17. Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

AECOM Project Name Report Title – Report Subtitle Commercial-in-Confidence

Appendix L

Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

C:\Users\tong.cai1\Desktop\Appendix Page.docx Revision 0 – dd-mmm-yyyy Prepared for – Client Name – ABN/Co No.: 000 433 Link Development Pty Ltd 17-Jun-2019

Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

Kennedys Creek Solar Farm

\\aumel1fp001\Projects\605X\60597829\400_TECH\439_Heritage\Report\20190808_Kennedys Creek (Benalla South) Solar Farm_DRAFT_AECOM Rev.docx Revision 1 – 17-Jun-2019 Prepared for – 433 Link Development Pty Ltd – ABN: 30 626 633 369 AECOM Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

Heritage Due Diligence Assessment Kennedys Creek Solar Farm

Client: 433 Link Development Pty Ltd

ABN: 30 626 633 369

Prepared by

AECOM Australia Pty Ltd Level 8, 540 Wickham Street, PO Box 1307, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia T +61 7 3553 2000 F +61 7 3553 2050 www.aecom.com ABN 20 093 846 925

17-Jun-2019

Job No.: 60597829

AECOM in Australia and New Zealand is certified to ISO9001, ISO14001 AS/NZS4801 and OHSAS18001.

AECOM has prepared this document for the sole use of the Client and for a specific purpose, each as expressly stated in the document. No other party should rely on this document without the prior written consent of AECOM. AECOM undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to any third party who may rely upon or use this document. This document has been prepared based on the Client’s description of its requirements and AECOM’s experience, having regard to assumptions that AECOM can reasonably be expected to make in accordance with sound professional principles. AECOM may also have relied upon information provided by the Client and other third parties to prepare this document, some of which may not have been verified. Subject to the above conditions, this document may be transmitted, reproduced or disseminated only in its entirety.

Quality Information

Document Heritage Due Diligence Assessment

Ref 60597829

Date 17-Jun-2019

Prepared by Perri Braithwaite

Reviewed by Luke Kirkwood

Revision History

Authorised Rev Revision Date Details Name/Position Signature

1 04-Dec-2018 Draft Luke Kirkwood Principal Heritage Specialist

Table of Contents Executive Summary i 1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Scope 1 1.2 Activity Area 1 1.3 Methodology 1 1.3.1 Limitations 2 2.0 Legislation 1 2.1 Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 1 2.2 Heritage Act 2017 1 3.0 Environmental Context 2 4.0 Historical Background 4 4.1 Aboriginal History 4 4.2 Early European Settlement 5 4.3 Lake Mokoan Scheme 6 5.0 Historical Heritage 1 5.1 Commonwealth Heritage 1 5.2 State Heritage 1 5.2.1 Heritage Victoria 1 5.3 Local Heritage 1 5.4 Other Non-Statutory Registers 1 5.5 Other Heritage Considerations 1 6.0 Aboriginal Heritage 3 6.1 Commonwealth Heritage 3 6.2 State Heritage 3 6.2.1 Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) 3 6.2.2 Areas of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity 3 6.2.3 Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register (VAHR) 3 6.2.4 Aboriginal Reports 3 7.0 Natural Heritage 1 7.1 Commonwealth Heritage 1 7.2 State Heritage 1 7.3 Local Heritage 1 7.4 Other Non-Statutory Registers 1 7.5 Other considerations 1 8.0 Summary and Recommendations 2 8.1 Recommendations 2 9.0 References 4

Executive Summary AECOM Australia Pty Ltd (AECOM) was engaged by 433 Link Development Pty Ltd (South Energy), to prepare a cultural heritage due diligence for the Kennedys Creek Solar Farm (the Project). The Project is located north east of Benalla bounded Murray Road, Nelson Road, Benalla-Yarrawonga Road and the Winton Wetlands (previously referred to as Lake Mokoan and Mokoan) (the Activity Area) (Figure 1). This due diligence assessment seeks to identify Aboriginal, historical and natural heritage values that may be present in the Activity Area, and potential Project impacts on these values. The objective of this assessment is to identify historical, Aboriginal and natural heritage values that may be present in the Activity Area, and potential impacts on these values.

