Terrestrial Fauna Assessment

Home , Amphibolurus burnsi, Hemiaspis damelii, Strophurus taenicauda, Wrinkled toadlet, Yakka skink

Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project

EnvironmentalEnvironmental Values Assessment Assessment

APPENDIX E

Cameby Downs Continued Operation Project Terrestrial Fauna Assessment May 2018

Syntech Resources Pty Ltd

ecology / vegetation / wildlife / aquatic ecology / GIS

Executive summary

The Cameby Downs Mine is owned and operated by Syntech Resources Pty Ltd (Syntech) and is managed by Yancoal Australia Ltd (Yancoal). Syntech are considering expanding their operation area as part of the Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project (the Project) and an environmental values statement is being prepared to accompany a major Environmental Authority Amendment application.

Syntech commissioned Ecosure Pty Ltd (Ecosure) to undertake terrestrial fauna field surveys and ecological assessments to address the minimum requirements in the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage (DEHP) Information Request for an Amendment Application for an Environmental Authority.

To supplement previous fauna surveys undertaken over the last decade, Ecosure undertook preliminary surveys and targeted surveys in July 2016. More comprehensive surveys followed in October 2016. Overall, six detailed trapping sites, 50 observational surveys and 56 targeted surveys were undertaken across the study area to determine the likelihood of occurrence of species listed as conservation significant species under State legislation and/ or threatened under Commonwealth legislation.

A total of five conservation significant species have been recorded during field surveys (including previous surveys) conducted in the study area. These were:

• koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

• glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami)

• grey snake (Hemiaspis damelii)

• short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

• yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) (during previous surveys only).

A total of 192 species were recorded during the field surveys, including 13 amphibians, 101 birds, 25 mammals and 26 reptiles.

After consideration of impact avoidance measures, the Project would clear a total of approximately 910 hectares (ha) of remnant vegetation. This remnant vegetation equates to approximately 899.5 ha of koala potential habitat, approximately 899.4 ha of yakka skink potential habitat and approximately 72 ha of grey snake potential habitat. The vegetation clearance impacts would be mitigated over time by progressive rehabilitation of the post- mine landforms.

An environmental offset would be provided for the Project to address significant residual impacts on MSES (i.e. protected wildlife habitat and connectivity) as determined by the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy — Draft Significant Residual Impacts Guideline. In accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy, a notice of election for Stage 1 would be provided to DEHP no less than three months before residual significant impacts on Matters of State Environmental Significance.

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The notice of election would include a description of the:

• offset delivery approach (a land-based proponent-driven offset site(s), direct-benefit offset and/or a financial settlement offset); and

• proposed staging details.

For subsequent stages, a detailed assessment of the impact of each stage of the Project and the offset requirement for each stage would be conducted prior to providing the notice of election to DEHP for that stage. The offset would be provided before the commencement of each stage.

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Glossary, acronyms and abbreviations

AARC AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd

ALA Atlas of Living Australia

BAAM Biodiversity assessment and management Pty Ltd

BPA Biodiversity Planning Assessment

BoM Bureau of Meteorology

CAMBA China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement - the agreement called ‘Agreement Between the Government of Australia and the Government of the People’s Republic of China for the Protection of Migratory Birds and their Environment’ and signed at Canberra on 20 October 1986

CE critically endangered (conservation significant fauna species status)

CHPP coal handling and preparation plant

DBH diameter at breast height

DEHP Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

DERM Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management (now DEHP)

DEWHA Federal Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (now DoEE)

DILGP Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

DoEE Federal Department of the Environment and Energy

DNRM Queensland Department of Natural Resource and Mines

DSEWPaC Federal Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (now DoEE)

E endangered (conservation significant fauna species status)

Ecosure Ecosure Pty Ltd

EPBC Act Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Ex extinct (conservation significant fauna species status)

JAMBA Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement - the agreement called ‘Agreement Between the Government of Australia and the Government of Japan for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Birds in Danger of Extinction and their Environment’ and signed at Tokyo on 6 February 1974

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LC least concern under the NC Act

ML mining lease

MLA mine lease application

MSES Matters of State Environmnetal Significance

MTPA million tonnes per annum

NC Act Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992

NT near threatened (conservation significant fauna species status)

RE regional ecosystem

SAT spot assessment technique

SLC special least concern under the NC Act

Study area 20 km buffer centred on the study area

Syntech Syntech Resources Pty Ltd

V vulnerable (conservation significant fauna species status)

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Contents

Executive summary ...... i

Glossary, acronyms and abbreviations ...... iii

List of figures ...... viii

List of tables ...... viii

1 Introduction ...... 1

1.1 Scope of works ...... 4 1.2 Study area ...... 4 1.3 Previous studies ...... 4

2 Existing environment ...... 7

2.1 Regional setting...... 7 2.2 Topography ...... 7 2.3 Soils and geology ...... 7 2.4 Land use ...... 7 2.5 Surface hydrology ...... 7 2.6 Climate ...... 8 2.7 Protected areas ...... 8 2.8 State forests ...... 8 2.9 Essential habitat mapping ...... 8 2.10 Regional corridors ...... 8

3 Methods ...... 9

3.1 Assessment team ...... 9 3.2 Taxonomic nomenclature ...... 9 3.3 Determining significance levels for EPBC Act listed fauna ...... 9 3.4 Determining significance levels for NC Act listed fauna ...... 10 3.5 Determining likelihood of occurrence ...... 10 3.6 Desktop assessment ...... 11 3.7 Conservation significant fauna species considered ...... 12

3.7.1 EPBC Act listed species ...... 12 3.7.2 NC Act listed species ...... 12 3.7.3 Migratory species ...... 13

3.8 Field assessment ...... 19

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3.8.1 Survey timing ...... 19 3.8.2 Criteria for field survey site selection ...... 20 3.8.3 Survey locations ...... 23 3.8.4 Survey techniques ...... 24 3.8.4.1 Detailed fauna survey methods ...... 30 3.8.4.2 Observational survey methods ...... 33 3.8.4.3 Targeted survey methods ...... 34 3.8.4.4 Incidental sightings ...... 35 3.8.5 Survey effort in relation to published survey guidelines ...... 35

4 Analysis ...... 51

4.1 Identification ...... 51 4.2 Habitat mapping ...... 51

5 Results ...... 52

5.1 Fauna habitats ...... 52

5.1.1 Habitat condition ...... 60

5.2 Conservation significant fauna species ...... 62 5.3 Migratory species ...... 64 5.4 Least concern species ...... 70 5.5 Amphibians ...... 70 5.6 Reptiles ...... 70 5.7 Birds ...... 70 5.8 Mammals...... 70 5.9 Matters of state environmental significance ...... 71

6 Potential impacts on fauna ...... 73

6.1 Fauna habitat clearance ...... 73 6.2 Indirect impacts ...... 74

6.2.1 Surface water quality ...... 74 6.2.2 Surface water quantity ...... 74 6.2.3 Groundwater and ecosystems ...... 74 6.2.4 Feral animals ...... 75 6.2.5 Noise ...... 75 6.2.6 Artificial lighting ...... 75 6.2.7 Bushfire ...... 75 6.2.8 Exotic diseases and pathogens ...... 75

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6.3 Cumulative impacts ...... 76

7 Evaluation of likely adverse impacts on matters of state environmental significance .... 77

7.1 Protected areas ...... 77 7.2 Regulated vegetation ...... 77 7.3 Connectivity areas ...... 77 7.4 Wetlands and watercourses ...... 77 7.5 Protected wildlife habitat ...... 77

7.5.1 Koala ...... 77 7.5.2 Yakka skink ...... 78 7.5.3 Grey snake ...... 78 7.5.4 Glossy black-cockatoo ...... 78 7.5.5 Short-beaked echidna ...... 79 7.5.6 Other state listed conservation significant species ...... 79 7.6 Summary of significant residual impacts on matters of state environmental significance ...... 81

8 Impact avoidance and mitigation measures ...... 83

8.1 Refinement of the mine design to avoid land clearance ...... 83 8.2 Vegetation clearance limits and procedures ...... 83 8.3 Rehabilitation ...... 83 8.4 Water management ...... 83 8.5 Declared animal prevention and control ...... 84 8.6 Weed prevention and control ...... 84 8.7 Bushfire prevention and management ...... 84 8.8 Summary of impact avoidance and mitigation measures related to MSES ...... 85

9 Environmental offsets ...... 86

9.1 Summary of offset requirements ...... 86 9.2 Offset strategy for Protected Wildlife ...... 86

10 Conclusion ...... 88

References ...... 89

Appendix 1 Qualification and experience of field team members ...... 92

Appendix 2 Habitat values and conditions at each survey location ...... 127

Appendix 3 Fauna species recorded during field surveys ...... 133

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List of figures

Figure 1 Location of Cameby Downs Mine showing the study area and the existing mine area ...... 2

Figure 2 Mine development stages ...... 3 Figure 3 Daily rainfall, mean minimum and mean maximum temperatures at the Miles Constance Street weather station (042112) from 1 January until 16 November 2016 ...... 20 Figure 4.1 Ground-truthed regional ecosystems and locations of the survey sites in the north of the study area ...... 28

List of tables

Table 1: Criteria used to determine categories of likelihood of occurrence...... 10

Table 2: Conservation significant fauna species database results...... 14

Table 3: Migratory species database results...... 18

Table 4: Criteria used to select targeted survey sites for individual or groups of species ..... 22 Table 5: Other conservation significant species with potential habitat in the study area (other than those listed in Table 4) and the survey locations included in the field program...... 23

Table 6: Summary of the methods undertaken at the three survey site types...... 24

Table 7: Survey locations and the methods undertaken at each location...... 24 Table 8: Habitat features recorded at each survey site and the scores used for each feature...... 32

Table 9: Factors considered when determining overall condition...... 33 Table 10: Recommended survey timing for each of the conservation significant species potentially inhabiting the study area...... 37 Table 11: Conservation significant fauna species predicted to occur within the study area and the State and Commonwealth recommended survey guidelines for each species in comparison to the actual effort undertaken by Ecosure...... 39 Table 12: Survey effort for each method employed during field surveys in July and October 2016...... 50

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Table 13: Ground-truthed regional ecosystems used to map potential habitat for the conservation significant species recorded...... 51

Table 14: Ground-truthed regional ecosystems and habitats within the study area...... 53

Table 15: Fauna habitats occurring within the study area...... 55

Table 16: Matters of state environmental significance...... 71 Table 17: Likelihood of impact to NC Act listed conservation significant species with potential habitat within the study area but not recorded during the field surveys...... 79

Table 18: Summary of Potential Impacts on Matters of State Environmental Significance .. 81

Table 19: Summary of residual impacts on MSES ...... 86

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1 Introduction

The Cameby Downs Mine is owned and operated by Syntech Resources Pty Ltd (Syntech) and is managed by Yancoal Australia Ltd (Yancoal). Syntech Resources has lodged an amendment application to the Cameby Downs Mine Environmental Authority (EA) EPML00900113 in accordance with Section 224 of the Queensland Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act) to approve the Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project (the Project).

The Cameby Downs Mine is located approximately 360 kilometres (km) west-north-west of Brisbane in the Western Downs Regional Council (WDRC) local government area. The regional location of the Project is shown on Figure 1. The Cameby Downs Mine has been operating for six years, with excavation of overburden commencing in July 2010 and first coal excavated in August of that year. The coal handling and preparation plant (CHPP) was commissioned in November 2010 with first railing of coal occurring in December 2010.

The Project involves a staged extension of operations within Mining Lease (ML) 50233 and into Mining Lease Applications (MLAs) 50258, 50259, 50260 and 50269 and an increase in the run-of-mine coal mining rate from the currently approved 2.8 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) to 3.5 Mtpa. The Project life would be for approximately 75 years. Figure 2 shows the four proposed stages of mine extension.

Syntech Resources is seeking approval of the Project through a major amendment of the EA in accordance with Chapter 5, Part 7, section 224 of the EP Act. The EA amendment application was lodged with the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (DEHP) on 21 November 2016. DEHP subsequently made its Assessment Level Decision on 30 November 2016 that the proposed amendment is a major EA amendment application. DEHP issued an Information Request on 12 January 2017 to request additional information from Syntech Resources to enable it to make a decision on the application.

Syntech Resources has responded to DEHP’s Information Request through an Environmental Values Assessment (EVA). This report supports the EVA to assess the potential environmental impacts associated with the development of the Project in accordance with the DEHP’s Information Request.

Syntech has commissioned Ecosure Pty Ltd (Ecosure) to undertake terrestrial flora and fauna field surveys and ecological assessments to address the minimum requirements in the DEHP Information Request for an Amendment Application for an Environmental Authority. This report addresses the terrestrial fauna components of the request for information.

Cameby Downs Continued Operation Project – Terrestrial Fauna Assessment ecosure.com.au | 1 200,000

Binkey State Forest

Barakula State Forest

Cairns Gurulmundi State Forest Townsville

QLD Rockhampton

Study area Brisbane SA NSW

Chinchilla Rifle Range Nature Refuge

200,000 Indicative extent of additional surface development Essential habitat Wildlife corridors Figure 1: Site location Existing/approved extent of operations Nature reserve Riparian corridor Syntech Terrestrial corridor Ecology survey study area Protected area Fauna survey report State significance Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project Regional significance

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 9 0 1.5 3 6 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 29/08/2017 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec, 2017, Image: Sources: Esri, HERE, DeLorme, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong PR1851_MP1_FA_SiteLocation Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community A4 Sources: Esri, USGS, NOAA, Mine data: ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. Stevensons Road

R y a l l s R o a d

Davies Road B Tennysons Road

B Tennysons Road

Boort-Koi Road

Davies Road A Graha ms Road

Ryalls Road

Davies Road

Ryalls Road

C Kerrs Road Warrego Highway

Road Brownlies

Ecology survey study Existing/approved extent Stage 2 Figure 2: Mine development stages area of operations Stage 3 Syntech Indicative extent of Stage 1 Stage 4 Fauna survey report additional surface Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project development

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB, KF Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntech 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP2_FA_MineStages ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4

1.1 Scope of works

The purpose of the fauna assessment is to provide information on fauna values and potential impacts associated with the Project. The scope of this fauna assessment is to:

• undertake a desktop assessment to identify potential conservation significant species inhabiting the area and identify any areas of potential habitat significance

• conduct fauna surveys in July and November, targeting likely conservation significant species and the range of habitats present within the study area

• identify and map fauna species of state and federal significance

• determine areas of high biodiversity value and outline their key conservation values

• highlight areas that may require offsets under respective legislation

• prepare an assessment report which includes potential impacts to conservation values, mitigation measures and a discussion of offset options.

1.2 Study area

The study area is shown on Figure 2 and encompasses the existing ML (outside of the existing approved disturbance boundary) and four MLAs: MLA 50258, MLA 50259, MLA 50260 and MLA 50269.

The existing/approved Cameby Downs Mine was excluded from the study area (Figure 1).

The desktop search area is the study area with a 20 km buffer from the approximate centre of the study area (coordinates -26.626602, 150.359121). The search area was used for the desktop assessment to determine species potentially inhabiting the study area.

1.3 Previous studies

The fauna in the study area has been subject to multiple studies since 2004 as described below.

Biodiversity Assessment and Management Pty Ltd (2006)

Biodiversity Assessment and Management Pty Ltd (BAAM) undertook flora and fauna surveys for the original Cameby Downs Mine. The area surveyed was equivalent to the current mining lease (ML 50233). The surveys were undertaken in April and May 2004 and January, October and November 2005 (BAAM, 2006). The total effort for the whole survey included:

• 644 Elliot trap nights

• 44 cage trap nights

• 120 pitfall trap nights

• 56 hours of bird surveys

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• 56 hours of active searching for reptiles

• 56 hours of active searching for glossy-black cockatoo feeding signs

• 24.5 hours of nocturnal spotlighting

• 8.5 nights of ultrasonic bat call detection

• 5.5 hours of call playback.

BAAM recorded six conservation significant species that are currently listed under the EPBC or NC Acts1. These included:

• yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) (Vulnerable NC Act and EPBC Act)

• grey snake (Hemiaspis damelii) (Endangered NC Act)

• glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami) (Vulnerable NC Act)

• white-throated needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) (special least concern (SLC) NC Act, migratory EPBC Act)

• koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) (Vulnerable NC Act and EPBC Act)

• short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) (SLC NC Act).

Details of where these species were recorded are discussed in Section 5.2.

The exotic species noted during the surveys and database searches for this study were:

• cane toad (Bufo marinus)

• feral pig (Sus scrofa)

• feral cat (Felis catus)

• brown hare (Lepus europaeus)

• house mouse (Mus musculus)

• european fox (Vulpes vulpes). AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd (2013)

AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd (AARC) also prepared an assessment report for the previously proposed Cameby Downs Mine Expansion Project (which was subsequently discontinued by Syntech). Fauna surveys were conducted in February, April, June and October 2009 (AARC, 2013).

The total effort for the whole survey included:

• 480 Elliot trap nights

• 96 cage trap nights

• 200 pitfall trap nights

1 BAAM also recorded the Little Pied Bat which is no longer listed as threatened under the NC Act.

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• 160 funnel trap nights

• an unspecified number of hours of bird surveys

• an unspecified number of hours of active searching for reptiles

• 56 hours of active searching for glossy-black cockatoo feeding signs

• 32 hours of nocturnal spotlighting

• an unspecified number of nights of ultrasonic bat call detection.

This study recorded one conservation significant species, the short-beaked echidna.

Four invasive fauna species were observed during the surveys:

• feral cat (Felis catus)

• dingo (Canis familiaris dingo)

• feral pig (Sus scrofa)

• European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

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2 Existing environment

2.1 Regional setting

The study area is situated in the Western Downs Regional Council area in southern Queensland, approximately 16 km east-northeast of Miles. The Project is located within the Barakula subregion of the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion.

2.2 Topography

The majority of the study area is flat. Low rises and hills occur in the northern parts, with an approximately 50 m rise in elevation. Low (2-3 m) lateritic outcrops occur in the far north- western section.

2.3 Soils and geology

Soils are mostly alluvial sandy-clayey loams along watercourses (landzone 3), lateritic podsols or exposed duricrusts in northern sections (landzone 7) and sandy loams (landzone 5). All soils are of limited fertility with the exception of small areas of clay-rich vertosol soils supporting brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) communities (landzone 4).

2.4 Land use

Land use within the study area (surrounding the Cameby Downs Mine) consists of cleared areas under grazing (cattle, horses), and uncleared remnant vegetation. There are substantial areas of woody regrowth where farming has been abandoned.

2.5 Surface hydrology

The majority of the study area drains south, however, the northern extent of the study area drains north.

The creeks are ephemeral in the upper reaches, with some more or less permanent pools in the far southern part of the study area. These pools contained water at the time of survey, but there was no flow. The low topography and limited fall in elevation allows for the accumulation of slow-moving surface waters.

An aquatic ecology assessment (including an assessment of aquatic fauna) has been prepared for the Project by DPM Envirosciences Pty Ltd (2018).

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2.6 Climate

The study area locality has a sub-tropical climate with wet humid summers and typically dry winters. The mean annual rainfall (taken from Miles Post Office station 042023) is 648 mm (based on 127 years of data) (BOM 2017). The highest rainfall occurs between December and February.

The mean maximum temperature is 27.1°C and the mean minimum temperature is 12.2°C (BOM 2017). The coldest month of the year is July and the warmest January. The area is relatively humid all year round with the average relative humidity for 9am being 63%.

2.7 Protected areas

There are no protected areas within the study area.

2.8 State forests

Barakula State Forest is located approximately 12 km to the north of the study area (Figure 1). The mine is also approximately 24 km southeast of Gurulmundi State Forest (Figure 1).

2.9 Essential habitat mapping

No essential habitat is mapped as occurring within the study area (Figure 1).

2.10 Regional corridors

Biodiversity Planning Assessments (BPAs) were developed to provide a consistent approach to assessing and mapping biodiversity values at a landscape scale (EPA 2002)) Areas of remnant vegetation are defined as being of state, regional or local significance based on an assessment of a number of ecological criteria (i.e. size, rarity, condition, habitat for conservation significant species). Datasets for the Brigalow Belt (DEHP 2014a) were interrogated.

The study area lies between two bioregional corridors of state significance, but no mapped corridors occur in the study area (see Ecosure 2018).

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3 Methods

3.1 Assessment team

The desktop review in this report and site selection was undertaken by Dr Carissa Free (Senior Ecologist). The July fauna surveys were conducted by Dr Carissa Free, Ben Nottidge (Senior Fauna Ecologist) and Dr Alan House (Principal Ecologist). The October fauna surveys were conducted by Emily Hatfield (Ecologist), Dr Carissa Free and Steve Marston (Principal Ecologist).

3.2 Taxonomic nomenclature

Scientific names of animals used in this report follow the following sources:

• conservation significant species: – Department of the Environment and Energy’s Species Profile and Threats Database (DoEE 2016) – NC Act.

• other birds: Working List of Australian Birds, Version 2 (Birdlife Australia 2016)

• other reptiles and amphibians: The reptiles and amphibians of Australia (Cogger 2014)

• other mammals: The Mammals of Australia, Van Dyck and Strahan (Van Dyck and Strahan 2008).

3.3 Determining significance levels for EPBC Act listed fauna

Conservation significant fauna species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) include:

• species listed as extinct (Ex), critically endangered (CE), endangered (E) or vulnerable (V)

• species listed as migratory.

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3.4 Determining significance levels for NC Act listed fauna

Conservation significant fauna species are listed under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act) as:

• species listed as presumed extinct (Ex), endangered (E), vulnerable (V), near threatened (NT)

• special least concern (SLC) species, which includes platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) and least concern bird species listed under the Bonn Convention, China-Australia migratory bird agreement (CAMBA), or Japan-Australia migratory bird agreement (JAMBA) international treaties for the protection of migratory birds.

All other native fauna species have been designated under the NC Act as being least concern (LC).

3.5 Determining likelihood of occurrence

Each conservation significant species was assessed for its likelihood of occurrence based on:

• records in the local area (as listed on Wildlife Online [2016] or Atlas of Living Australia [ALA] [2016])

• presence of suitable habitat (determined using both desktop and field verified data)

• presence of essential habitat mapped by DEHP

• species abundance, distribution and behaviour (sourced from published field guides, Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) SPRAT profiles, scientific journal articles and known records).

Likelihood of occurrence was classified into five categories - unlikely, possible, likely, previously recorded and confirmed as outlined in Table 1. The likelihood of occurrence for each conservation significant species are listed in Table 11.

Table 1: Criteria used to determine categories of likelihood of occurrence.

Likelihood of occurrence Criteria category

Unlikely • no or very little suitable habitat occurs within the study area and/or; • the species has not been recorded in the region since 1980.

Possible • some limited habitat for the species occurs in the study area and/or; • the species is highly nomadic (e.g. Australian painted snipe) and the study area occurs within the species known range.

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Likelihood of occurrence Criteria category

Likely • suitable habitat for the species occurs in the study area and/or; • a record occurs nearby (within 5 km for low mobility species such as reptiles, within 20 km for high mobility species) in similar habitat and/or; • there is Essential Habitat mapped in the study area and/or; • the species is widespread and common in the region (e.g. short-beaked echidna) and has broad habitat requirements.

Previously recorded • recorded during previous surveys within the study area.

Confirmed • species has been recorded during this field survey within the study area.

3.6 Desktop assessment

A fauna desktop assessment was conducted by Ecosure in July 2016 and included reviews of:

• Queensland Herbarium Regional Ecosystem (RE) mapping (version 9.0) Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM 2014) for study area, to identify potential fauna habitats

• DNRM Regulated Vegetation Mapping Version 1.29 (DNRM 2016)

• DEHP Essential Habitat Version 4.16 (DNRM 2015) mapping to identify known areas of Essential Habitat for fauna

• the DEHP Wildlife Online database, focusing on conservation significant fauna species that are recorded or potentially occur within the study area

• Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning State Planning Policy Interactive Mapping (Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning 2016)

• Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Atlas of Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Mapping (BoM 2016)

• DEHP Environmentally Sensitive Areas Mapping (DEHP 2016a)

• the Atlas of Living Australia (Atlas of Living Australia 2016) database for locations of conservation significant fauna species (including specimens in Australian museums and Birds Australia historical records)

• species identified in a DoEE Protected Matters Searches (DoE 2014a) of the study area

• regionally significant species and biodiversity and corridor mapping prepared for the Brigalow Belt Biodiversity Planning Assessment (BPA) Version 1.3 (EPA 2008b, EPA 2008a)

• review of the DoEE SPRAT profiles (DoEE 2017) and recommended survey threatened species guidelines

• Previous reports including:

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- Cameby Downs Expansion Project Assessment of Matters of National Environmental Significance (AARC 2013a) - Cameby Downs Expansion Project Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment (AARC 2013b).

• other relevant published literature for the study area

• site specific flora and fauna data supplied by Syntech

• relevant aerial, topography, vegetation and resource location maps provided by Syntech.

3.7 Conservation significant fauna species considered

Table 2 lists EPBC Act and/or NC Act listed fauna species recorded by ALA (Atlas of Living Australia 2016), Wildlife Online (DEHP 2016b) and the EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (DoEE 2016) within the study area and provides an analysis of the likelihood of the species occurring within the study area based on desktop results.

3.7.1 EPBC Act listed species

EPBC Act listed fauna identified in the desktop review include one extinct, one critically endangered, three endangered and 13 vulnerable species (Table 2). Two EBPC Act listed species, yakka skink (Egernia rugosa) and koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), were recorded within the study area by BAAM during surveys in 2006 (BAAM 2006).

Of the 18 species recorded during database searches, two are unlikely to occur in the study area due to lack of suitable habitat or lack of records in the region, another 15 species could possibly occur as some suitable habitat occurs in the study area. Migratory species are discussed in Section 3.7.3.

3.7.2 NC Act listed species

No NC Act listed species have been recorded by the ALA within the desktop search area. However, three species, grey snake (Hemiaspis damelii), short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) and yakka skink (Egernia rugosa), have previously been recorded within the study area (AARC 2013). Fauna listed under the Queensland NC Act identified during the desktop review include one presumed extinct, five endangered species, 12 vulnerable species, one near threatened and one special least concern species (Table 2).

Of the 20 species assessed as potentially occurring within the study area, two are unlikely to occur due to lack of suitable habitat or lack of records in the region, 15 species could possibly occur as some suitable habitat occurs in the study area, one species (glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami)), is considered likely to occur as they have abundant suitable habitat in the wider landscape.

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3.7.3 Migratory species

A total of eight terrestrial migratory species have been recorded within the desktop search area by DEHP, ALA or are predicted to occur based on the Protected Matters Search Tool (Table 3).

Of these six could possibly occur as they have potential habitat within the study area, one has been previously recorded within the study area (white-throated needle-tail) and one is considered unlikely due to lack of suitable habitat (glossy ibis).

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Table 2: Conservation significant fauna species database results.

Conservation Recorded 1 Source Status during Likelihood of ALA previous occurrence in Scientific Common Wildlife DoEE (Atlas of surveys Preferred habitat the study area name name NC EPBC Online (DoEE Living within the prior to the Act Act (DEHP 2016)2 Australia ML or surveys 2016b)3 5 2016)4 surrounds

Reptiles Anomalopus five-clawed Grasslands and grassy, open woodlands Possible mackayi worm-skink on heavy black and grey, alluvial cracking clay soils from 135–200 m above sea level. During dry periods, the species is likely to shelter where moisture is available. May take refuge in deep cracks within alluvial clay soils. Shelters at the soil surface E V • - - - where moisture is sufficiently retained under decaying leaf litter, coarse woody debris or artificial debris. Lives in cavities in rotting tree bases, logs and in tussock bases. Known to dig permanent tunnel-like burrows in loose, friable, humic soils in woodlands on slight basalt rises

Delma torquata collared delma Open eucalypt forest with a sparse Possible understorey of shrubs and tussock V V • - - - grasses, on rocky hillsides with flattish rocks or on deep-cracking soils.

Denisonia ornamental Usually associated with brigalow (Acacia Possible maculata snake harpophylla), gidgee (Acacia cambagei), blackwood (Acacia argyrodendron) or V V • − − - coolibah (Eucalyptus coolabah)-dominated vegetation communities as well cleared or natural grasslands associated with gilgais.

Egernia rugosa yakka skink Wide variety of habitats including poplar Likely box, alluvial soils, low ridges, cypress on V V • • • BAAM (2006) sands, belah, mulga and eucalypt woodland where they can be found in log piles and rabbit warrens.

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Furina dunmalli Dunmall’s Woodlands and dry sclerophyll forest, Possible, one snake V V • - • - particularly areas with brigalow. Also record from 1978 cleared areas. near Miles

Hemiaspis grey snake Woodlands, usually on heavier, cracking Likely (confirmed damelii clay soils, particularly in association with during this E - − • • BAAM (2006) water bodies or in areas with small gullies survey) and ditches. It shelters under rocks, logs and other debris as well as in soil cracks

Strophurus Open woodland and open forest, Likely golden-tailed taenicauda NT - - • • - particularly areas with abundant exfoliating gecko bark.

Birds Calyptorhynchus glossy black- Open forest and woodlands of the coast Likely (confirmed lathami lathami cockatoo V - - • • BAAM (2006) and Great Dividing range where stands of during this sheoak occur. survey)

Erythrotriorchis red goshawk Eucalypt woodland, open forest, tall open Possible radiatus E V • - - - forest, gallery rainforest, swamp sclerophyll forest, and rainforest margins.

Falco grey falcon Woodland, shrubland and grassland in the Possible hypoleucos V - − - • - arid and semi-arid zones, especially wooded watercourses

Geophaps squatter Open grassy woodlands on sandy soils Possible scripta scripta pigeon V V • - - - with gravelly ridges. (southern)

Grantiella picta painted Forests, woodlands, dry scrublands often Possible, latest honeyeater with abundant mistletoe. record from 2005 • V V • • - 5 km south of the study area

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Lathamus swift parrot Dry sclerophyll eucalypt forests and Possible discolor woodlands. Occasionally wet sclerophyll E CE • − - - forests. Feeds mostly on nectar, mainly from eucalypts, but also eats psyllid insects and lerps, seeds and fruit

Poephila cincta black-throated Grassy open woodlands and forests, Unlikely cincta finch typically dominated by Eucalyptus, Corymbia and Melaleuca, and occasionally E E • - − - in tussock grasslands or other habitats often along or near watercourses, or in the vicinity of water. paradise Lightly timbered with eucalypt woodlands Unlikely. This parrot or open forests, often dominated by species is extinct Psephotus ironbarks and bloodwoods so is not Ex Ex - • − - pulcherrimus considered further in this report

Rostratula Australian Shallow inland wetlands, brackish or Possible australis painted snipe V E • - - - freshwater that are permanently or temporarily inundated.

Mammals Chalinolobus large-eared Dry forests and woodlands, moist eucalypt Possible V V • - - dwyeri pied bat forests, caves and mines. Dasyurus northern quoll Most abundant in eucalypt woodland on Unlikely - E • − - - hallucatus rocky areas within 200 km of the coast. Nyctophilus south-eastern Range of inland woodland vegetation Possible corbeni long-eared bat V V • • - types, including box, ironbark and cypress pine woodland

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Petauroides greater glider Eucalypt forests and woodlands, Possible particularly taller, montane and moist volans − V V • - - eucalypt forests with old trees and abundance hollows.

Phascolarctos koala Restricted to eucalypt forests and Likely (confirmed cinereus V V • • • - woodlands of eastern Australia. during this survey)

Pteropus grey-headed Woodlands with flowering eucalypts. Possible. poliocephalus flying-fox Although a camp exists in Chinchilla, this species has not been recorded − - V • − - there since 2011. Nearest known camp with grey- headed flying-fox is around 100 km east in Dalby.

