Perisher Range Resorts Environmental Management System (PRREMS)

Performance Report 2006-2008

Vision Statement

“The Perisher Range Resorts will be widely recognised for exemplary environmental management of the area’s natural, cultural, aesthetic and social values in the national park setting, and for sustainable, recreation-related development that respects, conserves, enhances and restores those values”

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Stakeholders

Club Lodges: The organisation known as SLOPES (Ski Lodges of Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes and Guthega Incorporated) was founded in 1992 to represent the interests of the 88 club lodges in the Perisher Range Resorts.

Country Energy (CE): Country Energy manages 's largest power supply network across 95 per cent of NSW and offers retail electricity in five states and territories. Their product range includes bottled gas, Internet services and energy efficiency advice. Country Energy is a major purchaser of solar, hydro and wind energy, for green power customers.

ELGAS: Are the biggest distributor of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Australia. Elgas has 3 supply modes in use in the PRR area - Exchange Cylinder Deliveries and Tanker Deliveries (including winter oversnow deliveries) and regular installation inspections.

NSW Department of Planning (DoP): Assess all development proposals in the ski resorts in Kosciuszko to ensure they comply with relevant planning controls and are environmentally and socially sustainable.

NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA): Manage, maintain & upgrade the main public roads in including and ice removal using salt, high speed truck mounted snow blades, graders, loaders and snow blowers.

Perisher Blue Pty Ltd (PB): Own and operate comprising the ski areas of Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega and Blue Cow. They provide lifting, slope grooming, snow making, snowclearing, snowsports school, ski patrol, passenger and freight transport, accommodation, food and beverage, ski and snowboard hire, retail shops, workshops, fuel storage and the Skitube (alpine railway).

Perisher Resorts Chamber of Commerce (PRCoC): An Incorporated Association with 41 members who operate tourism businesses in Perisher that provide accommodation, restaurants, liquor outlets and retail services to recreational users. The Chamber represents the commercial interests of the Perisher Resorts and promotes sustainable growth.

Telstra: Offers a full range of services in all telecommunications markets throughout Australia. Within the Perisher Range Resorts area they provide infrastructure for wireless radio and mobile phones as well as copper and optical fibre cables.

The Nature Conservation Council (NCC): Are a non-profit, non-government organisation representing 120 community environment groups across NSW. They work to conserve nature and protect the water we drink, the air we breathe and the places we love.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS): (Part of the NSW Dept of Environment, Climate Change and Water, DECCW) Coordinate environmental services, lease management and administration of resort operations in Kosciuszko National Park including the facilitation of the PRREMS. They provide municipal services including reticulated water supply, sewage treatment, waste management, road management, snow clearing/ (x country trails), fuel storage and visitor information & services.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Introduction

This report contains information in relation to the environmental performance of the Perisher Range Resorts Environmental Management System (PRREMS) against the PRREMS objectives and targets for the two year period from the 1st May 2006 to 29th Feb 2008.

The goal of the PRREMS is to ensure that all activities and development in the Perisher Range Resorts (PRR) are carried out in a controlled and sustainable manner. The PRR boundary is consistent with the Perisher Range Management Unit of the Kosciuszko National Park Plan of Management 2006 (shown on the ‘Environmental Aspects’ map in this report) and includes the interlinked ski areas of Perisher, Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes and Guthega.

Each PRR stakeholder has agreed on 13 common objectives representing the shared commitments of all operators to reduce their impact on the environment. The objectives are achieved by working towards targets set within the framework of the PRREMS. Some objectives do not have targets due to a lack of baseline information and difficulties in setting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure effectiveness. However these objectives are still extremely important and can be realised in other ways as documented throughout this report.

In keeping with the EMS concept of ‘continual improvement’ the PRREMS objectives and targets were reviewed and modified during this reporting period to try and address some of the shortfalls and establish additional targets. These will be reported against in subsequent annual reports.

The following stakeholders provided the information contained in this report: Club Lodges, Commercial lodges, Department of Planning (DoP), Elgas, Perisher Blue Pty Ltd and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). The lodge information has been drawn from the ‘All Lodge’ summary report compiled by EC3 Global using the data submitted by lodges via the ‘Earthcheck’ on-line data management and benchmarking system.

This is the second PRREMS report based on the environmental performance against the objectives and targets. The first report covered the first 4 years of PRREMS implementation from 2002-2006. Future reports will be prepared annually.

Flora & Fauna

Objective: To achieve a high quality environment for indigenous flora and fauna in the Perisher region and to conserve the biodiversity of the area.

Target: No specific target set

Protection and enhancement of the biota of Kosciuszko National Park remains the core responsibility of the NPWS. However as the major lessee in the PRR and a stakeholder of the PRREMS, Perisher Blue Pty Ltd (PB) also undertook numerous activities and programs which assisted in conserving and enhancing the biodiversity of the area. The following is a summary of the programs and activities that were undertaken during the reporting period in the PRR area:

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Feral animal control

Cat control - Trapping programs were undertaken during winter 2006 and 2007.The program removed 6 cats in 2006, 4 cats in 2007. The extent of cat populations in the perisher range is unknown. Given reductions in snow depth and duration in recent years, cat populations may now be better able to survive winters. The cat trapping program has recently been expanded to include other times of year in response to cat sightings.