Historical Heritage • There are no registered historical heritage items identified within the Activity Area. • A review of historical documents and aerials identified that the Benalla region was subject to the rapid growth of the pastoral and agricultural activities. The Winton Wetlands in particular, appealed to many settlers due to direct access to water for irrigation and pastoral activities. There is potential for historical archaeological remains associated with early pastoral activities such as stockyards, fencing, sheds, and homesteads. An unexpected finds procedure should be implemented in the event of identifying historical heritage during ground disturbing works. • A review of a 1941 historical aerial identified numerous structures potentially associated with the increasing pastoral and homestead sites, one of which is located within the current Activity Area. The age of this structure is unknown but may be of heritage value. Likewise, if this structure is of a certain age (over 75 years), then archaeological deposits associated with the structure (household dumps etc.) may be considered for the protection under the Heritage Act. A heritage assessment should be undertaken for the structure identified in the historical aerials, should any impacts be proposed.

Aboriginal Heritage • There are no areas of cultural heritage sensitivity identified within the Activity Area. • There are no registered Aboriginal cultural heritage sites within the Activity Area however; the Activity Area is in close proximity to a highly sensitive cultural landform represented archaeologically through the distribution of Aboriginal sites surrounding the Winton Wetlands. Given the rich archaeological record surrounding the Winton Wetlands and similar landforms within the Activity Area, there is a potential for Aboriginal archaeological remains and intangible values to be present within the Activity Area, there is a potential for Aboriginal archaeological remains and intangible cultural values to be present within the Activity Area. • It is not mandatory to undertake a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) because sensitive landforms (i.e. sensitive waterways identified under the Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018) are not within the Activity Area. However, given the spatial relationship of artefacts and landforms surrounding the wetlands, AECOM recommends a Voluntary CHMP be considered. If it is determined that a Voluntary CHMP is not required, an unexpected finds procedure should be implemented in the event of identifying Aboriginal heritage during grounds disturbing works. • An unexpected finds procedure should be implemented in the unlikely event of identifying Aboriginal heritage during ground disturbing works.

Natural Heritage • There are no registered natural heritage items identified within the Activity Area. • The Activity Area is within close proximity to a highly sensitive ecological landform, the Winton Wetlands, and is considered of general importance as a significant environmental, social and economic renewal projects.

• The Winton Wetland Committee of Management should be consulted with to ensure works do not impact on any environmental value.

1.0 Introduction AECOM Australia Pty Ltd (AECOM) was engaged by 433 Link Development Pty Ltd (South Energy), to prepare a cultural heritage due diligence for the Kennedys Creek Solar Farm (the Project). The Project is located north east of Benalla bounded Murray Road, Nelson Road, Benalla-Yarrawonga Road and the Winton Wetlands (previously referred to as Lake Mokoan and Mokoan) (the Activity Area) (Figure 1). This due diligence assessment seeks to identify Aboriginal, historical and natural heritage values that may be present in the Activity Area, and potential Project impacts on these values. The objective of this assessment is to identify historical, Aboriginal and natural heritage values that may be present in the Activity Area, and potential impacts on these values.

1.1 Scope The objectives of this assessment are to: • Conduct a brief historical review of the Activity Area and the surrounding areas. • Identify any known Aboriginal, historical and natural heritage values in the Activity Area. • Identify the Registered Aboriginal Party/s (RAPs) and/or RAP applicants for the area. • Develop a predictive model and assess the potential for unexpected heritage sites to be present within the Activity Area. • Assess, and provide advice and recommendations for compliances with the relevant legislative requirements governing the management of Aboriginal, historical and natural heritage values. • Determine a strategy for future management of any heritage issues identified during the assessment to ensure compliance under the relevant legislation.