Tachyglossus short-beaked Wide range of terrestrial habitats wherever Likely (confirmed aculeatus echidna BAAM (2006) there are enough ants or termites including during this SLC - - • - AARC (2013) desert, rainforest, open forest, bushland, survey) farmland, suburban backyards.

1 Threatened species status under the NC Act (current as at 28 August 2015) and/or EPBC Act (current as at 20 June 2016). CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, Ex = Extinct, NT = Near Threatened, SLC = Special Least Concern. 2 DoEE (2016) Protected Matters Search within 20 km of: -26.626602, 150.359121 Received: 7 July 2016. 3 DEHP (2016) Wildlife Online Database Records within 20 km of: -26.626602, 150.359121 Received: 7 July 2016. 4 ALA (2016) Atlas of living Australia, http://www.ala.org.au/ Accessed 6 July 2016. 20 km from -26.626602, 150.359121. Data Received: 7 July 2016. 5 Previous survey results recorded in ML 80003 and wider surrounds have been sourced from the following: AARC 2013b. Cameby Downs Expansion Project: Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment. Unpublished report for Syntech Resources Pty Ltd. BAAM 2006. Flora and fauna assessment report: Cameby Downs coal project.

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Table 3: Migratory species database results.

Conservation 1 Source Status Likelihood of Scientific Name Common Name Wildlife Preferred habitat occurrence in the NC EPBC DoEE ALA Online study area Act Act (2016)2 (2016)4 (2016b)3

Apus pacificus fork-tailed swift SLC M • - • Low to very high airspace over varied Possible habitat, rainforest to semi-desert.

Cuculus optatus oriental cuckoo SLC M • - • Monsoon forest, rainforest edges, leafy Possible trees in paddocks, river flats, roadsides, mangroves, island.

Gallinago hardwickii Latham’s snipe SLC M • • • Open, freshwater wetlands with low, dense Possible vegetation.

Hirundapus caudacutus white-throated needletail SLC M • • • Breed outside Australia. Low to very high, Previously recorded open airspace over almost any habitat, by BAAM (2006) including oceans, forests and deserts.

Motacilla flava yellow wagtail SLC M • - - Variety of habitat types from farmland to wet Possible pastures and grasslands

Myiagra cyanoleuca satin flycatcher SLC M • - • Coastal forests, woodlands, mangroves and Possible drier woodlands and open forests.

Plegadis falcinellus glossy ibis SLC M • - • Freshwater marshes at the edges of lakes Unlikely and rivers, lagoons, flood-plains, wet meadows, swamps, reservoirs. Coastal locations such as estuaries, deltas and saltmarsh.

Rhipidura rufifrons rufous fantail SLC M • - • Wet sclerophyll forests and rainforests. Possible

1 Threatened species status under the NC Act (current as at 28 August 2015) and/or EPBC Act (current as at 20 June 2016). SLC = Special Least Concern, M = Migratory. 2 DoE (2016) Protected Matters Search within 20 km of: -26.626602, 150.359121 Received: 7 July 2016. 3 DEHP (2016) Wildlife Online Database Records within 20 km of: -26.626602, 150.359121 Received: 7 July 2016. 4 ALA (2016) Atlas of living Australia, http://www.ala.org.au/ Accessed 6 July 2016. 20 km from -26.626602, 150.359121. Data Received: 7 July 2016

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3.8 Field assessment

3.8.1 Survey timing

Surveys were conducted on two separate occasions in 2016.

The July surveys were conducted on 18 to 19 and 25 to 29 July, 2016. This coincided with the recommended survey timing for swift parrot (Lathamus discolor).

The October surveys were conducted from 25 October to 5 November 2016. This coincided with the spring to early summer survey timing recommended for the Brigalow Belt in the Queensland survey guidelines (Eyre et al. 2014).

Conditions at the time of the July survey were warm and dry (Figure 3). A small amount (around 25 mm) of rain fell in the three days preceding the survey, which meant that many of the creeks and depressions still contained water during the survey period. The mean minimum and maximum temperatures during the July surveys were 9.2°C and 22.6°C, respectively. The conditions during the October surveys were hot during the day and cool at night. Scattered showers fell during the survey period. The mean minimum and maximum temperatures during the survey were 13.8°C and 30.3°C, respectively.

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45 45 July October 40 survey survey 40

35 35 30 30 C ° 25 25 20 20 15 Rainfall Rainfall (mm)

Temperature 15 10 10 5

0 5

-5 0 1-Jul-16 1-Jan-16 3-Jun-16 7-Oct-16 9-Sep-16 15-Jul-16 29-Jul-16 8-Apr-16 15-Jan-16 29-Jan-16 4-Nov-16 6-May-16 17-Jun-16 21-Oct-16 12-Feb-16 26-Feb-16 23-Sep-16 22-Apr-16 11-Mar-16 25-Mar-16 12-Aug-16 26-Aug-16 20-May-16

Date Rainfall (mm) Temperature (min) Temperature (max)

Figure 3 Daily rainfall, mean minimum and mean maximum temperatures at the Miles Constance Street weather station (042112) from 1 January until 16 November 2016

The referral guidelines for Brigalow Belt reptiles (DSEWPaC 2011a) suggest that surveys should be undertaken from late September to late March when the weather conditions are warm and not too dry, with maximum temperatures during the day exceeding 25°C. Warm, humid nights are also beneficial for detecting nocturnal reptiles.

Conditions during the October survey were suitable for surveying reptiles with warm days and scattered evening storms and showers.

3.8.2 Criteria for field survey site selection

A desktop review of the data layers listed in Section 3.6 was undertaken to determine areas of ecological significance. A preliminary list of proposed survey sites was determined based on the results of the desktop review and the following criteria (in order of priority):

Step 1 - Identifying sites with potential habitat value

A preliminary list of proposed survey sites was determined based on the following criteria (in order of priority):

1. vegetation patches that have previous records of conservation significant species 2. endangered and of concern remnant vegetation (these communities are limited in extent and many conservation significant species occur in these communities)

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3. specific REs known to provide habitat for conservation significant species (such as brigalow) 4. creeks and riparian vegetation 5. essential habitat for fauna 6. corridors of vegetation that linked two large remnant patches as determined in the aerial imagery 7. least concern remnant vegetation (priority was given to larger patches) 8. man-made waterbodies (as habitat for conservation significant water birds) 9. other landscape features such as areas with rocky outcrops or escarpments 10. cleared areas (near known conservation significant species records).

Any patch that met one of these criteria was designated a proposed survey location. Sites that met more than one of these criteria or met one of the more important criteria (e.g. patches with previous records of conservation significant species, riparian communities) were given a higher priority for survey.

Step 2: Designating survey type

Following the preliminary site selection, each site was assigned a survey type (detailed, observational or targeted search) depending on its identified fauna values.

Detailed sites were selected based on:

1. Habitat type - Sites were selected to ensure that all available habitat types (woodland, brigalow, riparian etc.) were surveyed. A list of the available habitat types based on RE can be found in Section 5.1 - Habitats known to potentially contain conservation significant species were given priority (e.g. brigalow). 2. Habitat features - Sites with significant habitat features such as waterbodies (including dams), cracking clay soils or large trees were selected as these areas could potentially contain higher diversity. 3. Accessibility - Due to the large amount of equipment required to conduct a detailed assessment, an attempt was made to select detailed sites that were accessible by tracks and roads - As detailed sites need to be visited several times per day, sites were also selected based on their proximity to other detailed sites so that two detailed sites could be trapped concurrently.

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Targeted survey sites were selected based on:

• proximity to known records of conservation significant species

• REs known to be inhabited by conservation significant species e.g. brigalow, riparian vegetation - the REs targeted for each species are indicated in Table 4

• habitat features that provide important resources for a conservation significant species e.g. watercourses.

The criteria used for the specific fauna species/groups targeted during targeted surveys are listed in Table 4.

Table 4: Criteria used to select targeted survey sites for individual or groups of species

Conservation significant species Criteria for targeted survey selection

Koala Spot assessment technique (SAT) survey locations were determined by a 1 km grid placed over the site. Surveys were conducted were a grid intersect coincided with remnant vegetation. Other surveys were conducted in riparian areas dominated by Eucalyptus tereticornis.

Brigalow belt reptiles (yakka skink) Any remnant woodland habitat

Brigalow Belt reptiles (ornamental Woodland or cleared areas with cracking clays particularly REs 11.4.3, snake and grey snake) 11.3.1, 11.3.25. Areas identified in the aerial imagery as containing gilgais.

Australian painted snipe, Latham's Dams, particularly those confirmed in the aerial imagery to have vegetation snipe on the edges.

Swift parrot Woodlands dominated by winter flowering eucalypts and bloodwoods.

Microbats (south-eastern long-eared Creeklines, dams or areas with good flyways. bat, large-eared pied bat)

Greater glider Large patches of vegetation dominated by mature eucalypts, particularly those areas with flowering trees and hollow bearing trees. REs 11.7.7, 11.5.1, 11.3.25, 11.3.4.

Table 5 shows a list of all the other conservation significant species potentially occurring in the study area. These species are habitat generalists and occur in many habitat types so specifically targeting these species over the study area is difficult. However, searches for these species were still undertaken at all observation and detailed sites with suitable habitat throughout the survey area.

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Table 5: Other conservation significant species with potential habitat in the study area (other than those listed in Table 4) and the survey locations included in the field program.

Scientific name Common name Search locations

Reptiles Anomalopus mackayi five-clawed worm-skink Searched for individuals at all survey detailed and observational sites during spotlighting and diurnal active searches Delma torquata collared delma Furina dunmalli Dunmall’s snake Strophurus taenicauda golden-tailed gecko Birds Calyptorhynchus lathami glossy black-cockatoo Listened and looked for individuals at all survey sites with Allocasuarina or Casuarina growing in them. Erythrotriorchis radiatus red goshawk Listened and looked for individuals and looked for nests at all survey sites near waterways. Falco hypoleucos grey falcon Listened and looked for individuals at all survey sites including those in cleared areas Geophaps scripta subsp. squatter pigeon Listened and looked for individuals at all survey sites. Scripta (southern) Grantiella picta painted honeyeater Listened and looked for individuals at all survey sites. Hirundapus caudacutus white-throated needletail Listened and looked for individuals flying over at all survey sites Poephila cincta cincta black-throated finch Listened and looked for individuals at all survey sites. Mammals Tachyglossus aculeatus short-beaked echidna Looked for individuals, scats and diggings at all survey sites. Dasyurus hallucatus northern quoll Looked for individuals and scats at all survey sites, particularly those with rocky areas. Pteropus poliocephalus grey-headed flying-fox Woodlands dominated by eucalypts and bloodwoods.

All survey sites that were identified during Step 1 but were not designated as detailed or targeted sites during Step 2 were designated as observational sites.

3.8.3 Survey locations

Survey locations are shown on Figures 4.1 and 4.2. Detailed fauna surveys (Section 3.8.4.1) were undertaken at six locations within the study area. Observational habitat assessments were conducted at 51 sites (29 in July and 21 in October). Targeted searches (Section 3.8.4.3) for koala (using SAT), Brigalow Belt reptiles (yakka skink, ornamental snake and grey snake), Australian painted snipe, swift parrot, micro-bats and greater glider were conducted at 57 locations (41 in July and 15 in October).

Table 6 summarises survey methods, and the number of sites undertaken for each method in each survey period.

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3.8.4 Survey techniques

Survey sites were designated as one of three survey types; detailed, targeted (which included SAT) or observational (see Section 3.8.2 for criteria used to determine survey type). Table 6 provides a summary of the methods used at each survey site type.

Table 7 lists all of the survey sites, broad habitat types and the methods undertaken at each one. Survey locations are shown on Figures 4.1 and 4.2, and a detailed description of each methodology can be found in Sections 3.8.4.1 to 3.8.4.3.

Table 6: Summary of the methods undertaken at the three survey site types.

Number Number Section of in July in the report Survey type Description Methods undertaken survey October for in- survey depth methods

Detailed Comprehensive list of all Elliott, funnels and pitfall trapping, N/A2 6 3.8.4.1 of the fauna using the site harp trapping, diurnal active collected over four days of search, nocturnal searches and surveying. spotlighting, camera trapping, ultrasonic bat detection, bird survey (1 person hour per day), habitat assessment

Observational Rapid overview of habitat Habitat assessment, bird survey 29 22 3.8.4.2 at the site and preliminary (0.5 person hours per site), list of the species using diurnal reptile search (0.5 person the site at the time of the hours per site). survey (only undertaken on one day)

Targeted Surveys at these sites Habitat assessment, active 41 16 3.8.4.3 specifically target search for target species (either conservation significant SAT, diurnal search, spotlight, species which may be bird survey) depending on the using the site. The species methods undertaken at these sites are designed to find the target species e.g. SAT surveys for koalas.

Table 7: Survey locations and the methods undertaken at each location.

Survey type Site ID Broad habitat type Survey method*

Detailed F_D1_Oct16_FA1 Brigalow HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

Detailed F_D2_Oct16_FA1 Brigalow HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

Detailed F_D3_Oct16_FA1 Woodlands on sands HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

Detailed F_D4_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

Detailed F_D5_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

2 The timing of previous surveys is described in Section 1.3.

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Survey type Site ID Broad habitat type Survey method*

Detailed F_D6_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, EL, CG, HP, PT, FU, CA, BS, DS, AB, SP

Observational F_H10_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H11_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H12_Oct16_FA1 Woodlands on sands HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H13_Oct16_FA1 Riparian HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H14_Oct16_FA1 Woodlands on sands HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H15_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H16_Oct16_FA1 Riparian HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H17_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H18_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H18_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H2_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H20_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H21_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H21_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H22_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H22_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H23_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H23_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H24_Oct16_FA1 Woodlands on sands HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H25_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H26_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H27_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H28_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H28_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H29_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H3_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H30_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H30_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H32_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H35_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H4_Oct16_FA1 Riparian HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H40_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H42_Jul16_FA1 Riparian HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H44_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H45_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow regrowth HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H46_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H47_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

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Survey type Site ID Broad habitat type Survey method*

Observational F_H51_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H56_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H6_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H60_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H62_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H63_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H66_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H67_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H70_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H73_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H77_Jul16_FA1 Woodlands on sands HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H82_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

Observational F_H83_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant HA, BS, DS

SAT F_S1_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant SAT

SAT F_S10_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S11_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant SAT

SAT F_S12_jul16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils SAT

SAT F_S13_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils SAT

SAT F_S19_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S2_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S20_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S21_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S22_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S23_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S24_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S25_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant SAT

SAT F_S26_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S27_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S3_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S4_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S5_Jul16_FA1 Riparian SAT

SAT F_S6_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant SAT

SAT F_S7_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S8_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

SAT F_S9_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils SAT

Targeted F_T1_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

Targeted F_T10_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T11_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

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Survey type Site ID Broad habitat type Survey method*

Targeted F_T12_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

Targeted F_T13_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T14_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow BS

Targeted F_T15_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow BS

Targeted F_T16_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T17_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

Targeted F_T18_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

Targeted F_T19_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T2_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T2_Oct16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils DS

Targeted F_T20_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T21_Jul16_FA2 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T22_Jul16_FA3 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T23_Jul16_FA4 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T24_Jul16_FA5 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T25_Jul16_FA5 Brigalow CA

Targeted F_T26_Jul16_FA5 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T27_Jul16_FA5 Non-remnant CA

Targeted F_T28_Jul16_FA5 Woodland on stony soils CA

Targeted F_T3_Jul16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T3_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T4_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

Targeted F_T4_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant BS

Targeted F_T5_Jul16_FA1 Woodlands on sands BS

Targeted F_T5_Oct16_FA1 Riparian HP

Targeted F_T6_Jul16_FA1 Brigalow SP

Targeted F_T6_Oct16_FA1 Riparian HP

Targeted F_T7_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils CA

Targeted F_T7_Oct16_FA1 Non-remnant AB

Targeted F_T8_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on alluvial soils BS

Targeted F_T9_Jul16_FA1 Woodland on stony soils BS

*HA- Habitat assessment, EL- Elliott A trap, CG- Cage trap, HP- Harp Trap, PT- Pitfall trap, FU- Reptile funnel, CA- Camera trap, BS- Bird survey, DS- Diurnal active search, IS- Incidental sighting, AB- Anabat/Song Meter, SP- Spotlighting, SAT- Koala spot assessment technique

Cameby Downs Continued Operation Project – Terrestrial Fauna Assessment ecosure.com.au | 27 20180504_Stages 1-4 LAYER Ryalls Road Existing/approved extent of operations Ground-truthed vegetation 11.7.4 (symbolised by dominant (! (! 11.7.7 11.3.2 RE) (! (!(! (! !((! 11.3.2 (! 11.3.2 !(!( 11.4.3 11.7.7 (! !( !( (! (! (!(!!( 11.5.1 !( !( 11.5.1a/11.5.1 (50/50) (! (! (! (! 11.7.7 (!(! (! 11.7.7 Boort-Koi Road 11.7.2 11.7.7 (!!( 11.7.4 11.5.1 11.7.4 11.7.2 11.7.5 !( (! 11.7.7 !( 11.7.4 (!(! !( (!!( 11.7.4 11.7.7/11.7.4 (50/50) 11.7.7 Dense regrowth (! (! (! (! (! (! !( (!(!!( Sparse regrowth (! 11.7.4 11.7.7 11.7.7 !( 11.5.1 (! (! !( (! 11.7.7 (! 11.7.7 11.7.4 ! (! ( (! 11.7.7 (! 11.5.1 (!!( 11.5.1a/11.5.1 (50/50) 11.7.5 (!(! 11.7.7

!( 11.7.7 11.7.7/11.7.4 (! (50/50)

11.5.1a/11.5.1 (50/50) (!(!!( (!!( (! 11.7.7 (! (!

11.4.3

Figure 4.1: Ground-truthed vegetation communities Indicative extent of additional (! Detailed site !( Targeted site surface development in the north of the study site (! EVNT site (! Observational site Ecology survey study area Syntech (! SAT site Fauna survey report Existing/approved extent of Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project operations

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 8 0 0.25 0.5 1 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 11/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntech 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP4.1_FA_Survey ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4 !(

Davies Road 11.7.7 !((! !((! (! 11.7.7 !( !( 11.5.1a/11.5.1 (50/50)

11.7.7 11.4.3

11.4.10 11.7.4 Davies Road

A Graha (! ms Road 11.5.1 ! ((! (! !((! (! (! !(

11.4.10 Boort-Koi Road

Ground-truthed vegetation (symbolised Ryalls Road !((! !( by dominant RE) !( 11.3.1 11.3.25 11.3.2 11.3.25 !((! 11.3.25/11.3.4 (50/50) !((! !( 11.3.25 11.4.10 (! (!(! 11.4.3 !((! 11.5.1

!((! 11.4.3 Davies Road 11.5.1a/11.5.1 (50/50) !( !( 11.7.4 !( 11.7.5 11.3.25/11.3.4 !((! 11.3.25/11.3.4 (50/50) (! 11.5.1 (50/50) (! (! 11.7.7 !((! (! 11.3.1 11.7.4 (! (! !( Warrego Highway !(!( ( 11.7.7/11.7.4 (50/50) Ryalls Road 11.3.2 Dense regrowth 11.5.1 !( Sparse regrowth

Road Brownlies

Figure 4.2: Ground-truthed vegetation communities Indicative extent of additional (! Detailed site (! Targeted site surface development in the south of the study site (! EVNT site !( Observational site Existing/approved extent of Syntech (! SAT site operations Fauna survey report Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project Ecology survey study area

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.25 0.5 1 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntech 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP4.2_FA_Survey ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4

3.8.4.1 Detailed fauna survey methods

Detailed surveys were undertaken at six sites (Figures 4.1 and 4.2). The detailed surveys included a range of methods (detailed below) designed to maximise the number of vertebrate species observed. The conservation significant fauna species that were targeted and the methods used to detect each species are listed in Table 11. The survey effort used at each site varied slightly (Table 7) depending on terrain and weather.

Elliott trapping

Twenty Elliott A traps were opened for four nights at each of the six detailed sites to survey small to medium sized mammals. Traps were placed under bushes and alongside logs (where possible) to increase the chances of trapping animals and to protect animals from the weather. Traps were placed at least 20 m apart to increase the likelihood of detecting species and increase the area surveyed. Traps were baited with a mixture of peanut butter, honey, vanilla and oats or banana (in areas with potential yakka skink habitat). These methods conform to the suggested methods for Elliott trapping in the Queensland terrestrial fauna survey guidelines (Eyre et al. 2014).

Funnel and pitfall trapping

One pitfall/funnel line was located in each of the six detailed survey sites to survey small mammals and reptiles. Each line consisted of three pitfall traps (20 L plastic buckets) along a 30 m fence. Six mesh funnel traps were also placed in pairs along the drift fence to capture small terrestrial reptiles and mammals. Pitfalls and funnel traps were left open for four days and nights. Small PVC tubes, leaf litter and squares of foam were left in the pits to provide shelter and a dry island if there was unexpected rainfall.

At one site (F_D5_Oct16_FA1), the ground was too rocky to install three pitfalls so only two were installed.

Harp trapping

Two 2-bank 4.2 m2 harp traps (Ausbat™ Faunatech) were placed at each detailed survey site to sample microbats. The two harp traps were placed side-by-side across a bat flyway (e.g. paths along which bats are likely to fly, watercourses, along tracks, gaps between dense tree trees) to better block the flyway and increase trap success. Traps were checked within two hours of sunset and again at sunrise over two consecutive nights (total four trap nights). Captured bats were identified and then released at an appropriate time near dusk near the point of capture.

Diurnal active search

Searches involved hand searching for more cryptic fauna that are not normally captured in traps, including raking leaf litter, opening or turning over of deadfall timber and turning over rocks and other debris. Burrows were investigated where safe to do so. Each of the six detailed sites was searched for at least two person hours (two people searching for one hour), during the mid-morning or mid-afternoon (i.e. the peak activity period).

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Signs of animal presence (scats, bones, tracks, scratches, diggings, etc.) were also recorded. Scats were collected and sent to recognised scat expert, Barbara Triggs (Dead Finish), for identification.

Nocturnal searches and spotlighting

At least two person hours (two people searching for one hour) was spent at each detailed survey site surveying for amphibians, reptiles and nocturnal mammals and birds. Spotlighting was conducted by walking around the site or driving at around 5 km per hour on nearby roads. Where possible, areas such as waterbodies and creeks were targeted. Any animals heard calling (including amphibians) were also recorded.

Camera trapping

At each detailed survey site, one to two automatic fauna cameras with movement sensors were installed for four nights to detect the presence of large terrestrial fauna. Cameras were set up along likely transit routes, such as roads, paths or creek lines to increase the likelihood of detecting fauna. Meat baits (chicken) were secured on the ground in front of each camera to attract introduced and native predators. Baited cameras are a proven technique for detecting quolls (DSEWPaC 2011b).

Ultrasonic bat detection

One ANABAT detector (Titley) or Song Scope (Wildlife Acoustics) was placed at the detailed survey sites for between two and four nights. Where possible, the detector was placed near existing water bodies or other likely bat habitat, to increase the chance of obtaining recordings. The results were analysed by a bat call analysis specialist, Greg Ford (Balance! Environmental), on completion of the survey.

Bird surveys

Bird surveys (vocalisations and sightings) were undertaken for four mornings (between 0530 and 0900) at each detailed survey site. Surveys were conducted for one person hour per day using the random meander survey technique.

Habitat assessment

Fauna habitat assessments were conducted at all detailed, targeted and observational fauna sites. A 100 m x 100 m plot within each site was assessed for the features listed in Table 8. Scores based on actual number were assessed within in a 50 x 50 m subplot while other parameters (e.g. percentage cover, relative abundance or presence) were assessed within the 100 x 100 m plot.

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Table 8: Habitat features recorded at each survey site and the scores used for each feature.

Habitat feature Score type Feature scores dominant species in canopy, mid- species list NA NA NA NA storey and ground storey layers level of erosion relative abundance Absent Scattered Frequent - canopy cover (%), mid-storey cover % cover <20 20-50 51-80 >81 (%), ground cover (%) abundance of weeds relative abundance Absent Scattered Frequent - presence and type of disturbance disturbance list NA NA NA NA (grazing etc.) abundance of large hollows number greater than 20 cm diameter 0 1-5 6-10 >10 abundance of small hollows number less than 20 cm diameter 0 1-5 6-10 >10 abundance of large logs number greater than 30 cm 0 1-5 6-10 >10 abundance of small logs number less than 30 cm 0 1-10 11-20 >20 presence of cliffs and rocky presence/absence NA NA NA NA outcrops abundance of large rocks number greater than 30 cm 0 1-10 11-50 >50 abundance of small rocks number less than 30 cm 0 1-10 11-50 >50 cover of leaf litter percentage cover (%) 0 1-25 26-75 >75 cover of dense grass/shrub shelter percentage cover (%) 0 1-10 11-50 >50 abundance of arboreal and Number 0 1-3 4-6 >6 terrestrial termite mounds cover of seeding grass cover percentage cover 0 1-10 11-50 >50 abundance of fruiting plants percentage of trees present 0 1-10 11-50 >50 abundance of nectar and pollen percentage of trees present 0 1-10 11-50 >50 producing plants abundance of koala food trees percentage of trees present 0 1-10 11-50 >50 percentage of trees with exfoliating percentage of trees present 0 1-10 10-25 >25 bark presence of standing water (e.g. presence of water body NA NA NA NA creeks, dams, wetlands etc.) presence of signs of fauna (e.g. list of animal signs NA NA NA NA scats, tracks, feathers, bones etc.)

Each site was assigned an overall condition score of pristine, very good, good, average, poor, degraded or completely degraded. Table 9 lists the factors used to score condition. These factors were developed with reference to the Queensland BioCondition Framework (Eyre et al. 2015).

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Table 9: Factors considered when determining overall condition.

Factor Explanation

Presence, abundance and Timber-cutting, fire, garbage, access tracks and trampling. type of other disturbance

Abundance and impacts of Weed impacts may include toxicity, alteration of vegetation structure / composition, weeds loss of habitat features, and reduced biodiversity.

Extent, type and severity of Forms of erosion include mass failure, streambank, gully, rill and sheet erosion. erosion

Abundance of large trees Large trees are important in water and nutrient cycling and provide breeding, relative to the undisturbed sheltering and foraging habitat. community.

Recruitment of canopy Saplings indicate that the community is regenerating species

Height and cover of canopy Remnant vegetation is defined as vegetation where the dominant canopy has relative to the undisturbed greater than 70% of the height and greater than 50% of the cover relative to the community. undisturbed height and cover of that stratum and dominated by species characteristic of the vegetation’s undisturbed canopy.

Cover of shrubs and Shrubs and grasses provide breeding, sheltering and foraging habitat. Grasses are grasses relative to the important in maintaining soil condition. undisturbed RE

Health of trees Tree health may be impacted by diseases or changes in water / nutrient availability, competition, herbivory or parasitism.

Logs and litter abundance Logs and litter provide breeding, sheltering and foraging habitat and are important relative to the undisturbed in maintaining soil condition. RE

Animals and handling

Trapped and observed animals were (where possible):

• identified to species level

• aged (adult, sub-adult, juvenile)

• assessed for reproductive status (breeding, pouch young, etc.).

All trapped animals were released unharmed at the point of capture and all surveys were conducted in accordance with Ecosure’s Scientific Purposes Permit (WISP14585414) and Animal Ethics approval (CA2015/01/836).

3.8.4.2 Observational survey methods

Habitat assessment

Fauna habitat assessments (as described in Section 3.8.4.1) were conducted at all 51 observational survey sites (as well as at the detailed survey sites).

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Bird surveys

Bird surveys were undertaken at all observational survey sites. Vocalisations and sightings were recorded using the random meander survey technique for a period of 30 person minutes at each site. Some opportunistic bird surveys were conducted throughout the morning (at the same time as habitat assessments). However, the time of day was not considered to be a limitation to the survey efforts undertaken for birds.

Diurnal reptile searches

Approximately 0.5 person hour (two people for 15 minutes) was spent at each observational survey site hand searching for cryptic fauna, including raking of leaf litter, opening or turning over of deadfall timber and turning over rocks and other debris. Burrows were investigated where safe to do so.

3.8.4.3 Targeted survey methods

Targeted search site - koalas (Spot Assessment Technique surveys)

The EPBC Act referral guideline (DoE 2014b) for the vulnerable koala recommends the SAT for surveying koala (among several others). Because the majority of the vegetation is mapped as woodland and that very little riparian vegetation occurs on site, SAT assessments were undertaken using a 1 km grid based system, with a SAT site proposed at each grid intersection where it overlay remnant vegetation. This ensured that activity for koala was assessed evenly across the site. Additional SAT assessments were undertaken along riparian areas when encountered. This is within the best practice guidelines for this technique (Philips and Callaghan 2011).

Each SAT survey site was assessed using the methodology as designed by Philips and Callaghan (2011). A central tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) >100 mm was selected, flagged and coordinates recorded using a handheld GPS device. Using this tree as a site centre-point, the 29 closest trees over 100 mm DBH were then searched for koala faecal pellets and the species of the tree and its DBH (mm) was recorded. Koala faecal pellet surveys were undertaken at the base of each of the 30 survey trees within each survey site, using the 1 m search protocol of Philips and Callaghan (2011) to determine the extent of tree use and associated activity by koalas. Surveys at each SAT site also incorporated a search for koalas in every tree within a 25 m radius of the centre tree (0.196 ha) by two personnel.

Targeted search site - Brigalow Belt reptiles

Areas that were mapped as containing large patches of woodland or brigalow or were likely to contain rocky areas or gilgais were chosen as targeted search sites for Brigalow Belt reptiles. At these sites extra, active search effort (in addition to observational site methods) was employed to find Brigalow Belt reptiles. The search methods included:

• peeling bark off trees

• turning logs and rocks

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• inspecting log piles and any burrows (for signs of yakka skink)

• inspecting cracks in clay soils.

At least 1.5 person hours (two people for 45 mins) was spent searching a 1 ha area at each site.

Targeted search site – Australian painted snipe

Surveys for Australian painted snipe were undertaken at dams where habitat assessment and/ or aerial imagery indicated that there may be vegetation present on the edges.

At each survey location, one person hour was spent at either dawn or dusk observing birds using the waterbody.

Targeted search site – micro-bats

One bat detector (a Songmeter or Anabat) or two harp traps was placed at locations (outside of observational and detailed sites) that contained good quality bat habitat. The detectors or harps were left in the habitat for one to two nights. Calls were analysed by a bat call analysis specialist, Greg Ford, on completion of the survey. Bats captured in the harps were released at the point of capture.

Targeted search site - swift parrot

Areas mapped as being dominated by eucalypts were targeted for swift parrot. At these sites a habitat assessment was conducted to determine the presence of food tree species. In addition, a one person hour bird survey was conducted either late in the afternoon or in the early morning to detect the presence of swift parrot. Sites with flowering trees were given higher priority.

Targeted search site - greater glider

Areas containing large, mature, hollow bearing eucalypts, particularly those that had flowering trees, were targeted for greater glider. At these sites a two person hour spotlight survey (on foot or in the vehicle) was conducted.

3.8.4.4 Incidental sightings

Any fauna seen outside of the any of the survey sites were recorded to provide a list of species occurring in the local area.

3.8.5 Survey effort in relation to published survey guidelines

The Federal Government has published recommended survey guidelines for the survey of threatened species. These include:

• survey guidelines for Australia's threatened reptiles (DEWHA 2011)

• survey guidelines for Australia's threatened mammals (DSEWPaC 2011b)

• survey guidelines for Australia's threatened bats (DEWHA 2010a)

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• survey guidelines for Australia's threatened frogs (DEWHA 2010b)

• survey guidelines for Australia's threatened birds (DEWHA 2010c). In addition, some specific fauna or fauna groups have draft referral guidelines which include specific targeted survey guidelines. The relevant draft guidelines for this project include:

• Draft referral guidelines for the nationally listed Brigalow Belt reptiles (not limited to the Brigalow Belt Bioregion) (DSEWPaC 2011a)

• EPBC Act Administrative Guidelines on Significance - Supplement for the grey-headed flying-fox, Pteropus poliocephalus (DEH 2003)

• EPBC Act referral guideline for the vulnerable koala (combined populations of Queensland, New South Wales and ACT) (DoE 2014b)

• EPBC Act referral guidelines for the endangered northern quoll, Dasyurus hallucatus (DoE 2016b).

