitable forage habitat for these species.

Three of the threatened microbats recorded are cave-dependant species. There are no caves or culverts within the site, so these species are highly unlikely to roost or breed here. Only one species, the East-coast Freetail-bat, is not dependant on caves for roosting or breeding habitat. Although suitable roosting hollows are present within the site for the East- coast Freetail-bat, these are relatively scarce. It is therefore likely that all threatened microbats travel from suitable roosting habitat elsewhere in the locality to forage or drink in the extensive water bodies within the site and adjacent lands.

All four of the threatened microbats recorded within the site are known to occur in conservation areas of the locality, including Marramarra National Park, Dharug National Park, Parr State Conservation Area, Berowra Valley National Park and Cattai National Park. These conservation areas provide large areas of intact forage and breeding habitat for threatened microbat species in the locality.

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2.7 Weed Species

Approximately 15% of the flora species recorded within the site in 2013 were exotic species. These occurred predominately within the area previously used as an orchard, along tracks and adjacent to cleared areas. A complete list of species occurring within the site, including weeds, is provided in Appendix B.

2.7.1 Declared Noxious Weeds and Weeds of National Significance

Previous studies undertaken of the site have identified the presence of Lantana camara (Lantana). This species is a weed declared as noxious in The Hills Shire Local Government Area under the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) and Weeds of National Significance (WONS). Under the NW Act, its growth must be managed in a manner that continuously inhibits the ability of the plant to spread. Its WONS categorisation identifies it as being one of the most problematic weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts (DPI, 2005; Australian Weeds Committee, 2012).

2.7.2 Feral Fauna

Alterations to habitat conditions often favour introduced animal species that can proliferate in disturbed conditions. Such species have potential to impact upon the original local native plant and animal species. Feral animals such as foxes, rabbits and some species of birds can also breed in the more open areas following clearance of forest and woodland. They can cause problems for native fauna species by preying upon them or by competing with them for food and resources.

Feral animal species, such as the European Rabbit and European Red Fox, are already present within the site. Under the approved DA, an extension of quarrying activities into the remainder of the site is likely to result in increased competition from feral animals on vegetation within the site. Removal of vegetation from within the site will not result in any weed and feral animal impacts on adjacent lands additional to those already likely to occur under the approved DA.

2.8 Wildlife Corridors

Wildlife corridors are generally areas of habitat that connect reserves or blocks of disjunct habitat. Wildlife corridors allow wildlife to disperse and provide for gene flow between populations or subpopulations (Primack, 1993). Wildlife corridors are of varying relevance to fauna, and are of greatest relevance to ground dwelling species that cannot fly. Highly mobile birds and bats can fly between patches of habitat, over human developments and clearings. Notwithstanding that, retention of corridors or stepping stone patches of habitat can also greatly aid in the conservation of such mobile species.

Desktop analysis of aerial photography and field investigations indicate that the former EEC area forms part of a corridor of vegetation connecting vegetated areas within the eastern portion of the site to extensive areas of vegetation to the west of the site. More substantial corridors exist within the locality to the north and south of the site, connecting large areas of

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bushland in the west to Marramarra National Park in the east. Areas to the east of the site, beyond properties along Old Northern Road, are largely conserved within Marramarra National Park.

Within the wildlife corridor on the site there are several barriers to movement. These include the existing sand quarry and associated clearing for tracks to the south and north of the site. The corridor is further impacted to the east of the site by agricultural land and Old Northern Road. These features are likely to impede movement of many smaller terrestrial and arboreal fauna species through this corridor. The site is likely to provide wildlife corridor values primarily for highly mobile species (e.g. birds and bats) or common and adaptable species (e.g. wallabies, possums, feral mammals).

The maintenance or creation of wildlife corridors has become an important planning consideration as landscapes are developed. .The Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment report by Cumberland Ecology in 2013 (Cumberland Ecology, 2013) proposed such a wildlife movement corridor be established upon completion of quarrying activities within the site, to be established within the Rehabilitation Offset. It proposed to link retained native vegetation in the north-east of the site within the Buffer Area to the extensive unreserved vegetation to the west of the site. The wildlife corridor that exists along the drainage line that passes through the site is also being retained and modified to provide for the movement of fauna species. This is detailed further in the Rehabilitation and Landscape Plan (EP15 of the SEMP (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015)).