Fox management - Strategic fox control using 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) baits has been undertaken at Charlotte Pass since winter 1996 and extended since winter 1999 to cover the top of Thredbo, through Charlotte Pass, Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Guthega and up Whites River Valley from Guthega to Schlinks Hut. The program incorporates monitoring of key indicator species populations (Broad-toothed Rat) and fox tracks (before and after baiting) along transects to determine the programs effectiveness in reducing fox populations. Since the introduction of the baiting program fox populations have been reduced by 75% compared with pre- baiting numbers.

Perisher Blue recorded feral animal sightings and reported these sightings to the NPWS. In cases where it was possible and practical to set traps PB did so in consultation with the NPWS. Any animals trapped were handed to the NPWS. The following table records the number of sightings and reports from Perisher Blue staff to the NPWS.

Animals Sighted & reported 2006 2007 2008 by PB staff Cat 5 4 6 Dog 53 9 2 Fox 0 4 3

The bulk of the sightings were within the resort boundary. The large amount of dog sightings in 2006 can be attributed mainly to the one dog (nicknamed “Fluffy”) seen very regularly around the Perisher Centre in the lead up to the 2006 winter. The dog was trapped and subsequently euthanised by the NPWS.

Weed Management

Weed control activities - Weed control within the Perisher Range Resorts during the reporting period has focussed on the implementation of a coordinated program to reduce Yarrow (Achillea millefolium). Control of this species has been successful following a research project which evaluated the most effective herbicide treatment (Sanecki et al 2003). Monitoring of the sampling sites in 2006 demonstrated a 90 percent reduction in the milfoil infestation. Other weed control has targeted isolated populations of Vipers Bugloss (Echium vulgare) St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), Russel Lupins (Lupinus polyphyllus), Winter Cress (Barbarea verna) and Juncus effuses. Records of weed control have been maintained and recorded on ArcGIS.

In consultation with the NPWS, PB engaged contractors to conduct weed control activities within the resort area. PB monitors dollars spent on weed control as an EMS target measure. PB spent in excess of $15.9K on weed control in the 2007/08 summer period.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Threatened species monitoring

Mountain Pygmy-possum population monitoring - This monitoring has been on- going in the Blue Cow area commencing in 1986. Since 2000 there has been a decline in populations which is continuing today. The direct cause of this decline is unknown but a number of factors have been identified as possible contributors including: an increase in cat populations (although this is not substantiated by any research), a gradual decline in snow depth and duration as recorded at Spencers Creek from the 1950’s and a reduction in available vegetative food in the area following the 2003 wildfires. The changes in snow may impact on the hibernation time of the species and/or make animals more susceptible to predation. Fox baiting and cat trapping continue to be undertaken in the Blue Cow area.

Mountain Pygmy Possum exclusion zone. PB maintained the exclusion of skiers/boarders and all other unnecessary access to the Pygmy Possum habitat at . PB has informative signage at the base of the Summit Quad chair and elsewhere on the perimeter fence to advise guests of the importance of the habitat and the reasons for the area’s closure. PB monitored unauthorised access and issued warnings or revoked skiing privileges as necessary.

Broad-toothed Rat population monitoring - Population monitoring commenced in 1997. It is undertaken annually throughout the National Park including four sites in close proximity to resort areas in the Perisher Range. This monitoring has continued as part of the Fox Threat Abatement Plan. The sites are within the annual fox control program area. The alpine resort areas provide only a small part of the overall distribution of Broad-toothed Rat, however they provide high quality habitat because they occur in cooler wetter areas (DECC 2007b) and large parts of the resorts were not effected by the 2003 fires. Some of the monitoring sites within the PRR are showing early signs of an increase in numbers however populations in burnt areas of KNP have still not recovered (Green pers. Comm) following the 2003/04 fires.

Rehabilitation

‘Rehabilitation Guidelines for the Resorts of Kosciuszko National Park’ were completed and widely distributed amongst stakeholders during the report period. These guidelines have been prepared to assist land managers, lessees and contractors in the NSW ski resorts to plan and undertake rehabilitation work.

Revegetation of disturbed sites The former sewage ponds on the southern side of Pipers Creek at Smiggin Holes were rehabilitated to reduce their visual impact and enhance biodiversity of the area. The Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the rehabilitation included an access plan as the location of the ponds required access through primary Broad-toothed Rat habitat in an area that is recovering from the 2003 wildfires. The disturbed area was planted with thousands of grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees to assist in returning the site to a more natural condition. Similarly, the route of the water rising main from Pipers Creek to was also planted. Elsewhere in the Perisher Range Resorts, a planting program of more than 500 trees also commenced.