1.2 Activity Area South Energy proposes to design and construct a solar farm within the Benalla Region. The Activity Area is located approximately 4 kilometres north-east of the town centre of Benalla. Benalla Rural City forms part of the Hume Region in north east Victoria. The Activity Area is located on Murray Road, Nelson Road and Benalla-Yarrawonga Road in Benalla. The Activity Area is located on the northern side of both Nelson Road and Murray Road and bisects Benalla-Yarrawonga Road and has frontages to Nelson Road, Benalla-Yarrawonga Road and Murray Road. A review of available aerial photography and at ground level imaging indicates that the site is currently used for broad acre farming. The site appears to have undergone extensive vegetation clearance with small dams scattered throughout the property and minor residential development.

1.3 Methodology Searches of all relevant heritage registers were conducted to identify previously recorded heritage places. Registers consulted included: • World Heritage List (WHL) • National Heritage List (NHL) • Commonwealth Heritage List (CHL) • Register of the National Estate (RNE) – non-statutory • Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) • Victorian Heritage Inventory (VHI) • Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System (ACHRIS)

• Gwydir and Moree Plains Shire Council Local Environmental Plan Heritage Schedules • Nation Trust of Australia – non-statutory • Victorian WWII Heritage Inventory – non-statutory • Monuments Australia – non-statutory The search of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register and Information System (ACHRIS) aimed to identify: • Registered Aboriginal Party/ies (RAP/s) for the Activity Area • Previously registered Aboriginal cultural heritage within the Activity Area • Areas of cultural heritage sensitivity located within the Activity Area A review of previous heritage assessments and historical documentation of the Activity Area and the surrounding regions to identify: • Context of previous finds • Ethnographies and background histories relevant to the Activity Area • Predictive models relevant to the Activity Area • Undocumented places of cultural heritage significance • Previous land use and levels of ground disturbance 1.3.1 Limitations This assessment is based on the information in the project scope provided by South Energy. As a due diligence or ‘desktop’ study, there assessment are by definition based on a review of pre-existing reports and data. They are thus necessarily limited to what information is ‘already known’ about an area. There is still potential for currently unknown heritage sites to exist within the Activity Area.

Figure 1 Kennedys Creek Solar Farm

2.0 Legislation

2.1 Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 provides for the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage within the State. All Aboriginal heritage sites are recorded on the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register (VAHR). Persons seeking to undertake a development are required to engage a qualified Cultural Heritage Advisor to identify if a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) is required under regulation (Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018). A CHMP assesses the overall impact footprint of the development, referred to as an Activity Area, for Aboriginal cultural heritage values, and sets out the methodology used during the assessment (including consultation undertaken with the RAPs), and provides management recommendations and contingency measures for implementation during the development. A CHMP is required if: • The proposal is a high impact activity; and • All or part of the Activity Area is within an area of cultural heritage sensitivity; and • The activity area has not been subject to previous significant ground disturbance A CHMP may also be required if • An Environmental Effects Statement is required under the Environmental Effects Act 1978, and/or • At the request of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. Once prepared, a CHMP is assessed and approved by either Aboriginal Victoria, part of the Department of Premier and Cabinet or the relevant Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP).

2.2 Heritage Act 2017 The Heritage Act 2017 is the Victorian Government's key piece of (non-Indigenous) cultural heritage legislation, which provides a legislative framework for the protection and conservation of places and objects of cultural heritage significance in Victoria. The Act identifies and protects heritage places and objects that are of significance to Victoria, including: • Historic archaeological sites and artefacts • Historic buildings, structures and precincts • Gardens, trees and cemeteries • Cultural landscapes • Shipwrecks and relics • Significant objects The Act also establishes the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR), the Victorian Heritage Inventory (VHI) and the Heritage Council of Victoria. The VHR is a list of places and objects of state significance. To be included in the VHR, places and objects must meet the assessment criteria of the Heritage Council of Victoria. The statutory implications of the VHR listing include an approval process for works to registered places other than regular maintenance and repairs. Known historical archaeological sites in Victoria are included in the VHI and are also protected under the Heritage Act 2017. Additionally, all archaeological sites more than 75 years in age in Victoria that provide information of past activity in the State are protected by the Heritage Act 2017, regardless of whether they are included in the VHI.