In cases where a specific survey guideline exists for a species (e.g. the northern quoll) and the recommended methods differ from the generic survey guidelines, the species-specific guideline was used.

None of these guidelines are mandatory, but they outline the recommended effort and methods for EPBC Act listed species.

Similarly, the Queensland Government has released the Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey Guidelines for Queensland, which has generic survey guideline methods for all terrestrial fauna species (Eyre et al. 2014). Species specific survey guidelines have been developed for some species which are relevant to the project including:

• Targeted species survey guidelines- Glossy black-cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami (Hourigan 2012)

• Targeted species survey guidelines- Yakka skink Egernia rugosa (Ferguson 2014)

• Targeted species survey guidelines- Grey snake Hemiaspis damelii (Rowland 2012b)

• Targeted species survey guidelines- Painted honeyeater Grantiella picta (Rowland 2012a).

These methods were also considered when determining the methods used although federal guidelines were followed, if available, for EPBC Act listed species. Table 10 lists the recommended survey timing for each of the conservation significant species potentially occurring within the study area.

Table 11 identifies the threatened and conservation significant terrestrial fauna species which are predicted to occur (based on desktop review data) in the study area, as well as a comparison of the recommended survey method and effort undertaken by Ecosure for each species. The overall effort for each method undertaken during the field surveys is shown in Table 12.

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The methods and effort undertaken during these surveys is considered adequate to detect those species which are likely to occur with consideration of the level of previous survey effort undertaken by BAAM (2006) and AARC (2013).

Table 10: Recommended survey timing for each of the conservation significant species potentially inhabiting the study area. Conservation Survey Status1 Timing Scientific Name Common Name Suitable Survey Timing NC EPBC Met Act Act General Survey Timing – Brigalow Belt (Eyre et al. 2014) Spring (September to mid- Yes November). Reptiles five-clawed worm- Yes Anomalopus E V mackayi skink Delma torquata collared delma V V Late September to late March Yes ornamental snake (DSEWPaC 2011a). Yes Denisonia maculata Egernia rugosa yakka skink V V Yes Furina dunmalli Dunmall’s snake V V Yes Hemiaspis damelii grey snake E - Spring to summer Yes Strophurus No specified timing. Should be Yes taenicauda golden-tailed gecko NT - detectable during the warmer months. Birds glossy black-cockatoo Any time of year (Hourigan Yes Calyptorhynchus V - lathami 2012) red goshawk No specific survey period Yes Erythrotriorchis E V radiatus (DEWHA 2010c) Falco hypoleucos grey falcon V - No specified timing. Yes Gallinago Latham’s snipe Non-breeding migrant from Yes Japan. Arrive in Australia hardwickii - M September and leave in mid- April. squatter pigeon No specific survey period Yes Geophaps scripta V V scripta (southern) (DEWHA 2010c) painted honeyeater Early spring to late summer Yes Grantiella picta V V (Rowland 2012a) Lathamus discolor swift parrot E CE March to July (DEWHA 2010c) Yes black-throated finch Late dry season to early wet Yes Poephila cincta E E cincta (southern) season (DEWHA 2010c) Australian painted No specific survey period Yes Rostratula V E australis snipe (DEWHA 2010c) Mammals large-eared pied bat October to March (DEWHA Yes Chalinolobus V V dwyeri 2010a). northern quoll May to August (DSEWPaC Yes Dasyurus - E hallucatus 2011b). south-eastern long- October to April (DEWHA Yes Nyctophilus V V corbeni eared bat 2010a).

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Conservation Survey Status1 Timing Scientific Name Common Name Suitable Survey Timing Met NC EPBC Act Act Petauroides greater glider No specified timing, detectable Yes volans - V during the general survey timing above koala August to January (DoEE Yes Phascolarctos V V cinereus 2014b). Pteropus grey-headed flying-fox No specified timing, detectable Yes poliocephalus - V during the general survey timing above. Tachyglossus short-beaked echidna No specified timing, detectable Yes aculeatus SLC - during the general survey timing above.

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Table 11: Conservation significant fauna species predicted to occur within the study area and the State and Commonwealth recommended survey guidelines for each species in comparison to the actual effort undertaken by Ecosure.

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act Delma torquata V V • Timed in late spring – early • Timed from late No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in Collared delma summer September to late March General survey requirements October • Six x 4-10 L buckets over • Active searching for reptiles that will be relevant • Pitfall and funnel trapping 15 m fence with funnel microhabitats (one off are (Eyre et al. 2014): for 212 trap nights at six traps (DEWHA 2011) searches). Survey over a • Pitfall trapping: four detailed sites with suitable • Active searching minimum of 1.5 person buckets at 7.5 m intervals habitat microhabitats (one off hours per hectare and T design, 45 m fence / four • Active diurnal searching for searches) and raking survey over a minimum of nights 38 hours over 13 days (8 3 days (DSEWPaC 2011a) through leaf litter (DEWHA • Funnel trapping: six days in October and 5 days 2011) funnels 3 m intervals on in winter) distal ends of T-design 45 m fence for four nights • Diurnal active searches - two x 30 person min search within two different 50 x 50 m quadrats • Nocturnal active searches - two x 30 person-min searches within the 100 x 100 survey site • Scat and sign search - two x 30 person min search within two different 50 x 50 m quadrats Denisonia V V • Timed in late spring – early • Timed from late No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in maculata summer September to late March General survey requirements October Ornamental • Searches around gilgais • Active searching for reptiles that will be relevant • Pitfall and funnel trapping snake while frogs are active (if microhabitats (one off are (Eyre et al. 2014): for 72 trap nights at two suitable habitat is present) searches). Survey over a • Pitfall trapping: four detailed sites with suitable • Spotlighting along roads minimum of 1.5 person buckets at 7.5 m intervals habitat after wet weather hours per hectare and T design, 45 m fence / four • Active diurnal searching for survey over a minimum of nights 38 hours over 13 days (8 3 days (DSEWPaC 2011a) • Funnel trapping: six days in October and 5 days • Spotlighting (DSEWPaC funnels 3 m intervals on in winter) at 56 locations 2011a) distal ends of T-design 45 • Spotlighting active searches • Opportunistic surveys of m fence for four nights at six sites for 12 person

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act roads (after rain) • Diurnal active searches - hours (DSEWPaC 2011a) two x 30 person min • Spotlighting along roads for • Pitfall and funnel trapping. search within two different 10 person hours 6 x 20 L buckets over 30 50 x 50 m quadrats m fence, funnel at each • Nocturnal active searches end, 2 replicates per - two x 30 person-min habitat type over 4 days searches within the 100 x (DSEWPaC 2011a) 100 survey site • Scat and sign search - two x 30 person min search within two different 50 x 50 m quadrats Egernia rugosa V V • Timed from late • Timed from late • Any time of year but best • Surveys were undertaken in Yakka skink September to late March September to late March completed in the warmer October • Searches for burrow and • Active searching months from mid- • 480 Elliot trap nights in communal defecation sites microhabitats (one off September suitable habitat transect searches searches). Survey over a • 20 minutes diurnal active • Pitfall and funnel trapping (DEWHA 2011) minimum of 1.5 person searching per ha for 72 trap nights at two • Spotlighting down potential hours per hectare and (searching 20% of habitat detailed sites with suitable burrows (DEWHA 2011) survey over a minimum of when 50 ha or more is habitat 3 days (DSEWPaC present and 40% when • Elliot trapping around 2011a).Transects • Active diurnal searching for burrows (DEWHA 2011) less than 50 ha is present) 38 hours over 13 days (8 searching for colonies (Ferguson 2014) • Observation with (DSEWPaC 2011a) days in October and 5 days binoculars (DEWHA 2011) • 20 min scanning suitable in winter) at 57 locations • Elliot and cage trapping micro-habitats over 3 days around suspected burrows • Spotlighting active searches (DSEWPaC 2011a) • 12 camera nights per at six sites for 12 person colony (if found) hours • Observation with binoculars (DSEWPaC • Funnel, Elliot or Cage 2011a) traps for 60 trap nights per colony (if found) • Spotlighting (DSEWPaC 2011a)

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act Furina dunmalli V V • Timed from late • Timed from late • Any time of year but best • Surveys were undertaken in Dunmall’s snake September to late March September to late March completed in the warmer October • Active searches (DEWHA • Active searching months from mid- • Pitfall and funnel trapping 2011) microhabitats (one off September for 72 trap nights at two • Road driving (after rain) searches). Survey over a • 20 minutes diurnal active detailed sites with suitable (DEWHA 2011) minimum of 1.5 person searching per ha habitat hours per hectare and (searching 20% of habitat • Active diurnal searching for • Pitfall trapping (DEWHA survey over a minimum of 2011) when 50 ha or more is 38 hours over 13 days (8 3 days (DSEWPaC 2011a) present and 40% when days in October and 5 days • Spotlighting. Survey over a less than 50 ha is present) in winter) at 56 locations minimum of 1.5 person (Ferguson 2014) hours per hectare and survey over a minimum of • Spotlighting active searches 3 days (DSEWPaC 2011a) • 20 min scanning suitable at six sites for 12 person micro-habitats over 3 days hours • Transects searches (DSEWPaC 2011a) • 12 camera nights per • Spotlighting along roads for colony (if found) 10 person hours • Pitfall and funnel trapping. 6 x 20 L buckets over 30 • Funnel, Elliot or Cage m fence, funnel at each traps for 60 trap nights per end, 2 replicates per colony (if found) habitat type over 4 days (DSEWPaC 2011a) • Opportunistic surveys of roads (after rain) (DSEWPaC 2011a) Hemiaspis E - N/A N/A • Timed from spring to • Surveys were undertaken in damelii summer October Grey snake • Driving along roads over 2 • Pitfall and funnel trapping nights (Rowland 2012b) for 72 trap nights at two • Passive nocturnal detailed sites with suitable searches using spotlights, habitat 2 x 30 person minute • Active diurnal searching for searches, conducted 2 38 hours over 13 days (8 times days in October and 5 days • Active diurnal searches in winter) at 56 locations looking under logs, rocks • Spotlighting active searches

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act between mid-morning and at six sites for 12 person mid-afternoon, 2 x 30 hours person minute searches, • Spotlighting along roads for conducted 2 times 10 person hours Strophurus NT - N/A N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in taenicauda General survey requirements October Golden-tailed for reptiles that will be relevant • Active diurnal searching for gecko are (Eyre et al. 2014): 38 hours over 13 days (8 • Diurnal active searches - days in October and 5 days two x 30 person min in winter) at 56 locations search within two different 50 x 50 m quadrats • Nocturnal active searches • Spotlighting active searches - two x 30 person-min at six sites for 12 person searches within the 100 x hours 100 survey site

Birds Calyptorhynchus V - N/A N/A • Can be surveyed any time • Surveys were undertaken in lathami of year (Hourigan 2012) October and July Glossy black- • Bird survey for 5 hours • 59.5 person hours of bird cockatoo over at least one day for surveys were conducted at every 50 ha of habitat 56 locations • Search for foraging and nesting signs over 20 hours over 4 days

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act Erythrotriorchis E V • Search for their N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in radiatus characteristic nests within General survey requirements October and July patches of the tallest forest Red goshawk for birds that will be relevant • 59.5 person hours of bird • Area searches (50 hrs/5 are (Eyre et al. 2014): surveys were conducted at days for 50 ha) (DEWHA • Six 5-10 min area 56 locations in additional to 2010c) searches within 100 x 100 incidental observations of • Driving slowly through m survey site birds while travelling around woodland (DEWHA 2010c) the site • Searches for nests were undertaken at 56 locations as well as incidentally while travelling between sites Geophaps V V • Area searches or transect N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in scripta subsp. searches (15 hrs/3 days) General survey requirements October and July scripta (DEWHA 2010c) for birds that will be relevant • 59.5 person hours of bird Squatter pigeon • Flushing surveys (10 hrs/3 are (Eyre et al. 2014): surveys were conducted at (southern) days) (DEWHA 2010c) • Six 5-10 min area 56 locations in addition to searches within 100 x 100 incidental observations of m survey site birds while travelling around the site Painted V V N/A N/A • Timed in early spring to • Surveys were undertaken in honeyeater late summer early in the October and July Painted morning or late in the • 59.5 person hours of bird honeyeater afternoon (Rowland surveys were conducted at 2012a) 56 locations in addition to • Area searches for at least incidental observations of one hour per day over 4 birds while travelling around days per 50 ha the site

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• Check black-faced • Bird surveys undertaken at woodswallow flocks in 11 dams early wet season (DEWHA 2010c) • Area search (10 hrs/5 days) for 50 ha (DEWHA 2010c) • Targeted searches at waterholes and woodswallow nests (6 hrs/2days) (DEWHA 2010c) Rostratula V E, M • Targeted stationary N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in australis observation (10 hrs/5 General survey requirements October and July Australian days) for 50 ha sites at for birds that will be relevant • Bird surveys undertaken at painted snipe wetlands with water but are (Eyre et al. 2014): 11 dams not flooded (DEWHA 2010c) • Six 5-10 min area • Only one site had suitable searches within 100 x 100 vegetation around it. 8 • Active search/line m survey site person hours over two days transects (10 hrs / 3days) (dusk and dawn) were spent for 50 ha sites at wetlands watching for birds. Calls with water but not flooded from Australian painted (DEWHA 2010c) snipe were also played to • Spotlighting after dusk at elicit a response wetlands (DEWHA 2010c)

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act Mammals Chalinolobus V V • Timed from October to N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in dwyeri March General survey requirements October Large-eared • Passive echolocation (16 for bats in Queensland are: • Harp tarps were set for a pied bat nights/4 nights for 50 ha) • One bat detector for three total of 30 trap nights at 8 (DSEWPaC 2011b) nights (Eyre et al. 2014) locations with suitable habitat • Active echolocation • Harp traps - minimum of walking (2 hr minimum at two trap nights per dawn and dusk) (6 hours/3 sampling site (Eyre et al. • Anabats were used over 25 nights for 50 ha) 2012) nights at 7 locations. (DSEWPaC 2011b) • Three sites were specifically • Roost searches targeted for micro-bats (DSEWPaC 2011b) (outside detailed and • Harp traps may be used observational sites) but echolocation better (16 TN/ four nights for 50 ha). Best placed near suspected roosts (DSEWPaC 2011c) Dasyurus - E • Timed in May to August • Surveys should be No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in hallucatus • Trapping surveys undertaken from May to General survey requirements July and October Northern quoll conducted between May August for small mammals that will be • 34 camera trap nights were and August. Cage traps or • Reconnaissance survey to relevant are (Eyre et al. 2014): conducted at 16 locations large Elliots-baited with identify potential habitat • Cage trapping – one trap (at detailed and targeted oats, sardine and peanut per site open for four sites). Cameras were baited butter (DSEWPaC 2011c) • If habitat warrants further with meat to attract quolls surveys, large Elliots or nights (4 trap nights per • Alternatively, searches for cage traps should be used site) • Habitat assessments were habitat resources, (DoEE 2016b) • Elliot trapping – 20 traps at conducted at 56 locations. searches for latrines, sand 5-10 m intervals along 100 No suitable habitat was traps, remote cameras, m transects; open for 4 identified hair tubes, spotlighting can nights (80 trap nights) also be used (DSEWPaC 2011c)

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act Nyctophilus V V • Timed to occur in October N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in corbeni South- to April General survey requirements October eastern long- • Passive echolocation for bats that will be relevant are • Harp tarps were set for a eared bat (DSEWPaC 2011b) (Eyre et al. 2014): total of 30 trap nights at 8 • Harp traps (20 trap nights • One bat detector for three locations with suitable over five nights for 50 ha) nights (Eyre et al. 2014) habitat. (DSEWPaC 2011b) • Harp traps - minimum of • Anabats were used over 25 two trap nights per nights at 7 locations sampling site (Eyre et al. • Three sites were specifically 2014) targeted for micro-bats (outside detailed and observational sites) Petauroides - V N/A N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in volans General survey requirements October and July Greater glider for arboreal mammals that will • Spotlighting was undertaken be relevant are (Eyre et al. for 33 person hours across 2014) the site • nocturnal vehicle transects • A targeted search in the most suitable habitat for greater glider for 2 person hours Phascolarctos V V N/A • Habitat assessment – • Spot Assessment • Surveys were undertaken in cinereus Koala habitat assessment Technique (SAT) October and July tool (DoE 2014a) developed by (Philips and Koala • 22 SAT assessments were • Strip transects (DoE Callaghan 2011) (Eyre et conducted in remnant 2014b) al. 2014) vegetation across July and • Nocturnal spotlighting October (DoE 2014b) • Additional assessments • Spot Assessment were conducted along creek Technique (SAT) lines at observational sites developed by Phillips and • Spotlighting was undertaken Callaghan (2011). Grid for 33 person hours across search over a study area. the site The size of the grid can vary depending on predicted koala density

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Conservation 1 Commonwealth species- Queensland guideline Status Commonwealth (EPBC Act) Effort and method undertaken by Scientific name specific EPBC Act referral EPBC survey guidelines Ecosure NC Act guidelines Act and habitat. Searching for scats (within a 1 m radius) of the base of 30 trees (with DBH greater than 10 cm) at each grid site (DoE 2014b) Pteropus - V • Daytime field surveys for N/A No species-specific guidelines. • Surveys were undertaken in poliocephalus camps (DSEWPaC 2011b) General survey requirements October and July Grey-headed • Surveys of vegetation for mammals that will be • Spotlighting was undertaken flying-fox communities and food relevant are (Eyre et al. 2014): for 33 person hours across plants (DSEWPaC 2011b) • Searches for flying fox the site. • Night time surveys walking camps (Eyre et al. 2014) • Nearest know camp 200 km transects (100 m apart), • Habitat assessment (plant to south-east (DoEE 2017a) may include night-time food trees) (Eyre et al. audio recordings 2014) (DSEWPaC 2011b) • Spotlighting – two 30 person minute spotlight search within 100 x 100 m, survey site (Eyre et al. 2014) Tachyglossus SLC - N/A N/A No species-specific guidelines. • No specific surveys were aculeatus Short- General survey requirements conducted for this species beaked echidna for small mammals that will be as they are likely to be relevant are (Eyre et al. 2014): present across the site • Diurnal active searches - • 56 habitat assessments two x 30 person min were conducted and any search within two different signs of scats or diggings 50 x 50 m quadrats from this species were recorded

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Table 12: Survey effort for each method employed during field surveys in July and October 2016.

July (winter) October (spring) Total Total Total Total effort Unit of Total effort – effort Total effort – Method effort- effort- (excluding effort observational/targeted (excluding observational/targeted detailed detailed incidental sites incidental sites sites sites sightings) sightings) Elliott A Trap nights 0 0 0 480 0 480 Funnels Trap nights 0 0 0 144 0 144 Pitfalls Trap nights 0 0 0 68* 0 68 Cages Trap nights 0 0 0 24 0 24 Cameras Camera 0 10 10 24 0 24 nights Bat detector Detector 0 0 0 24 1 25 (SongMeter/ nights Anabat) Spotlighting Person 0 13^ 13 12 8^ 20 and hours nocturnal active searches Diurnal Person 0 14.5 14.5 12 11.5 23.5 active hours searches Person 0 31.5 31.5 12 16 28 Bird surveys hours Harp trap Trap nights 0 0 0 24 6 30

* one site had only two pits instead of the three used at the other sites. ^ these hours included searching along roads for all species and were limited by fatigue restrictions set by Syntech.

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4 Analysis

4.1 Identification

Animals were identified using appropriate field guides and identification keys in the field. Scats and hairs collected during the field surveys were analysed by Barbara Triggs from Dead Finish. Bat calls were analysed by Greg Ford from Balance! Environmental.

4.2 Habitat mapping

Habitat for conservation significant species potentially occurring in the study area was mapped using ground-truthed RE mapping. Table 13 shows the REs which were considered potential habitat for the conservation significant species recorded within the study area. In addition to the REs in Table 13, some brigalow and riparian regrowth was mapped and provides habitat for the koala, grey snake and glossy black-cockatoo.

Table 13: Ground-truthed regional ecosystems used to map potential habitat for the conservation significant species recorded.

Species REs used in potential habitat mapping

Koala Habitat containing primary koala food trees*: 11.3.25 and 11.3.4 Potential*: 11.7.4, 11.5.1, 11.5.1a, 11.3.2, 11.7.7 (REs dominated by eucalypts)

Grey snake 11.3.25, 11.4.3, 11.3.1 and dense woodland regrowth occurring along Drainage Line 1.

Glossy black-cockatoo 11.5.1, 11.4.3, 11.4.10, 11.3.1, 11.7.7, 11.3.25 and woodland regrowth occurring along Drainage Line 1.

Short-beaked echidna All cleared, remnant and regrowth habitat in the study area.

Yakka skink All woodland REs with the exception of RE11.4.10, 11.4.3 and areas of 11.5.1. Some areas of RE 11.5.1, and all of REs 11.4.10 and 11.4.3 were not considered potential habitat for yakka skink due to the absence of suitable micro-habitat features (i.e. fallen timber, wood piles and rocks).

*in this report habitat containing primary koala food trees is defined as any RE dominated by primary food tree species as listed for the Western Downs Regional Council in Mitchell (2012) and potential habitat is any other eucalypt dominated RE. The occurrence of RE 11.4.10 and RE 11.3.1 in the study area are not considered habitat for the koala as the occurences lack koala food trees. RE 11.4.10 in the study area is dominated by Belah (Section 5.1). RE 11.3.1 is dominated by Brigalow (Section 5.1) and would not be cleared for the Project (Section 6.1).

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5 Results

5.1 Fauna habitats

Nine broad habitat types were recorded within the study area (Figure 5):

• riparian woodland

• woodlands on stony soils

• woodlands on sands

• woodlands on alluvial soils

• brigalow

• belah

• woodland regrowth

• dams and wetlands

• non-remnant cleared areas. The majority of the study area is cleared grassland. The majority of the remnant vegetation is woodland, much of which has been disturbed through logging and grazing. The woodlands are mostly dominated by Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Corymbia citriodora and Callitris glaucophylla and have sparse mid and ground layers (Ecosure, 2018). Rocky areas and small rocky outcrops occur in the woodlands on stony soils. Table 14 summarises the REs and their equivalent habitats available habitats within the study area. Table 15 provides a description of the habitat values in each habitat type. A more detailed description of the habitat values at each survey site is shown in Appendix 2.

RE 11.7.5 (shrublands) were detected as occurring within the study area (Ecosure, 2018), however, field surveys did not find any areas large enough to qualify for mapping. This habitat may occur in small areas within other REs including 11.7.7 and 11.7.2 but as the areas are likely to be small, they are unlikely to support a unique fauna community on their own.

Dams and small natural wetlands are scattered throughout the study area but these are small and not mapped.

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Table 14: Ground-truthed regional ecosystems and habitats within the study area. Ground- truthed BD Status VM Act Class Short description Habitat RE

11.3.1 Endangered Endangered Acacia harpophylla and/or Casuarina cristata open Brigalow forest on alluvial plains

11.3.2 Of concern Of Concern Eucalyptus populnea woodland on alluvial plains Woodland on alluvial soils

11.3.4 Of Concern Least Concern Eucalyptus tereticornis and/or Eucalyptus spp. Woodland on woodland on alluvial plains alluvial soils

11.3.25 Of Concern Endangered Eucalyptus tereticornis or E. camaldulensis Riparian woodland fringing drainage lines woodland

11.4.3 Endangered Least Concern Acacia harpophylla and/or Casuarina cristata Brigalow shrubby open forest on Cainozoic clay plains

11.4.10 Endangered Endangered Eucalyptus populnea or E. woollsiana, Acacia Belah harpophylla, Casuarina cristata open forest to woodland on margins of Cainozoic clay plains

11.5.1 No concern at Least Concern Eucalyptus crebra and/or E. populnea, Callitris Woodlands (including present glaucophylla, Angophora leiocarpa, Allocasuarina on sands 11.5.1a) luehmannii woodland on Cainozoic sand plains and/or remnant surfaces

11.7.2 No concern at Least Concern Acacia spp. woodland on Cainozoic lateritic Woodland on present duricrust. Scarp retreat zone stony soils

11.7.4 No concern at Least Concern Eucalyptus decorticans and/or Eucalyptus spp., Woodland on present Corymbia spp., Acacia spp., Lysicarpus stony soils angustifolius woodland on Cainozoic lateritic duricrust

11.7.7 No concern at Least Concern Eucalyptus fibrosa subsp. nubila ± Corymbia spp. Woodland on present ± Eucalyptus spp. woodland on Cainozoic lateritic stony soils duricrust

Regrowth - - This habitat consists of regrowth of woodland REs Woodland (non-remnant) regrowth

Cleared n/a - Most of these areas will consist of modified pasture Cleared with or without regrowth. Some native grasses may remain (non-remnant).

Cameby Downs Continued Operation Project – Terrestrial Fauna Assessment ecosure.com.au | 53 Broad habitat types Belah BrigalowStevensons Road Dam Non-remnant cleared areas Riparian woodland Woodland on alluvials Woodland on stony soils Woodland regrowth Woodlands on sands

B Tennysons Road

Boort-Koi Road

A G raha ms Road

RyallsRoad

Davies Road

C Kerrs Road Warrego Highway

BrownliesRoad

Indicative extent of additional surface Figure 5: Broad habitat types development Syntech Existing/approved extent of operations Fauna survey report Ecology survey study area Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP5_FA_HabitatTypes ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4

Table 15: Fauna habitats occurring within the study area.

REs in study Photo Description Habitat values Habitat type area

Woodlands on This habitat occurs on the floodplains 11.3.2 These communities generally have very little or no alluvial soils around creeks. They are dominated 11.3.4 midstorey. Grasses in the understorey, when not by E. tereticornis or E. populnea. grazed, are likely to provide good foraging They generally have a sparse to opportunities for herbivores including wallabies and moderate mid storey but have grass kangaroos. Eucalyptus populnea and E. tereticornis cover consisting of Arundinella are food tree species for koala and provide good nepalensis and introduced pasture foraging opportunities for nectivorous birds when grasses. flowering. These habitats generally have little to no ground debris so provide few sheltering opportunities for small mammals and reptiles unless they burrow.

Riparian This habitat is dominated by E. 11.3.25 Both large and small hollows are present in this woodland tereticornis but Casuarina cristata habitat making it important habitat for arboreal and E. populnea were present in mammals and hollow dependent nesting birds. some areas. Water was present in Fallen timber is common which provides foraging pools and sheltering opportunities for small mammals and reptiles. The trees along these riparian corridors (eucalypts) will also produce prolific nectar seasonally so will be an important foraging source for nectivorous birds. The presence of water (even seasonally) could also attract a variety of animals to these habitats.

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REs in study Photo Description Habitat values Habitat type area

Woodlands on This habitat is dominated by 11.7.7 Eucalypts in this habitat would provide foraging stony soils Eucalypts (mainly E. crebra, E. 11.7.4 opportunities for nectivorous birds and mammals. fibrosa or C. citriodora) or Acacia Rocks and rocky outcrops will provide sheltering 11.7.2 (particularly Acacia shirleyi). The opportunities for reptiles and amphibians. This substrate is mostly rocky with sand habitat generally has abundant fallen timber and and rocky outcrops are scattered shedding bark which could provide additional throughout the habitat. The soils are foraging opportunities for reptiles. generally poor so ground cover is generally sparse to absent and dominated by Kunzea opposita, Aristida caput-medusae and Bulbostylis barbata in the ground layer.

Woodlands on This habitat is dominated by 11.5.1 Eucalypts in this habitat would provide foraging sands Eucalyptus woolsiana, E. crebra opportunities for nectivorous birds and mammals. Callitris glaucophylla, Angophora Small hollows were absent to common and would leiocarpa and Allocasuarina provide roosting and breeding habitat for arboreal luehmannii. Acacias (A. semilunata, mammals, bats and hollow dependent birds. The A. muelleriana, A. ixiophylla, A. grassy understorey would provide habitat foraging leiocalyx, A. conferta).generally form opportunities for granivorous birds and mammals. a discontinuous mid-canopy/shrub Ground debris and leaf litter are generally scattered layer. Ground layers in these to common and these would provide sheltering woodlands are either sparse opportunities for small mammals and reptiles. (beneath dense C. glaucophylla) to moderately dense, with grasses, sedges and mat rushes dominant (Aristida caput-medusae, A. jerichoensis, Ancistrachne uncinulata, Cymbopogon refractus, Cleistochloa subjuncea, Chloris divaricata, Walwhalleya proluta, Lomandra multiflora, Laxmannia compacta, Gahnia aspera). Dodonaea biloba is also locally common as a prostrate shrub.

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REs in study Photo Description Habitat values Habitat type area

Brigalow These habitats are dominated by 11.3.1 All of the REs associated with these habitats are brigalow Acacia harpophylla. Other 11.4.3 very restricted in distribution in Queensland with species often occur in the canopy most of the remaining vegetation in scattered

including Casuarina cristata and isolated patches. Although no brigalow-dependent Eucalyptus populnea, which differ in fauna species were recorded in these habitats their abundance on soil type. The during surveys, these patches may be important for mid storey in these communities is species dependent on these vegetation generally sparse to absent but can communities. include Geijera parviflora, Carissa ovata and Eremophila mitchellii. The ground storey is generally dominated by Paspalidium caespitosum, Ancistrachne uncinulata and Enchylaena tomentosa and Enteropogon ramosus. The soils vary from heavy clays to alluvial sands. In areas with heavier clays, gilgais are present.

Belah Belah (Casuarina cristata) is present 11.4.10 In the absence of brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) in in a number of REs but is especially this patch, habitat values are similar to those of dominant in an area of RE 11.4.10. adjacent woodlands on sandy soils. Eucalypts in Eucalyptus woollsiana is co- this habitat would provide foraging opportunities for dominant with belah. nectivorous birds and mammals. Small hollows were absent to common and would provide roosting and breeding habitat for arboreal mammals, bats and hollow dependent birds. The grassy understorey would provide habitat foraging opportunities for granivorous birds and mammals. Ground debris and leaf litter are generally scattered to common and these would provide sheltering opportunities for small mammals and reptiles. The abundant belah would provide substantial food resources for glossy black-cocktoos.

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REs in study Photo Description Habitat values Habitat type area

Dams No mapped wetlands occur within refer to DPM The majority of dams have no vegetation on the the study area (except for the creeks) Envirosciences edge which means they provide little habitat value but several man-made farm dams (2018) for frogs and limited breeding habitat for most fish. and drainage depressions occur The water would provide some resting opportunities within the study area. The majority of for wetland birds such as ducks and grebes. They these have no vegetation on their would also provide free water for animals during dry banks and little to no aquatic periods. A few dams and drainage depressions vegetation. The dams are regularly contained water and fringing sedges and grasses used by cattle and horses so tend to which could provide some breeding habitat for frogs be trampled on the edges. and sheltering opportunities for wetland birds and reptiles.

Woodland Woodland regrowth occurs generally Regrowth is not Habitat value of the regrowth varies with the age of regrowth on the edges of remnant patches of mapped the regrowth. Older regrowth tends to have larger vegetation or in small patches in trees that may flower and fruit and a more diverse cleared areas. There areas were flora community resulting in more foraging cleared previously but the age of the resources. Newer regrowth often consists of smaller regrowth patches vary across the site eucalypts or monotypic stands of Acacias with little resulting in varying habitat value. diversity. No hollows are usually present but soil Most regrowth consists of juveniles characteristics generally remain the same as prior to of the dominant species prior to clearing. clearing mixed with fast-growing species such as Acacias and grasses.