A program for the collection of seeds & cuttings for plant propagation to be used in rehabilitation projects has been on-going.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Tube Town rehabilitation project commenced with a plan to rehabilitate the slope to a predominately native condition; and to monitor the success of the rehabilitation techniques with a view to applying the information gained to future rehabilitation elsewhere in the resort. The project involved utilising sterile exotic grasses to stabilise the slope, while increasing the native component through over-sowing and over-planting. Twenty two kilograms of Poa fawcettiae seed was sowed over the entire slope, focussing on areas with bare patches of soil. In addition, 2,037 tube stock plants of native grass and 1000 native shrubs were planted. Staff will monitor a number of aspects, such as initial plant size, seed densities and the application of fertiliser, with test plots established within the site. In addition a botanist will be undertaking regular monitoring of the site using vegetation transects. Weed control and regular watering over the dry periods has contributed to a good survival rate of plants in the early stages of the project .

Waterways

Objective: To improve the quality of aquatic ecosystems through improvement of water quality and the control of sedimentation and erosion.

Objective: To improve the quality of aquatic ecosystems through maintenance of environmental flows.

Target: To have zero ‘non-trivial’ pollution incidents to water per year.

Incidents:

August 2007 - Hydrocarbons in Perisher Ck. Source: Freight shed/turning circle. Fuel build up over winter from bowser stored in melting snow. Hydrocarbons were released into stormwater after storm event melted snow. Action: Sump cleaned out and some additional bunding was put in place around bowser.

October 2007 - Turbid water in Pipers Creek below Smiggin Holes. Source: Smiggins stockpile. Action: EMP developed for stockpile – restriction of illegal use & sediment control measures.

There were no reported incidents from the other PRREMS stakeholders during this period.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Water quality monitoring

Waterways in the Kosciuszko-Perisher Region of Kosciuszko National Park have the potential to be affected by treated sewage effluent, water extraction, resort development activities and by resort operations. A biological water quality monitoring program commenced in 1993 to identify and measure changes in environmental water quality. The program has been ongoing since this time. The Institute for Applied Ecology from the University of are contracted to undertake the monitoring program.

The monitoring program was designed to measure the environmental quality of four streams, Spencers (Charlotte Pass), Rock & Perisher Creeks (both in Perisher Valley) Pipers (Smiggin Holes) and Sawpit creek. Water extraction licences have lead to Farm creek near Guthega recently being added to the monitoring sites.

Water Quality testing is undertaken quarterly at sixteen sites, both upstream and downstream of resort infrastructure (refer to map). Chemical, physical and biological testing includes, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, non-filterable residue, ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, dissolved oxygen % saturation, water flow, conductivity and turbidity and macro-invertebrate sampling. Since 1999 additional sampling has been undertaken to monitor the effectiveness of storm water devices.

The data collected is entered into a predictive model (AUSRIVAS - KNP) for assessing water quality developed by the Co-operative Research Centre for Fresh Water Ecology for the streams and rivers in Kosciuszko NP. This model predicts the type of macro invertebrates at a family level which are likely to be occurring at a site if it were not impacted by chemical or physical parameters and compares it with what was actually found. The environmental impacts are assessed based on how much the observed community deviates from what is expected. This information is then ranked in a band (A-D) for the biological condition of a stream.

The advantage of monitoring macro invertebrate fauna is that it provides a more meaningful measure of water quality of the preceding weeks or months. Chemical and physical data provides only an indicator for that moment of testing.

Biological Condition of Rock Creek and Perisher Creek from May 06 – Feb 08.

Band X – More 1.4 Biologically diverse Band X than reference 1.2 condition

n Band A – Similar 1 Band A to reference condition

0.8 Band B – Significantly impaired 0.6 Band B Conditio Biological Band C – Severely impaired 0.4

Band C 0.2

Upper Rock Creek (control site) Rock Creek (control site) Perisher Crk - Dow nstream of Village Perisher Creek Dow nstream of STP Perisher Creek 700m dow nstream of STP

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

The data shows a decline in the biological condition of all sites below resort areas during winter however recovery often occurs by the February monitoring period. Perisher Creek displays the most long term impacts. It is also the creek that has the most concentrated activity within its immediate catchment including the Perisher car park and the discharge of treated water from the STP. The major impacts on biological condition downstream of the resort areas result from elevated turbidity and conductivity after storm events. This is when additional materials are washed into the creek off roads and car parks and from snow melts. During this reporting period investigations were carried out on developing engineering and operational solutions to improve stormwater management around the unnamed creek that feeds into Perisher Creek. Stormwater management will be a major consideration in the further development of the Perisher village. In stream data loggers will be placed in the creeks at strategic locations to try and isolate point sources for increased turbidity and conductivity in future years. In interpreting the data other environmental variables also need to be considered including seasonal variations and drought. The latter may account for the fact that the up stream control sites have also experienced a decline in condition at certain times during this two year period.