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Figure 2.1. Locations ofThreatened Species within theSite 00 50 (Public data downloaded 27/08/ downloaded data (Public Coordinate System: Zone MGA 56(GDA 94) Image © 2015Aerometrex © Image 50 Atlas ofNSW Wildlife (dated 01-01-2014) Image Source: Image Data Source: Data 100 150 2015) 200 m

I:\...\15107\Figures\RP1\20151119\Figure 2.1. Threatened Species_Site Grid North

Chapter 3

Management Actions

3.1 Introduction

This section outlines the actions to be taken to minimise the impact of the Project on native flora and fauna species and to manage the impacts of exotic flora and fauna. This includes activities to be undertaken on areas to be cleared, prior to the removal of trees and during clearing activities in order to minimise the impact to fauna species, habitat salvage, weed management, the revegetation of cleared areas post quarrying activities and measures to improve the remaining biodiversity within the site. Figure 3.1 provides a summary of the pre-clearance and clearance activities and procedures that are detailed in the following sections.

3.2 Marking Clearing Limits

The limits of clearing for each stage of clearing works will be marked by high visibility tape and boundary marker that will be installed prior to clearing. To avoid unnecessary or inadvertent vegetation and habitat removal, disturbance must be restricted to the delineated area and no stockpiling of equipment, machinery, soil or vegetation will occur beyond this boundary.

The person/s responsible for the clearing activities will be responsible for ensuring that the boundary markers, barriers and signs are installed to enable the suitable environmental and technical inspections of the proposed disturbance to be undertaken. Site inductions are to be given to ensure all site workers and visitors are aware of any sensitive vegetation.

Prior to clearing the supervising ecologist will check the marked clearing limits and provide approval of the disturbance boundary. Approval must be granted before clearing commences.

3.3 Pre-Clearance Surveys

3.3.1 Objectives

The aim of pre-clearance surveys is to identify known locations of habitat features in order to minimise the impacts of clearing on fauna and identify key habitat elements for salvage, i.e. logs, rocks and boulders. The locations of threatened flora species will also be surveyed, as currently undertaken. Pre-clearance surveys will also identify areas of known noxious weeds and WONS infestations, such as Lantana camara (Lantana), so that it can be dealt with

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appropriately. Where clearing of vegetation and fauna habitats will take place, pre-clearance procedures will be followed, including:

 Preparation of an inventory of micro-habitats (e.g. tree hollows, rocks, logs) to be removed, prior to clearing;

 Identification of micro-habitats suitable for salvaging that can be relocated into buffer zones and or Revegetation Areas; and

 Pre-clearance checks of hollow-bearing trees for the presence of bird nests and arboreal mammals, such as possums, gliders and bats, prior to felling.

3.3.2 Procedure

Within one week prior to clearing trees:

 A pre-clearance fauna survey will be conducted by a qualified ecologist targeting the presence of all resident fauna species, particularly those that were identified in the environmental assessment as likely to occur, in order to identify and minimise impacts to resident fauna;

 Any fauna utilising the area will be recorded, and where possible, these will be encouraged to leave the area;

 The ground around each tree will be inspected for scats, and the trees for scratch marks; and

 All trees with hollows or other fauna habitat will be recorded on a hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) unit, marked with an “H” using spray paint and flagged with fluorescent tape.

Before clearing, licensed wildlife carers and/or ecologists will capture and/or remove fauna that have the potential to be disturbed as a result of clearing activities. These fauna will be relocated into pre-determined habitat outside of the disturbance footprint identified for fauna release. All fauna handling will be carried out by licensed wildlife carers and/or ecologists. Clearing contractors will then be informed of any changes to the sequence of clearing if required.

3.3.3 Timing

Pre-clearance surveys will be conducted within a week of clearance of trees during daylight hours in order to detect any fauna habitat present within areas to be cleared.

3.3.4 Documentation of Pre-clearance Activities

All documentation of pre-clearance activities will follow the correct procedures. A spreadsheet of GPS location and identification number of all threatened flora and fauna encountered, hollow-bearing trees or any other fauna habitat will be kept. All weeds

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encountered during pre-clearance surveys will be documented to record the GPS location, species of weed and number of individuals.

Pre-clearing Survey • Performed within one week of clearing. • All fauna and all noxious weeds recorded. • All habitat features marked and flagged. Clearing - Stage 1 • Removal of all vegetation other than marked/flagged habitat features. • All habitat features left standing for an additional minimum 24 hour period.

Clearing - Stage 2 • Habitat tree is lightly shaken by machinery prior to felling. • Fell tree as softly as possible using appropriate equipment. • Post felling, remove all branches and trunk sections with hollows and set aside. • All hollows will be investigated for the presence of fauna. • Lantana camara cleared will be stockpiled on site. • All felled habitat trees are left overnight then relocated to rehabilitation areas or disposed.