3.0 Environmental Context This section reviews the landscape context of the Activity Area as a basis for predicting the character of past Aboriginal and historical occupation within it and its associated archaeological record. Consideration of the landscape context of the Activity Area is predicated on the now well-established proposition that the nature and distribution of Aboriginal archaeological materials are closely connected to the environments in which they occur. Environmental variables such as topography, geology, hydrology and the composition of local floral and faunal communities will have played an important role in influencing how Aboriginal people moved within and utilised their respective Country. Amongst other things, these variables will have affected the availability of suitable campsites, drinking water, economic plant and animal resources, and raw materials for the production of stone and organic implements. At the same time, an assessment of historical and contemporary land use activities, as well as geomorphic processes such as soil erosion and aggradation, is critical to understanding the formation and integrity of archaeological deposits, as well any assessments of Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity. The environmental factors relevant to the Activity Area are summarised in Table 1. Table 1 Environmental Context Summary Environmental Description Element Physiography The Activity Area lies within the Riverine Plain physiographic region. The Riverine Plains, part of Interior Lowlands Division, are characterised by geomorphology typically associated with alluvial plains. The regolith across this region is predominantly Alluvial sediments (> 50%). Topography The Activity Area is characterised by a flat low-lying landscape forming part of extensive alluvial fans and aprons and gently undulating hills with an elevation between 200 m and 160 m. Hydrology The Activity Area is located in the Victorian Riverina Bioregion characterised by river systems and prior streams. Kennedys Creek, a tributary of Broken River, approximately 800m west of the Activity Area.

Adjacent to the south eastern extent of the Activity Area is Mokoan Inlet Channel. The channel is an artificial inlet channel from Broken River to the Winton Wetlands, constructed for the inundation of Lake Mokoan in 1961. Geology & Soils The geology of the Activity Area is located in the former swamps and lagoonal deposits of the Northern Riverine Plains, dominated by alluvial silts and sand. A variety of soils occur within this region including grey Vertosols, brown Sodosols and yellow brown Kandosols. Flora & Fauna The Victorian Riverina Bioregion is dominated by woodland plains and wetland mosaic in the north and grassy woodland plains in the south. The Activity Area has undergone extensive clearing however common flora identified in the area includes: • Eucalyptus microcarpa • Eucalyptus camaldulensis • Microseris lanceolate • Exocarpos cupressiformis common fauna identified in the area includes: • Emydura macquarii • Chenonetta jubata • Macropus giganteus • Pseudocheirus peregrinus The original vegetation communities of the Activity Area and its environs will have supplied Aboriginal people camping within or travelling through the area with an extensive array of flora and fauna. Recorded native vegetation

Environmental Description Element communities and locally occurring watercourses would likewise have supported a large and diverse range of economic terrestrial, aquatic and avian fauna. Past The Activity Area has been subject to significant vegetation clearance for Disturbance agricultural and pastoral activities from the mid-1800s onwards including minor disturbance from structures in the south east corner of the Activity Area. Other land disturbance includes construction of the Mokoan Inlet Channel to form Lake Mokoan. Native vegetation within the Activity Area has been extensively modified as a result of agricultural and pastoral land use activities, with the overwhelming majority cleared historically for grazing and/or cropping.

4.0 Historical Background

4.1 Aboriginal History Although the RAP for the Activity Area is the Yorta Yorta National Aboriginal Corporation, sources suggest that the language group borders in this part of Victoria may have been more fluid, and generally delineated by major natural features such as the the wetlands adjacent to the current Activity Area. These wetlands were previously referred to as Mokoan by the local Aboriginal people (Clark, 1990b; Horton, 1996; Tindale, 1974). According to Tindale (1974), the wetlands were located in the Bangarang language group (Plate 1), while Clark (1990a) and Horton (1996) identifies the wetlands in the traditional lands of the Duang wurrung (Taungurong) language group (Plate 2). Prior to early European settlement, the wetlands, directly adjacent to the Activity Area, was abundant in flora and fauna resources, supporting extensive Aboriginal communities (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). Mokoan, acted as meeting place for events such as corroborees and other traditional ceremonies (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018).