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REs in study Photo Description Habitat values Habitat type area

Cleared and Native vegetation in this habitat type Non remnant Seeding grasses dominate in these habitat types disturbed areas has largely been cleared for grazing, which provide foraging opportunities for small birds although scattered remnant trees and granivorous and herbivorous mammals. There remain at some survey sites. The are very few sheltering opportunities for most native ground cover at most survey sites species. was dominated by a mix of introduced and native grasses.

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5.1.1 Habitat condition

Habitat condition was assessed at each site according the criteria described in Table 9 and Section 3.8.4.1. Habitat condition in the study area varied widely. Some sites were disturbed from:

• grazing

• roads

• gas wells

• timber felling

• erosion along creeks

• garbage.

The majority of the remaining remnant vegetation was in reasonable condition, probably due to its limited productivity for grazing. Weed abundance was generally low across all the study area with only scattered weeds such as prickly pear (Opuntia stricta and Opuntia tomentosa), buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) and mother-of-millions (Bryophyllum delagoense). Erosion was generally only seen around creek lines and drainage lines. The majority of sites in remnant vegetation retained the structure (mid-storey and ground storey) expected of the RE suggesting little disturbance through clearing or grazing. Patches of regrowth were recorded across the site suggesting that large scale clearing has taken place in recent history. Logging of trees was recorded at some sites, but this appears to not have taken place on a large scale and many large trees still remain across the study area.

A table showing each of the detailed and observational sites and their condition is given in Appendix 2.

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Ecosure records )" Glossy Black-cockatoo )" Koala )" Short-beaked echidna )" Grey snake

)" BAAM records Evidence of Glossy Black ! Cockatoo *# Glossy black-cockatoo *# Grey snake !!!!! *# *# ! ! *# *# #* Koala ! *# Short-beaked Echidna ! *# White-throated Needletail !!!!! !!!!! !!!!! Yakka Skink !!! !!!!!!!!!! *# ! !!!! *#! !!

! !!!! !!! !!!!!! ! !!!!!!! !! !!!! !!!! !!! !! !*#*# )"!"*# !) *# #* ! )"! !!! ! !! ! *#! !*#

! ! ! ! ! *#

)" )" )" )" )" )" )" )")"

Ecology survey study area Figure 6: Conservation significant species Indicative extent of additional surface Syntech development Fauna survey report Existing/approved extent of Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project operations

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP6_FA_EVNT ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4

5.2 Conservation significant fauna species

Four species of conservation significance listed under either the NC Act or EPBC Act were confirmed as occurring in the study area during these field surveys namely:

• koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

• glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami)

• grey snake (Hemiaspis damelii)

• short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus).

The locations of threatened and / or conservation significant species recorded during field surveys are shown in Figure 6.

Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

Koala scats were recorded at five locations, all along or near creek lines (Figure 7). However, no koalas were observed during the survey. An older record by BAAM (2006) is also shown on Figure 7.

The desktop assessment identified one record for koala around 900 m south of the current mine on a creek on the other side of the Warrego Highway. SAT assessments conducted across the study area outside of riparian (or near riparian) habitats did not detect any scats which suggests that these potential koala habitats are rarely used or not used at all by the koala (herein conservatively referred to as secondary potential koala habitat).

Wu et al. (2012) found that koalas in western Queensland preferentially choose feed trees with a high moisture content which are usually found in riparian areas. In a semi-arid environment such as the study area, koalas are likely to concentrate in riparian areas and only use trees outside these areas when water is more freely available. DoEE suggests that koala density in the Brigalow Belt is low, possibly around 0.005 koalas per ha (DoEE 2017b). Based on these numbers and the very small amount of favoured riparian vegetation on the study area, it is likely that only a small number of koalas inhabit the study area.

Areas of regrowth are highly variable in composition, with large areas dominated by Callitris glaucophylla, Allocasuarina luehmannii, Grevillea striata and various Acacia species (A. semilunata and A. shirleyi). Eucalyptus species are also present, representing dominants of the pre-clear REs (e.g. E. crebra, E, fibrosa, E. populnea). However, due to the high variability of the regrowth density and their confinement to poor soil types regrowth vegetation provides limited habitat for this species.

Glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami)

The desktop assessment identified one record of glossy black-cockatoo approximately 5 km north-east of the study area. Glossy black-cockatoo were recorded at six sites within the study area (Figure 8). These records were located within woodland with Allocasuarina luehmannii which is a preferred feed tree species. Glossy black cockatoos prefer casuarina

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and allocasuarina fruits that contain a high nutrient value more likely to be found on mature trees. Glossy black-cockatoos are likely to occur in habitats in the site with Allocasuarina species. However, these birds travel long distances to access foraging resources so are likely to move in and around the study area at different times of the year.

Grey snake (Hemiaspis damelii)

Grey snake was recorded at only one location within the study area (along the creek, east of Boort-Koi Rd) but was also recorded within the study area in 2006 (AARC 2013b) (Figure 6, Figure 9). Two records for grey snake also lie next to the Warrego Highway around 10.5 km east of the study area.

This species inhabits woodlands often on cracking clay or heavy soils usually in association with waterbodies or gilgais. The grey snake recorded on site was found in the vicinity of a creek on alluvial soils in RE 11.3.1.

The habitat for this species within the study area is likely to be limited to the riparian areas in the south of the study area (including the woodland dense regrowth along Drainage Line 1, but excluding regrowth vegetation on poorer soil types which do not provide habitat for this species) and patches of brigalow (RE 11.3.1 and 11.4.3), particularly those areas near water or with gilgais.

Short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

The short-beaked echidna was recorded by diggings at many locations across the study area as well as during spotlighting west of Ryall’s Road and east of Ryall’s Road in the existing mine lease (Figure 6). This species is abundant across Australia in most habitat types and is likely to inhabit the whole study area.

Other conservation significant fauna species

Three other conservation significant fauna species which were not recorded during the field survey but are considered to potentially occur based on habitat assessment are discussed below:

• yakka skink (Egernia rugosa)

• golden-tailed gecko (Strophurus taenicauda)

• painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta).

Yakka skink

The report prepared by BAAM (2006) reported that a yakka skink was found within the study area in 2006 (refer to Figure 6). ALA also has an old (1987) record around 10 km south of the current mine. Subsequently, searches were conducted in 2013 by AARC and by Ecosure in 2016 for the yakka skink and none were found. Burrows which could have been used by the yakka skink (or a similar sized animal) were found in suitable habitat but these were old and showed no evidence of recent occupation. Potential habitat for yakka skink is shown on

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Figure 10. Areas of REs 11.3.4, 11.4.10 and 1.5.1 were not mapped as suitable habitat as micro-habitat features such as logs, windrows and rocks did not occur.

Yakka skink are generally found in a variety of habitats including woodlands dominated by brigalow, poplar box, ironbark, Callitris, mulga, bendee and lancewood (DoEE 2017). They occur on a variety of soils including rock, sand, clays and loamy red earths. Because of their wide habitat preferences and highly cryptic nature they are difficult to locate during surveys. Despite not detecting the species, it is still possible that yakka skink occurs within the study area. The areas of regrowth in the Project area does not include woodlands and open forests with microhabitat features of large logs that are necessary to support this species.

Golden-tailed gecko

Golden-tailed gecko has been recorded around 8 km south-west of the study area (ALA 2016), however the species has not been previously recorded within the study area. They prefer habitats with an abundance of shedding bark and hollow limbs, which are often common in areas with Callitris, Allocasuarina and brigalow. Some areas within the study area contained trees with shedding bark including regrowth areas however the species was not recorded during the surveys. Given the presence of potential habitat within the study area and nearby records, it is considered possible that the species would occur within the study area, however it has not been recorded during any targeted surveys.

Painted honeyeater

Records of painted honeyeater occur around 12 km south-east of the study area (ALA 2016). They were not recorded during the field survey but their preferred habitat, dry, open forests and woodlands dominated by ironbarks, yellow gum (Eucalyptus melliodora), Melaleuca, Casuarina, Callitris or Acacia do occur in the study area.

The species feeds on fruiting and flowering mistletoes, preferably in remnant vegetation where mistletoes occur in abundance. Mistletoes were sparsely distributed across the study area and could provide foraging opportunities for this species (Rowland 2012a). The species usually occurs in areas with flowering and fruiting mistletoe and flowering eucalypts. The species has seasonal movements and they probably follow flowering mistletoes but are sedentary during the breeding season, and show high site fidelity for breeding (DoEE 2017). It is possible that the painted honeyeater would use habitat resources within the study area for at least some of the year. However, it has not been recorded during any targeted surveys and the potential habitat in the study area is widespread.

5.3 Migratory species

No migratory species were recorded during the field surveys. White-throated needletail was recorded by BAAM in 2006 within the current mine lease. Several other migratory species have the potential to occur in the study area including (refer to Table 3):

• fork-tailed swift (Apus pacificus)

• oriental cuckoo (Cuculus optatus)

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• yellow wagtail (Motacilla flava)

• satin flycatcher (Myiagra cyanoleuca). These species are all common in suitable habitat throughout their range and could potentially inhabit the study area.

Cameby Downs Continued Operation Project – Terrestrial Fauna Assessment ecosure.com.au | 65 Stevensons Road

R y a l ls R o a d

B Tennysons Road Davies Road

B Tennysons Road

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A G Davies Road rahams *# Road

RyallsRoad

Davies Road

!( !( !( Ryalls Road !(

C Kerrs Road Warrego Highway

Ecology survey study area !( Koala records (surveyed) Habitat containing primary koala Figure 7: Koala habitat Indicative extent of additional *# Koala records (BAAM) food trees Syntech surface development Secondary potential koala Fauna survey report Existing/approved extent of habitat Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project operations

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP7_FA_Koala_Habitat ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4 !.

Stevensons Road

R y a l ls R o a d

B Tennysons Road Davies Road

B Tennysons Road

Boort-Koi Road

*# A G raha Davies Road ms Road !(!( !(

*#RyallsRoad

!( !( Davies Road

Warrego H ighway Ryalls Road !(

C Kerrs Road

Ecology survey study area !( Glossy black-cockatoo records Potential glossy-black cockatoo Figure 8: Glossy-black cockatoo habitat Indicative extent of additional (surveyed) habitat surface development *# Glossy black-cockatoo (BAAM) Syntech Existing/approved extent of Evidence of Glossy Black Fauna survey report operations Cockatoon (BAAM) Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP8_FA_GlossyBC_Habitat ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4 Stevensons Road

B Tennysons Road

!. Boort-Koi Road

A G raha ms Road

RyallsRoad

Davies Road

Warrego Highway C Kerrs Road

Ecology survey study area !( Grey snake records (surveyed) Potential grey snake habitat Figure 9: Grey snake habitat Indicative extent of additional !. Grey snake record (BAAM) Syntech surface development Fauna survey report Existing/approved extent of Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project operations

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP9_FA_GreySnake ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4 Stevensons Road

R y a l ls R o a d

B Tennysons Road Davies Road !("

B Tennysons Road

Boort-Koi Road

A G raha Davies Road ms Road

RyallsRoad

Davies Road

Ryalls Road

C Kerrs Road Warrego Highway

BrownliesRoad

Indicative extent of additional !(" Yakka skink record (BAAM) Figure 10: Yakka skink habitat surface development Potential yakka skink habitat Syntech Ecology survey study area Existing/approved extent of Fauna survey report operations Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project

Job number: PR1851 GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56 Revision: 10 0 0.5 1 2 Projection: Transverse Mercator Author: DB Kilometers Datum: GDA 1994 Date: 14/05/2018 ° Units: Meter

Data Sources: © State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mine), 2017; © Ecosure Pty Ltd, 2017; Syntec 2017, Image:Nearmap 2016 PR1851_MP10_FA_YakkaSkink ECOSURE does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of information displayed in this map and any person using it does so at their own risk. ECOSURE shall bear no responsibility or liability for any errors, faults, defects, or omissions in the information. A4

5.4 Least concern species

A total of 165 fauna species (inclusive of those conservation significant species discussed previously) were recorded during the field surveys by Ecosure in 2016, of which 161 are least concern species. The species recorded during the field surveys are listed in Appendix 3. A discussion about each of the fauna groups recorded is detailed below.

5.5 Amphibians

Fourteen species of amphibian were recorded during the field surveys by Ecosure in 2016 (Appendix 3). One of the species, the cane toad (Rhinella marina) is introduced. All of the other amphibian species recorded are common least concern species which are found in a range of habitats including dams and creeks in coastal Queensland.

5.6 Reptiles

A total of 24 species of reptile were recorded during the field surveys by Ecosure in 2016 (Appendix 3). This included eight species of skink, one monitor lizard, four dragon lizards, three geckoes and nine snakes. Only one conservation significant species, the grey snake, is listed under State legislation.

No introduced reptiles were recorded in the study area.

5.7 Birds

A total of 102 species of birds were recorded during the field surveys by Ecosure in 2016 (Appendix 3). One of these, glossy black-cockatoo is conservation significant and is listed as vulnerable under the NC Act. All of the other species recorded are common birds associated with woodland and cleared areas.

One introduced bird was recorded in the study area, namely the common myna (Acridotheres tristis).

5.8 Mammals

Twenty-five species of mammal were recorded during the field surveys by Ecosure in 2016.

Three of the species recorded are introduced, namely the European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and brown hare (Lepus capensis).

One species of glider (sugar glider, Petaurus breviceps) was recorded during the field surveys. This species is dependent on hollow bearing trees for shelter and their distribution across the site would be limited by the abundance of hollow bearing trees.

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Four species of macropod (eastern grey kangaroo, red necked wallaby, swamp wallaby and rufous bettong) were recorded in the study area. Eastern grey kangaroos were recorded in the cleared and disturbed areas within the current mine footprint.

The koala, listed as vulnerable under the EPBC and NC Acts, was recorded via scats in the south of the study area under Eucalyptus tereticornis.

One short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) was recorded during spotlighting survey and is a special least concern species under the NC Act.

Twelve species of micro-bats were either seen, trapped or recorded on the ultrasonic bat detectors. The most common species recorded were yellow-bellied sheath-tail bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris), eastern free-tail bat (Mormopterus ridei) and little broad-nosed bat (Scotorepens greyii). All the bats recorded are common for the region.

5.9 Matters of state environmental significance

The summary of the matters of state environmental significance which were recorded in the study area or could potentially occur in the study area are listed in Table 16.

Table 16: Matters of state environmental significance.

Matter Present or likely to occur in the Details study area

Connectivtiy Areas Refer to Ecosure (2018) for details

Wetlands and Watercourses Refer to DPM Envirosciences (2018) for details

Designated Precinct in a Strategic No The Project is not in a Designated Environmental Area Precinct in a Strategic Environmental Area

Protected Areas No The Project is not in a Protected Area

Highly Protected Zones of State No The Project is not in a State Marine Marine Parks Parks

Marine Plants No The Project is not in a marine environment

Waterways providing for fish Refer to DPM Envirosciences (2018) passage for details

Fish habitat areas Refer to DPM Envirosciences (2018) for details

Protected Wildlife Habitat Yes No essential habitat is present in the study area. Habitat for yakka skink, short- beaked echidna, glossy black- cockatoo, grey snake and koala is located within the study area.

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Matter Present or likely to occur in the Details study area

Regulated vegetation Yes, refer to Ecosure 2018 for details

Legally secured offset areas No

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6 Potential impacts on fauna

6.1 Fauna habitat clearance

The Project area covers an area of approximately 4,180 ha3, of which the majority (78%) is cleared or non-remnant vegetation. Over the life of the Project, a total of approximately 910 ha of remnant vegetation would be cleared (Ecosure, 2018) which equates to the broad fauna habitat types in Table 17. The main broad fauna habitat type in the Project area is woodlands on stony soils (approximately 801 ha) (Table 17; Figure 5).

Table 17: Broad fauna habitat types to be cleared by the Project*

REs in the Project area (based on dominant Area within Project Habitat type RE) area (ha)

Woodlands on stony soils^ 11.7.7, 11.7.4, 11.7.2 801

Woodlands on sands 11.5.1, 11.5.1a 69

Woodlands on alluvial soils 11.3.2, 11.3.4 18.2

Riparian woodland 11.3.25 1.8

Belah 11.4.10 17

Brigalow 11.4.3 3

909.6 Total (Rounded 910)

*areas of dams and wetlands within the study area were not measured as they are included in their surrounding habitats values. ^ shrubland (RE 11.7.5) is included in this habitat type as broad habitat areas are based on dominant REs

In addition to approximately 910 ha of remnant vegetation, the Project area comprises approximately 1,671 ha of cleared land and 1,599.5 ha of non-remnant (regrowth vegetation).

The fauna habitats mapped in the Project area occur more extensively and Ecosure (2018) describes that the associated regional ecosystems are more widely occurring in the wider locality.

The Project would disturb animal breeding places and therefore Syntech would need to comply with the NC Act requirements, by preparing a Species Management Program (under section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006). There is no mapped essential habitat within the study area so no direct impacts on essential habitat are likely.

3 Note: all areas of impacted REs within the proposed additional surface development extent have been calculated by Minserve Pty Ltd. Ecosure bears no responsibility for the accuracy of these figures.

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Impact avoidance and mitigation measures are described in Section 8 and the offset strategy is described in Section 9.

6.2 Indirect impacts

6.2.1 Surface water quality

The surface water assessment (supported by site water balance modelling) by WRM Water and Environment (2018) concludes that:

• No uncontrolled spills of mine-affected water from the worked water dams are predicted under normal operating conditions.

• Some overflow of water from sediment dams (designed in accordance with the Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control guideline [Institute for Environmental Monitoring and Research, 2008]) may occur during wet periods, however it is unlikely that this would have a measurable impact on receiving water quality.

• There is a predicted negligible impact on the downstream water quality through releases from the Project.

Based on the implementation of management strategies (e.g. erosion and sediment controls and land contamination controls), the risks of elevated dissolved solids and other contaminants impacting downstream waters is considered to be low (WRM Water and Environment, 2018). If no measurable impacts on surface water quality are likely to occur, no adverse impacts are likely to occur on surrounding habitats.

6.2.2 Surface water quantity

During active mining operations, the mine water management system would capture runoff from areas that would have previously flowed to the receiving waters.

At the completion of mining, surface runoff from rehabilitated overburden emplacement areas would be released from the site, therefore, the captured catchment areas would reduce. Post-mining, the captured catchment areas would reduce and there is expected to be no measurable change in the catchment.

6.2.3 Groundwater and ecosystems

The Project is unlikely to adversely impact any aquatic or terrestrial GDEs (that may provide terrestrial fauna habitat) since GDEs are unlikely to occur surrounding the Project area (AGE, 2018; Ecosure, 2018; DPM Envirosciences, 2018). There is a potential for thin, discontinuous and temporal alluvial aquifers occur (which may be used by localised areas of terrestrial vegetation), however these would consist of a perched groundwater system hydraulically separated from the underlying Walloon Coal Measures by the very low permeability, approximately 15 m thick aquitard, overburden sequence that seperates the Springbok Sandstone and the upper Walloon Coal Measures (AGE, 2018).

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6.2.4 Feral animals

Activities associated with the Project may provide increased refuge and scavenging resources (e.g. discarded food scraps) for these species, unless appropriately managed to discourage exotic animals.

Syntech would implement feral animal control strategies to minimise the potential impact of the Project on native fauna.

6.2.5 Noise

Noise is generated at the existing Cameby Downs Mine. The Project would result in a further increase in noise during the day and night. Similar to the existing Cameby Downs Mine, noise emissions associated with the Project would originate predominantly from mobile equipment, processing plant and coal handling. In addition, the mining method requires the drilling and blasting of overburden.

The potential impact is likely to be temporary and any adverse impact from noise on other fauna or their habitat is likely to be localised and comparatively minor compared to the main impact of habitat loss.

6.2.6 Artificial lighting

The current mine uses lighting extensively for safety and work at night. The Project would increase the areas where artificial lighting is present, and this could potentially impact the behavioural patterns of some fauna species. However, given the large amount of artificial lighting already used by the current mine and nearby industries, it is unlikely that the Project would significantly impact native fauna species.

6.2.7 Bushfire

Bushfire is an essential component of vegetation dynamics in Australia, but the frequency and intensity must be appropriate to each vegetation type and most accidental wildfires are not likely to be beneficial. An increase in mine activities and mine vehicles could potentially increase the risk of starting wildfires through hot exhausts, hot works or human error. The Project area is contiguous with large areas of forested country especially to the north, and as such is both prone to wildfire incursion and a potential source of fire.

Bushfire prevention and management measures are described in Section 8.7.

6.2.8 Exotic diseases and pathogens

The increase in equipment and vehicles entering the mine lease could potentially increase the likelihood of introducing a fauna disease or pathogen such as chytrid fungus.

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6.3 Cumulative impacts

Cumulative impacts are considered to be the total impact on the environment that would result from the incremental impacts of the Project added to other existing impacts. They include direct and indirect impacts from existing and proposed developments in the local area.

The Project is located within a rural area that is predominately used for low intensity cattle grazing on native pasture. Coal mining, coal seam gas exploration and production and power generation are major land uses in the Surat Basin. Coal mines, coal seam gas fields and power stations in the vicinity of the Project, which may contribute to cumulative impacts, include:

• Kogan Creek Coal Mine, approximately 50 km south-east;

• Wilkie Creek Coal Mine (currently under care and maintenance), approximately 75 km south-east;

• the Bellevue and Berwyndale coal seam gas fields to the south-west of the Project;

• the Argyle and Argyle East, Berwyndale South, Talinga, Lauren and Kenya coal seam gas fields to the south of the Project;

• the Kogan North and Daandine gas fields to the south-east of the Project; and

• the Condamine and Darling Downs coal seam gas fired power stations and the Kogan Creek coal fired power station.

In addition, the Cameby Downs Mine tenements share overlapping petroleum tenements which are managed through co-development agreements.

As described in Ecosure (2018), the native vegetation communities/REs to be cleared during the life of the Project, occur more widely in the surrounding landscape. The amount of extant remnant vegetation (of each RE) within 50 km of the Project is presented in Ecosure (2018). The proposed clearance equates to 0.33% of affected REs and 0.00003% of all remnant vegetation within 50 km of the Project (Ecosure, 2018).

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7 Evaluation of likely adverse impacts on matters of state environmental significance

7.1 Protected areas

No protected areas mapped as occurring within or near the Project area therefore no impacts to protected areas are relevant.

7.2 Regulated vegetation

Refer to Ecosure (2018) for impacts to regulated vegetation.

7.3 Connectivity areas

Refer to Ecosure (2018) for detail regarding impacts to connectivity.

7.4 Wetlands and watercourses

Refer to the DPM Envirosciences (2018) for impacts to aquatic values.

7.5 Protected wildlife habitat

Four state-listed conservation significant species were recorded during the field surveys, namely the grey snake, glossy black-cockatoo, koala and short-beaked echidna.

7.5.1 Koala

Koala scats were recorded at five locations during the field surveys, all outside of the Project area (Figure 7). Clearing of riparian vegetation within the Project area could potentially impact the koala by removing food trees and habitat. The Project area contains approximately 2.75 ha of riparian vegetation which contains primary koala food trees. Another 896.75 ha of secondary potential koala habitat would be cleared for the Project.

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7.5.2 Yakka skink

This species was previously recorded in one location within the Project area by BAAM (2006). Another survey in 2009 (AARC, 2013) did not detect this species however, it is possible that a population still exists in the Project area. This species is likely to inhabit all woodland REs within the Project area with the exception of RE11.5.1, 11.4.10 and 11.4.3, equating to approximately 899.4 ha of potential habitat.

The areas of regrowth in the Project area do not include woodlands and open forests with microhabitat features of large logs that are necessary to support this species.

7.5.3 Grey snake

Grey snake was recorded at one location outside the Project area. This species is most likely to inhabit riparian and brigalow communities (REs 11.3.25, 11.4.3, 11.3.1, 11.4.10, the Brigalow and riparian regrowth and with the dense woodland regrowth along Drainage Line 1) that have heavy clay soils or water. The Project area contains approximately 72 ha of habitat for the grey snake. Other areas of regrowth are confined to poor soil types, which does not provide the correct soil conditions for the grey snake.

7.5.4 Glossy black-cockatoo

Glossy black-cockatoo are likely to use REs 11.5.1, 11.4.3, 11.4.10, 11.3.1, 11.7.7, the brigalow and riparian regrowth and with the woodland regrowth along Drainage Line 1 as these communities generally contain their food tree species Casuarina and Allocasuarina. Individuals are also likely to use RE 11.3.25 for breeding where hollow bearing trees are present. Based on this, 734 ha of habitat for glossy black-cockatoo habitat would be removed for the Project. As this species travels large distances to access food and the species preferred food tree species occurs in large abundance in the local area, the Project is not likely to result in significant residual impacts on this species.

As such the Project is not likely to (DEHP 2014b):

• lead to a long- term decrease in the size of a local population

• reduce the extent of occurrence of the species

• fragment an existing population

• result in genetically distinct populations forming as a result of habitat isolation

• result in invasive species that are harmful to an endangered or vulnerable species becoming established in the endangered or vulnerable species’ habitat

• introduce disease that may cause the population to decline

• interfere with the recovery of the species; or

• cause disruption to ecologically significant locations (breeding, feeding, nesting, migration or resting sites) of a species.

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7.5.5 Short-beaked echidna

Short-beaked echidna would potentially occur in all habitats across the Project area including cleared areas. As this species occurs in a wide range of habitats including cleared areas, it is unlikely that the removal of the habitat within the Project area would have a significant impact on this species.

As such the Project is not likely to (DEHP, 2014b):

• lead to a long- term decrease in the size of a local population

• reduce the extent of occurrence of the species

• fragment an existing population

• result in genetically distinct populations forming as a result of habitat isolation

• result in invasive species that are harmful to an endangered or vulnerable species becoming established in the endangered or vulnerable species’ habitat

• introduce disease that may cause the population to decline

• interfere with the recovery of the species; or

• cause disruption to ecologically significant locations (breeding, feeding, nesting, migration or resting sites) of a species.

7.5.6 Other state listed conservation significant species

Potential impacts to conservation significant species which were not recorded but were considered to be possibly present based on habitat are listed in Table 17.

Table 17: Likelihood of impact to NC Act listed conservation significant species with potential habitat within the study area but not recorded during the field surveys.

Likelihood of Common Species name significant Reasoning name impact

Anomalopus five-clawed Nil-Low This species was not detected during the survey. There mackayi worm-skink are no records of this species within 20 km of study area. This species prefers areas with cracking clays which only occur in a small proportion of the site (RE 11.4.3) As no individuals were detected even with detailed surveys and only a small amount of habitat is located within the study area, it is unlikely that the Project would have a significant impact on the species.

Delma torquata collared delma Nil-Low This species was not detected during the survey. There are no records of this species within 20 km of Project area. This species has varied habitat requirements and habitat for this species does occur in the Project area. However, no individuals were detected so it is unlikely that a significant population exists within the Project area.

Denisonia ornamental Nil-Low This species has specific habitat requirements which only maculata snake occurred in a very small area of brigalow. Detailed surveys at the site did not detect it, even in good conditions for its detection. This species is mostly found north of the site and has not been recorded in the local area.

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Likelihood of Common Species name significant Reasoning name impact

Furina dunmalli Dunmall’s Nil-Low This species is found in a variety of habitats but is highly snake cryptic and is rarely recorded anywhere. Habitat for the species is likely to occur within the Project area but it is unlikely that a significant population occurs within the Project area.

Strophurus golden-tailed Nil-Low This species can be found in high numbers in suitable taenicauda gecko habitat and is relatively easy to detect if present. No individuals were recorded but suitable habitat with shedding bark does occur.

Erythrotriorchis red goshawk Nil-Low The habitat with in the Project area is highly disturbed and radiatus marginal in quality. No records of red goshawk have been recorded within the local area, so it is unlikely that red goshawk occur within the Project area.

Falco grey falcon Nil-Low This species has been recorded in open cleared areas so hypoleucos suitable habitat occurs across a significant part of the study area. However, there have been no records in the Project area or nearby and it was not recorded during the surveys. Although it is possible that the species occurs in the Project area, it is unlikely that a significant population occurs in the Project area. It is unlikely that the proposed mine would significantly impact this species.

Geophaps squatter pigeon Nil-Low This species is nomadic and is recorded in low numbers scripta scripta (southern) across the Brigalow Belt. It is possible that this species visits the site, but it is unlikely that the Project would significantly impact the population.

Grantiella picta painted Nil-Low There are 9 records of painted honeyeater within 20 km of honeyeater the mine, 8 of which are approximately 11 km south-east of the Project. Another record lies around 11 km north-east of the Project. This species is considered dispersive and follows seasonal movements with flowering mistletoes. It is possible that painted honeyeater visits the Project area when mistletoes are flowering but given there are no records within the Project area and they weren’t recorded during the surveys it is unlikely a significant population inhabits the study area and would be impacted by the Project.

Lathamus swift parrot Nil-Low This species is migratory and travels into Queensland to discolor feed before returning to Tasmania to breed. Flowering eucalypts in the site may provide foraging habitat for the species but very few records occur in the local area and any birds that may use the site are likely to pass through, so it is unlikely that the Project would have a significant impact on the species.

Rostratula Australian Nil-Low One dam and a small drainage area may provide some australis painted snipe limited habitat for Australian painted snipe. These birds are highly nomadic and can appear in locations for a short time before relocating. If birds are using these small areas of habitat they are unlikely to stay due to the large amount of disturbance and the poor quality of the habitat. Therefore, the proposed mine is unlikely to have a significant impact on the population.

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Likelihood of Common Species name significant Reasoning name impact

Chalinolobus large-eared Nil-Low This species is rarely seen in Queensland. Habitat for the dwyeri pied bat species does occur in the site but there are no records in the area. It is unlikely that a significant population occurs within the Project area.

Nyctophilus south-eastern Nil-Low This species has been recorded in similar habitat near corbeni long-eared bat Dalby (C.Free, pers obs) so it is possible that the species occurs in the study area. They are rarely captured and cannot be identified through ultrasonic calls which makes them difficult to detect. However, this species is mobile and could potentially move to similar nearby habitat if present within the Project area, therefore the impact to the species is likely to be low.

Petauroides greater glider Nil-Low This species was not recorded during spotlighting in the volans most suitable habitat within the Project area. They are generally easy to detect if present, so it is unlikely that the species occurs on the site. If there is a population within the Project area, the numbers are likely to be low given the scarcity of hollows and the small area of suitable habitat.

7.6 Summary of significant residual impacts on matters of state environmental significance

The Project would potentially impact on the following Matters of State Enviornmental Significance (MSES) based on the Significant Residual Impacts Guideline (DEHP, 2014e) (Table 18).

• Habitat for koala, yakka skink and grey snake

• Connectivity areas (remnant vegetation) as determined by the DEHP (2016h) Landscape Fragmentation and Connectivity Tool (see Ecosure, 2018).