Figure 3.1 Flow chart of fauna pre-clearance and clearance procedures

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3.4 Clearance Supervision

3.4.1 Objectives

Following the pre-clearance surveys, it is important to have qualified ecologists and/or wildlife handlers present during clearance works to ensure impacts on threatened flora and fauna and/or key habitats are kept to a minimum. The site environmental officer will be present at all times during clearance activities where no threatened flora or fauna have been recorded or outside of key habitats.

The majority of clearance supervision requirements are to have experienced wildlife handlers available in order to rescue and relocate all fauna that is encountered during clearing works. All wildlife handlers should be experienced in identifying and handling fauna that is expected to be encountered in the site.

The aims of clearance supervision are to:

 Minimise human disturbance to native flora and fauna;

 Minimise vegetation disturbance or clearing;

 Minimise impacts to threatened species and communities; and

 Ensure the safe removal of animals found to be occupying trees prior to the clearing of trees and their appropriate relocation into nearby woodlands.

3.4.2 Procedure

Within the defined clearing limits habitat trees that are marked with an “H” will be cleared using the following two stage process: i. Stage 1

 Removal of all vegetation other than marked/flagged habitat features;

 All habitat features left standing for an additional minimum 24 hour period. ii. Stage 2

 If possible, trees marked as containing hollows will be shaken by machinery prior to clearing to encourage any animals remaining to leave the hollows and move on;

 Where habitat features, such as nests and hollows appear active then a qualified ecologist will be used to prevent fauna from being harmed by removing them or encouraging them to self-relocate;

 Ecologists search around the tree and inspect hollows with a torch for amphibians, reptiles, birds, small mammals and microchiropteran bats. A thorough search

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around the head of the tree is necessary for reptiles and bats that often fall out during felling. Any nests found should be checked and removed;

 The felled habitat tree will be left overnight to allow any remaining fauna time to leave the hollows and move on;

 Once felled, branches with hollows and sections of trunk will be set aside for immediate transfer to a storage area for placement within rehabilitation areas.

The ecologist will be present at all times during clearing to help relocate and/or rescue animals injured during the clearance operation. Any fauna found will be captured and relocated to suitable habitat nearby and released after nightfall to minimise the risk of predation by diurnal predators. Any animals that are inadvertently injured will be taken to the nearest veterinary clinic for treatment or WIRES carer, or if the animal is unlikely to survive, it will be humanely euthanised.

Veterinary clinics should be notified prior to animal transportation to ensure they are willing to treat injured animals. The closest veterinary clinics to the site are listed below.

 Wilberforce Veterinary Hospital

 Wilberforce Road, Wilberforce NSW 2756

 Ph: (02) 4575 3335

 Macquarie Veterinary Clinic

 24 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Wilberforce NSW 2756

 Ph: (02) 4587 7490

All persons working on the vegetation clearing will be briefed about the possible fauna present at the time of construction, and what procedures should be undertaken in the event of an animal being injured or disturbed.

If boulders are to be moved during clearing, the supervising ecologist will catch any snakes or frogs that may be sheltering under them. These animals will be relocated to a suitable habitat outside the disturbance boundary.

If a new threatened species is identified that has not previously been identified as having potential to occur, the occurrence will be surveyed and fully documented. Results will be made available to OEH and to the Commonwealth Department of the Environment (DoE).

3.4.3 Relocation

Any fauna that is captured will be released into a relocation area located outside of the disturbance boundary (i.e.. nearest buffer zone or area being rehabilitated). Anyone involved with fauna handling should be made aware of the relocation area as well as access to it.

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3.4.4 Timing

As far as practicable, vegetation clearing is to be planned for periods outside of the breeding season for threatened species known to nest in the site and outside of torpor periods for hollow-roosting microbat species known to occur within the site. Table 3.1 identifies the critical periods of use for microbats known to occur within the site.

Clearing of hollow resources suitable for breeding will also be conducted outside of the winter period (June and July) and will not be cleared during the suspected breeding period for these species. This is generally between November and January.

Table 3.1 Critical periods of use for microbats known to occur within the site

Fauna Species Resource Utilised in Extraction Area Critical Periods of Use

Large-eared Pied Bat Roosts in caves (near their entrances), Females have been recorded (Chalinolobus dwyeri) crevices in cliffs, old mine workings and raising young in maternity roosts in the disused, bottle-shaped mud nests (c. 20-40 females) from November of the Fairy Martin (Petrochelidon ariel), through to January in roof domes in frequenting low to mid-elevation dry sandstone caves and overhangs. open forest and woodland close to They remain loyal to the same these features. cave over many years.

No known roosts suitable for this Winter torpor periods can occur species. between over June and July.

East-coast Freetail-bat Roost mainly in tree hollows but will Unknown however likely to be (Mormopterus also roost under bark or in man-made similar to other species norfolkensis) structures.