Plate 1 Map showing the Distribution of the Aboriginal Tribes of Australia (Tindal 1974)

Plate 2 Map of Aboriginal Australia (Horton 1996)

4.2 Early European Settlement During the 1840s, several pastoral licenses were granted around the Benalla region as the influx of settlers increased (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). By the 1860s, farming and agricultural practices had become well established, particularly surrounding the wetlands (Mokoan), located directly adjacent to the north eastern border of the Activity Area. The wetland’s extensive natural water supply was identified as potential reservoir for irrigation and also for supporting increasing agriculture within the region. By the mid-1900s, over 16 homestead and farming sites were established around the Winton Wetlands (Cunningham, 1899) (Plate 3). A review of the 1941 historical aerial, identified numerous structures potentially associated with the increasing pastoral and homestead sites, some of which are located within the current Activity Area (Plate 3, Figure 2) (“MOYHU_801A1,” 1941).

Plate 3 1941 Historical Aerial of the Winton Wetlands with family homestead locations (source: Winton Wetland History https://wintonwetlands.org.au/learn/european-history)

4.3 Lake Mokoan Scheme In 1961, it was proposed that Broken River be connected via a 13 km inlet channel to the wetlands, in order to create a large off river water storage (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). Several homesteads and farms surrounding the wetlands were identified for acquisition and a dam wall, an outlet channel and the Mokoan Inlet Channel, 60 m south of the Activity Area, were constructed. (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). Following construction, the wetlands and surrounding land was inundated and Lake Mokoan officially opened in 1971. A review of historical documentation suggests that the current Activity Area was not affected by the inundation of Lake Mokoan, however was potentially impacted by construction associated with the Lake Mokoan Inlet Channel. The construction of the lake bought successful economic and recreational values to the region, while simultaneously flooding ancient forests and unique wetland systems (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). Over the years it became clear that the large shallow water body was losing a considerable amount of water through evaporation, even to the point of drying out. In 2004, the decision to decommission Lake Mokoan and return it to a wetland state was announced by the Victorian Government. However it wasn’t until 2010, that the lake was decommissioned and drained and the Winton Wetland Committee of Management was placed in charge of the restoring and renewing the old wetlands, now known as the Winton Wetlands (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). At present, the Winton Wetlands are being restored back to its original ecological habitat and the Activity Area, south west of the Winton Wetlands, remains a cleared open paddock for pastoral and agricultural purposes.

Figure 2 Kennedys Creek Solar Farm 1941 Historical Aerial

5.0 Historical Heritage

5.1 Commonwealth Heritage A search of the Australian Heritage Database was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No World Heritage List (WHL), National Heritage List (NHL) or Commonwealth Heritage List (CHL) items of historical heritage value were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The closest Australian heritage item, Elementary Training School No 11 (former) (NHL# 103190), is approximately 4km north east of the Activity Area.

5.2 State Heritage 5.2.1 Heritage Victoria A search of the Victorian State Heritage Register, undertaken on the 7 January 2019, identified that there are no State Heritage listed items within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The closest State Heritage item, Former Benalla Migrant Camp (VHR# H2358), is approximately 4km north east of the Activity Area. In addition to the State Heritage Register, the Department (Heritage Victoria) also maintains the Heritage Inventory – a listing of known historical heritage and/or archaeological items in Victoria that are not of State heritage value. There are no items identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The Lake Mokoan LMH 1 Cemetery (VHI# H8125-0016) has been identified approximately 6km north east of the Activity Area.

5.3 Local Heritage A review of the Benalla Rural City Planning Scheme (BRCPS) Heritage Overlay (HO) was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No local heritage items have been identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The closest local heritage item, the Benalla Central Urban Conservation Area, Benalla (HO26), is approximately 3.5 km south west of the Activity Area.

5.4 Other Non-Statutory Registers A search of non-statutory registers including the Register of National Estate (RNE), the National Trust, the Victorian WWII Heritage Inventory and Monuments Australia, was conducted on 7 January 2019. There are no non-statutory registered items identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no non-statutory heritage items within 2km of the Activity Area.