Table 18: Summary of Potential Impacts on Matters of State Environmental Significance

Matters of State Environmental Significance Residual Impact Significant Total Residual Impacts Likely? (ha)

Regulated Vegetation ‘Endangered’ or ‘of concern’ RE 11.4.3 A 3 Yes regional ecosystems*; or

RE 11.4.10 17 Yes

RE 11.3.2 17.5 Yes

RE 11.3.4 0.2** No

Regional ecosystems within mapped 0 No vegetation management wetlands

Regional ecosystems within the defined 2.5 Yes distance of a vegetation management watercourse

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Matters of State Environmental Significance Residual Impact Significant Total Residual Impacts Likely? (ha)

Connectivity Areas 910 Yes

Wetlands and Watercourses 0 No

Designated Precinct in a Strategic Environmental 0 No Area

Protected Wildlife yakka skink ^^ 899.4 Yes Habitat* grey snake 72 Yes

glossy black-cockatoo 734 No

short-beaked echidna 2,499.5 No

koala ^^ 899.5^ Yes

Protected Areas 0 No

Highly Protected Zones of State Marine Parks 0 No

Fish Habitat Areas 0 No

Waterways Providing for Fish Passage 0 No

Marine Plants 0 No

Legally Secured Offset Areas 0 No

A RE 11.4.3 equates to the Brigalow TEC listed under the EPBC Act. * The REs and species habitats overlap (i.e. the REs and habitats are not mutually exclusive). ^ Approximately 2.75 ha of riparian vegetation (including RE 11.3.25) which contains primary koala food trees and another 896.75 ha of secondary potential koala habitat. ^^ The yakka skink and koala are also listed under the EPBC Act. ** The vegetation patch is 0.4 ha in size comprising 50% RE11.3.25 and 50 % RE11.3.4, as such, 0.2 ha has been assigned to RE11.3.4.

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8 Impact avoidance and mitigation measures

8.1 Refinement of the mine design to avoid land clearance

Syntech has made refinements to the Project layout/design to avoid impacts to REs 11.3.1 (Brigalow woodland), 11.4.3 (Brigalow woodland) and 11.4.10 (listed as ‘Endangered’ under the VM Act). These refinements included a re-alignment of a diversion to completely avoid RE 11.3.1 and avoid patches of RE11.4.3 and 11.4.10 which were to be disturbed by the original Project design.

8.2 Vegetation clearance limits and procedures

Existing surface disturbance procedures at the Cameby Downs Mine would be implemented for all vegetation clearance activities including (Yancoal 2016a):

• consideration of timing of land clearance

• pre-clearance surveys

• delineation of clearing areas

• areas of vegetation requiring clearing or fragmenting is done in a manner that retains connectivity with surrounding areas of remnant vegetation areas where possible

• clearing is only undertaken after appropriate erosion and sediment controls, for the area, have been designed and approved for installation.

8.3 Rehabilitation

The post-mine landform would be progressively rehabilitated. The integrity of the landscape would be maintained by providing safe, stable and non-polluting post-mining landforms.

In accordance with the currently approved Rehabilitation Management Plan (Yancoal, 2016b) and existing EA for the Cameby Downs Mine (EPML00900113), the final landform would be rehabilitated to a stable landform with a self-sustaining vegetation cover. The approved final landform would be returned to grazing pasture land however would also include concentrated tree plantings to provide potential wildlife corridors (Yancoal, 2016b). A provisional list of flora species to be planted and the indicative locations for plantings is provided in the Environmental Values Assessment for the Project.

8.4 Water management

The existing water management system would be augmented to incorporate the Project and protect the identified environmental values of the receiving environment. The water management system includes licensed extraction of water resources in accordance with

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relevant Queensland water related legislation.

As detailed in Sections 6.2.1 and 6.2.2, the Project is not expected to result in a significant impact to the quality or flow of surface or groundwater within the Project locality.

In addition to the above, Syntech would augment the existing groundwater and surface water monitoring networks which have been established at the Cameby Downs Mine. This includes automatic and manual groundwater and surface water level and quality monitoring stations throughout the Project area and surrounds. 8.5 Declared animal prevention and control

Reasonable steps would be taken to keep the Project site free of declared animal pests, in accordance with the requirements of the Biosecurity Act 2016. Management of animal pests would also be consistent with any pest management plans set by the Western Downs Regional Council.

To protect native fauna within the Project area, employees, contractors or visitors would not be allowed to bring domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, onto the Project site. 8.6 Weed prevention and control

Syntech would aim to contain existing weed infestations and prevent the introduction of new species to the Project area, in order to reduce their potential impact on native vegetation.

This would include the implementation of the following:

• appropriate techniques for controlling weeds of concern in accordance with local management practice and / or agency guidelines, in particular for Bryophyllum delagoense and Opuntia spp.

• monitoring of treated areas to assess the success of declared weed management

• monitoring of revised Project site to identify any new infestations of weeds

• information on identifying declared weeds

• use of wash-down facilities for earthmoving equipment entering or leaving the Project site. 8.7 Bushfire prevention and management

Syntech would aim to maintain vegetation structure and composition, protect mine assets and safeguard human life through the implementation of bushfire management techniques, including:

• physical protection of assets through clean firebreaks

• active fire suppression of unplanned and potentially destructive fires (to vegetation and built assets)

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• proactive fuel and ecosystem management to sustain ecological fire regimes as much as possible.

8.8 Summary of impact avoidance and mitigation measures related to MSES

Mine design has taken into account the results of the results of surveys to avoid significant ecological features where possible. Significant impacts to MSES would be managed through a combination of pre-clearance surveys active management of weeds, pest animals, and fire; and provision of suitable land-based offsets (Section 9).

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9 Environmental offsets

9.1 Summary of offset requirements

A summary of the residual impacts on MSES is provided in Table 18. An environmental offset is required for the Project to address significant residual impacts on Regulated Vegetation, Connectivity Areas and Protected Wildlife. The flora assessment (Ecosure, 2018) describes the offset strategy for Regulated Vegetation and Connectivity Areas. The offset strategy for Protected Wildlife (yakka skink, grey snake and koala) is described below.

9.2 Offset strategy for Protected Wildlife

An environmental offset is required for the Project to address significant residual impacts on Protected Wildlife (yakka skink, grey snake and koala) as determined by the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy — Draft Significant Residual Impacts Guideline (DEHP, 2014e). The environmental offset would be:

• staged over time (consistent with the four indicative stages of the Project shown on Figure 2) whereby the initial offsets would be secured for Stage 1 with the balance of offsets in subsequent stages

• a land-based proponent-driven offset site(s), direct-benefit offset and/or a financial settlement offset.

If the offset is to be satisfied through a land-based proponent-driven offset site, the offset area for Protected Wildlife (yakka skink, grey snake and koala) would contain, or be capable of containing, a self-sustaining population of the impacted species (DEHP 2014b).

Table 19: Summary of residual impacts on MSES

Matters of State Environmental Significance Residual Impacts Significant Residual Stage Stage Stage Stage Total Impacts Likely? 1 2 3 4 (ha) (ha) (ha) (ha) (ha)

Protected yakka skink A 0.4 131 504 264 899.4 Yes Wildlife Habitat* grey snake 54.2 15.35 0.7 1.75 72 Yes

koala A 20.5 131 485 263 899.5 Yes

A The yakka skink and koala are also listed under the EPBC Act. * The REs and species habitats overlap (i.e. the REs and habitats are not mutually exclusive).

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It is likely that land-based offsets meeting these requirements would be able to be located for the matters requiring offsetting (Table 19). The Matters of State Environmental Significance proposed to be impacted by the Project (Table 19) occur more widely in the surrounding locality, including on land held by Syntech Resources. Syntech Resources would investigate the potential for these properties to be used as offsets for the impacts associated with the Project.

In accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy (DEHP 2014b), a notice of election for Stage 1 would be provided to DEHP no less than three months before residual significant impacts on a MSES.

The notice of election would include a description of the:

• offset delivery approach (a land-based proponent-driven offset site(s), direct-benefit offset and/or a financial settlement offset); and

• proposed staging details.

As described in the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy, General Guide (DEHP, 2017):

Under the Offsets Act the identification of the intended offset delivery approach can occur before or after the relevant offset condition, or conditions, have been imposed.

If a land-based proponent-driven offset site is proposed, it is intended that a habitat quality assessment would be undertaken in accordance with the Guide to Determining Terrestrial Habitat Quality (DEHP, 2017). However, it is also noted that a rapid assessment process is available whereby a site habitat quality score of 7 can be assumed (DEHP, 2017). It is also noted that the maximum offset quantum for protected habitat is up to four times the area of habitat to be impacted (DEHP 2014a).

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10 Conclusion

The majority of the Project area is cleared and is currently used for the current mine and grazing. The remnant vegetation is mostly woodlands on rocky substrates which is dominated by eucalypts and acacias. Small areas of riparian vegetation are located in the southern part of the study area. This area was found to be inhabited by the conservation significant species koalas, glossy black-cockatoos and grey snake. A small area of the site is occupied by brigalow, some of which has cracking clay soils.

The Project proposes to clear approximately 899.5 ha of koala habitat, approximately 899.4 ha of yakka skink habitat and approximately 72 ha of grey snake habitat. An environmental offset would be provided for the Project to address significant residual impacts on MSES (i.e. protected wildlife habitat and connectivity) as determined by the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy — Draft Significant Residual Impacts Guideline. In accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy, a notice of election for Stage 1 would be provided to DEHP no less than three months before residual significant impacts on a MSES. The notice of election would include a description of the:

• offset delivery approach (a land-based proponent-driven offset site(s), direct-benefit offset and/or a financial settlement offset); and

• proposed staging details.

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References

AARC 2013a, Cameby Downs Expansion Project: Assessment of matters of national environmental significance. An unpublished report for Syntech Resources Pty Ltd

AARC 2013b, Cameby Downs Expansion Project: Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment. Unpublished report for Syntech Resources Pty Ltd

Atlas of Living Australia 2016, Atlas of Living Australia, http://www.ala.org.au/

Biodiversity Assessment and Management Pty Ltd 2006, Flora and fauna assessment report: Cameby Downs coal project. An unpublished report for AustralAsian Resource Consultants Pty Ltd

Birdlife Australia 2016, Working List of Australian Birds. Version 2, Birdlife Australia, http://birdlife.org.au/conservation/science/taxonomy

BOM 2017, Climate Data Online, Australian Government, Bureau of Meteorology, http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/data/index.shtml

Cogger, HG 2014, Reptiles and amphibians of Australia, CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Victoria

DEH 2003, EPBC Act Administrative guidelines on significance- supplement for the grey- headed flying-fox, Department of the Environment and Heritage

DEHP 2014a, Biodiversity Planning Assessment - Brigalow Belt Version 1.3, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland, https://data.qld.gov.au/dataset/biodiversity-planning-assessment-series

DEHP 2014b, Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy - Significant Residual Impact Guideline. Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland DEHP 2016a, Environmentally Sensitive Areas mapping. Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland DEHP 2016b, Wildlife Online, Queensland Government, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland, http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/wildlife/wildlife-online/

DEWHA 2010a, Survey guidelines for Australia's threatened bats, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/survey- guidelines-australias-threatened-bats-guidelines-detecting-bats-listed-threatened

DEWHA 2010b, Survey guidelines for Australia's threatened frogs, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/ff3eb752-482d-417f-8971- f93a84211518/files/survey-guidelines-frogs.pdf

DEWHA 2010c, Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened birds, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/survey- guidelines-australias-threatened-birds-guidelines-detecting-birds-listed-threatened

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DEWHA 2011, Survey guidelines for Australia's threatened reptiles, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/survey- guidelines-australias-threatened-reptiles-guidelines-detecting-reptiles-listed

DNRM 2014, Vegetation management regional esosystem and remnant map Version 8.0, Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Queensland, http://dds.information.qld.gov.au/dds/

DNRM 2015, Essential habitat mapping Version 4.16, Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Queensland, http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/vegetation/code_review_06/eh_review.html

DNRM 2016a, Regulated Vegetation Management mapping (version 1.5). Accessed from https://www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/qld/environment/land/vegetation/vegetation-map-request-form July 2016. Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Queensland DoE 2014a, EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool, Department of the Environment, http://www.environment.gov.au/topics/about-us/legislation/environment-protection-and- biodiversity-conservation-act-1999/protected

DoE 2014b, EPBC Act Referral Guidelines for the vulnerable koala (combined populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory), Department of the Environment

DoE 2016, EPBC Act referral guideline for the endangered northern quoll, Dasyurus hallucatus (EPBC policy statement) Department of Environment, http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/f31d0eec-04d5-4743-9cc7- ad877ae0a6ef/files/northern-quoll.pdf

DoEE 2016, EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool, Department of the Environment, http://www.environment.gov.au/topics/about-us/legislation/environment-protection-and- biodiversity-conservation-act-1999/protected

DoEE 2017a, Monitoring Flying-Fox Populations, Department of the Environment and Energy, http://www.environment.gov.au/webgis-framework/apps/ffc-wide/ffc-wide.jsf

DoEE 2017b, Species profile and threats database, Department of the Environment and Energy, http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl

DPM Envirosciences Pty Ltd 2018, Aquatic Ecology Assessment of the Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project. Prepared for: Syntech Resources Pty Ltd C/- Yancoal Australia Ltd DSEWPaC 2011a, Draft referral guidelines for the nationally listed Brigalow Belt reptiles, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

DSEWPaC 2011b, Survey guidelines for Australia’s threatened mammals, Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, http://www.environment.gov.au/resource/survey- guidelines-australias-threatened-mammals-guidelines-detecting-mammals-listed

Ecosure 2018, Cameby Downs Mine Continued Operation Project – Flora Assessment Report. Ecosure, Brisbane. EPA 2002, Biodiversity Assessment and Mapping Methodology Version 2.1, Environmental Protection Agency, Queensland, http://qldgov.softlinkhosting.com.au/liberty/libraryHome.do

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EPA 2008a, Brigalow Belt North Biodiversity Planning Assessment, v1.3. Environmental Protection Agency. Brisbane

EPA 2008b, Brigalow Belt South Biodiversity Planning Assessment, v1.3, Environmental Protection Agency, http://qldgov.softlinkhosting.com.au/liberty/libraryHome.do

Eyre, TJ Ferguson, DJ Hourigan, CL Smith, GC Mathieson, MT Kelly, AL Venz, MF Hogan, LD and Rowland, J 2014, Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey Assessment Guidelines for Queensland Version 2.0, Queensland Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, https://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/ecosystems/biodiversity/pdf/fauna_survey_guidelines.pdf

Eyre, TJ Kelly, AL Neldner, VJ Wilson, BA Ferguson, DJ Laidlaw, MJ and Franks, AJ 2015, BioCondition: A Condition Assessment Framework for Terrestrial Biodiversity in Queensland Assessment Manual Version 2.2, Available: http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/ecosystems/biodiversity/biocondition.html

Ferguson, DJ 2014, Targeted species survey guidelines- Yakka skink Egernia rugosa, Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and Arts

Hourigan, C 2012, Targeted species survey guidelines- Glossy black-cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts

Institute for Environmental Monitoring and Research 2008, Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control Guideline Mitchell, DA 2012, Australian Koala Foundation’s National Koala Tree Protection List- Recommended Tree Species for Protection and Planting of Koala Habitat. Australian Koala Foundation

Philips, S and Callaghan, J 2011, The Spot Assessment Technique: a tool for determining localised levels of habitat use by Koalas Phascolarctos cinereus, Australian Zoologist, 774- 780

Rowland, J 2012a, Painted honeyeater, Grantiella picta. Targeted species survey guideline, Queensland Herbarium, Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation

Rowland, J 2012b, Targeted species survey guidelines- Grey Snake Hemiaspis damelii, Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts

Van Dyck, S and Strahan, R 2008, The mammals of Australia, New Holland Publishers, Sydney

WRM Water and Environment 2018, Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project Surface Water Assessment. Wu, H McAlpine, C and Seabrook, L 2012, The dietary preferences of koalas, Phascolarctos cinereus, in southwest Queensland, Australian Zoologist, 36, 93-102 Yancoal 2016a, Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project: Section 226 Consideration Report

Yancoal (2016b) Cameby Downs Mine Rehabilitation Management Plan.

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Appendix 1 Qualification and experience of field team members

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Carissa Free

Senior Ecologist Carissa is a Senior Ecologist with over 11 years’ experience conducting fauna surveys throughout Australia, including more than 7 years in a consultancy setting. Since joining consulting in 2008, Carissa has worked on many large linear infrastructure projects throughout Queensland. Qualifications Carissa has undertaken surveys for fauna species listed as PhD (Wildlife Ecology), University of threatened under State and Commonwealth legislation for major Queensland, 2009 projects including the a mine expansion in Gladstone, a new coal Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Studies) (Honours), University of mine in Nebo, Arrow Bowen Pipeline, Arrow Surat Pipeline, Queensland, 2005 Swanbank gas fired power station gas pipeline, the Coopers Gap wind farm, McIntyre wind farm, Yeppoon to Pandoin powerline Professional corridor, Department of Defence infrastructure upgrades, memberships & Forsayth gold mine dam expansion and Pacific Highway upgrade associations project. Carissa also has experience compiling threatened Ecological Society of Australia. species management plans and participated in the development of offset strategies. Areas of expertise

Carissa has experience in : Fauna identification Fauna impact assessment • arid zone ecology EPBC and NC Act fauna surveys

• fauna taxonomy and ecology

• threatened fauna management

• habitat assessments

• fauna surveys including surveys following the DoE survey guidelines

• fauna tracking and home range analysis

• pest species management.

Project experience

Project Date Project Client Role Position Mining, Energy & Natural Resources 2014 Mine expansion Resource strategies Senior Undertaking seasonal targeted surveys for fauna threatened fauna species including northern ecologist quoll, koala, water mouse, squatter pigeon, coastal sheathtail bat and powerful owl. Included one spring and one autumn general biodiversity survey plus targeted searches. Undertook all reporting.

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Project Date Project Client Role Position 2014 Broughton mine U&D mining Senior Undertook targeted searches for threatened expansion fauna fauna species including ornamental snake, ecologist red goshawk, koala, squatter pigeon and Australian painted snipe. 2014- Arrow Bowen Pipeline- Arrow Energy Technical Undertook desktop assessment, coordinated 2015 fauna component Lead- 9 fauna ecologists working across a 430 km Senior pipeline to undertake pre-wet and post-wet Ecologist surveys for threatened fauna. Undertook all reporting and collaborated on species management plans. 2013 EPBC additional Arrow Energy Senior Compiling nine species dossiers for information request for Ecologist threatened fauna species impacted by ABP in the Arrow Bowen response to a request from DoE. Pipeline- fauna component 2012 - Fauna survey and impact Arrow Energy Senior Leading the fauna survey and conducting the 2013 assessment, Arrow Surat Ecologist impact assessment. Pipeline 2013 Fauna survey and impact Arrow Energy Senior Leading the fauna survey and conducting the assessment, Arrow Ecologist impact assessment. Bowen Pipeline (SGIC section) 2012 – Origin Upstream Gas Origin Energy Senior Initial ecological assessments and pre- 2013 Project- Surat Basin Ecologist clearance surveys 2012 Arrow proposed LNG Coffey Environments for Senior Ecologist for pre-clearance surveys. plant Arrow Energy Ecologist 2012 Ecological assessment Altius mining Senior Fauna surveys to determine species present for the Forsayth gold Ecologist and likelihood of threatened species for mine dam expansion proposed tailings storage facility, analysis and reporting. 2012 Shorebird monitoring for Coffey Environments for Senior Assisting in the shorebird surveys. Gladstone Port Arrow Energy Ecologist 2012 Ornamental snake Arrow Energy Senior Providing advice and undertaking surveys for surveys for the Arrow Ecologist ornamental snake. Bowen Gas Project 2012 Swanbank gas fired TRUEnergy Ecologist Lead ecologist for flora and fauna power station and gas components. pipeline environmental assessment, Ipswich 2011 Fauna survey and impact Arrow Energy Ecologist Leading the fauna survey and conducting the assessment, Arrow Surat impact assessment. Pipeline 2011 Environmental impact Arrow Energy Ecologist Flora survey ecologist. statement and survey, Arrow Bowen Pipeline 2009 Cycad and threatened Arrow Energy Ecologist Team member. flora species surveys, Arrow Surat Pipeline 2009 – Arrow upstream gas Arrow Energy Ecologist Desktop and field assessments of proposed 2010 project production and exploration well sites and associated infrastructure for coal seam gas tenements in Surat, Bowen and Galilee Basins. 2008 - Gas pipeline from Lucas Energy / AGL Ecologist Contributed to components of EIS for 2010 Gloucester to Newcastle proposed 200 km gas pipeline including analysis and reporting and EPBC referral. 2009 Fauna monitoring for an Xstrata Ecologist Assisted with detailed fauna surveys at Xstrata coal mine offset monitoring locations. site Power

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Project Date Project Client Role Position 2015 Terranora to APT management Senior Assess vegetation communities and fauna Mullumbimby services ecologist habitat along a 60 km underground power underground table, line to allow for maintenance activities. northern NSW 2012 Yeppoon powerline Ergon Energy Senior Assessment of fauna communities, easement, central Qld fauna threatened species and habitat for 30 km ecologist powerline easement, including desktop assessment, surveys, analysis and reporting. 2011 Upper Kedron substation Powerlink Fauna Assessment of the impacts of new high upgrade ecologist voltage transmission line and expansion of the existing substation. Assessment included ground-truthing vegetation and undertaking fauna surveys. Government 2015 Residential development, Department of Housing Senior Fauna habitat assessment and targeted koala Ipswich and Public Works ecologist surveys for a proposed residential development in Ipswich. 2015 Species management Department of Senior Develop a species management program for program for the Bruce Transport and Main Fauna colonial breeders, special least concern and Highway upgrade Roads Ecologist threatened species impacted by the upgrade of the Bruce Highway from Caloundra Road to the Sunshine Motorway. 2015 Nest box management Department of Senior Develop a nest box management plan which plan for the Pacific Transport and Main Fauna details the compensation requirements for the Highway Upgrade Roads Ecologist removal of hollow associated with the Pacific Highway upgrade. 2014 Fauna habitat Roads and Maritime Senior Mapping of fauna habitat and habitat trees for assessment, Pacific Services, NSW Fauna the Pacific Highway upgrade. Highway Upgrade, NSW Ecologist 2013 Micro-bat assessment, Roads and Maritime Senior Undertook targeted surveys (including Mona Vale Rd Upgrade Services, NSW Fauna trapping) for threatened microbats potentially Ecologist impacted by the Mona Vale Rd upgrade. 2010 Aldoga industrial estate, Department of Ecologist Initial ecological assessment for a proposed Aldoga Infrastructure and industrial area in Aldoga. This included Planning mapping of communities and fauna habitat assessments. 2010 NSW Rail curve easing NSW Rail Ecologist Initial ecological assessment for a rail project, northern NSW upgrade from Brisbane to Sydney. 2009 Gladstone Infrastructure Department of Ecologist Contributed to fauna assessment for Corridor, Gladstone Infrastructure and proposed services corridor from Gladstone Planning State Development Area to Gladstone port area; conducted surveys to determine species present and likelihood of threatened species, analysis and reporting. Department of Defence 2012 ELF 2B Ground Parrot Department of Defence Fauna Conducting the targeted surveys for the and threatened frog ecologist threatened species. surveys, Wide Bay Training Area 2011 ELF 2B Koala and Department of Defence Fauna Leading the targeted surveys for koala and Spotted-tailed Quoll ecologist camera trapping for spotted-tailed quoll. surveys, Greenbank Training Area 2010 Landscape monitoring Department of Defence Fauna Leading the fauna survey and conducting the program, Shoalwater Bay ecologist impact assessment. Training Area 2010 ELF 2B Koala and Department of Defence Fauna Leading the fauna survey and conducting the threatened species ecologist impact assessment. surveys

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Project Date Project Client Role Position 2010 Grey Snake and Yakka Department of Defence Fauna Leading the fauna survey and writing the Skink species ecologist species management plan. management plan Other relevant consulting experience 2015 Infrastructure upgrades Catalyst Operations (on Senior Protected plant surveys and ecological for the NBN project behalf of Optus Ecologist assessment for proposed infrastructure Communications) upgrades for the expansion of the NBN network. 2012 Fauna assessment, Acciona Fauna Leading the fauna survey and conducting the McIntyre Wind Farm ecologist impact assessment. 2011 Moura rail link, central QR National Ecologist Desktop assessment and advice for Qld threatened fauna species. 2010 Fauna assessment, AGL Fauna Leading the fauna survey and conducting the Coopers Gap Wind Farm ecologist impact assessment.

Training

• Generic Coal Induction and Coal Seam Gas Induction, 2011 (renewed 2012)

• First aid and CPR training, 2015

• AUSRIVAS training and Accreditation, 2010

• Venomous snake handling safety course, 2009.

• Inspect and clean machinery for plant, animal and soil material, 2014

• Operate vehicles in the field, 2014

• Operate light vehicles, 2014

• Biocondition v 2.1- Application, Assessment and Scoring, 2013 Licences

• Construction Card Publications and presentations

Free, C.L, Baxter, G.S, Dickman, C.R, Lisle, A and Leung L.K.P (2015) Diversity and community composition of vertebrates in desert river habitats PLoS ONE 10(12): e0144258. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0144258.

Free C.L, Baxter G.S, Dickman C.R, Leung L.K.P (2013) Resource Pulses in Desert River Habitats: Productivity-Biodiversity Hotspots, or Mirages? PLoS ONE 8(10): e72690. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0072690

Free, C and Leung, L.K.P. (2007) How effective are grid trapping, oil cards and track boards in monitoring bush rat populations? Australian Mammalogy 29(2) 149 - 155

Kaboodvandpour, S., Free, C. and Leung, L.K.P (2010) Comparison of population estimators and indices for monitoring house mice in sorghum crops. Integrative Zoology. 5(1) 53.

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Alan House Ecology Team Leader (Brisbane)/ Principal Ecologist

Alan has over 35 years experience as an ecological scientist in both research and consulting, and has worked in UK, Indonesia and Australia (mainly in Queensland and New South Wales). He has specialised in forest ecology, biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, landscape ecology, Qualifications plant population genetics, conservation management Bachelor of Science (Botany), planning, botanical surveys, ecological impacts of climate University of Southampton, 1975 change, and invertebrate ecology. PhD, Australian National University, 1986 He is an experienced project and team leader, leading teams for Queensland Department of Primary Industries, CSIRO Professional Ecosystem Sciences, AECOM and now Ecosure. He has also memberships & associations supervised 10 PhD students and 4 honours students, and has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers, 2 book chapters, Ecological Society of Australia and edited 4 books. His technical skills are in vegetation British Ecological Society ecology, field botany, landscape ecology, conservation management and flora and fauna impact assessments. His Areas of expertise consulting experience includes work on the Brisbane Airport Forest ecology Biodiversity in agricultural Parallel Runway Project, and research on mud-nesting wasp landscapes hazards to aircraft at Brisbane Airport. He has also worked on Landscape ecology Commonwealth land for Department of Defence projects at Plant population genetics Wide Bay Training Area. Conservation management planning Botanical surveys Alan is currently Ecosure’s Ecology Product Manager and an Ecological impacts of climate Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Geography, change Planning and Environmental Management, University of Invertebrate ecology Queensland.

Alan has experience in:

• ecological survey and impact assessment

• threatened species ecology and management

• ecological research

• team leadership

• project management.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 1

Project experience

Project Date Project Client Role Position Department of Defence 2011 Rare plant surveys Wide Dept. of Defence Flora team Surveys for rare plants in potential impact Bay Training Area lead sites for infrastructure development Mining, Energy & Natural Resources 2014 Gladstone New Fuels Queensland Energy Flora team Flora surveys for EVNT species and Development Project Resources leader threatened ecological communities; RE ground-truthing and re-mapping for mine expansion 2013-14 Meteor Downs U & D Mining Project Flora surveys for EVNT species and Supplementary Surveys manager, threatened ecological communities and offset and Offset Planning flora team planning for new open cut coal mine lead 2014 Rehabilitation, Queensland Alumina Flora Surveys of vegetation communities and management & Limited surveys, fire habitat, fire management strategy planning revegetation of BBBQ management Habitat Area planning 2013 Surat Basin Springs Australia Pacific Liquid Team Flora surveys of natural springs in the Surat survey Natural Gas (on behalf ecologist Basin gas field. Species compositions and of APLNG, Gladstone targeted searches for EVNT species, aquatic Liquid Natural Gas, macroinvertebrate sampling. Surveys and Queensland Gas analysis Company and Arrow Energy) 2010, Arrow Bowen Pipeline Arrow Energy Flora team Flora surveys for ABP. Regional ecosystem 2012, leader ground-truthing; EVNT species targeted 2013 searches; watercourse crossing assessments; fauna habitat assessments 2013 Arrow Surat Pipeline Arrow Energy Flora team Flora surveys for ASP. Targeted searches for leader EVNT species (Cycas megacarpa) and enumeration of individuals within ROW 2010 Arrow Surat Pipeline Arrow Energy Flora team Survey of Arrow offset property; weed leader surveys and weed management planning, cycad mapping and offset planning. Surveys and reporting 2012-13 Rolleston Mine AECOM (for Xstrata Flora report Review and re-write of flora report for EIS; Expansion Coal) reviewer general impact and mitigation statements; EVNT species impact and mitigation recommendations 2012 Moranbah Gas Field Arrow Energy Flora team Assessments of grassland composition and grassland surveys leader condition. Surveys, analysis and reporting (including advice on need for EPBC referral) 2012 Condabri Gas Field Origin Energy Flora team Property-scale ecological assessments; ecological surveys leader regional ecosystem ground-truthing; targeted EVNT and Type A species surveys. Surveys, analysis and reporting 2012 Condabri Gas Field pre- Origin Energy Ecology Pre-clear assessments and field clear surveys team leader mapping/marking of EVNT species, declared plants, Type A plants and fauna habitat. Surveys 2011 Gas well site surveys Westside Corporation Flora team Surveys of proposed gas well infrastructure leader sites in Bowen Basin. Regional ecosystem ground-truthing, EVNT species surveys; declared plants. Surveys, analysis and reporting 2011 Bowen Basin coal rail QR National Ecology Scoping study for coal rail duplication, Bowen duplication team leader Basin-Abbot Point – ecological considerations

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 2

Project Date Project Client Role Position 2010 Purari High Voltage Origin Energy Ecology Scoping study of alternative routes for high Powerline team voltage powerline from Cape York to member Townsville. Consideration of MNES and major environmental constraints

Government 2014 Vegetation Surveys, Roads and Maritime Field team Surveys for threatened plant species, fauna Habitat tree assessment Services, NSW lead, flora habitat and vegetation community mapping & Next box Management team lead 2013 Pro-active weed mapping Brisbane City Council Survey team Systematic mapping of weed species in 180 leader ha of Mt Coot-tha Forest Park. Surveys and reporting 2013 Gateway Upgrade North Dept Transport and Project Ecological assessments of proposed 8-lane Main Roads director upgrade to Gateway Motorway, Nudgee to Deagon. Regional ecosystem ground- truthing, targeted EVNT searches, estimates of least concern plants for offset calculations; fauna use and habitat condition; koala activity. Surveys and reporting 2012 Vegetation condition Gold Coast City Flora team Surveys of vegetation condition in headlands assessments, Palm Council leader and foredunes, Palm Beach. Surveys, Beach analysis and reporting 2012 Vegetation condition Gold Coast City Flora team Surveys of vegetation condition in established assessments, Pimpama Council (Alluvium leader monitoring sites in Pimpama River and River Consulting) Hotham Creek catchments. Surveys, analysis and reporting 2011 Gateway Upgrade North Dept Transport and Flora team Ecological assessments of proposed route for Main Roads leader Gateway Motorway upgrade, Nudgee to Deagon. Regional ecosystem ground- truthing, EVNT species searches; fauna habitat assessments. Surveys and reporting 2010 Transport Network Dept Transport and Ecology Ecological assessments of proposed road Reconstruction Program Main Roads team leader and bridge reconstruction works, Lockyer Valley. Reports and management recommendations Airports 2014 Brisbane Airport mud Brisbane Airport Ecology Literature review and preliminary wasp ecology Corporation team leader investigations of mud wasp hazard 2011 Brisbane Airport Parallel Brisbane Airport Flora team Ecological assessments and management Runway Corporation leader recommendations for conversion of Casuarina plantations to bird habitat. Surveys and reporting Other relevant consulting experience 2003- Various research projects CSIRO Sustainable; Ecology Projects included: responses of biodiversity to 2011 Ecosystems and team leader isolation and fragmentation in agricultural Ecosystem Sciences landscapes; impacts of clearing patterns and for: Grain & Graze extent on ecological function in mulga Program, Land & landscapes; contribution of the farmed matrix Water Australia, to biodiversity conservation in mixed farming Condamine Alliance, landscapes; estimating the real costs of Queensland Murray conservation in agricultural landscapes; Darling Committee, ecological consequences of predicted climate Dept. of Sustainability, change on south-eastern Australian forest Environment, Water, landscapes Population and Communities 1993- Various research projects Queensland Dept. Senior forest Projects included: long-term forest fire 2003 Primary Industries ecologist experiments; paired catchment studies; biodiversity responses to forestry management; aquatic ecology in forest plantations; criteria and indicators of sustainable forest management

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 3

Training

• Generic Coal Board induction (GIQ) Standard 11

• Senior First Aid and CPR

• Basic Firefighting

• 4WD (SRODRV001B, SRODRV002B as part of SRO40206)

• Light vehicle training (RIIVEH201D)

• Biocondition v2.1 Licences

• Construction Card Publications (recent)

Butler, S., McAlpine, C., Fensham, R. & House A. 2013. Climate and exotic pasture area in landscape determines invasion of forest fragments by two invasive grasses. Journal of Applied Ecology 51, 114-123.