Tree hollow resources available

Little Bentwing-bat Little Bentwing-bats roost in caves, Maternity colonies form in spring (Miniopterus australis) tunnels, tree hollows, abandoned and birthing occurs in early mines, stormwater drains, culverts, summer. Males and juveniles bridges and sometimes buildings. disperse in summer.

No known roosts suitable for this species.

Eastern Bentwing-bat Caves are the primary roosting habitat, Form discrete populations centred (Miniopterus schreibersii but also use derelict mines, storm-water on a maternity cave that is used oceanensis) tunnels, buildings and other man-made annually in spring and summer for structures. the birth and rearing of young

No known roosts suitable for this species.

A detailed schedule of clearing activities is identified in Table EP15.1 of the Landscape and Rehabilitation Plan (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015).

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3.4.5 Documentation

Results and outcomes of fauna clearance supervision shall be documented by the ecologist. This includes:

 Species and numbers of individuals recorded during pre-clearance surveys;

 Incidence of sick or injured animals and the actions taken to care for the fauna; and

 The species and numbers of individuals that were relocated.

If a new threatened species is identified that has not previously been identified as having potential to occur, the occurrence will be surveyed and fully documented and reported.

3.5 Habitat Salvage

A selection of hollow-bearing trees, hollow-bearing logs and rocks will be salvaged for reuse in the rehabilitation areas where practical. Such materials vary in quality and quantity throughout the site. Whilst some woody materials provide a valuable habitat resource for native fauna, others are not suitable for salvage because they are structurally unsound and/or decayed to the extent that they may not survive felling, translocation and replacement on the rehabilitation areas.

3.5.1 Objectives

Where clearing of vegetation and fauna habitats will take place, habitat replacement and salvage procedures will be followed to offset the loss of habitat features removed during clearing, including:

 Salvaged tree hollows will be placed within the Buffer Area and/or the Rehabilitation Offset to compensate for the hollows to be removed due to vegetation clearance; and

 Placement of boulders and large logs between cleared areas and remnant bushland to provide runways of ground cover for dispersion of animals and to allow their continued use as fauna habitat. Further details are provided in Section 3.1 and Section 4 of the Rehabilitation and Landscape Plan (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015).

3.5.2 Procedure

The following method will be applied to rationalise the salvage of habitat resources to ensure that key habitat resources are utilised in rehabilitation areas. i. Selection Criteria for Salvage Material

During pre-clearing, suitable salvage items will be identified, recorded and flagged. The following criteria will applied as part of the selection process:

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1. Hollow trees will be considered for salvage based on structural integrity, number and size of hollows. Hollows to be salvaged will include a range of diameter sizes. Ideally, hollows should be in trunks or solid living branches to maximise the chance that they would survive the felling process. Trees will be favoured if single stemmed to ensure that they would remain intact during felling.

2. Woody ground debris will be selected based on size, structural integrity and presence of good hollows. Larger logs (in both length and girth) will be typically selected with large hollows (i.e. large diameter hollows through the length of the stem or at least a significant portion) through the stems. Logs that had been felled during past forestry activities will be selected rather than old naturally fallen logs because these are typically better preserved (having fallen prior to attack by insects etc).

3. Bush rock and boulders will be selected based on size, structural integrity and provision of habitat. Larger rocks and boulders will typically be selected to provide habitat for fauna species.

3.5.3 Timing

Salvage of habitat features will take place during the clearance supervision stage. The salvaged habitat features will be moved to a rehabilitation area as soon as possible after clearing to maintain habitat connectivity between cleared areas and remnant bushland. This will provide for the continuation of runways and refuge sites for native fauna for the duration of clearing works.

3.5.4 Documentation

When a suitable salvage item is identified the following information will be recorded as a minimum:

 Photographs;

 GPS location;

 Numbers of tree hollows;

 Size class of tree hollows;

 Species of trees;

 Length of fallen logs (> 100 mm diameter); and

 Size of boulders.

3.6 Weed Management

The presence of Lantana camara (Lantana) has been recorded on the site and is a weed declared as noxious in The Hills Shire Local Government Area under the NW Act and Weeds

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of National Significance (WONS). Lantana is a highly invasive weed that is known to have significant impacts on biodiversity. The species readily regenerates after being cut down, and can also grow from stem suckers. Lantana is also known to grow vegetatively from where stems contact the ground. Accordingly appropriate handling of these weeds after removal is essential to avoid exacerbating the current levels of infestation. It is recommended that all weed control strategies adhere to controls outlined in the NW Act and Control Order for The Hills Shire Council control area or in consultation with The Hills Shire Council Weeds Officer.