5.5 Other Heritage Considerations A review of historical documents and aerials identified that the Benalla region was subject to the rapid growth of the pastoral and agricultural activities. The land surrounding the Winton Swamps in particular appealed a large number of settlers due to direct access to water for irrigation and pastoral activities. A review of a 1941 historical aerial identified numerous structures potentially associated with the increasing pastoral and homestead sites, some of which are located within the current Activity Area (Figure 2, Plate 4). The age of this structure is unknown but may be of heritage value. Likewise, if this structure is of a certain age (over 75 years), then archaeological deposits associated with the complex (household dumps etc.) may be considered for the protection under the Heritage Act. There is potential for historical archaeological remains associated with early pastoral activities such as stockyards, fencing, sheds, and homesteads.

Plate 4 1941 historical aerials showing historical structures located in the south east extent of the Activity Area

6.0 Aboriginal Heritage

6.1 Commonwealth Heritage A search of the Australian Heritage Database was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No WHL, NHL or CHL items of Aboriginal heritage value were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no Australian heritage items within 2km of the Activity Area.

6.2 State Heritage 6.2.1 Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) There is one appointed RAP for the area, the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation. 6.2.2 Areas of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity A search of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Information System (ACHRIS) database was undertaken on the 7 January 2019. There are no areas of cultural heritage sensitivity identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area (Figure 3). 6.2.3 Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register (VAHR) A search of the VAHR using the ACHRIS was conducted on 7 January 2019. No Aboriginal cultural heritage sites were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The closest cultural heritage site VAHR# 8124-0010 (Scarred Tree) is approximately 200m west of the Activity Area (Figure 3). VAHR# 8124-0010 is a scarred tree recorded by S.Lane in 1998, and again for the Victorian Norther Interconnect Gas Pipeline by Archaeology at Tradis (2014). It should be noted that over 300 Aboriginal sites have been recorded around the Winton Wetlands indicating a focus on of Aboriginal activity within the landscape (Figure 3). 6.2.4 Aboriginal Reports A review of previous Aboriginal assessments within the Activity Area has been undertaken (Table 2) Table 2 Summary of Aboriginal Assessments within proximity to the Activity Area Assessment Author Year Project/Location Summary of Results Type Heritage 2009 Decommissioning of Standard A desktop assessment identified Insight Pty Ltd the Lake Mokoan Assessment that no previously registered (2009) Inlet Channel Aboriginal archaeological sites directly adjacent to were located within the Lake the southern border Mokoan Inlet Channel Activity of the current Area. However, the distribution of Activity Area Aboriginal archaeological sites around Lake Mokoan, indicate that the former swamps that comprise Lake Mokoan were a focus of Aboriginal Activity. Throughout the survey no Aboriginal archaeological sites were identified Archaeology 2014 Victorian northern Complex A desktop assessment identified at Tardis Pty interconnect gas Assessment one previously recorded Ltd (2014) pipeline from Violet Aboriginal heritage place (VAHR Town to Glenrowan 8124-0010) within the Activity intersecting the Area of the proposed pipeline. A Activity Area complex assessment was conducted resulting in one new Aboriginal heritage place (VAHR 8024-0066) identified \\aumel1fp001\Projects\605X\60597829\400_TECH\439_Heritage\Report\20190808_Kennedys Creek (Benalla South) Solar Farm_DRAFT_AECOM Rev.docx Revision 1 – 17-Jun-2019 Prepared for – 433 Link Development Pty Ltd – ABN: 30 626 633 369 AECOM Heritage Due Diligence Assessment 4