Robertson, O.J., McAlpine, C., House, A. & Maron, M. 2013. Influence of interspecific competition and landscape structure on spatial homogenization of avian assemblages. PLoS ONE 8(5): e65299. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0065299.

House, A.P.N., Hilbert, D.W., Ferrier, S., Martin, T.G., Harwood, T., Williams, K.J., Fletcher, C.S., Murphy, H. and Gobbett, D. 2012. The implications of climate change for biodiversity conservation and the National Reserve System: sclerophyll forests of south-eastern Australia. CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship Working Paper No. 13A. www.csiro.au/resources/CAF-working-papers

Smajgl, A, House, A.P.N. & Butler, J.R.A. 2011. Implications of ecological data constraints for integrated policy and livelihoods modelling: an example from East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Ecological Modelling 222, 888- 896.

Smith, F.P., Prober, S.M., House, A.P.N. & McIntyre, S. 2011. Maximizing native biodiversity in Australian agricultural landscapes - the 10:20:40:30 guidelines. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment 166, 35-45.

Firn, J., House, A.P.N. & Buckley, Y.M. 2010. Alternative states models provide an effective framework for invasive species control and restoration of native communities. Journal of Applied Ecology 47, 96-105.

Bradley, M., House, A.P.N., Robertson, M. & Wild, C. 2010. Vegetation succession and recovery of ecological values in the southern Queensland Brigalow Belt. Ecological Management & Restoration 11, 113-118.

Bowen, M.E., McAlpine, C. A., Seabrook, L.M., House, A.P.N. & Smith, G.C. 2009. The age and amount of regrowth forest in fragmented brigalow landscapes are both important for woodland dependent birds. Biological Conservation 142, 3051-3059.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 4

House, A.P.N., MacLeod, N.D., Cullen, B., Whitbread, A.M., Brown, S.D. & McIvor, J.G. 2008. Integrating production and natural resource management on mixed farms in eastern Australia: the cost of conservation in agricultural landscapes. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment 127, 153-165.

MacLeod, N.D., House, A.P.N., McIvor, J.G. & Brown, S.D. 2007. Challenges for profitably integrating high-level biodiversity goals into contemporary commercial grazing and mixed farming enterprises. Paper presented at ‘Balancing Conservation and Production – Case Studies from the Real World’, University of Tasmania, Launceston, 26-28 June 2007.

House, A.P.N., Schellhorn, N.A., Brown, S.D. & Bianchi, F.J.J.A. 2007. Landscape configuration, vegetation condition and ecosystem services in cotton agro-ecosystems in southern Queensland, Australia. Pp. 86-87 in: R.G.H. Bunce, R.H.G. Jongman, L. Hojas & S. Weel (eds) ‘25 years of Landscape Ecology: Scientific Principles in Practice’. Proceedings of 7th International Association of Landscape Ecology World Congress, Wageningen, The Netherlands, 8-12 July 2007.

Attwood, S.J., Maron, M., House, A.P.N. & Zammit, C. 2007. Arthropod assemblage responses to agricultural intensification in heterogeneous landscapes – local testing of global patterns. Pp. 377-378 in: R.G.H. Bunce, R.H.G. Jongman, L. Hojas & S. Weel (eds) ‘25 years of Landscape Ecology: Scientific Principles in Practice’. Proceedings of 7th International Association of Landscape Ecology World Congress, Wageningen, The Netherlands, 8-12 July 2007.

Bowen, M.E., McAlpine, C.A., House, A. & Smith, G.C. 2007. Ecological values of regrowth vegetation for conserving and restoring bird communities in highly fragmented landscapes: a brigalow case study from sub-tropical Australia. Pp. 1077-1078 in: R.G.H. Bunce, R.H.G. Jongman, L. Hojas & S. Weel (eds) ‘25 years of Landscape Ecology: Scientific Principles in Practice’. Proceedings of 7th International Association of Landscape Ecology World Congress, Wageningen, The Netherlands, 8-12 July 2007.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 5

Emily Hatfield Ecologist

Emily has been working in the environmental industry for 20 years and has experience in ecological assessments, threatened species monitoring, habitat assessment and fauna trapping (including pitfall, harp trap, funnel, cage, cathedral netting and camera), fauna spotter catcher services, project administration and management, report writing and captive Qualifications wildlife husbandry. Bachelor of Urban and Environmental Planning, Griffith Emily is particularly interested in wildlife conservation and University, 2010 Associate Diploma of Applied management having undertaken koala Spot Assessment Science (Wilderness Reserves and Technique surveys and flying-fox dispersal, monitoring and Wildlife), University of Queensland, 1997 management plans for local and state governments in Professional Queensland and New South Wales. memberships & associations A versatile member of the Ecosure team, Emily has also Planning Institute of Australia contributed to the design and facilitation of numerous community engagement projects and continues to present Areas of expertise educational wildlife shows to the public. Wildlife management Emily has experience in: Environmental education

• Fauna survey and monitoring

• Habitat assessment

• Fauna spotter catcher services

• Scientific report writing

• Developing management plans

• Community engagement

• Project administration and management

• Captive wildlife husbandry

• Wildlife show presentations

Project experience

Project Date Project Client Role Position Government 2016 Koala Local Threat Sunshine Coast Ecologist / Emily co-authored a koala local threat Assessment Council author assessment that included mapping analysis of key regional koala threats and refine risk assessment to help guide on-ground mitigation and conservation efforts.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 1

Project Date Project Client Role Position 2016 Fauna Road Impact Sunshine Coast Ecologist / Emily co-authored a fauna road impact Assessment Council author assessment that included mapping analysis of state and local roads in Sunshine Coast local government area to identify ‘hotspots’ or sections of road that are high risk to wildlife. 2017 Maroochydore flying-fox Sunshine Coast Author Emily co-authored an options report for council roost options report Council to manage a flying-fox camp with ongoing human wildlife conflict issues. 2016 Flying-fox Education Gympie Regional Project Emily worked closely with GRC to deliver the Strategy Council manager / FFMP education components comprising lead author brochure, webpage, content for signage and a two hour training workshop 2015 Koala Conservation Plan Sunshine Coast Ecologist / Emily co-authored koala management plan Council author and engaged with council stakeholders. 2015 Koala Bushlands Weed Brisbane City Council Ecologist Emily assisted in the field for two weeks of mapping weed surveys 2015 Flying-fox dispersal Sunshine Coast Ecologist / Emily conducted flying-fox dispersal and Council field monitoring for a Maroochydore site technician 2015 Tepequar Roost Sunshine Coast Author Emily co-authored a Roost Dispersal Plan Dispersal Plan Council 2015 Flying-fox heat stress Logan City Council Author Emily developed specific guidelines to plan minimise impacts to flying-foxes during heat stress events. 2015 City-wide flying-fox Gympie Regional Author Emily conducted site assessments and management plan Council assisted in the development FFMP in response to community concerns 2014-15 Koala Pre-construction Roads and Maritime Ecologist Emily has conducted on-going surveys for surveys Services Koala Spot Assessment Technique and transect surveys for Woolgoolga to Ballina Highway upgrade 2014-15 Toowoomba flying-fox Toowoomba Regional Ecologist – Emily led a team of up to 8 people during dispersal Council team lead flying-fox dispersal activities and undertook monitoring of flying-fox colonies. 2014 City wide koala surveys City of Gold Coast Ecologist Emily used the SAT survey technique to determine koala presence across Gold Coast City 2014 Woolgoolga to Ballina New South Wales Ecologist Emily conducted fauna habitat assessments Highway Upgrade Roads and Maritime between Glenugie to Halfway Creek and koala Services surveys in the Evans Head area. 2014 Little Red flying-fox Isaac Regional Ecologist – Emily led a team of 5 field staff monitoring and Dispersal Council field lead dispersing little red flying-foxes from a residential area in Middlemount 2013 Mona Vale Biodiversity New South Wales Ecologist Emily performed koala surveys and habitat Investigation Roads and Maritime assessment along a proposed road upgrade Services 2012 Gateway Motorway Department of Ecologist Emily performed koala SAT surveys and Upgrade North Transport and Main assisted with aquatic surveys Roads 2012 Fraser Island Dingo Department of Project Emily assisted with design and facilitation of Management Strategy Environment and support community engagement process and data Heritage Protection analysis. Mining, Energy & Construction 2016 Terrestrial flora and Yancoal Ecologist Emily undertook two weeks of fauna trapping fauna assessment and habitat assessment including harp trapping, pitfall, funnel, cage, camera and SAT surveys.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 2

Project Date Project Client Role Position 2016 Coomera to Helensvale Golding Contractors Fauna Emily undertook fauna spotter catcher services Rail duplication spotter during tree clearing catcher 2016-17 Tinana Interchange Georgiou Group Fauna Emily undertook fauna spotter catcher services Olsen Avenue spotter during tree clearing including capture and catcher relocation as well as turtle trapping and Telegraph Road relocation. Emily provided pre-clear and post- Warrego Highway clearing reports for numerous sites for Georgiou. 2016 Toowoomba Second Nexus Fauna Emily undertook fauna spotter catcher services Range Crossing spotter during tree clearing catcher 2015-16 Powerline construction Energex Fauna Emily undertook fauna spotter catcher services spotter during tree clearing, capturing and relocating catcher animals as required as well as transporting to RSPCA. 2015 Bird Deterrent Options Seqwater Ecologist Emily assessed intake structures at five dams and provided management options to reduce bird activity on around the towers. 2014 Arrow Bowen Pipeline Arrow Energy Ecologist Emily undertook fauna trapping using pit-fall, Ecological Surveys funnel, Elliott traps as well as conducting habitat assessments and surveys for endangered, vulnerable and near threatened species including Spot Assessment Technique for koalas. 2013 T9 West project Paragon Coal Ecologist Emily assisted Principal Aquatic Ecologist conducting aquatic invertebrate surveys and vertebrate trapping 2012 Ecological assessment Origin Energy Ecologist Emily conducted fauna surveys and habitat and pre-clearance assessment for threatened species using surveys (various) handheld GPS devices and reported on results. 2012 Fauna habitat Coffey Environment Ecologist Emily undertook fauna habitat and pre-clear assessment and pre- surveys. clearance on Curtis Island Airports 2013- Terrestrial Fauna Gold Coast Airport Ecologist Emily conducted surveys for frogs and birds at 2016 Monitoring Pty Ltd the airport as part of the environmental management plan. Other relevant consulting experience 2016 National flying-fox forum Ecosure and EIANZ Co-author Emily contributed to the design and content of co-facilitators and facilitator the forum workshop which served as the first round of consultation towards the National Flying-fox Strategic Vision. Emily co-authored the Background Paper that accompanies the Strategic vision and continues to campaign for a nation-wide approach to flying-fox management. 2015 Environmental The Southport School Project Emily conducted site assessment and wrote an Management Plan Dux manager Environmental Management Plan as part of Anchorage the licence requirements for TSS outdoor education site on South Stradbroke Island. 2012- Nest box monitoring and Griffith University Project Emily is responsible for biannual monitoring, 2015 species management Manager maintenance and reporting of 20 nest boxes as plan part of the university’s species management plan 2012-16 Environmental auditing Granada Productions Ecologist Emily has participated in water quality monitoring as part of the site’s Environmental management plan.

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 3

Project Date Project Client Role Position 2013 AusAid Paraguay Queensland Project Emily organised a week long workshop and Capacity Building University of Manager facilitated site excursions and lectures by Technology Ecosure staff for visiting government and NGO representatives from Paraguay 2010- Environmental Education Redland City Council Advisor for Emily managed the development of the 2011 Strategy Natural Environmental Education Strategy, Offset administration Environment undertaking a review of internal education policies to identify gaps and opportunities for Wildlife Corridor Mapping improvement. She collaborated with Project consultants on internal staff workshops and for a public survey aimed at understanding and inducing environmental behavioural change in the local community 2005- Environmental education Geckoes Wildlife Wildlife Emily was responsible for the captive breeding 2015 programs Presentations Presenter of numerous threatened species and continues to performing education presentations to schools and the community. 1999- Animal husbandry and Currumbin Wildlife Wildlife Emily conducted personal and group guided 2003 wildlife education Sanctuary Officer – tours and was involved in School Holiday mammals Education Programs and birds 1995- Animal husbandry and Gondwana Wildlife Wildlife Emily conducted wildlife presentations and 1998 wildlife education Sanctuary Officer guided tours

Training

• Venomous snake handling (2013) Geckoes Wildlife Presentation

• Fauna Forensics (2013) Greening Australia Licences

• First Aid / CPR

• Coal Board Medical

• Construction Card

• 4WD light vehicle Publications and presentations

Woolcock, G.; Zakus, D.; Bird, M. & Hatfield, E. (2010) Cricketers Hotspots and Coldspots: Talent Tracking the Key Development Geographies of Australia’s Elite Cricketers, Conference of Science, Medicine & Coaching in Cricket 2010, Gold Coast, June 2010, pp. 44-45

Curriculum Vitae ecosure.com.au | 4 BEN JAMES NOTTIDGE

EDUCATION

2002 First Class Honours (Animal Studies) University of Queensland

This degree examined the health and dispersal patterns (using radio telemetry) of translocated and rehabilitated koalas in two different locations on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

2001 Bachelor of Applied Science (Protected Area Management) University of Queensland

The Protected Area Management degree focused upon natural and cultural resources within conservation systems and how economic, social and ecological factors influence the management of protected areas. Where possible I enrolled in as many wildlife and ecology based subjects as my program would allow.

PROFESSIONALS SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

. Demonstrated ability to produce various scientific reports and professional documents . Thorough understanding of statutory and regulatory processes regarding urban development, land-clearing and environmental impacts . Thorough knowledge of ecological assessment requirements and methods including animal trapping, animal handling and ethics . Broad knowledge of flora and fauna identification, including identification of tracks, scats and traces . Experience in wildlife project design, radiotelemetry and scientific research . High level of understanding of urban wildlife management, population management issues and ethics . Experience in feral animal monitoring and control . Proven ability to manage projects of varying size . Proven ability to supervise and train staff as required . Demonstrated ability of project costing and ensuring budgets and timeframes are met . Excellent interpersonal and communication skills . Proven ability to development positive working relationships with clients and regulatory authorities

1 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] . Proven ability to work effectively and reliably as part of a team environment or independently as required . Ability and willingness to learn and perfect additional skills and knowledge as required . Proficient in the use of computers and various software programs.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Principal Ecologist January 2011 - Current GreenLeaf Ecology

. Fauna surveys . EIS . Habitat assessment & mapping . Fauna management plan formulation . Threatened species management plan formulation and implementation . Wildlife radio-telemetry projects . Targeted threatened species surveys . Koala survey, capture and monitoring . Feral animal monitoring and control . Project management . Offset site revegetation/rehabilitation - implementation and monitoring . Wildlife spotter-catching and management during vegetation clearing

Key projects while in this position include:

. Toowoomba Second Range Crossing Project – koala habitat assessment, survey, capture and monitoring (Department of Transport and Main Roads) . EIS fauna survey (pre and post wet season), Arrow Bowen Pipeline (Arrow Energy) . Moreton Bay Rail Link Koala Tagging and Monitoring Project (Department of Transport & Main Roads) . Ecological Assessment for Kawana STP Rising Main Diversion (Unitywater) . Targeted threatened amphibian survey and translocation project, Stone Ridge, Narangba (Stockland) . Revegetation/rehabilitation vegetation offsets project, Tanawha (Unitywater) . Targeted fauna survey and habitat assessment for threatened fauna species in the southern Brigalow Belt, Chinchilla (Origin Energy) . Targeted fauna surveys, pre-clearing surveys, habitat assessments, Curtis Island (Australia Pacific LNG) . EIS fauna survey, Foxleigh Proposed Coalmine, Middlemount (Anglo American) . EIS fauna survey, Moranbah South Proposed Coalmine, Moranbah (Anglo American) . EIS fauna survey, Valeria Proposed Coalmine, Capella (Rio Tinto) . EIS fauna survey, Winchester South Proposed Coalmine, Moranbah (Rio Tinto) . EIS fauna surveys including targeted koala surveys and wildlife spotter-catching, Hail Creek Coalmine, Nebo (Rio Tinto) . Giant Barred Frog Species Management Plan, Belli Park (Sunshine Coast Council) . Koala radio-tracking, wildlife spotter-catching, fauna surveys, revegetation, Brendale (CSR Ltd) . Koala surveys, capture and habitat assessment for the Road Ecology Koala Study, multiple sites from Redlands to Kurwongbah (Griffith University) . Targeted threatened amphibian and mammal surveys, Caloundra South Proposed Development, Caloundra (Stockland)

2 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] . Threatened amphibian targeted surveys, habitat assessment and mapping, Caboolture Landfill Expansion, Caboolture (Moreton Bay Regional Council)

Manager/Senior Ecologist February 2007 – January 2011 Ecological Services Unit, Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide Ltd

. Wildlife translocations . Wildlife radio-telemetry projects . Wildlife management projects . Flora and fauna assessments . Wildlife capture utilising darting anaesthesia . Advising developers on ecologically sensitive design and planning . Pre-clearing fauna surveys and fauna rescue programs . Acquiring Animal Ethics Committee approval and Scientific Purposes Permits for research and wildlife management projects . Planning, co-ordination and implementation of fauna trapping programs . Project costing and invoicing . Project management . Staff management and training . Supervise and train University students during workshops and work experience . Consultation and liaison with a range of key stakeholders and clients including local residents, contractors, other consultants, Local, State and Federal Governments

Key projects while in this position include:

. Australia Pacific LNG Project, Curtis Island o Ensure client compliance with conditional clearing permit o Record type and quantity of vegetation cleared during geo-technical investigation works o Conduct wildlife spotter-catcher duties during vegetation clearing o Conduct targeted species surveys and habitat assessments

. Trackstar Alliance Rail Upgrade - Caboolture to Beerburrum o Pre-clearing fauna surveys o Wildlife Spotter-catching during vegetation clearing o Direct vegetation clearing methodologies o Advise Trackstar environmental staff as required o Liaise and work with a wide range of Trackstar personnel from contractors to Superintendent

. Warner Springs Residential and Industrial Development (CSR Ltd), Warner o Fauna Surveys o Koala radio-tracking to determine home ranges of resident population including koala capture and thorough health assessments o Using radio-tracking data to guide habitat retention o Negotiating development layout and design with a range multi-disciplinary consultants to maximise ecological outcomes while ensuring economic requirements of the project were met o Formulate an offset strategy to mitigate development impacts

3 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] o Liaise with key stakeholders including local councils and non-government organisations o Advise the client on a range of issues including development design and habitat retention, wildlife management and revegetation o Manage revegetation projects on site

. Sit on Expert Panel for Moreton Bay Regional Council’s Conservation Significance Mapping Project

o Provide advice to Council representatives regarding the location of ecologically significant areas and known significant species distribution within the Shire

. Eco-librium Residential Development (CSR Pty Ltd), Narangba o Fauna Surveys o Koala radio-tracking to determine home ranges of resident population including koala capture and thorough health assessments o Using radio-tracking data to guide habitat retention o Negotiating development layout and design with a range multi-disciplinary consultants to maximise ecological outcomes while ensuring economic requirements of the project were met o Liaise with key stakeholders including local councils, non-government organisations and members of the public o Advise the client on a range of issues including development design and habitat retention and wildlife management

. Macropod Management, Sanctuary Cove Golf Club, Gold Coast o Capture of Eastern Grey Kangaroos using projectile anesthesia o Conduct macropod population census o Macropod handling o Assist in health assessments and reproductive management including surgery

. Assessment of the Wildlife Spotter-catcher Process and Nature Conservation Protection Mechanisms in Moreton Bay Regional Council Shire

o Analyse the effectiveness of Nature Conservation Overlays o Ground truth mapped vegetation and potential fauna release sites o Provide recommendations to Council on measures to improve ecological mapping and the wildlife spotter-catcher process

Self Employment

Proposed Energex Corridor, Forest Glen - Raymonde Raiz (landowner) August 2010 – January 2011

. Investigate potential impact of proposed infrastructure . Conduct targeted surveys for threatened species . Conduct habitat assessment for threatened species

Site Investigation for Biodiversity Offsets, Toorbul - Ecofund Queensland September - October 2010

. Assess habitat suitability for targeted species

4 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] . Conduct targeted surveys for threatened species . Assess the suitability of the site as a location for future biodiversity offsets

Wallum Sedgefrog Monitoring, Peregian - James Warren & Associates March 2009 - present

. Conduct threatened species monitoring as per the requirements of the Management Plan . Conduct targeted surveys for the Wallum Sedgefrog (Litoria olongburensis) within retained conservation zones on an approved development site

Environmental Scientist Sept 2003 – February 2007 James Warren & Associates

. Flora and fauna Assessments . Targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna . Due diligence investigations . Preparation of vegetation and fauna management plans . Site constraints analysis . Pre-clearing fauna surveys and wildlife spotter-catching activities . Licence and permit applications to State Government . Assist in the formulation of reports for the Queensland Planning and Environment Court . Planning, co-ordination and implementation of fauna trapping programs . Ecological monitoring and record keeping . Supervise, train and direct other company personnel as required . Manage projects of varying size . Project costing and budgeting . Attend and contribute to project meetings . Develop a knowledge and understanding of Federal (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) and State (Nature Conservation Act 1992 & Vegetation Management Act 1999) legislation . Vegetation management – formulation and application of PMAV’s and map amendments under the provisions of the Vegetation Management Act 1999 . Consultation and liaison with local residents, Local, State and Federal Governments departments, business groups and non-government organisations during the development process

Key projects while in this position include:

. The Edge Noosa, Kin Kin (SEQ) o Extensive Ecological Assessment and respond to Government Information Request o Targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna o Significant species habitat and vegetation mapping

. Coolum Ridges, Peregian Beach (SEQ) o Respond to Government Information Request o Targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna o Koala surveys and mapping of primary and secondary habitat

. Pelican Links, Caloundra (SEQ) o Ecological Assessment and respond to Government Information Request o Targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna

5 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] o Significant species habitat and vegetation mapping o Preparation of a PMAV for site vegetation o Map remnant vegetation occurring on site o Assist in the preparation of Court documents o Significant species habitat and vegetation mapping

. Residential Development, Mission Beach (NQ) o Targeted fauna surveys and habitat assessment for three endangered species (Southern Cassowary, Laced-eyed Tree-frog, Mahogany Glider)

. Shoal Point, Mackay (CQ) o Targeted surveys for vulnerable fauna (False Water-rat) o Map extent of marine vegetation o Determine and map extent of remnant vegetation o Flora survey

. Rodds Harbour, Turkey Beach (CQ) o Ecological Assessment o Targeted surveys for significant flora and fauna o Determine and map extent of remnant vegetation

Urban Wildlife Management Projects:

Sept - Oct 2005 Brisbane City Council, Wacol Wastewater Treatment Plant, Wacol (Contract position) Environmental Consultant

. Obtain an accurate population size of Eastern Grey Kangaroos inhabiting the Waste Water Treatment and Management area . Determine and implement an adequate management option that fulfilled the ecological and legal / ethical requirements for wildlife management on behalf of the client . Relocation of the population to a suitable pre-determined area . Assist wildlife veterinarian with animal tranquilization using a dart gun . Prepare report on the project and future management options

Aug - Sept 2003, The Pines Golf Course, Sanctuary Cove, Gold Nov 2005 Coast (Contract position) Environmental Consultant

. Obtain an accurate population size and demographic census of Eastern Grey Kangaroos inhabiting the Golf Course area . Survey all boundary fences and record any breaches that may allow immigration / emigration . Test animals reaction in relation to being approached and firing of a dart gun at close proximity . Assist wildlife veterinarian in preparation of darts and darting of all animals with a tranquilizer gun . Assist with veterinary procedures including ear tagging all animals, record individual data, general physical examination, contraceptive implantation, administration of medications . Preparation of detailed project report and management plan

6 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected]

Aug 2003 (contract position) Edenbrooke Residential Developments, Seventeen Mile Rocks Environmental Consultant

. Perform a site assessment on remaining native bushland in a development site . Record vertebrate fauna present at the site through observations and recent traces . Record basic floristic composition within the site . Identify boundaries and fences of the site, i.e. whether these would inhibit or assist in the removal process of fauna . Provide options in relation to the removal of remaining vertebrate species in the site prior to development

June 1996 – Dec 2000 Big Pineapple, Woombye Animal Keeper

. Caring for a wide range of native and domestic animals . After hours care of native wildlife . Animal food preparation (including harvesting of Koala food trees) . Medical treatment of animals . Public presentations with animals . Wildlife handling and capture of problem animals . Cleaning, maintenance and construction of enclosures . Gardening and landscaping . Primary production work . Public liaison . Liaison with a wide range of people in various departments . Ordering and purchasing stock and equipment . Training and supervising staff

VOLUNTARY WORK

2010-2015 Frogsearch - Kroombit Tops National Park, DERM (March & December) 2010 Wallum Sedgefrog surveys assisting PhD candidate - Mooloolah River National Park and Beerburrum State Forest, Griffith University (February & September) 2010 False Water Rat targeted surveys - Bribie Island, DERM (August) 2010 Wallum Sedgefrog targeted surveys - Bribie Island, DERM (November)

WORK EXPERIENCE

2003 Quoll Seekers Network 2001 QPWS, Maleny, QLD

7 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] 2000 QPWS, Carnarvon Gorge, QLD 2000 QWPS, Currawinya, QLD 1999 NTCC, Borroloola, NT

PUBLICATIONS

. Hanger, J.J. and Nottidge, B.J. 2009. Draft Code of Practice for the Welfare and Management of Wild Animals Affected by Land-clearing and the Modification or Destruction of Wildlife Habitats and Wildlife Spotter/catchers.

. Nottidge, B.J. 2002. Monitoring the health and dispersal patterns of translocated and rehabilitated Koala at two locations on the Gold Coast, in press.

LICENCES / MEMBERSHIPS / CERTIFICATES

. Wildlife Preservation Society of Qld (member)

. Queensland Frog Society (member)

. 2010-14 Australian Wildlife Conservancy (Contributor)

. Current Rehabilitation Permit (Wildlife Spotter-Catcher) – Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

. 2004 Blue Card (Construction Industry) #129922

. 2014 SARC Card (QR Trackside Safety Card)

. Current manual vehicle drivers licence

. Current Senior First Aid and CPR Certificate

. Coal Board Medical

. 4WD Driver Certificate

. Generic Coal Surface Induction (S11)

. Coal Seam Gas Inductions (Arrow Energy, APLNG, QGC)

REFEREES

Mr Jason Richard Senior Environmental Protection Officer

8 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected] Department of Health, Safety and Environment Queensland University of Technology M: 0457 750 157 E: [email protected]

Dr Jon Hanger Managing Director Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd M: 0429 933 761 E: [email protected]

Dr Andrew Tribe Senior Lecturer in Wildlife Management, Health and Behaviour University of Queensland, Gatton Campus M: 0418 727 062 E: [email protected]

9 Ben Nottidge – M: 0428 450 968 E: [email protected]

CURRICULUM VITAE

STEVE MARSTON Partner / Principal Ecologist (Zoology) Education Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours), Griffith University Masters of Wildlife Management, Macquarie University Professional Affiliations Environmental Institute of Australia and New Zealand Ecological Society of Australia

Professional Development Certified Environmental Practitioner Regional Ecosystem Training — certified by the Department of Natural Resources Mines and Water to identify Regional Ecosystems.

Skills and Expertise Steve is an ecologist with extensive experience in ecological assessment and environmental management gained over the past 18 years in the consulting field in Queensland, NSW and Victoria. His engineering qualifications in combination with his wide range of experience in the environmental field and ecological specialty enable Steve to work with a variety of professionals to develop practical solutions to complex ecological issues.

Steve has prepared numerous ecological assessments of proposals against relevant national, state and local legislation and policy. He has worked on a large range of projects from infrastructure such as high voltage transmission lines, wind farms, major highway upgrades and mining related projects, to small property developments. This has included preparing the documentation for numerous projects under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Steve has also undertaken several natural resource management projects such as the development of a habitat network strategy to guide revegetation over 25,000km2 in south western Victoria; an assessment of the values and threats to wetlands along the Murray River and the assessment of several options to restore a Ramsar listed wetland used as a salt disposal basin for over 30 years.

Professional History 2006 – present Partner/Principal Ecologist, Ecological Survey & Management 2006 Ecological Team Leader, Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia 2004 – 2006: Senior Ecologist / Manager North Coast, PLACE Environmental 2002 – 2004: Senior Ecologist, Brett Lane & Associates Pty Ltd (Victoria) 1997 – 2002: Environmental Consultant, PPK Environment & Infrastructure Pty Ltd 1996: Research Assistant, Griffith University

Steve Marston

Mining and Infrastructure Projects • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment, Isaac Plains East. Project manager and fauna lead for the ecological assessment of an expansion of the existing Isaac Plains Mine near Moranbah. The assessment identified threatened species occurring within the study area and assessed potential impacts to these species. • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment, G200s Grosvenor Mine. Project manager and fauna lead for the terrestrial flora and fauna assessment of an additional series of longwall panels at the existing Grosvenor Mine near Moranbah. • Baseline Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Surveys, Oaky Creek Mine. Project manager and fauna lead for baseline surveys for two proposed expansion projects at the existing Oaky Creek Mine. The surveys identified a number of threatened species and communities within the study areas. Following the completion of baseline surveys both projects were suspended. • Baseline Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Surveys, Cook Colliery. Project manager and fauna lead for the baseline survey of a proposed expansion project at the existing Cook Colliery near Blackwater. • Preliminary Fauna Assessment, Woolgar Gold Project. Conducted a preliminary fauna survey and habitat mapping for threatened fauna species likely to occur within the area of a possible gold mine north of Richmond. The objective of the assessment was to determine likely constraints for the future development of the project. • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment, Bluff Coal Project. Project manager and fauna lead for the ecological assessment of the proposed Bluff Coal Project in Central Queensland. The assessment process involved detailed Koala habitat and impact assessment for the project. • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Surveys, Hail Creek Expansion Project. Managed and conducted detailed seasonal flora and fauna surveys for the proposed expansion of the existing Hail Creek Mine near Nebo in Central Queensland. The surveys involved targeted Koala surveys and detected a number of threatened species. • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Surveys, T9 West Coal Project. Project manager and fauna team lead for the ecological baseline surveys for the proposed T9 West Coal Project. • EPBC Act Assessment and Management Plans, Baralaba Mine Train Load Out Facility. Conducted the detailed assessment of potential impacts to matters of national environmental significance under the EPBC Act with particular focus on Brigalow threatened ecological community, Squatter Pigeon and Ornamental Snake. Developed a management and mitigation plan to mange potential residual impacts to the Ornamental Snake including detailed monitoring actions. • Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment, Cook Colliery. Project manager and field team lead for the ecological assessment of the proposed expansion of underground mining operations at Cook Colliery near Blackwater in Central Queensland. • Black Creek Diversion, Ecological Assessment, Stanwell. Conducted the ecological assessment including preparing a Property Vegetation Management Plan and Offset Proposal and Management Plan for the diversion of Black Creek at the Tarong Power Station.