The methodology proposed below is considered to be appropriate to deal with all Lantana within the site and ensure it is not spread into rehabilitation areas during the translocation of topsoil and bush material. It is recommended, however, that additional steps be taken to ensure the weeds removed do not cause further issues by growing and spreading vegetatively, or that seeds will germinate on-site.

3.6.1 Weed Control Strategy

The methodologies for the control of Lantana within the site are as follows:

 All areas of Lantana should be removed mechanically and stockpiled within the area of infestation to ensure it is isolated from native vegetation;

 Stockpiled areas of Lantana are to be dealt with either by use of herbicides or through burning;

 Topsoil within areas of Lantana can only be translocated into rehabilitation areas of the site after being treated with the measures listed above; and

 No Lantana or topsoil within Lantana infestations should be transferred offsite.

3.6.2 Best Management Practice

Weed removal will have regard to the following, to minimise impacts upon existing vegetation and habitats:

 Avoid over-clearing and remove only targeted species;

 Limit spread of weeds from disturbance areas or off-site areas to weed control areas by washing down vehicles and machinery prior to moving them out of designated disturbance / clearance areas;

 Employ minimal disturbance techniques to avoid soil and surrounding vegetation disturbance, and replacement of disturbed mulch/leaf-litter;

 Remove fruiting/seeding parts of weeds carefully, to minimise spread of plant propagules; and

 Use of chemicals and sprays only during suitable weather conditions (i.e. not during wet or windy conditions), and only during appropriate seasons.

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3.6.3 Erosion Control/Sedimentation Management

Erosion and migration of sediment from within the site into adjacent vegetation has the potential to facilitate weed invasion through the introduction of weed seeds and nutrients that favour weed species.

This potential impact will be avoided through the implementation of appropriate erosion and sediment control measures including the following:

 Stabilisation of areas of bare soil using jute matting or mulch;

 Stabilisation of areas of bare soil by re-vegetating immediately with appropriate local native plants; and

 Control of sediment by installation of erosion fences around all construction works prior to commencement of any earthworks to avoid potentially nutrient and seed rich run-off entering neighbouring areas of vegetation.

Erosion control and sedimentation will be managed under the SEMP, as detailed in Section EP10 (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015).

3.6.4 Timing of Controls

Weed control activities are independent of the clearing stages and will begin at the commencement of the Project and will be undertaken regularly throughout the year. Weed management will be undertaken in the areas of vegetation to be cleared to prevent weeds from spreading beyond these areas into vegetation that will be retained, as detailed in Section EP10 of the SEMP (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015).

3.6.5 Potential Corrective Actions

If weed control is found to be inadequate, and monitoring results indicate an increase in weeds, or no measurable decrease, then the following corrective actions will be considered:

 Increase frequency of control; and

 Additional efforts to control target species or methods extended to cover newly occurring weed species.

3.6.6 Documentation

The site Manager will be responsible for ensuring that all personnel involved in weeding management hold relevant and valid licences / permits for weeding works, including a chemical licence to use herbicides and a chainsaw certificate to operate chainsaws.

3.7 Vegetation and Revegetation Management Measures

The vegetation and revegetation management measures described in this FFMP aim to restore the ecological integrity and functioning of the site as close as possible to its condition

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prior to clearing and quarrying works. This will be accomplished by preserving the flora and fauna habitat outside the clearing footprint and providing measures to effectively revegetate areas to be cleared.

The Landscape and Rehabilitation Plan (EP15 of the SEMP) (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015) describes the timing and methods for creating, landscaping, and managing the site’s vegetation within designated Buffer Areas and Rehabilitation Offset.

3.7.1 Buffer Areas and revegetation areas

The Buffer Area should be clearly defined and be marked either by high visibility tape, fencing or an equivalent boundary marker that will be installed any time prior to the commencement of clearing works. All revegetation areas within the Rehabilitation Offset should have fencing installed around their boundaries after the commencement of revegetation works. Clearly defined boundaries in the Buffer Area and Rehabilitation Offset will prevent unnecessary or inadvertent vegetation and habitat removal. The installation of fencing around revegetation areas will ensure that no grazing stock can enter and disturb these areas. In the Buffer Area and Rehabilitation Offset, disturbance must be restricted to the delineated area and no stockpiling of equipment, machinery, soil or vegetation will occur within these areas.

3.7.2 Aboriginal Heritage

No Aboriginal heritage values have been identified within the site. If any Aboriginal heritage values are identified, the area should be clearly demarcated with fencing to avoid impacts to the area. OEH should be contacted immediately to determine the best course of action.