Contamination

Objective: To identify and remediate all soil and groundwater contamination and to prevent future contamination of soils or groundwater.

Target: To have zero non-trivial pollution incidents to land per year.

Target: To have all hydrocarbon storage containers appropriately constructed and managed, by bunding, testing, protecting, upgrading or removing. Incidents:

November 2006 – Hydrocarbon fuel leak south east end of Perisher Centre. Source: Disused Perisher Blue underground petroleum storage tank. Abandoned might not be right work – unknown? Action: Bunding to protect Perisher Ck. Tank removed along with 90cubic metres of contaminated soil. Coffeys completed a site assessment.

October 2007 – Five litres of glycol coolant spilt in carpark Source: Perisher Blue moved a decommissioned cooling tower. While transporting the tower some of the glycol spilt in the carpark. Action: Dry Sorb spread and collected & disposed of at an appropriate facility off Park.

November 2007 – Geotech drill punctured disused UPSS diesel tank Source: 2 disused underground fuel storage tanks were discovered from former ski operations at the base of the Forester quad chair. The tanks were located while drilling holes for the foundations of an amenities facility for staff. Action: PB contacted former staff to establish an understanding of the history of the tanks. They were carefully removed along with 300 cubic metres of contaminated soil. A retrospective amendment to the conditional development consent was written requiring, the monitoring of the water quality of Perisher Creek in the vicinity of the site. All water-monitoring tests have returned no evidence of pollution of water and the final tests required by the amended consent were completed during the second half of 2008. The underground storage tanks were not replaced.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Non- trivial pollution incidents to land/year

3

2

1

0

2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008

Pollution prevention activities

Fuel storage

The old fuel tank at the Freight Shed was removed by NPWS and replaced with a new underground fuel tank. This was because of concern for the integrity of the old tank and to prevent the potential for future contamination of soils or groundwater. Monitoring of groundwater wells associated with the MSU building and hydrocarbon soil contamination also continued during this period.

As an EMS target, PB have committed to conducting tank integrity testing for all Underground Storage Tank’s every 3 years. PB is aware of, and will comply with, the obligations imposed by the Protection of the Environment Operations (Underground Petroleum Storage Systems) Regulation 2008 (NSW). They have 9 sites where hydrocarbon fuels are stored and a total of 16 underground storage tanks (UST). All sites are registered with WorkCover NSW consistent with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 (NSW).

Sawpit Creek Landfill Closure

After many years of operation the Sawpit Creek Landfill was closed. During the preceding winters waste from the Perisher Range Resorts was transported to Landfill for disposal in anticipation of the Sawpit landfill closure. This is now the established waste management arrangement as tabled in the Regional Waste Management Strategy. The closure of the landfill was a legislative requirement and is also part of the proposed works developed as scheduled in the Sawpit Creek Precinct Plan (2006).The capping of the landfill involved earthworks, installation of a gas collection layer, drainage and subsequent landscaping using endemic species. Revegetation will continue.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Septic Tank Rehabilitation

Since transferring to a reticulated sewerage system in the mid to late 1980’s, the old septic tanks around the resort areas have slowly deteriorated, often creating safety hazards as they partially collapse. A program of making these tanks and trenches safe commenced during this period.

Integrity testing of hydrocarbon point sources

The second stage of the Perisher Range Resorts lodges underground fuel storage tank integrity testing program was undertaken during this report period. In a collaborative effort with the ski lodges 24 more underground fuel storage tanks were integrity tested by ‘Tanknology’ through Coffey Geosciences. A register of fuel storage tanks has been compiled and investigations into the decommissioning of disused tanks and validation testing of soil contaminates has commenced.

Concrete Road Construction and Water Main Replacement

Throughout the summer of 2007/2008, a large program of concrete road constructions were undertaken on the western side of Smiggin Holes and at Guthega. Totalling approximately 1.5km in length, the road construction works will improve the environmental performance of the road network by reducing sediment in stormwater runoff. Water sensitive urban design principles were applied to the construction works. Concurrent with the road construction program was the upgrade of the water mains that were either in need of replacing or affected by the adjusted road alignments.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Air Quality

Objective: To improve local air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce the use of ozone depleting substances.

Target: To reduce the amount of CO2 emitted per visitor night

Lodges CO2 Emissions (Source: ‘Earthcheck’ data)

The CO2 emissions for lodges have been calculated by ‘Earthcheck’. An industry recognised conversion factor is applied to the submitted energy consumption data. All though individual lodges may not have all achieved the target of reduced CO2 emissions the collective average has shown a slight decrease over the last 3 years. This supports the fact that many lodges have implemented energy saving practices during this reporting period.

Fireplace conversions

PB have converted 4 of its 6 previously wood burning fireplaces to LPG fireplaces. All of the conversions were completed by 2007. The remaining 2 fireplaces do not comply with AS 4013. They are investigating the feasibility to convert the remaining fireplaces.