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• Fauna Management, Columboola to Condabri, Ruby to Jordan and Condamine to Bellevue High Voltage Transmission Lines. Project manager for the fauna management (spotter catcher) works associated with the construction of high voltage transmission lines in the Chinchilla and Miles region. • Targeted Koala Assessment, Moranbah South Coal Project Seismic Area. Conducted a targeted Koala assessment using the spot assessment technique to assess Koala presence and habitat preferences within a proposed seismic survey area for the Moranbah South Coal Project. • Ecological Assessment, Valeria Coal Project. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the ecological assessment of the proposed Valeria Coal project near Capella. • Ecological Assessment, Winchester South Coal Project. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the ecological assessment of the proposed Winchester South Coal Mine. • Terrestrial Fauna Assessment, Arrow Bowen Basin Pipeline. Conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the terrestrial fauna assessment of a gas pipeline from the Moranbah area to Curtis Island. • Ecological Assessment, Proposed Moranbah South Coal Project. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the ecological assessment of a proposed longwall coal mine near Moranbah in the Bowen Basin. • Fauna Management, Blackwater Creek Clearance Area, Wesfarmers Curragh. Managed the pre-clearing survey, spotter catcher and habitat enhancement works associated with the clearing of a section of Blackwater Creek that had been diverted to allow the continuation of mining within one of the pits at Curragh Mine near Blackwater. The area cleared was identified as potentially supporting threatened species such as the Little Pied Bat (Chalinolobus picatus) and Brigalow Scaly-foot (Paradelma orientalis). • Ecological Assessment, Foxleigh Plains Coal Project. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the ecological assessment of the proposed expansion of the existing Foxleigh Mine near Middlemount. • Terrestrial Fauna Survey, Proposed Open Cut Coal Mine and Offset Site, Hunter Valley. Conducted the terrestrial fauna survey for a proposed open cut coal mine and targeted threatened fauna species surveys for an offset site in the upper Hunter Valley, NSW. • Ecological Assessment, Coppabella Underground Project, Macarthur Coal. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the terrestrial and aquatic ecological assessment for the proposed underground expansion of the existing Coppabella Coal Mine. The assessment included seasonal surveys and the assessment of potential impacts of the project on the ecological values of the study area including the Ornamental Snake (Denisonia maculata). • Ecological Assessment, Peak Downs Highway – Eton Range Crossing, Department of Transport and Main Roads. Conducted and ecological assessment of a proposed new alignment of the Peak Downs Highway crossing of the Eton Range west of Mackay. The existing alignment can not be upgraded further and a new alignment for the highway is under investigation. A number of rare and threatened species are known from the area although none were identified from the proposed alignment. • Terrestrial Fauna Assessment, Braemar Substation to Kumbarilla Park Transmission Line, Parsons Brinckerhoff. Conducted the assessment of potential impacts on terrestrial fauna species of a high voltage transmission line along side an existing transmission line through Braemar State Forest near

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Dalby. The confirmed the presence of a Commonwealth listed species from the study area along with a number of additional species considered likely to occur. • Ecological Assessment, Proposed Minyango Mine, Hansen Bailey Environmental Consultants. Project manager and conducted terrestrial fauna surveys for the ecological assessment of a proposed longwall coal mine near Blackwater in the Bowen Basin. • Terrestrial Fauna Survey, Proposed Open Cut Coal Mine, Upper Hunter Valley. Led one of two fauna survey teams for a proposed open cut coal mine in the upper Hunter Valley NSW. • Terrestrial Fauna Survey, Middlemount Mine, Parsons Brinckerhoff. Led the terrestrial fauna survey for the proposed Middlemount Mine in the Bowen Basin. The assessment utilised standard survey techniques such as Elliot trapping, harp traps, active searching and Anabat as well as infra red cameras. • Ecological Assessment, Proposed Belvedere Mine, Hansen Bailey Environmental Consultants. Managed the ecological assessment of a proposed longwall coal mine near Moura in the Bowen Basin. The assessment identified a number of threatened species and communities from the study area and assessed the potential impacts of the proposed mine on these species and communities. • Verification of Moratorium Vegetation Mapping, Tarong Power Station, IMEMS. Project manager for the review and verification of Moratorium Regrowth vegetation mapping on land owned by the Tarong Power Station. The review identified a number of inconsistencies in the mapping across the study area. • Review of Matters of National Environmental Significance, Ensham Mine, Hansen Bailey Environmental Consultants. Conducted a review of Matter of National Environmental Significance under the Commonwealth EPBC Act for the proposed expansion of Ensham Mine in the Bowen Basin. The objective of the review was to assess the potential for species or communities listed under the EPBC Act since the initial ecological assessment was completed to occur on the site. • Regional Ecosystem Assessment, Coppabella, Queensland Rail. Undertook the assessment of the remnant status of vegetation on a 125ha site acquired by Queensland Rail to assess its potential to be used as an offset site. The assessment resulted in the preparation of a detailed map of remnant and non remnant vegetation across the site and the identification of areas that could potentially be used for offsets. • Fauna Management, Airport Link, Thiess John Holland. Prepared Fauna Management Plans and managed the on ground fauna management during vegetation clearing works for the Airport Link project through the inner northern suburbs of Brisbane. • Fauna Survey, Water for Bowen, North Queensland, Lewis Ecological Surveys. Team member for the fauna survey of a proposed 130 km long irrigation channel between Home Hill and Bowen in north Queensland. The project aims to deliver water to the fruit and vegetable growing area to the north of Bowen that has relied on groundwater for irrigation purposes. The survey resulted in a large range extension for a threatened species of blind snake. • Fauna Survey, Proposed Power Station, IMEMS. Conducted a fauna survey and prepared a report for the 200 hectare site of a proposed power station in the southern Brigalow Belt. The site was heavily vegetated with native remnant vegetation which provided potential habitat for a number of the threatened fauna species known from the bioregion. • Ecological Assessment, Proposed Sand Quarry, Tannum Sands, Anembo Consultants. Prepared an Ecological Assessment Report for the proposed

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expansion of an existing sand extraction facility on a site to the south of Tannum Sands in central Queensland. The assessment included clarifying the status of the remnant vegetation on the site and submitting a map modification request to the Queensland Herbarium to more accurately map the vegetation extent and type on the site. • Fauna and Flora Survey, Hinze Dam Raising, Gold Coast, Sinclair Knight Merz. Led one of two fauna survey teams undertaking a detailed fauna survey of the proposed inundation area for the raising of the Hinze Dam in the Gold Coast Hinterland. The survey located a number of threatened species within the study area and the habitat that this species were associated with and were likely to utilise throughout the study area. • Fauna Survey, Tarong Transport Corridor, Tarong Transport Alliance. Managed one of two fauna survey teams responsible for seasonal fauna surveys of a 65km long proposed transport alignment from New Acland Mine to the Tarong Power Station. The existing coal supply for the station is due to be exhausted by the end of 2009 by which time a new supply source must be online. The survey focused on determining the potential for threatened species to occur along the alignment and determining the potential distribution of these species. A number of threatened species were located the most notable of which was the poorly known Collared Delma (Delma torquata). • Flora and Fauna Survey, Trap Gully Mining Lease Expansion, Callide Mine, Anglo Coal. Managed the fauna component of a comprehensive ecological assessment of two new mining lease applications. The assessment assessed the potential implications of the project in terms of Commonwealth and State legislation. • Targeted Species Assessment, Pioneer Valley to Nebo High-voltage Transmission Line, Central Queensland, Powerlink. Coordinated the targeted assessment of threatened fauna species along the proposed alignment. An assessment was made of the potential occurrence of threatened fauna species along the alignment and design improvements were made to the line to reduce impacts to areas of potential habitat. • Targeted Species Survey, Granite Creek to Agnes Water Distribution Line, Central Queensland, Ergon Energy. Coordinated a threatened species survey targeting threatened flora and fauna species that may occur along the proposed alignment. The survey identified the presence of two nationally significant flora species and an assessment of the potential impacts of the proposed construction of the line on these species was undertaken. • Fauna Survey, Glen Wilga Mine, Tarong Energy. Undertook the second seasonal fauna survey for the proposed Glen Wilga open cut coal mine near Chinchilla. The survey focused survey effort on detecting threatened species that has previously been recorded from the area including the Little Pied Bat and Brigalow Scaly Foot. The fauna survey report assessed the potential impacts of the proposed mine on the fauna values of the study area and identified mitigation options and areas requiring further investigation. • Fauna Survey, Proposed Coal Mine, Central Queensland. Undertook a detailed fauna survey of a site for a proposed open cut coal mine in central Queensland. The survey identified several threatened species on the site and defined the extent of habitat for these species in order to assess the potential impact of the proposed mine. • Vegetation Management Plan, Aldoga High Voltage Transmission Line, Central Queensland, Powerlink. Conducted assessment of vegetation clearing requirements. The 73 km transmission line traversed significant areas of remnant vegetation such as Callide Range and Mt Alma Range. Classified

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vegetation requiring removal to its regional ecosystem and determined conservation status. • Boyne Valley Infrastructure Relocation Study, Gladstone, Gladstone Area Water Board. Coordinated preliminary fauna survey of proposed rail and road corridors. Existing road and rail corridors that were to be relocated because of the proposed expansion of Awoonga Dam. Used standard assessment techniques such as spotlighting, active searching, call playback and Anabat. • Fauna and Flora Survey, Trap Gully to Boundary Hill Haul Road, Biloela, Queensland, Callide Coalfields. Team member for fauna and flora survey along route of 10 km proposed haul road. Prepared species inventory of fauna, involving identification of reptiles, birds and mammals. Classified and mapped flora communities. Results were used in assessing road’s potential impact on fauna and flora. • Fauna Survey, Proposed Comet River Dam, Rolleston, Queensland, Department of Natural Resources. Team member for fauna survey targeting inundation area of proposed dam. Prepared species list for area and identified amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Used standard fauna survey techniques. • Ecological Assessment, Goodna Substation, Powerlink Queensland. Managed the ecological assessment of a substation site in Goodna important in securing the ongoing supply of electricity to the south western suburbs of Brisbane. The assessment involved a detailed fauna and flora survey including the mapping of all trees on the site. The assessment confirmed that the site supported an endangered regional ecosystem that required the site to be designated as community infrastructure to allow the construction of the substation. • Marine Plant Assessment, Tingalpa to Murrarie Distribution Line, Energex. Energex were required to relocate an existing electrical distribution line between Tingalpa and Murrarie. The line traversed coastal low lying areas and crossed Bulimba Creek several times. The area supports marine plants for which a permit to disturb or remove is required. The extent of the marine plants was mapped in details using a differential GPS and an application prepared. • Fauna Survey, Bald Hills Wind Farm, Tarwin Lower, Wind Power. Undertook the fauna survey of small patches of remnant vegetation on the site of a proposed 80 turbine wind farm in southern Victoria. The survey employed standard survey techniques to • Threatened Species Management, Pakenham Bypass, VicRoads. Managed the detailed assessment of options to retain a population of the nationally significant Matted Flax-lily (Dianella amoena) in a rail corridor crossed by the bypass. The project involved the development and evaluation of options as well as the management of an engineering team to undertake preliminary design and costing of options. • Ecological Assessment, Venus Bay Ocean Outfall, South East Water. Managed the preparation of an ecological assessment of a new ocean outfall and associated pipeline at Venus Bay in south east Victoria. The outfall and pipeline are located in the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park. The assessment included measures to minimise the impact of the construction on important shore bird habitats and dune stability. • Ecological Assessment, Gas Pipeline, Port Campbell. Undertook the ecological assessment of a new gas pipeline to connect a new offshore gas well to a proposed gas processing station in south western Victoria. The investigation involved the detailed assessment of two potential pipeline routes.

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• Ecological Assessment, Geelong Bypass, VicRoads. Responsible for the ecological assessment of a section of the Geelong Bypass where the route crosses the Barwon River. The assessment involved detailed assessment of potential ecological issues and the development of management strategies. • Bat Surveys, various Wind Farm Sites, Victoria. Undertook several bat surveys using Anabat equipment for various wind farm sites throughout Victoria. The surveys involved the simultaneous survey of bats at ground level and turbine height and involved the design of a wind shield for the anabat transducer to reduce the effects of wind interference and provide some protection to the transducer. • Flora and Fauna Survey, Supplementary EES, Calder Highway, Faraday to Ravenswood, Victoria (VicRoads). Managed the assessment of flora and fauna impacts and mitigation options for revised alignments of the Calder Highway in the vicinity of Harcourt. The project involved the assessment on nine alignment options and employed the habitat hectare assessment methodology to evaluate the impact of each option on native vegetation and habitat. This project was one of the first large linear infrastructure projects to employ this methodology to assess options. • Flora and Fauna Survey, Pyalong Bypass, Victoria (VicRoads). Project Manager for the flora and fauna survey of the proposed Pyalong Bypass. The assessment found that no species of conservation were likely to occur within the study area. Several mitigation options were developed to reduce the potential impact of the bypass on the flora and fauna values of the area. • Fauna Survey, Niranda South Windfarm, Niranda South, Victoria (Windfarm Developments). Undertook the fauna survey and bird utilisation data analysis of a proposed windfarm site in south western Victoria. The site adjoined the Bay of Islands Coastal Park that supports populations of several threatened fauna species. The assessment also involved the analysis of detailed seasonal bird utilisation counts to determine the likely level of impact and potential mortalities resulting from the proposed windfarm. • Targeted Threatened Species Assessment, Proposed Second River Crossing, Echuca, Victoria (Shire of Campaspe). Conducted a threatened species assessment to assess the likelihood of two threatened bird species being present along two potential alignments for a second crossing of the Murray River at Echuca. The results of the assessment were presented in a Planning Panel Hearing in relation to the proposed crossing. The assessment concluded that neither species were likely to be significantly effected by the proposed alignment. • Environmental Assessment, Wide Bay Training Area, Queensland, Resolve FM. Conducted ecological assessment of proposed aerial gunnery range which was to be used for training in aviation gunnery using weapons mounted on, or fired from, helicopters. Objective of survey was to identify any environmental constraints and to develop options to manage any adverse impacts. Identified rare pineapple zamia (Macrozamia pauli-guilielmi) within target area and rare Freycinet’s Frog (Litoria freycineti) adjacent to target area. • Land Disposal Study, Wacol Army Barracks, Queensland, Department of Defence. Conducted ecological assessment of former Wacol Army Barracks prior to disposal. Site was traversed by two creeks and contained several stands of mature hollow-bearing trees. Recommended protection of vegetation fringing the creeks, with appropriate buffer distances and regeneration techniques for developing mid- and under-storey vegetation within stands of mature trees.

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• Environmental Assessment, Wide Bay Training Area, Queensland, Department of Defence. Conducted ecological component of assessment for proposed weapons training range within existing Wide Bay Training Area. Included comprehensive ecological survey, geological survey and water quality assessment. Objective was to identify any environmental constraints on development and operation of weapons range and to develop management options to minimise impact. Most significant outcome was discovery of the rare wallum froglet (Crinia tinnula) within proposed weapons range. • Environmental Impact Assessment Review, Aldoga High Voltage Transmission Line, Central Queensland Powerlink. Conducted habitat assessment and preliminary fauna survey for proposed new transmission line. Assessed quality and extent of habitat along route. Identified areas inhabited by brush-tailed rock wallaby and areas of vine forest. Developed management options to minimise impact of construction and operation of transmission line. • Preliminary Ecological Surveys, East and South Gippsland, Victoria, Vic Roads. Conducted fauna assessment of seven sections of highway under consideration for realignment or duplication. Identified species present or likely to be present and their significance. Also identified areas of high ecological value to be avoided and areas where alignment would have least ecological impact. • Environmental Impact Assessment Review, Blackwall to Greenbank High Voltage Transmission Line, South East Queensland, Powerlink. Undertook habitat assessment and preliminary fauna survey. Review aimed to assess quality and extent of habitat along entire route which traversed significant areas of native vegetation including White Rock and Spring Mountain Conservation Estates. Developed site-specific management options in conjunction with Powerlink and Ipswich City Council, including compensatory revegetation. • Fauna Survey, Oil and Gas Pipeline, Longford, Victoria, Duke Energy. Conducted fauna survey along route of proposed oil and gas pipeline which traversed several areas of remnant vegetation of high ecological value. Identified species present and likely to be present using standard techniques such as spotlighting and active searching. Identified species of conservation significance including growling grass frog. Provided information to determine alignment with least ecological impact and developed management options to minimise impact of construction on ecological values of area. • Habitat Assessment, Greenbank to Moledinar Transmission Line, Queensland, Powerlink. Assessed habitat along 70 km proposed high-voltage transmission line. Assessment required careful consideration of habitat conservation issues, as route traversed several areas of high conservation value (e.g. Nerang State Forest, Munruben Wetlands, Plunkett Conservation Park and Karawatha Forest). Located previously unknown population of rare wallum froglet. Provided management strategies for minimising impact of transmission line during construction and operation. • Review of Environmental Factors, New England Highway, Crows Nest, Queensland, Department of Main Roads. Assessed impacts of realignment and construction of new bridge on section of New England Highway. Assessment identified platypus in vicinity of proposed new crossing and recommended appropriate mitigation measures to maximise potential for species to persist in area. Used standard techniques such as spotlighting, call playback and Anabat.

Property Development Projects

• Numerous Ecological Assessments for property developments. Undertaken well over 150 ecological assessments, rehabilitation plans and vegetation surveys

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for proposed property developments of various scales throughout south East Queensland from one into two lot reconfigurations to assessments across hundreds of hectares. This has involved detailed knowledge of the regulatory framework at a state and Commonwealth level and across numerous local government areas. • EPBC Act Referral, Hibiscus Caravan Park, Caloundra, IMEMS. Prepared an EPBC Act Referral for the proposed redevelopment of the Hibiscus Caravan Park which is bordered on two sides by the Moreton Bay RAMSAR site. The project was assessed by the Commonwealth as not being a Controlled Action. • Rehabilitation Plan, Dewar Terrace Brisbane. Prepared a rehabilitation plan that was required as part of the operation works application for a site bordered by the Brisbane River. The plan provided detailed strategies to manage weeds and revegetate the degraded bank of the river. Ecological Assessment, Kawana Golf Course, Caloundra City Council. Managed a multi disciplinary team of consultants to prepare a pre feasibility study for a proposed golf course on the Mooloolah River floodplain. The site of the proposed course was heavily vegetated and contained potential habitat for threatened species. The assessment identified areas of the site suitable for development as a golf course and identified outstanding issues requiring further investigation. • Ecological Assessment, Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan. Managed the ecological assessment of the proposed rural residential development of a heavily vegetated site in Noosa Shire. The site supported a variety of habitat types and three threatened species. The location of threatened flora species was recorded with a differential GPS and the layout amended to retain individuals. The site had complex Vegetation Management Act issues which were also resolved. • Ecological Assessment and Rehabilitation Plan Yandina Caravan Park. Prepared an ecological assessment including a rehabilitation plan to support a development application to expand the existing Yandina Caravan Park. The site was bordered by the Maroochy River and traversed by two of the river’s tributaries. • Fauna Survey, Morayfield Aged Care Facility, Blue Care. Undertook a detailed fauna survey on the heavily vegetated site of a proposed aged care facility. The survey confirmed that the Koala and Squirrel Glider occurred on the site. • Ecological Assessment, Sunrise Beach, Noosa. Undertook the ecological assessment of a potential aged care facility on a site adjacent to Noosa National Park at Sunrise Beach. The assessment identified and mapped a rare plant species on the site and the implications of this for the project were identified and management options discussed with Council. • Regional Ecosystem Remap Applications, Fernvale. Managed the preparation and submission of several Regional Ecosystem map modification requests around Fernvale in the Brisbane Valley. All requests were successful in altering the regional ecosystem mapping to accurately reflect the nature of vegetation on the sites. • Ecological Assessment, Montville Links. Managed the final stages of the ecological assessment for the proposed Montville Links development. This involved detailed negotiations with the EPA and the Department of Natural Resources and Mines to gain approval for the project from these Concurrence Agencies. • Vegetation Assessment, Nambour. Conducted a vegetation assessment of a heavily vegetated site on the outskirts of Nambour to determine the accuracy of the regional ecosystem mapping over the site. The assessment found that the mapping was not an accurate reflection of the extent and nature of remnant vegetation on the site and that a map modification request could be

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submitted to the Queensland Herbarium to modify the mapping. The assessment identified the potential constraints that the vegetation posed for the potential development under the existing mapping and proposed amendments. • Environmental Management Plans. Eynesbury Estate, Melton (Villaworld). Prepared Environmental Management Plans for several precincts of the master planned community of Eynesbury Estate. The management plans established the environmental values of each precinct and measures required to maintain and enhance those values. • Targeted Frog Survey, ‘The Point’ Residential Development, Burnside (Dennis Family Corporation). Conducted a targeted frog survey to determine if the Growling Grass Frog was present within Kororoit Creek adjacent to a planned residential development. The survey confirmed the presence of the frog and its distribution. A detailed report including specific recommendations and mitigation measures was prepared. • Environmental Management Plan, Mt Buller Staff Lodge, Sawmill Settlement, (Ellen Hogan & Associates Pty Ltd). Prepared a detailed environmental management plan for the construction of staff lodgings at Sawmill Settlement. The site supported extensive native vegetation and two ephemeral drainage lines. • Fauna Survey, Bridge Inn Road, Mernda (Coomes Consulting Group Pty Ltd). Conducted a fauna survey of three parcels of land that a public acquisition overlay had been removed. The parcels supported several large remnant River Red Gums with a largely exotic understorey. • Fauna Survey, Seven Creeks Estate, Kialla (Coomes Consulting Group Pty Ltd). Conducted a fauna survey for a proposed residential development of former irrigated grazing land bordering Seven Creek in Kialla. The adjacent Seven Creek supports a number of threatened fish species. The report included specific mitigation measures to protect the values of Seven Creek. • Fauna Survey, Whitecrest Great Ocean Road Resort, Wongarra (Whitecrest Great Ocean Road Resort Pty Ltd). Assessed the fauna values of vegetation to be removed for the proposed expansion of a resort on the Great Ocean Road. The vegetation was regenerating coastal vegetation. • Fauna Survey, River Avenue, Plenty, Victoria (Parry Fraser Jones). Conducted a fauna survey of a proposed low density sub-division site. The survey assessed the likelihood of threatened species using the site and the resulting conservation significance of the habitats provided by the site. This was then used to formulate a development plan and determine the location of building envelopes. A number of management strategies were also developed to enhance the ecological value of the open space within the development. • Fauna Survey, Norris Barracks, Portsea, Victoria (Department of Defence) Managed the fauna assessment for the disposal study for Norris Barracks on Point Nepean, Portsea. The assessment utilised standard survey techniques to assess the fauna present on the site and the habitat value of the extensive areas of native vegetation. The results of the survey along with previous work was used to identify opportunities and constraints that the habitat value of the site placed on the potential future re-development of the site under Victorian planning legislation. • Fauna Survey, Foley’s Road, Deer Park, Victoria (Greening Australia). Managed the fauna component of an assessment of the ecological assessment of a proposed development site in Deer Park. The survey identified some areas of remnant grassland habitat that were excluded from development and provided recommendations to enhance the value of these areas.

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• Fauna Survey, Acacia Ridge Signals Facility, Brisbane, Department of Defence. Conducted comprehensive fauna survey component of rezoning application for former signals station. Purpose of application was to enable land to be sold with residential zoning. Identified areas to be excluded from development, areas suitable for low-density development and areas suitable for medium- density housing. Specific recommendations made with respect to stormwater management and buffer distances to protect and enhance wetlands and watercourses present on site. • Habitat Assessment, Brisbane, Crown Law. Member of team of ecologists that assessed ecological values of land parcel adjacent to Karawatha Forest Reserve. Parcel was resumed by Department of Main Roads and subject to dispute over compensation values. Assessment aimed to identify ecological constraints to residential development of site at time of resumption. Recommended small areas of remnant vegetation be excluded from development, based on environmental considerations, including habitat value to species such as wallum froglet and green-thighed frog. • Habitat Assessment Karawatha Forest, Brisbane, Gold Coast Textiles. Team member for habitat assessment of Karawatha Forest. Brisbane City Council acted to resume client’s land (portion of Karawatha Forest) for conservation purposes. Assessment aimed to develop hypothetical development plan to preserve forest’s habitat values. Focused on preserving habitat requirements of species of conservation significance, including wallum froglet, green-thighed frog and glossy black cockatoo, and on maintaining existing links to adjoining habitat areas.

Ecological Monitoring and Natural Resource Management Projects

• Terrestrial Fauna Monitoring, Mt Flora Offset Site. Conducted the baseline and second monitoring event for vertebrate and invertebrate fauna monitoring at an offset site. The vertebrate and ant fauna communities were compared between the offset site and an adjacent National Park. • Threatened Fauna Monitoring, Hail Creek Mine. Conducted threatened fauna species monitoring at Hail Creek Mine near Nebo as part of the mine’s approval conditions. Species included in the monitoring included Ornamental Snake, Little Pied Bat and Cotton Pygmy-goose. • Blackwater Creek Diversion Fauna Monitoring, Curragh Mine. Conducted the terrestrial vertebrate and invertebrate monitoring of the Blackwater Creek diversion to compare the fauna communities within the diversion with sites upstream and downstream of the diversion. • Baseline Fauna Monitoring, Hail Creek Mine. Conducted the baseline terrestrial fauna monitoring of an environmental management zone at Hail Creek Mine. The surveys confirmed the ongoing presence on a number of threatened species within the management zone. • Fauna and Flora Monitoring, Dawson Mine. Conducted the fauna and flora monitoring at a number of sites across Dawson Mine in both remnant vegetation and mine rehabilitation. The results of the monitoring event were compared with that of previous monitoring events. • Flora and Fauna Survey, Parkinson Bushland, Brisbane City Council. Coordinated the detailed flora and fauna survey of a 200 hectare bushland site which is an integral component to the Karawatha to Greenbank Corridor. The survey undertaken over two seasons catalogued the values of the area and identified potential threats such as weed infestations, inappropriate uses and altered fire regimes. The assessment developed management strategies for these threats to maintain and enhance the biodiversity values of the site.

11 Steve Marston

• Wetland Management Plan, South Western Victoria, Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority. Compiled and assessed existing information relating to the values and threats of wetlands within the CMA area. This information provided input into the risk assessment of the wetlands to determine management priorities. • Lake Tutchewop Restoration, Northern Victoria, Goulburn Murray Water. Conducted the assessment of potential impacts to matters of national environmental significance under the Commonwealth EPBC Act for proposed changes in the management of Lake Tutchewop, which has been used as a saline evaporation basin since the 1960s. The lake, along with the other lakes in the region, is part of a Ramsar site. • Route Assessment, Werribee Coastline, Parks Victoria. Conducted an assessment of the Werribee Coastline between the Werribee River mouth and Point Cook RAAF Base. The assessment identified a suitable route for a walking and bike trail along the foreshore. The route was selected to avoid areas of native vegetation and remove areas of exotic vegetation. The assessment included the development of measures to enhance the ecological value of the foreshore area. • Wetland Assessment, Murray River, Mallee Catchment Management Authority. Conducted an assessment of the ecological values and threats of wetlands between Lock 5 and Lock 10 on the Murray River in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. A rapid assessment procedure was developed to assess vegetation health and salinity indicators at over one hundred sites throughout the study area. The assessment utilised a risk assessment procedure to identify wetlands at risk from salinity and provide direction for future management and research. • Wetland Assessment, Alcoa Point Henry Aluminium Smelter, Point Henry, Alcoa Australia Limited. Conducted an assessment of wetlands on a large industrial site to determine if they met the criteria to be incorporated into a nearby Ramsar site. The wetlands had been proactively managed for some time to enhance their value to water birds. The assessment included a review of bird survey data covering almost 10 years along with a flora and fauna management study to determine if the wetlands qualified as being of international significance. • Ecological Assessment, Upper Stony Creek Water Reserve, Brisbane Ranges, Victoria, Barwon Water. Managed fauna component and coordinated field program of multidisciplinary ecological assessment of implications of incorporating Upper Stony Creek Water Reserve into adjacent Brisbane Ranges National Park. The water reserve was no longer required by Barwon Water, had no public access for close to 100 years and contained a Department of Natural Resources and Environment Reference Area. Assessment included comprehensive fauna survey employing standard survey techniques such as Elliot traps, cage traps, Anabat, and active searching. Assessment aimed to develop management options to manage impact of increased public access in an area prone to cinnamon fungus.