3.7.3 Establishing and maintaining vegetation

The Landscape and Rehabilitation Plan (Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd, 2015) identifies the principle measures to be implemented to re-instate vegetation within the Rehabilitation Offset within the site, post-clearing and quarrying works. The re-instatement of vegetation includes the transfer of topsoil and vegetation removed from adjacent areas prior to quarrying into the Rehabilitation Offset. This technique will ensure that the topsoil used in the Rehabilitation Offset will contain a native seedbank that will represent the original vegetation communities of the site prior to clearing works. The species utilised in the revegetation works should be local endemic species, of local provenance seed, and be selected based on the flora composition of the vegetation communities present on site prior to clearing works. The flora species recorded on the site in 2013 (see Appendix B) should be consulted during revegetation works.

As much topsoil and vegetation should be collected as possible from the area to be quarried and relocated to the appropriate rehabilitation area to be used for propagation, brushmatting, and translocation of threatened flora species.

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3.8 Wildlife Corridor Links

Upon final completion of rehabilitation and revegetation works on the site, the integrated vegetation shall provide for improved wildlife corridor links to the adjoining habitat areas and the expanse of crown bushland to the west. The wildlife corridor will be established in the Rehabilitation Offset along the southern boundary of Lot 2 DP 547255 and Lot 29 DP 752025, extending from the retained vegetation within the Buffer Area in the east of the site through Lots 2 and 29 to the retained vegetation in the south-west of the site, as seen in Figure 1.2. This will create a wildlife corridor connecting extensive unreserved vegetation to the west of the site to Marramarra National Park east of the site.

The southwest corner of Dixon Sand Lot 2 directly adjoins an existing wildlife corridor along the creekline that crosses into adjoining land on Lot 198 DP 752025. Conserved vegetation within the Buffer Area and rehabilitated areas of the Rehabilitation Offset will join with this corridor upon completion of rehabilitation works providing further links between adjoining habitat areas.

3.9 Monitoring Program

The objective of the Flora and Fauna Monitoring Program is to identify and monitor the effects of the clearing and quarrying activities on preserved flora and fauna species. Detailed measures for monitoring and reporting on the success of the revegetation and rehabilitation works within the Rehabilitation Offset, conserved areas and threatened species are outlined in the Flora and Fauna Monitoring Program prepared by Cumberland Ecology (Cumberland Ecology, 2015).

As required under Condition 4.10, the monitoring should begin before commencement of operation of the quarry and continue for a period of at least two years beyond the period of approval in Condition 1.5.

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3.10 Responsibilities

Table 3.1 details who is responsible to undertake the actions included in this management plan.

Table 3.2 Management actions and responsible party

Control / Action Timing / Trigger Responsibility Related Section

Marking limits of clearing Prior to clearing Environmental Manager / 3.2 Surveyors

Pre-clearing and clearing Prior to clearing and Ecologist and / or animal rescue 3.3, 3.4 surveys, relocation of during clearing person fauna, care to injured animals

Pre-clearing weed Prior to clearing and Ecologist and Environmental 3.3 management during clearing Manager

Identification of habitat Prior to clearing and Ecologist 3.3, 3.4 Salvage during clearing

Relocation of habitat Before, during and after Mining Manager / Environmental 3.5 Salvage Items to clearing Manager rehabilitation areas and / or adjacent vegetation

Weed control Ongoing over life of mine Environmental Manager / 3.6 Qualified Bush Regenerator

Revegetation works Ongoing over life of mine Environmental Manager / 3.7 Qualified Bush Regenerator

Monitoring program Ongoing over life of mine Ecologist 3.9

References

Australian Weeds Committee (2012). "Weeds of National Significance." from http://www.weeds.org.au/WoNS/.

Baulkham Hills Shire Council (2008). Vegetation Classification Mapping. Baulkham Hills Shire Council, Baulkham Hills, NSW.

Bryan (1966). 1:250 000 Geological Sheet SI/56-05 3rd edition. Geological Survey of New South Wales, Sydney.

Chapman, G. A. and Murphy, C. L. (1989). Soil Landscapes of the Sydney 1:100000 sheet. Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney.

Cumberland Ecology (2011). Letter - Advice regarding the presence of Shale Sandstone Transition Forest in the extractions exclusion area at Dixon Sand Quarry, Part Lots 1 & 2, DP 547255, Old Northern Road, Maroota. Cumberland Ecology Pty Ltd, Carlingford Court, NSW.

Cumberland Ecology (2013). Dixon Sands Maroota. Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment., Carlingford Court, NSW.

Cumberland Ecology (2015). Flora and Fauna Monitoring Program for Dixon Sand, Maroota (DA 250-09-01 Modification 4), Carlingford Court, NSW.