Phasing out of Ozone depleting substances

PB are phasing out the use of refrigerants which have a significant ozone depletion potential (ODP). ODP is a relative measure of the potential for a compound to deplete the ozone layer. The highest ODP measure is for CFC-11 (refrigerant R-11) which has an ODP of 1. PB does not use R-11. In 2006, 43% of refrigerants used by PB were comprised of HFC, being gases with no known ODP. 67% of refrigerants were comprised of gases with an ODP of 0.055 or less. In 2007, 45% of PB’s

2006-2008 PRREMS Report refrigerants were comprised of HFC, being gases with no known ODP. 65% of refrigerants were comprised of gases with an ODP of 0.055 or less.

Alternative fuel sources

Elgas provide gas as an alternative energy source and reduction in air emissions. LPG gas appliances (cooking, hot water and heating) comply with the NSW BASIX code with emissions savings of up to 40%. LPG fireplaces have been installed at a number of locations in the PRR area during this period. Customers also have the ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing AGO Greenhouse friendly accredited offsets through Elgas.

Natural Resources

Objective: To reduce the consumption of renewable and non-renewable resources through water, waste, energy and materials management.

Target: To have 220L of water used per visitor night.

Water Management

PRR - Metered Water Supply

160000

140000

120000 Kilolitres 100000

80000

60000

40000

20000

0 Nov 06-May 07 May 07-Nov 07 Nov 07 - May 08 May 08 - Nov 08 Period

Water consumption increased significantly during winter in the two year reporting period. This corresponds with the peak visitor period. Metered water consumption can vary depending on the success and length of the ski season. However since the introduction of the metering system NPWS have been able to work with all the stakeholders to identify water losses and this is contributing to a reduction in water consumption.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

During this period NPWS undertook a water balance for the whole of the reticulated water system to try and identify losses to the system. Some of these losses can be attributed to fire hydrant testing by the Fire Brigade, leaks in old pipes and unauthorised use by contractors. Where an infrastructure problem has been identified it has been rectified if possible and in addition has helped to inform the roll out of the scheduled infrastructure upgrades.

Water consumption of Lodges/visitor night (Source: ‘Earthcheck’ data)

Water consumption by lodges /per visitor night was an average of 199.4L/VN well within the target of 220L/VN as benchmarked against industry standards. NPWS contacted lodges with unusual water meter readings to encourage lodges to check for possible leaks. Many lodges implemented water saving measures during this reporting period.

Water harvesting pilot project

NPWS designed a roof water harvesting pilot project at CSIRO Lodge in Perisher Valley to supply all lodge water needs. The system will be put onto the lodge and trialled for a number of years to assess the feasibility of converting buildings in a snowbound environment.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Waste Management

Target: To have 50% of total waste generated disposed to landfill.

The NPWS provide the waste management system in the Resort. Four hopper bins – one putrecsible waste and 3 recycling (Paper and Cardboard, Cans, bottles and glass, Cooking Oil) - are strategically located in groups throughout the resort car parks. In 2006 (calendar year) – 623 tonnes of waste went to landfill and 241tonnes was recycled (excl Blue Cow). In 2007 (calendar year) – 640 tonnes went to landfill & 283 tonnes was recycled (excl Blue Cow).

PRR Waste and Recyclables

1000000 e 800000

600000 72% 69% 400000 82% 65%

(kg) Produced 200000 Total PRR Wast 35% 28% 31% 18% 0

2002/2003 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008

Reporting Year

Waste Recycled Waste to Landfill

The large increase in total waste from 2005/2006 to 2006/2007 can be attributed to the introduction of a more accurate recording system. Prior to 2006 volumes were estimates based on total numbers of bins. The real increase may not have been as dramatic as it appears. Now all bins are weighed. This new system will give us a much more accurate measure of our waste.

During this period NPWS also introduced recycling receptacles into the MSU building and participated in the Household Hazardous Waste collection at Jindabyne Landfill which was sponsored by DECC.

The waste from Perisher Blue facilities in Blue Cow is taken directly off the mountain via the Skitube and is not included in the above figures. In 2006/2007 PB recycled approximately 32% of the waste generated by construction/building and mountain operations. In 2007/2008, approximately 28% was recycled. These amounts do not include other items that have been recycled. PB’s additional recycling initiatives include the recycling of steel, batteries (including vehicle, mobile phone, AA, AAA, UPS etc) and printer cartridges.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Biobin Trial

During Winter 2006/07 a Biobin was trialed for managing compost waste from kitchen operations at Smiggin Holes Hotel. The Biobin is essentially an aerated bin that is layered with sawdust or woodchips. Initial separation of kitchen waste into biodegradable corn-starch bags and subsequent deposit into the bin is only part of the composting process. Binned material still needs to be layed on open beds for further breakdown and use as a reusable compost material. This part of the trial was undertaken at Cooma Landfill. Over the summer months, Kosciuszko Thredbo took possession of the Biobin and kitchen operations at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel contributed material. The NPWS ‘turned-over’ the material within the Biobin and arranged for transfer to Cooma for reuse as garden compost. The success of the bin was limited by temperatures. Very little biological breakdown of the material occurred during the winter months. The demand for this type of compost material as a product has also been untested. For these reasons the trial will not be extended at this stage. This does not rule out further options in the future.