Assessment Author Year Project/Location Summary of Results Type approximately 4 km west of the current Activity Area. Heritage 2007/ Proposed Irrigation Survey and Desktop assessment determined Insights Pty 2008 Pipeline, Lake Standard that the surrounding region would Ltd (2008) Mokoan. Survey Cultural have provided Aboriginal people area four is located Heritage with an abundance of essential directly adjacent to Management resources including food, shelter, the south east Plan water and raw materials. A field boundary of the survey of the 15km proposed current Activity Area pipeline identified 18 Aboriginal archaeological sites including artefact scatters and scarred trees. No archaeological sites were identified along survey area four. No further recommendations were proposed for survey area four. Jo Bell 2010 Final Drawdown Archaeologic During a field survey of the Heritage Survey Lake al northern extent of the wetlands, Services Pty Mokoan assessment eight Aboriginal places were Ltd (2010) Archaeological and survey identified within the study area Assessment. including artefact scatters and Located scarred trees. The results of this approximately 4km assessment demonstrate the south east of the wetlands and surrounding areas current Activity Area is likely to be of considerable social, historical, scientific and spiritual value to the contemporary Aboriginal communities. It was determined that all proposed works for the Winton Wetlands would require further assessment before commencing. Jo Bell 2015 Winton Wetlands Standard Six Aboriginal Places were Heritage Bicycle Path and Assessment identified during the standard Services Pty Camping Grounds assessment including artefact Ltd (2015) Lake Mokoan Road, scatters, low density artefact Winton North distributions and a scarred tree. Cultural Heritage Given the results of the standard Management Plan assessment it was determined directly adjacent to that no further assessment was the current Activity required. Area

6.3 Local Heritage A review of the Benalla Rural City Planning Scheme (BRCPS) was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No registered heritage items of Aboriginal significance were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no local heritage items within 2 km of the Activity Area.

6.4 Other Considerations The Activity Area is within proximity to a highly sensitive cultural landform represented archaeologically through the distribution of Aboriginal sites surrounding the Winton Wetlands (Figure 3) (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018). Over 300 Aboriginal sites were identified within 15km of the Activity Area, including artefact scatters and scarred trees, highlighting the potential complex Aboriginal activity through the landscape. Previous archaeological reports determined wetlands and surrounding areas is likely to be of considerable social, historical, scientific and spiritual value to the contemporary Aboriginal communities (Heritage Insight Pty Ltd, 2006; Jo Bell Heritage Services Pty Ltd, 2010). Prior to European settlement, the wetlands would have provided a diverse range of flora and fauna resources for Aboriginal people and supported extensive occupation sites (Heritage Insight Pty Ltd, 2008). These occupation sites are most likely at the fringes of wetlands and creeks, on nearby elevated landforms that appear within the Activity Area. Given the rich archaeological record surrounding the wetlands and the similar landforms within the Activity Area, there is potential for Aboriginal archaeological remains such as artefact scatters and scarred trees, and intangible cultural values to be present within the Activity Area.

Figure 3 Kennedys Creek Aboriginal Heritage

7.0 Natural Heritage

7.1 Commonwealth Heritage A search of the Australian Heritage Database was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No World Heritage List (WHL), National Heritage List (NHL) or Commonwealth Heritage List (CHL) items of natural heritage value were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no Australian heritage items within 2km of the Activity Area.

7.2 State Heritage A search of the Victorian State Heritage Register, undertaken on the 7 January 2019, identified that there are no State Heritage listed items of natural value within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no State heritage items within 2km of the Activity Area.

7.3 Local Heritage A review of the Port Philip Planning Scheme was undertaken on 7 January 2019. No heritage items of natural value were identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. There are no local heritage items within 2km of the Activity Area.

7.4 Other Non-Statutory Registers A search of non-statutory registers was conducted on 7 January 2019. There are no non-statutory registered items of natural heritage value identified within or immediately adjacent to the Activity Area. The closest non-statutory registered item, Eucalyptus camaldulensis (NT# 70865) is approximately 1.5km away. This sit was documented as an unusual example of tree fusion in which a limb from one tree has grown into the crown of another tree.

7.5 Other considerations The Activity Area is within close proximity to a highly sensitive ecological landform, the Winton Wetlands, and is considered of general importance as a significant environmental, social and economic renewal projects (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018).

8.0 Summary and Recommendations

8.1 Summary The following heritage constraints have been identified for Kennedys Creek Solar Farm (Table 3). Table 3 Summary of Heritage Constraints

Heritage Constraints Historical Heritage There are no registered historical heritage places within the Activity Area.