DEC (NSW) (2005). Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha population in the Baulkham Hills and Hornsby LGAs - profile. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville, NSW.

DECCW (2010). Recovery plan for Melaleuca deanei. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, Sydney, NSW.

Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd (2015). Maroota Sand Quarry Site Environmental Management Plan (SEMP).

DPI (2005). Noxious Weed Declarations for Sutherland Shire Council. Department of Primary Industries, Sydney.

Fanning, F. D., Hayes, R., Chambers, M., deLacey, C. and Chamberlain, S. (1998). Proposed Sand Extraction. Old Northern Road, Maroota. Flora and Fauna Constraints. Draft report. Gunninah Environmental Consultants, Crows Nest, NSW.

Hawkeswood, T. J. (2010). Flora and Fauna Survey and Assessment of parts of Lots 1 & 2, DP 547255, 4610 Wisemans Ferry Road, Maroota, New South Wales. T.J. Hawkeswood Scientific Consulting, Richmond, NSW.

NSW NPWS (2000). Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines: Tetratheca glandulosa. NSW NPWS, Hurstville.

OEH (2013). "Tetratheca glandulosa - profile ", from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10798.

OSEM (2011). Dixon Sand Quarry Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2011.

OSEM (2015). Dixon Sand Quarry Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2015.

Primack, R. B. (1993). Essentials of Conservation Biology. Sinauer Associates Inc, Sunderland.

RPS (2010). Ecological Assessment Report for Thornton North Stage 2 Rezoning Report No NP25624.

Appendix A

Photographs of Threatened Species

28 NOVEMBER 2016

Photograph 1 Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act (Copyright Steve Douglas)

Photograph 2 Tetratheca glandulosa) – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act and TSC Act (Copyright Steve Douglas)

Photograph 3 Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha – Endangered under the TSC Act (Copyright Australian National Botanic Gardens, Murray Fagg)

Photograph 4 Kunzea rupestris – Vulnerable under the EPBC Act TSC Act (Copyright Botanic Gardens Trust)

Photograph 5 Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright Bob Inglis)

Photograph 6 Large-eared Pied Bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) – Vulnerable under the EPBC and TSC Act (Copyright Stewart Macdonald/Ug Media)

Photograph 7 East-coast Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright Pavel German)

Photograph 8 Little Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus australis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright G.B. Baker/Australian Museum)

Photograph 9 Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) – Vulnerable under the TSC Act (Copyright Wildlife Images)

Appendix B

Species List of Flora Recorded on the Site

28 NOVEMBER 2016

Table 3.3 Species List

Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name

TREES Myrtaceae Angophora costata Smooth-barked Apple

TREES Myrtaceae Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood

TREES Myrtaceae Eucalyptus piperita subsp. Sydney Peppermint piperita

TREES Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata Grey Gum

SMALL TREES Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak

SMALL TREES Cunoniaceae Ceratopetalum gummiferum Christmas Bush

SMALL TREES Fabaceae Acacia parramattensis Sydney Green Wattle (Mimosoideae)

SMALL TREES Myrtaceae Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood

SMALL TREES Myrtaceae Eucalyptus haemastoma Scribbly Gum

SHRUBS Apiaceae Platysace linearifolia Narrow-leafed Platysace

SHRUBS Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax

SHRUBS Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak

SHRUBS Dilleniaceae Hibbertia diffusa -

SHRUBS Dilleniaceae Hibbertia empetrifolia - subsp. uncinata

SHRUBS Epacridaceae Epacris pulchella NSW Coral Heath

SHRUBS Epacridaceae Leucopogon microphyllus Small-leaved Whitebeard

SHRUBS Epacridaceae Leucopogon muticus -

SHRUBS Euphorbiaceae Phyllanthus hirtellus Thyme Spurge

SHRUBS Fabaceae Bossiaea obcordata Spiny Bossiaea (Faboideae)

SHRUBS Fabaceae Gompholobium Golden Glory Pea (Faboideae) grandiflorum

SHRUBS Fabaceae Mirbelia rubiifolia - (Faboideae)

SHRUBS Fabaceae Pultenaea flexilis Graceful Bush Pea (Faboideae)

SHRUBS Faboideae Phyllota phylicoides Heath Phyllota (Faboideae)

SHRUBS Flacourtiaceae Scolopia braunii Flintwood

SHRUBS Fabaceae Acacia linifolia Flax Wattle (Mimosoideae)

Table 3.3 Species List

Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name

SHRUBS Fabaceae Acacia suaveolens Sweet Scented Wattle (Mimosoideae)

SHRUBS Fabaceae Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses (Mimosoideae)

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Angophora hispida Dwarf Apple