Energy Usage

Target: To reduce use of Energy per visitor night.

Target: To have 5% of total energy used from renewable sources.

Energy Saving Initiatives

NPWS undertook the following initiatives during this period: • Returned to previous practice of disposing of waste to Jindabyne Landfill instead of Cooma, saving fuel. • Commissioned study into renewable energy supply at Mt Perisher communication hut to supplement diesel use. • Purchased 4.9kW of photovoltaic cells for Perisher operations. • Downsized vehicle size to reduce fuel use • Ensured all energy bills included a 6% purchase of Greenpower- investing in renewable sources of energy. The Jindabyne offices purchase 100%

Perisher Blue’s management initiatives to reduce energy consumption over the period have been extensive and include (but are not limited to): • The completion of 2 energy audits. • The development of a 10 point strategy to reduce energy consumption. • The publishing of an Energy Policy based on the following 4 key principles 1. Measure and continuously monitor the full extent and impact of Perisher Blue’s energy consumption. 2. Minimise energy use and GHG emissions. 3. Transferring energy use to renewable energy sources or lower carbon emission energy sources where it is sustainable to do so. 4. Offset GHG emissions where it is sustainable to do so. • The roll out of a system 9 times more efficient than the previous snowmaking system. • The retro-fitting of low watt fluro globes into all staff accommodation areas. • The retro-fitting of more efficient space heating systems.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

These initiatives contributed to PB being able to reduce it’s energy use in 2007 over 2006, by approximately 12% acknowledging that a reduction in snowmaking hours in 2007 significantly contributed to the reduction in energy use in 2007.

Renewable Energy

In 2006, Perisher Blue did not purchase any power from renewable sources. However over the course of this reporting period PB moved towards the increased purchase of renewable energy including in 2007 - renewable energy equivalent to 2.0% of its energy consumption and in 2008 purchased renewable energy equivalent to 5.0% of its 2007 energy consumption.

The PRR lodges met the ‘Greenpower’ target with a considerable increase in the purchase of Greenpower - from almost negligible in 2006 to close to 6% average in 2007. Many of the lodges have also implemented energy saving measures since the inception of the PRREMS including installing timing and sensor systems on lights and heating, double glazing windows and replacing globes with energy efficient alternatives. This is reflected in the significant decrease in lodge energy consumption averages as displayed in the Lodge energy graph below which has been compiled from the Earthcheck Lodge reporting data.

(Source: ‘Earthcheck’ data)

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Cultural Heritage & Visual Amenity

Objective: To conserve the cultural Heritage values of the region and archaeological sites in Kosciuszko National Park through increased site assessment and visitor education.

Objective: To ensure that existing and future development and activities do not compromise the visual amenity and sense of place of the surrounding National Park.

Target: There are no common targets under Cultural heritage & Visual amenity.

The following is a summary of some of actions and initiatives undertaken by stakeholders during this reporting period to protect and promote cultural heritage and visual amenity.

Cultural Heritage Assessment as part of Development Applications

All developments in PRR are authorised through the submission of development applications (DAs) to the NSW Department of Planning (DoP). As required by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 the Department of Planning consider the cultural heritage implications of all proposals they determine.

Historic wood stave drainage pipe at Smiggin Holes

During the upgrade of water mains between Perisher and Smiggin Holes a historic stave pipe was discovered. These pipes were used in the 1800s and early 1900s for external piping of water –wood that was cut and bound together (usually by wire) to form a cylinder. Over long distances these stave pipes were joined end to end like the network that was built to provide water from Rainbow Lake to Hotel Kosciusko. Occasionally a single piece was used for road culvert like the one still in use along the Kosciuszko Road near Smiggin Holes. This has now been recorded and placed on the register.

Visual enhancement of buildings

During this period the NPWS building at Perisher Valley was given a visual uplift through the instalment of a large translucent window mural of alpine wetland communities on the eastern end of the building. New panels were also prepared for the Ski-tube buildings at Perisher Valley and Blue Cow. They showcase the unique scenery and important values of the Park.

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage awareness

As part of improving cultural awareness amongst DECC staff, a series of workshops were undertaken across the state in conjunction with NSW TAFE. Several workshops were held in Jindabyne during this reporting period bringing together staff from all sections of Kosciuszko National Park with Aboriginal teachers from different sections of the Aboriginal community. The group explored the complexities of traditional Aboriginal societies including the special relationship Aboriginal people have with the land and water, their environment, other species and each other. The workshop provided knowledge and skills to staff that can be applied within their respective work

2006-2008 PRREMS Report roles by enhancing cultural inclusiveness in work practices. Rod Mason – NPWS Indigenous Education and Community Liaison Officer - provided valuable local perspectives to the discussion as well as hands-on interpretation along the banks of the .