Appendix 2 Habitat values and conditions at each survey location

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Site ID GTRE Dominant species Broad Habitat Type Survey Type Condition Dominant vegetation form Cover Cover storey Cover Status Erosion Weeds Disturbance Large hollows Small hollows Large logs Small logs Large rocks Small rocks litterLeaf Dense shrubs Grass seed Fruiting plants Nectar producing plants Wetland Present F_D1_Oct16_FA1 B 11.3.1 D G T 2 1 3 RM 0 S TC, 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 C G

F_D2_Oct16_FA1 B 11.4.3 D G T 2 2 3 RM 0 S TC 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 G

F_D3_Oct16_FA1 WS 11.5.1 D G T 2 2 3 RM 0 S TC 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0

F_D4_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ D G T 3 2 3 RM 0 S TC 0 0 1 1 1 3 3 1 1 0 1 spotted gum, lancewood 11.5.1a

F_D5_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ D G T 3 3 3 RM 0 S N 0 1 0 1 3 2 2 2 1 0 0 11.5.1/11.7.2

F_D6_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.2/ D A S 1 4 2 NR 0 AB TC 0 1 0 3 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 11.5.1a

F_H10_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H V T 2 RM 0 S TC 0 0 2 3 0 0 3 1 1 0 2 A. shirleyi, C. citriodora, 11.5.1a A. conferta, A. caput- medsuae, E. fibrosa

F_H11_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 3 R 0 A R 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 E. crebra, E. fibrosa, C. glaucophylla, A. conferta

F_H12_Oct16_FA1 WS 11.5.1a/11.5. H A T 3 2 3 RM 0 S N 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1

F_H13_Oct16_FA1 R 11.3.25/11.3. H G T 3 2 4 RM 0 S N 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 C 2/11.3.4

F_H14_Oct16_FA1 WS 11.5.1a/11.5. H G T 1 3 1 R 0 S TC 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 C 1

F_H15_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H G T 2 1 1 NR 0 S TC 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

F_H16_Oct16_FA1 R 11.3.25 H G T 3 3 2 NR 1 S N 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 C

F_H17_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H G T 3 3 3 NR 0 S G 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 F brigalow and casuarina

F_H18_Jul16_FA1 WA 11.3.2 H 1

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Site ID GTRE Dominant species Broad Habitat Type Survey Type Condition Dominant vegetation form Cover Cover storey Cover Status Erosion Weeds Disturbance Large hollows Small hollows Large logs Small logs Large rocks Small rocks litterLeaf Dense shrubs Grass seed Fruiting plants Nectar producing plants Wetland Present F_H18_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.4/11.7.7/ H G T 3 1 2 R 0 S TC 1 1 1 2 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 Callitris 11.5.1a

F_H2_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H G T 3 2 4 RM 0 F N 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 1 0 0 C

F_H20_Oct16_FA1 WA 11.3.2 H A T 1 3 3 NR 0 S N 0 0 0 2 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 Casuarina cristata

F_H21_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H P T 2 RM 0 S TC 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 E. fibrosa, A. shirleyi, A. 11.5.1 leiocalyx, grassy understorey, A. caput medusa, Entolasia stricta, Gahnia aspera, scattered E. crebra, E. exserta, O. tomentosa

F_H21_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H A T 2 3 4 RM 0 AB TC, 1 2 1 1 0 0 2 3 1 0 0 11.5.1a R

F_H22_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P S 1 R 1 C G 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 1 0 D Cyperus sp., Maireana, A. semilunata, Nymphoides sp., Sclerolaena birchii, Persicaria sp, Cynodon dactylon, E. populnea, A. luehmannii

F_H22_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G T 3 2 4 RM 0 S TC 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 11.5.1a

F_H23_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G T 3 RM 0 A TC 0 1 1 2 0 0 3 1 0 0 3 C. citriodora, E. fibrosa, 11.5.1a A. shirleyi, C. glaucophylla, A. conferta, A. semilunata, open understorey Gahnia aspera, Entolasia stricta, Lomandra conferta, Dianella carulea

F_H23_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H A T 2 1 1 R 0 AB N 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 Allocasuarina, Callitris 11.5.1a

F_H24_Oct16_FA1 WS 11.5.1 H G T 2 1 3 RM 0 AB G 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 E. crebra

F_H25_Oct16_FA1 WA 11.3.2 H V T 3 3 1 RM 0 AB N 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 E. populnea, C. glaucophylla, Acacia sp, Aristida caput-medusae

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Site ID GTRE Dominant species Broad Habitat Type Survey Type Condition Dominant vegetation form Cover Cover storey Cover Status Erosion Weeds Disturbance Large hollows Small hollows Large logs Small logs Large rocks Small rocks litterLeaf Dense shrubs Grass seed Fruiting plants Nectar producing plants Wetland Present F_H26_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.4/11.7.7/ H V T 3 3 2 RM 0 AB N 0 0 1 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 C. glaucophylla, E. 11.5.1 crebra, Acacia sp

F_H27_Oct16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G T 2 1 1 R 0 AB N 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 D E. crebra, C. intermedia, 11.5.1 E. populnea, A. conferta, C. glaucophylla

F_H28_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.4/11.7.7/ H G T 3 RM 0 S TC 1 1 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 E. fibrosa, A. leiocarpa, 11.5.1 C. clarksonii, C. glaucophylla, E. crebra, A. leiocalyx, A. conferta. G. aspera, E. stricta, Solanum sp., L. conferta. NO A. shirleyi

F_H28_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 2 2 1 RM 1 S N 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 0 2 D E. populnea, C. glaucophylla, A. luehmannii, Acacia sp, sedges on water edge

F_H29_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 1 1 3 NR 1 S G 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 3 2 1 3 P E. tereticornis, E populnea, E. mitchellii, Aristida caput medusae, Sedges (Cyperus) in wetland

F_H3_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H D G 1 1 4 NR 0 S G 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 D

F_H30_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P WL 1 C 3 C TC, 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 D E. chloroclada, E. R populnea, A. leiocalyx

F_H30_Oct16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 2 2 3 NR 3 S G 0 1 1 3 0 0 2 1 3 1 3 C E. tereticornis (d), E. populnea, C. cristata, Dodonaea viscosa, E. mitchelli

F_H32_Jul16_FA1 B 11.3.1 H A T 3 RM 3 C N 1 2 2 2 0 0 1 3 1 1 2 C E. tereticornis, C. cristata, E. crebra, A. harpophylla, E. populnea, G. parviflora

F_H35_Jul16_FA1 B 11.3.1 H G T 3 RM 0 S N 1 1 1 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 A. harpophylla, E. populnea, C. cristata, G. parviflora, very open understorey with Paspalidium sp, Opuntia sp.

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Site ID GTRE Dominant species Broad Habitat Type Survey Type Condition Dominant vegetation form Cover Cover storey Cover Status Erosion Weeds Disturbance Large hollows Small hollows Large logs Small logs Large rocks Small rocks litterLeaf Dense shrubs Grass seed Fruiting plants Nectar producing plants Wetland Present F_H4_Oct16_FA1 R 11.3.25/11.3. H A T 1 2 4 R 1 F N 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 C 2/11.3.4

F_H40_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 1 RM 1 S R 0 1 1 2 0 0 3 1 2 0 1 C E. tereticornis, E. crebra, A. leiocarpa, A. nepalensis

F_H42_Jul16_FA1 R 11.3.25 H G T 3 RM 1 S N 2 2 1 2 0 0 3 3 1 1 2 C E. tereticornis, C. cristata, E. populnea, A. harpophylla, Eremophila mitchelli, G. parviflora, A. decora, A. salicina

F_H44_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 1 R 0 A TC 0 0 2 2 0 0 3 0 1 1 2 E. crebra, C. cristata, G. parviflora, C. glaucophylla, Dodonaea sp.

F_H45_Jul16_FA1 Regro Regrowth H P T 3 R 0 A N 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 C. cristata, E. Regrowth wth 11.4.3 no understorey structure

F_H46_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P G 2 C 1 C N 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 D A. harpophylla, C. cristata, E. , chenopods, Cyperus sp.

F_H47_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H D H 1 C 1 C G 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 D Sclerolaena birchii, Cynodon dactylon

F_H51_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G T 1 RM 0 A TC 1 1 1 3 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 E. fibrosa, C. glauca, A. 11.5.1/11.7.2 conferta, Acacia sp.

F_H56_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H T 3 RM 0 A R 0 1 1 2 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 E. exserta, C. 11.5.1/11.7.2 trachyphloia, E. crebra, Acacia shirleyi

F_H6_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H A T 2 R 1 S G 0 0 0 1 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 D Acacia leiocalyx regrowth

F_H60_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H T 2 R 0 S N 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 C E. tereticornis, A. luehmannii, E. crebra, E. populnea, Cyperus sp. G. parviflora, opuntia

F_H62_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P T 2 R 1 C G 0 1 0 1 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 C E. microcarpa, A. harpophylla, Melaleuca bracteata, C. cristata, G. parviflora, Alectryon diversifolium

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F_H66_Jul16_FA1 H A T 3 R 0 A N 0 0 1 2 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 E. crebra, E. populnea, C. glaucophylla, A. shirleyi, A. semilunata, A. leiocalyx

F_H67_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G 1 RM 0 A R 1 2 1 2 1 1 2 2 1 0 0 E. fibrosa, E. crebra, C. 11.5.1/11.7.2 trachyphloia, E. exserta, A. leiocalyx, A. conferta, Dodonaea sp., Entolasia stricta, Gahnia aspera

F_H70_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H 3 NR 0 A N 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 Callitris glaucophylla, E. crebra, Leucopogon, Solanum. Very open understorey

F_H73_Jul16_FA1 WR 11.7.7/11.7.4/ H G T 3 RM 0 S TC 1 2 1 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 E. fibrosa, E. crebra, E. 11.5.1/11.7.2 populnea, C. glaucophylla, C. clarksoniana, Acacia semilunata

F_H77_Jul16_FA1 WS 11.5.1 H A T 3 RM 0 S TC 0 0 1 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 E. crebra (D), C. glauca, Melaleuca sp., E. microcarpa, Eremophila deserti, Opuntia tomentosa, Owenia acidula

F_H82_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P T 2 R 3 C R 1 1 1 2 0 0 3 1 2 0 0 C Tree

F_H83_Jul16_FA1 NR non-rem H P T 1 R 0 A R 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 0 E. crebra, E. populnea, A. luehmannii

Abbreviations Broad habitat type: B = brigalow, R = Regrowth, NR = non-remnant, R = riparian, WR=woodland on rocks, WS = woodlands on sands, WA = woodlands on alluvial Survey type: D= detailed, H= Observational Condition: Pr = Pristine, V = very good, G = good, A = average, P = poor, D = degraded, CD = completely degraded Dominant veg form: A = aquatic, G = grass, S = shrub, T = tree, WL = wetland; Canopy cover: 1 =<20, 2 = 20-50, 3 = 50-80, 4 = >80; Status: RM = remnant, R = regrowth, C = cleared, E = exotic; Erosion/weeds: A = absent,, S = scattered, F = frequent, AB = abundant, D = dominant;

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Disturbance: TC = timber cutting, N = none, R = roads, G = grazing Large and small hollows (number): 0 = 0, 1 = 1-5, 2 = 6-10, 3 = >10; Large logs (number): 0 = 0, 1 = 1-5, 2 = 6-10, 3 = >10; Small logs (number): 0 = 0, 1 = 1-10, 2 = 11-20, 3 = >20; Large and small rocks (number): 0 = 0, 1 = 1-10, 2 = 11-50, 3 = >50; Leaf litter (% cover): 0=0, 1=1-25, 2 = 26-75, 3 = >75; Density shrubs, grasses, fruiting plants and nectar producing plants (% cover): 0=0, 1 = 1-10, 2 = 11-50, 3 = >50. Wetland present: C- creek, R- river, TM- treeless marsh, G- gilgais, D- dam, F- floodplain, WS – wooded swamp, P- pool or lake, MW- mangrove woodland

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Appendix 3 Fauna species recorded during field surveys

July Survey

Site

Common Name Species 16_FA1

Amphibian barking marsh frog Limnodynastes fletcheri 1 1 broad-palmed rocket 1 1 frog Litoria latopalmata desert tree frog 1 1 Litoria rubella eastern dwarf tree frog 1 1 Litoria fallax eastern sign-bearing 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 froglet Crinia parinsignifera ornate burrowing frog 1 1 Platyplectrum ornatum Peron's tree frog 1 1 Litoria peronii salmon-striped frog 1 1 Limnodynastes salmini Birds apostlebird 1 1 2 Struthidea cinerea Australasian pipit 1 2 2 Anthus novaeseelandiae Australian bustard 1 2 2 Ardeotis australis Australian magpie 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 7 Cracticus tibicen Australian pelican 1 1 1 Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian raven 1 2 2 Corvus coronoides

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Site

Common Name Species 16_FA1

Australian wood duck 1 1 1 1 2 5 Chenonetta jubata black-chinned 1 1 1 honeyeater Melithreptus gularis black-faced cuckoo 1 1 shrike Coracina novaehollandiae black-fronted dotterel 1 1 Elseyornis melanops blue-faced honeyeater 1 1 1 1 1 5 Entomyzon cyanotis brolga 1 1 Grus rubicunda brown falcon 1 1 1 Falco berigora brown goshawk 1 1 Accipiter fasciatus brown honeyeater 1 1 1 1 3 Lichmera indistincta brown-headed 1 1 1 2 honeyeater Melithreptus brevirostris common bronzewing 1 1 1 Phaps chalcoptera common myna 1 1 1 Acridotheres tristis crested pigeon 1 1 Ocyphaps lophotes double-barred finch 1 1 1 2 Taeniopygia bichenovii eastern yellow robin 1 1 2 Eopsaltria australis emu 1 2 2 Dromaius novaehollandiae fairy martin 1 1 Petrochelidon ariel galah 1 1 1 2 4 Eolophus roseicapilla glossy black-cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami 1 1 1 1 3 lathami golden whistler 1 1 Pachycephala pectoralis grey butcherbird 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 7 Cracticus torquatus grey fantail 1 1 1 2 Rhipidura albiscapa grey shrike-thrush 1 1 1 Colluricincla harmonica

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Site

Common Name Species 16_FA1

d d Total F_H10_Jul16_FA1 F_H18_Jul16_FA1 F_H21_Jul16_FA1 F_H22_Jul16_FA1 F_H23_Jul16_FA1 F_H28_Jul16_FA1 F_H30_Jul16_FA1 F_H32_Jul16_FA1 F_H35_Jul16_FA1 F_H40_Jul16_FA1 F_H42_Jul16_FA1 F_H44_Jul F_H45_Jul16_FA1 F_H46_Jul16_FA1 F_H51_Jul16_FA1 F_H56_Jul16_FA1 F_H6_Jul16_FA1 F_H60_Jul16_FA1 F_H62_Jul16_FA1 F_H63_Jul16_FA1 F_H66_Jul16_FA1 F_H67_Jul16_FA1 F_H70_Jul16_FA1 F_H73_Jul16_FA1 F_H77_Jul16_FA1 F_H82_Jul16_FA1 Incidental Incidental Gran grey teal 1 1 1 1 3 Anas gracilis grey-crowned babbler 1 1 1 1 1 4 Pomatostomus temporalis ground cuckoo-shrike 1 1 1 Coracina maxima Horsfield's bushlark 1 1 Mirafra javanica inland thornbill 1 1 1 2 Acanthiza apicalis laughing kookaburra 1 1 1 1 3 Dacelo novaeguineae little eagle 1 1 Hieraaetus morphnoides little friarbird 1 1 Philemon citreogularis magpie-lark 1 1 1 1 1 5 Grallina cyanoleuca mistletoebird 1 1 1 1 1 5 Dicaeum hirundinaceum nankeen kestrel 1 1 Falco cenchroides noisy friarbird 2 1 1 1 1 1 7 Philemon corniculatus noisy miner 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 9 Manorina melanocephala pale-headed rosella 1 1 Platycercus adscitus peaceful dove 1 1 Geopelia placida peregrine falcon 1 1 1 Falco peregrinus pied butcherbird 1 1 1 3 Cracticus nigrogularis rainbow lorikeet 1 1 1 3 Trichoglossus haematodus red-rumped parrot 1 1 Psephotus haematonotus red-winged parrot 1 2 2 Aprosmictus erythropterus rufous songlark 1 1 Megalurus mathewsi rufous whistler 1 1 1 1 1 4 Pachycephala rufiventris sacred kingfisher 1 1 Todiramphus sanctus

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Site

Common Name Species 16_FA1

d d Total F_H10_Jul16_FA1 F_H18_Jul16_FA1 F_H21_Jul16_FA1 F_H22_Jul16_FA1 F_H23_Jul16_FA1 F_H28_Jul16_FA1 F_H30_Jul16_FA1 F_H32_Jul16_FA1 F_H35_Jul16_FA1 F_H40_Jul16_FA1 F_H42_Jul16_FA1 F_H44_Jul F_H45_Jul16_FA1 F_H46_Jul16_FA1 F_H51_Jul16_FA1 F_H56_Jul16_FA1 F_H6_Jul16_FA1 F_H60_Jul16_FA1 F_H62_Jul16_FA1 F_H63_Jul16_FA1 F_H66_Jul16_FA1 F_H67_Jul16_FA1 F_H70_Jul16_FA1 F_H73_Jul16_FA1 F_H77_Jul16_FA1 F_H82_Jul16_FA1 Incidental Incidental Gran scaly-breasted lorikeet Trichoglossus 1 1 1 3 chlorolepidotus spiny-cheeked 1 1 1 honeyeater Acanthagenys rufogularis spotted pardalote 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 Pardalotus punctatus striated pardalote 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 7 Pardalotus striatus striped honeyeater 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 Plectorhyncha lanceolata sulphur-crested 1 1 cockatoo Cacatua galerita 1 Torresian crow 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 Corvus orru 3 variegated fairy-wren 1 1 Malurus lamberti wedge-tailed eagle 1 1 1 2 Aquila audax 1 weebill 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Smicrornis brevirostris 0 welcome swallow 1 1 Hirundo neoxena white-bellied cuckoo- 1 1 1 2 shrike Coracina papuensis white-eared 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 honeyeater Lichenostomus leucotis white-faced heron 1 1 1 3 Egretta novaehollandiae white-necked heron 1 1 1 Ardea pacifica white-plumed 1 1 1 2 honeyeater Lichenostomus penicillatus white-throated 1 1 1 gerygone Gerygone olivacea white-throated 1 1 honeyeater Melithreptus albogularis white-winged chough 1 1 Corcorax melanorhamphos willie wagtail 1 1 2 Rhipidura leucophrys yellow thornbill 1 1 Acanthiza nana yellow-billed spoonbill 1 1 1 Platalea flavipes

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Site

Common Name Species 16_FA1

d d Total F_H10_Jul16_FA1 F_H18_Jul16_FA1 F_H21_Jul16_FA1 F_H22_Jul16_FA1 F_H23_Jul16_FA1 F_H28_Jul16_FA1 F_H30_Jul16_FA1 F_H32_Jul16_FA1 F_H35_Jul16_FA1 F_H40_Jul16_FA1 F_H42_Jul16_FA1 F_H44_Jul F_H45_Jul16_FA1 F_H46_Jul16_FA1 F_H51_Jul16_FA1 F_H56_Jul16_FA1 F_H6_Jul16_FA1 F_H60_Jul16_FA1 F_H62_Jul16_FA1 F_H63_Jul16_FA1 F_H66_Jul16_FA1 F_H67_Jul16_FA1 F_H70_Jul16_FA1 F_H73_Jul16_FA1 F_H77_Jul16_FA1 F_H82_Jul16_FA1 Incidental Incidental Gran yellow-faced 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7 honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops yellow-rumped thornbill 1 1 1 Acanthiza chrysorrhoa yellow-throated miner 1 1 2 Manorina flavigula Mammal common brushtail 1 1 1 1 1 5 possum Trichosurus vulpecula eastern grey kangaroo 1 1 1 1 4 Macropus giganteus European rabbit 1 1 2 Oryctolagus cuniculus koala 1 1 Phascolarctos cinereus red fox 1 1 Vulpes vulpes red-necked wallaby 1 1 Macropus rufogriseus short-beaked echidna 1 1 Tachyglossus aculeatus swamp wallaby 1 1 Wallabia bicolor 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Macropus sp. 5 Reptile bearded dragon 1 1 Pogona barbata blue-tongued lizard 1 1 Tiliqua scincoides Bynoe's gecko 1 1 1 Heteronotia binoei coral snake 1 1 Brachyurophis australis green tree snake 1 1 Dendrelaphis punctulata yellow-faced 1 1 whipsnake Demansia psammophis

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October survey

Site

Amphibians barking marsh frog 1 Limnodynastes fletcheri broad-palmed rocket frog 2 1 1 Litoria latopalmata cane toad 2 1 1 Rhinella marina desert tree frog 1 1 2 1 Litoria rubella eastern dwarf tree frog 1 Litoria fallax eastern sign-bearing froglet 1 1 Crinia parinsignifera green tree frog 1 1 2 1 Litoria caerulea ornate burrowing frog 1 Platyplectrum ornatum Peron's tree frog 1 Litoria peronii salmon-striped frog 1 1 1 Limnodynastes salmini spotted marsh frog 1 Limnodynastes tasmanensis striped burrowing frog 1 Litoria alboguttata wrinkled toadlet 1 1 Uperoleia rugosa Birds apostlebird 1 1 Struthidea cinerea Australasian pipit 1 Anthus novaeseelandiae Australian bustard 1 Ardeotis australis Australian magpie 1 1 1 1 1 Cracticus tibicen Australian owlet nightjar 1 1 Aegotheles cristatus Australian raven 2 1 Corvus coronoides

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Australian wood duck 1 1 Chenonetta jubata barn owl 1 1 1 Tyto alba black-faced cuckoo shrike 3 1 3 2 1 1 Coracina novaehollandiae black-fronted dotterel 1 Elseyornis melanops blue-faced honeyeater 1 1 Entomyzon cyanotis brolga 1 Grus rubicunda brown falcon 1 Falco berigora brown goshawk 1 Accipiter fasciatus brown honeyeater 3 3 1 Lichmera indistincta brush cuckoo 4 4 1 2 3 1 1 Cacomantis variolosus channel-billed cuckoo 1 Scythrops novaehollandiae cicadabird 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 Coracina tenuirostris common bronzewing 1 Phaps chalcoptera common myna 1 Acridotheres tristis crested pigeon 1 Ocyphaps lophotes dollarbird 1 1 Eurystomus orientalis double-barred finch 1 1 1 1 Taeniopygia bichenovii eastern koel 1 Eudynamys orientalis eastern yellow robin 1 Eopsaltria australis emu 1 Dromaius novaehollandiae fairy martin 1 1 1 Petrochelidon ariel galah 3 1 1 1 Eolophus roseicapilla glossy black-cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami 1 lathami

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Common Name Species ct16_FA1 Oct16_FA1 Incidental F_D1_Oct16_FA1 F_D2_Oct16_FA1 F_D3_Oct16_FA1 F_D4_Oct16_FA1 F_D5_Oct16_FA1 F_D6_Oct16_FA1 F_H2_Oct16_FA1 F_H3_Oct16_FA1 F_H4_Oct16_FA1 F_H12_ F_H13_Oct16_FA1 F_H14_Oct16_FA1 F_H15_Oct16_FA1 F_H16_Oct16_FA1 F_H17_Oct16_FA1 F_H18_Oct16_FA1 F_H20_Oct16_FA1 F_H21_Oct16_FA1 F_H22_Oct16_FA1 F_H23_Oct16_FA1 F_H24_Oct16_FA1 F_H25_Oct16_FA1 F_H26_Oct16_FA1 F_H27_Oct16_FA1 F_H28_O F_H29_Oct16_FA1 F_H30_Oct16_FA1 grey butcherbird 1 Cracticus torquatus grey fantail 1 2 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Rhipidura albiscapa grey shrike-thrush 3 1 1 1 1 Colluricincla harmonica grey-crowned babbler 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 Pomatostomus temporalis Horsfield's bushlark 1 Mirafra javanica inland thornbill 1 1 Acanthiza apicalis laughing kookaburra 1 3 1 2 1 1 1 Dacelo novaeguineae leaden flycatcher 3 1 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Myiagra rubecula little bronze cuckoo 2 Chrysococcyx minutillus little eagle 1 1 Hieraaetus morphnoides little friarbird 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Philemon citreogularis magpie-lark 3 1 1 1 Grallina cyanoleuca masked lapwing 1 Vanellus miles mistletoebird 1 3 3 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 Dicaeum hirundinaceum musk lorikeet 2 Glossopsitta concinna nankeen kestrel 1 Falco cenchroides noisy friarbird 1 4 4 5 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Philemon corniculatus Pacific black duck 1 Anas superciliosa pale-headed rosella 2 1 1 1 Platycercus adscitus pallid cuckoo 3 1 1 1 1 Cacomantis pallidus peaceful dove 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 Geopelia placida pheasant coucal 1 Centropus phasianinus pied butcherbird 1 4 4 2 3 4 1 1 1 1 1 Cracticus nigrogularis

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Common Name Species ct16_FA1 Oct16_FA1 Incidental F_D1_Oct16_FA1 F_D2_Oct16_FA1 F_D3_Oct16_FA1 F_D4_Oct16_FA1 F_D5_Oct16_FA1 F_D6_Oct16_FA1 F_H2_Oct16_FA1 F_H3_Oct16_FA1 F_H4_Oct16_FA1 F_H12_ F_H13_Oct16_FA1 F_H14_Oct16_FA1 F_H15_Oct16_FA1 F_H16_Oct16_FA1 F_H17_Oct16_FA1 F_H18_Oct16_FA1 F_H20_Oct16_FA1 F_H21_Oct16_FA1 F_H22_Oct16_FA1 F_H23_Oct16_FA1 F_H24_Oct16_FA1 F_H25_Oct16_FA1 F_H26_Oct16_FA1 F_H27_Oct16_FA1 F_H28_O F_H29_Oct16_FA1 F_H30_Oct16_FA1 pied currawong 2 2 1 Strepera graculina rainbow bee-eater 1 1 1 1 Merops ornatus rainbow lorikeet 3 1 1 2 3 1 Trichoglossus haematodus red-backed fairy wren 1 1 1 Malurus melanocephalus red-rumped parrot 1 Psephotus haematonotus red-winged parrot 1 2 1 1 Aprosmictus erythropterus rufous songlark 1 Megalurus mathewsi rufous whistler 4 4 4 5 3 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Pachycephala rufiventris sacred kingfisher 1 2 1 1 1 1 Todiramphus sanctus satin flycatcher 1 1 Myiagra cyanoleuca scaly-breasted lorikeet 1 1 Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus scarlet honeyeater 3 1 Myzomela sanguinolenta speckled warbler 1 2 Pyrrholaemus sagittatus striated pardalote 1 1 1 1 1 Pardalotus striatus striated thornbill 1 1 Acanthiza lineata striped honeyeater 1 4 3 4 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 Plectorhyncha lanceolata sulphur-crested cockatoo 2 1 1 Cacatua galerita tawny frogmouth 3 1 Podargus strigoides Torresian crow 3 3 3 4 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Corvus orru variegated fairy-wren 1 Malurus lamberti wedge-tailed eagle 1 1 Aquila audax weebill 1 4 1 3 2 1 1 1 Smicrornis brevirostris welcome swallow 1 Hirundo neoxena

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Common Name Species ct16_FA1 Oct16_FA1 Incidental F_D1_Oct16_FA1 F_D2_Oct16_FA1 F_D3_Oct16_FA1 F_D4_Oct16_FA1 F_D5_Oct16_FA1 F_D6_Oct16_FA1 F_H2_Oct16_FA1 F_H3_Oct16_FA1 F_H4_Oct16_FA1 F_H12_ F_H13_Oct16_FA1 F_H14_Oct16_FA1 F_H15_Oct16_FA1 F_H16_Oct16_FA1 F_H17_Oct16_FA1 F_H18_Oct16_FA1 F_H20_Oct16_FA1 F_H21_Oct16_FA1 F_H22_Oct16_FA1 F_H23_Oct16_FA1 F_H24_Oct16_FA1 F_H25_Oct16_FA1 F_H26_Oct16_FA1 F_H27_Oct16_FA1 F_H28_O F_H29_Oct16_FA1 F_H30_Oct16_FA1 western thornbill 1 Acanthiza inornata white-bellied cuckoo-shrike 1 2 Coracina papuensis white-eared honeyeater 1 5 4 1 1 Lichenostomus leucotis white-faced heron 1 Egretta novaehollandiae white-plumed honeyeater 1 Lichenostomus penicillatus white-throated gerygone 1 3 1 Gerygone olivacea white-throated nightjar 1 1 Eurostopodus mystacalis white-winged chough 1 Corcorax melanorhamphos willie wagtail 1 1 1 1 Rhipidura leucophrys yellow-faced honeyeater 2 1 1 1 1 Lichenostomus chrysops yellow-rumped thornbill 1 Acanthiza chrysorrhoa yellow-throated miner 3 3 1 1 1 Manorina flavigula Mammals brown hare 2 Lepus europaeus common brushtail possum 1 1 Trichosurus vulpecula common dunnart 1 Sminthopsis murina eastern grey kangaroo 1 1 1 Macropus giganteus Eastern free-tailed bat Mormopterus ridei 1 1 1 1 1 1 eastern long-eared bat 1 Nyctophilus bifax European rabbit 1 Oryctolagus cuniculus Gould’s long-eared bat 1 Nyctophilus gouldi Gould’s wattled bat 1 1 1 2 1 1 Chalinolobus gouldii Inland broad-nosed bat Scotorepens balstoni 1 1 1

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Inland free-tailed bat Mormopterus petersi 1 1 koala 1 1 Phascolarctos cinereus little broad-nosed bat 1 1 8 1 1 1 Scotorepens greyii Little forest bat Vespadelus vulturnus 1 1 1 1

Little pied bat Chalinolobus picatus 1 1 1 1

Northern free-tailed bat Mormopterus lumsdenae 1 1 1 1 red-necked wallaby 1 Macropus rufogriseus rufous bettong 1 1 Aepyprymnus rufescens short-beaked echidna 1 Tachyglossus aculeatus sugar glider 1 Petaurus breviceps swamp wallaby 1 1 1 Wallabia bicolor White-striped free-tailed bat Austronomus australis 1 1 1 1 1 yellow-bellied sheath-tailed 2 2 1 1 2 1 1 bat Saccolaimus flaviventris Reptile bearded dragon 1 1 1 Pogona barbata blue-tongued lizard 1 Tiliqua scincoides Burns’ dragon 1 Amphibolurus burnsi Bynoe’s gecko 4 3 1 3 2 2 1 1 1 Heteronotia binoei carpet python 1 Morelia spilota common dwarf skink 1 Menetia greyii coral snake 1 1 Brachyurophis australis curl snake 1 Suta suta dubious gecko 1 1 1 2 2 Gehyra dubia

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Common Name Species ct16_FA1 Oct16_FA1 Incidental F_D1_Oct16_FA1 F_D2_Oct16_FA1 F_D3_Oct16_FA1 F_D4_Oct16_FA1 F_D5_Oct16_FA1 F_D6_Oct16_FA1 F_H2_Oct16_FA1 F_H3_Oct16_FA1 F_H4_Oct16_FA1 F_H12_ F_H13_Oct16_FA1 F_H14_Oct16_FA1 F_H15_Oct16_FA1 F_H16_Oct16_FA1 F_H17_Oct16_FA1 F_H18_Oct16_FA1 F_H20_Oct16_FA1 F_H21_Oct16_FA1 F_H22_Oct16_FA1 F_H23_Oct16_FA1 F_H24_Oct16_FA1 F_H25_Oct16_FA1 F_H26_Oct16_FA1 F_H27_Oct16_FA1 F_H28_O F_H29_Oct16_FA1 F_H30_Oct16_FA1 eastern small-eyed snake 1 Rhinoplocephalus nigrescens eastern water dragon 1 1 Intellagama lesueurii elegant snake-eyed skink 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Cryptoblepharus pulcher green tree snake 1 Dendrelaphis punctulata grey snake 1 Hemiaspis damelii iridescent litter-skink 3 1 4 1 1 1 1 Carlia foliorum keelback snake 1 Xenochrophis piscator lace monitor 1 Varanus varius lively rainbow-skink 1 Carlia vivax mud adder 1 Denisonia devisi open-litter rainbow-skink 1 Carlia pectoralis robust velvet gecko 1 Oedura robusta shaded-litter rainbow-skink 1 Carlia munda south eastern morethia skink 1 Morethia boulengeri timid slider 1 1 1 Lerista timida tommy roundhead 2 Diporiphora australis yellow-faced whipsnake 1 1 1 Demansia psammophis

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Revision history

Revision Revision Details Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by No. date

00 30/11/2016 Cameby Downs Continued Operations Dr Carissa Free, Dr Alan House, Beth Kramer, Senior Project – Draft Fauna Survey Report Senior Ecologist Principal Ecologist Environmental Scientist

01 24/02/17 Cameby Downs Continued Operations Dr Carissa Free, Phill Bracks, Phill Bracks, Regional Project – Draft Fauna Survey Report Senior Ecologist Regional Manager Manager

02 29/05/2017 Cameby Downs Continued Operations Dr Carissa Free, Dr Alan House, Beth Kramer, Senior Project – Draft Fauna Survey Report Senior Ecologist Principal Ecologist Environmental Scientist

03 19/06/2017 Cameby Downs Continued Operations Dr Alan House, Beth Kramer, Senior Environmental Project – Final Fauna Survey Report Principal Ecologist Scientist

04 29/08/2017 Cameby Downs Continued Operations Dr Alan House, Project – Final Fauna Survey Report Principal Ecologist

05 06/09/2017 Minor amendments to text and maps Dr Alan House, Beth Kramer, Senior Environmental Principal Ecologist Scientist

06 07/09/2017 Minor amendments to maps Dr Alan House, Beth Kramer, Senior Environmental Principal Ecologist Scientist

07 7/3/2018 Minor amendments Dr Natalie Toon, Dave Fleming, SEQ Team Leader / Senior Senior Ecologist Environmental Scientist

08 11/5/2018 Minor amendments to area Dave Fleming, Manager - SEQ calculations

Distribution List

Copy # Date Type Issued to Name

1 11/5/2018 Electronic Yancoal Pty Ltd Daniel Jones

2 11/5/2018 Electronic Ecosure Administration

Citation: Ecosure (2018), Cameby Downs Continued Operations Project: Terrestrial Fauna Assessment Report, Report to Syntech Resources, Brisbane Report compiled by Ecosure Pty Ltd ABN: 63 106 067 976 [email protected] www.ecosure.com.au PR3385-RE.Terretsrial Fauna Assessment.V8

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