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Calytrix tetragona -

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Darwinia fasicularis ssp. - oligantha

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Eucalyptus haemastoma Scribbly Gum

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Eucalyptus piperita subsp. Sydney Peppermint piperita

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Leptospermum Lemon Scented Tea- polygalifolium tree

SHRUBS Myrtaceae Leptospermum trinervium Flaky-barked Tea-tree

SHRUBS Proteaceae Banksia ericifolia var. Heath-leaved Banksia ericifolia

SHRUBS Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia

SHRUBS Proteaceae Hakea sericea Needlebush

SHRUBS Proteaceae Isopogon anemonifolius Flat-leaved Drumsticks

SHRUBS Proteaceae Lambertia formosa Mountain Devil

SHRUBS Proteaceae Lomatia silaifolia Crinkle Bush

SHRUBS Proteaceae Persoonia levis Broad-leaved Geebung

SHRUBS Proteaceae Persoonia linearis Narrow-leaved Geebung

SHRUBS Proteaceae Petrophile pulchella Conesticks

SHRUBS Proteaceae Xylomelum pyriforme Woody Pear

SHRUBS Sapindaceae Dodonaea triquetra Hop Bush

SHRUBS Ulmaceae Trema tomentosa var. Native Peach viridis

SHRUBS Verbenaceae Lantana camara* Lantana

HERBS - Dicots Apiaceae Hydrocotyle peduncularis Pennywort

HERBS - Dicots Asteraceae Conyza bonariensis* Flax-leaf Fleabane

HERBS - Dicots Asteraceae Hypochaeris radicata* Flatweed

HERBS - Dicots Caryophyllaceae Paronychia brasiliana* Brazilian Whitlow

HERBS - Dicots Fabaceae Trifolium repens* White Clover (Faboideae)

Table 3.3 Species List

Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name

HERBS - Dicots Lobeliaceae Pratia purpurascens Whiteroot

HERBS - Dicots Malvaceae Sida rhombifolia* Paddy's Lucerne

HERBS - Dicots Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata* Ribwort

HERBS - Dicots Polygonaceae Acetosella vulgaris* Sheep Sorrel

HERBS - Dicots Scrophulariaceae Veronica plebeia Creeping Speedwell

HERBS - Dicots Solanaceae Solanum nigrum* Black Nightshade

HERBS - Dicots Verbenaceae Verbena officinalis* Common Verbena

HERBS - Dicots Asteraceae Actinotus minor Lesser Flannel Flower

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Andropogon virginicus* Whisky Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Anisopogon avenaceus Oat Speargrass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Aristida vagans Three-awn Speargrass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Austrostipa pubescens Tall Speargrass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Axonopus affinis* Narrow-leaved Carpet Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Common Couch

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Echinopogon ovatus Forest Hedgehog Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Imperata cylindrica var. Blady Grass major

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Microlaena stipoides var. Weeping Rice Grass stipoides

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Paspalidium distans -

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Paspalum dilatatum* Paspalum

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Paspalum urvillei* Vasey Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Setaria gracilis* Slender Pigeon Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Grasses) Poaceae Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Cyperaceae Cyathochaeta diandra -

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Cyperaceae Schoenus melanostachys Black Bog Rush

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Juncaceae Juncus cognatus* -

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Lomandraceae Lomandra glauca subsp. - glauca

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiky-headed Mat-rush

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Lomandraceae Lomandra multiflora Many-flowered Mat-rush

Table 3.3 Species List

Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Lomandraceae Lomandra obliqua Twisted Mat-rush

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Orchidaceae Cryptostylis subulata Large Tongue Orchid

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. Blue Flax Lily producta

HERBS - Monocots (Other) Restionaceae Lepyrodia scariosa Scale Rush

HERBS - Ferns and Allies Adiantaceae Adiantum aethiopicum Common Maidenhair

HERBS - Ferns and Allies Dennstaedtiaceae Hypolepis muelleri Harsh Ground Fern

HERBS - Ferns and Allies Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken

HERBS - Ferns and Allies Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea linearis Screw Fern

HERBS - climbers Apocynaceae Parsonsia straminea Common Silkpod

HERBS - climbers Fabaceae Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsparilla (Faboideae)

HERBS - climbers Lauraceae Cassytha pubescens Common Devil’s Twine

HERBS - climbers Menispermaceae Stephania japonica var. Snake Vine discolor

HERBS - climbers Passifloraceae Passiflora edulis* Common Passionfruit

HERBS - climbers Pittosporaceae Billardiera scandens var. Apple Dumplings scandens

HERBS - climbers Ranunculaceae Clematis glycinoides var. Clematis glycinoides

* denotes exotic species