Perisher Historical Society

With an on-going interest in the history of skiing and the colourful characters that have graced the Perisher Range, Pam Woodman and Judy Thomson of Ku-ring-gai Alpine Lodge instigated the formation of a Perisher Historical Society. A partnership was subsequently formed with the NPWS and Perisher Blue Pty Ltd for on-going support and development. The Society became an incorporated body in August 2007after registering with the Department of Fair Trading.

NPWS oral history project

The NPWS Resorts liaison officer has continued to build on this work. He has interviewed key people who were involved in the early development of the Perisher Range Resorts. This work will help inform and provide valuable content to the recently formed Perisher Historical Society.

Sustainable Tourism

Objective: To ensure that the ski, summer and other recreational facilities are provided sustainably and to a world class standard within the ecological carrying capacity of the region.

Target: To receive more than 80% positive feedback from visitor surveys.

State Environmental Planning Policy (Kosciuszko National Park - Alpine Resorts) 2007: The Department of Planning (DoP), in consultation with DECC, other government agencies, community and special interest groups developed a new policy for the planning and development assessment regime within Alpine resorts in Kosciuszko National Park. The new policy - State Environmental Planning Policy SEPP (Kosciuszko National Park - Alpine Resorts) 2007 was gazetted on 21 December 2007. The SEPP will facilitate the sustainable use of land within PRR. Specific provisions that apply are set out in the SEPP and provide for the unique location of the resort within the environmentally significant alpine environment of Kosciuszko National Park. The SEPP details the type and character of development that can be carried out within PRR, the places where such development is permissible, and the matters that are to be considered when determining applications for development. It is consistent with the NSW State Plan and will encourage sustainable tourist development and the delivery of better outcomes for biodiversity within the resorts.

Green Globe Benchmarking for accommodation targets

During this period NPWS engaged EC3 Global to benchmark and analyse PRR Lodge data submitted against objectives and targets. This is part of the internationally recognised Green Globe program. All data is processed using the ‘Earthcheck’ system developed by EC3 Global.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

LP Gas Reticulation Feasibility Study

A concept design and feasibility study for the reticulation of LP gas across the Perisher Range Resorts was completed. The report recommended a single bulk storage depot to provide gas for both Perisher Valley and Smiggin Holes, and separate bulk storage for reticulation to premises in Guthega.

NPWS engaged an Environmental Mgt Representative (EMR) to represent NPWS on all NPWS managed construction projects.

Education and Training

Objective: To ensure that all persons working within and visitors to Kosciuszko National Park are well educated about the region’s natural and cultural environment

Target: To have more then 50% of staff trained

NPWS Staff and contractor training

.All contractors working on NPWS projects are provided with an environmental induction prior to commencing works. The Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) outlines priority areas identified in the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and associated Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to field supervisors as well as on-ground training for construction staff. Environmental issues are also a standing agenda item on MSU monthly staff meetings.

Campaigns and awareness programs

To assist resort stakeholders improve their environmental performance, some environmental campaigns and awareness programs have been conducted for particular environmental issues including: Litter reduction, recycling, ‘Waterwise’ resorts and ‘Keep winter cool’. NPWS in consultation and collaboration with other stakeholders have produced materials in different mediums to promote and educate visitors about environmental, safety and social issues in the Perisher Range Resorts.

Information Sessions

At the invitation of lodge members and their guests, the NPWS resorts liaison officer (Ranger Dave) provided information sessions on the significance of Kosciuszko National Park. During the reporting period he provided face-to-face presentations to 1,021 people in relation to the PRR area. Topics included information on the unique flora and fauna, history of the park and various management issues of NSW’s largest national park.

Resort Round-up is a newsletter for the resorts community of Kosciuszko National Park. It contains a range of general interest articles, operational updates and key contacts for issues or projects across the resorts. A summer and winter edition is prepared each year and is available on the DECC website, as an emailed PDF version or as a mailed hardcopy. During the reporting period four copies were produced and circulated widely.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Small Mammal Community Awareness

A community awareness campaign on small mammals was developed during the reporting period to encourage the correct identification of native and pest species and the use of Elliot traps rather than poison or snap traps. Community information material has been prepared and distributed. NPWS provide an Elliott trap lending program to all lodges.

Perisher Blue carries out a range of environmental awareness training, including; • Relevant mountain operations and other staff attend Alpine Ecology training. • 100% of PB’s permanent staff have undergone internally developed environmental awareness and EMS training. • Seasonal staff induction includes environmental awareness training.

All Elgas staff are required to undertake on-going training which includes specific training manuals and proficiency testing. Manuals include; LPGas Basic Knowledge Training Manual, Transportation of LPG in Bulk , NSW Standard Operating Procedures for Reticulation Systems, Filler & Tester Safety & Operational Procedure Manual, Procedure for Accident / Incident and Near Miss Reporting and Accident Investigation, Tanker Unload Procedure for Customer Tanks, Specification for Works on Sub-Surface Installations in Reticulation Systems, Oversnow Operational Procedure Manual and Risk Assessment, Training of staff with the use and operation of spill kits.