A review of historical documents and aerials identified that the Benalla region was subject to the rapid growth of the pastoral and agricultural activities. The land surrounding the Winton Wetlands in particular appealed a large number of settlers due to direct access to water for irrigation and pastoral activities. A review of a 1941 historical aerial identified numerous structures potentially associated with the increasing pastoral and homestead sites, one of which is located within the current Activity Area. The age of this structure is unknown but may be of heritage value. Likewise, if this structure is of a certain age (over 75 years), then archaeological deposits associated with the structure (household dumps etc.) may be considered for the protection under the Heritage Act. There is potential for historical archaeological remains associated with early pastoral activities such as stockyards, fencing, sheds, and homesteads.

Aboriginal There are no areas of cultural heritage sensitivity within the Activity Area. Heritage There are no registered Aboriginal cultural heritage sites within the Activity Area. The Activity Area is in proximity to a highly sensitive cultural landform represented archaeologically through the distribution of Aboriginal sites surrounding the Winton Wetlands. Given the rich archaeological record surrounding the Winton Wetlands and similar landforms within the Activity Area, there is potential for Aboriginal archaeological remains and intangible cultural values to be present within the Activity Area. Natural Heritage There are no registered natural heritage items identified within the Activity Area.

The Activity Area is within close proximity to a highly sensitive ecological landform, the Winton Wetlands, and is considered of general importance as one of the most significant environmental, social and economic renewal projects (Winton Wetlands Committee of Management, 2018)

8.2 Recommendations • A heritage assessment should be undertaken for the structure identified in the historical aerials, should any impacts be proposed. • An unexpected finds procedure should be implemented in the event of identifying historical heritage during ground disturbing works. • The Winton Wetland Committee of Management should be consulted with to ensure works do not impact on any environmental, social, cultural or economic value. • This assessment has determined there are no mandatory requirements to undertake a CHMP (as per the Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2018). It is noted however that the spatial distribution of Aboriginal sites in the nearby vicinity and presence of similar landforms and geology within the Activity Area suggests that there is potential for Aboriginal archaeology to be present within the Project Boundary. Where such potential exists, it is recommended that a voluntary CHMP be

considered for the project to manage unexpected finds should they occur on site. Regardless, an unexpected finds procedure should be implemented for the Project in the event of the identification of unexpected Aboriginal heritage during ground disturbing works.

9.0 References Archaeology At TARDIS. (2014). Victorian Northern Interconnect Gas Pipeline (Violet Town to Glenrowan Gas Pipeline): Cultural Heritage Management Plan. Melbourne, Victoria. Clark, I. (1990a). Aboriginal languages and clans: An historical atlas of western and central Victoria, 1800-1900. Melbourne: Monash University. Clark, I. (1990b). Aboriginal Languages and Clans: An Historical Atlas of Western and Central Victoria. Monash Publications in Geography, 7. Cunningham, P. (1899, February 24). The Winton or Mokoan Water Storage Scheme. The North Eastern Ensign. Benalla. Heritage Insight Pty Ltd. (2006). Lake Mokoan Archaeological Assessment. Richmond, Victoria. Heritage Insight Pty Ltd. (2008). Diverters Pipeline Lake Mokoan Cultural Heritage Management Plan. Richmond, Victoria. Heritage Insights Pty Ltd. (2009). Mokoan Inlet Channel Decommissioning Cultural Heritage Management Plan: Desktop and Standard Assessment. Horton, D. R. (1996). Aboriginal Australia. Canberra, ACT: Aboriginal Studies Press. Jo Bell Heritage Services Pty Ltd. (2010). Final Drawdown Survey Lake Mokoan Archaeological Assessment. Jo Bell Heritage Services Pty Ltd. (2015). Winton Wetland Bicycle Path and Camping Grounds Lake Mokoan Road, Winton North Cultural Heritage Management Plan. Euroa, Victoria. MOYHU_801A1. (1941). Department of Environment Land Water and Planning. Tindale, N. B. (1974). Aboriginal Tribes of Australia: Their Terrain, Environmental Controls, Distribution, Limits and Proper Names. Canberra: Australian University Press. Winton Wetlands Committee of Management. (2018). Winton Wetlands. Retrieved January 6, 2019, from https://wintonwetlands.org.au