Sustainable Transport

Objective: To increase the proportion of staff and park visitors who use a transport service that provides a reduced environmental impact.

NPWS MSU staff car pool from Sawpit Creek in a fleet of 8 NPWS vehicles. One of these vehicles was downsized during this period when its replacement was due in order to reduce carbon emissions

Perisher Blue owns and operates the Skitube. Approximately 40% of all visitors to PB during winter access the resort via the Skitube. PB’s staff are generally required to use the Skitube, save for a minor number of exceptions.

PB provides staff transport in summer on two mini buses from Jindabyne to Perisher Valley and .

A public transport feasibility study was undertaken by RTA in consultation with PB, DECC, DoP and other stakeholders. No immediate solution was forthcoming. Further investigations are required. At present there are a limited amount of public transport options from Jindabyne for visitors to the Perisher Range Resorts.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Communication and cooperation

Objective: To ensure ongoing communication and cooperation amongst stakeholders on the environmental management of the Perisher Range Resorts.

Target: To undertake 10 joint environmental initiatives

Operators in the PRR continued to cooperate with one another on all management and environmental issues pertaining to the area during the reporting period.

The PRREMS Operational Committee

The PRREMS Operational Committee was formed in 2002 to oversee the on-going implementation of the PRREMS. Membership of the EMS Operational Committee consists of representatives from all stakeholder organisations including:

• NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (DECC) • Perisher Blue Pty Limited (PB) • SLOPES (Ski Lodges of Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes & Guthega Incorporated) • PR CoC (Perisher Resorts Chamber of Commerce) • Elgas • Country Energy • • NSW Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) • NSW Dept of Planning (DoP) • Nature Conservation Council (NCC) • NSW Ski Association

The group met four times during the reporting period to discuss issues, agree on actions and share information and knowledge to improve environmental performance outcomes for the PRREMS.

Clean up Perisher Day

In 2006 over 100 staff from Perisher Blue and NPWS participated in the annual cleanup day across the Perisher Range Resorts. Approximately 1.3 tonnes of litter was collected. In 2007 98 staff collected just over 1 tonne of rubbish. This is in addition to an approximate half-a-tonne of litter collected by Perisher Blue staff throughout the snow season.

Joint initiatives

Other joint initiatives during this reporting period include but are not limited to: Weed control, feral animal control, resort campaign programs: ‘small mammal awareness’, ‘keep winter cool’, ‘Bin your Butts’, ‘Water wise resorts’, feasibility studies on public transport options and reticulated gas, small mammal crossings and Mountain Pygmy possum signage at Blue Cow terminal.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Environmental Management

Objective: To have effective environmental management in the Perisher Range Resort.

Target: 50% of organisations with fully implemented EMS’s for their operations within Perisher including NPWS and Perisher Blue and the major operators in the resorts.

The Kosciuszko National Park Plan of Management was gazetted in June 2006. It was prepared with extensive community involvement under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 to provide a framework of objectives, principles and policies to guide the long-term management of the broad range of values contained in the Park. The Management Objective for the Perisher Range Resorts is that it be managed so as to provide opportunities for visitors to enjoy, understand and appreciate the values of the park in ways that minimise adverse impacts. The plan also requires that all operators in the Park demonstrate a commitment to improving environmental standards and minimising the impact of their activities through the development and implementation of an EMS.

During this period Perisher Blue developed their own EMS to cover all their activities including Bullocks Flat ski Tube terminal and the Station Resort. Their EMS mandates the regular review of the impact of its activities on the environment, including the review of a number of important elements of the EMS framework. Objectives and targets for improving environmental management performance are set and reviewed annually. The EMS requires that targets are measurable and that monitoring take place to evaluate and measure environmental management performance. Monitoring is effected by the implementation of operational procedures.

Lodge participation in the PRREMS (Source: ‘Earthcheck’ data)

During this reporting period the participation of lodges in the PRREMS continued to decline. Only 37.5 % of the lodges submitted an EMS report through ‘Earthcheck’ for the 2007 winter period thus falling short of the EMS target. In recognition of this decline and to fully implement the requirements of the KNP POM 2006 NPWS have been working on a number of improvements to the accommodation component of the PRREMS to assist lodges meet their obligations.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

Continual Improvement in the PRREMS

The Kosciuszko National Park Plan of Management (KNP POM, 2006) now requires that all lessees, licensees and other authorities operating in the park have to develop or be part of an environmental management system (EMS) for the management of their activities and infrastructure. With this in mind and in keeping with the EMS ISO standard for ‘continual improvement’ the PRREMS Operational Committee initiated some significant changes during this reporting period. The main aim of the changes to the PRREMS were to increase participation levels by the lodges, benchmark against industry standards and to assist all operators meet their KNPPOM 2006 obligations. The PRREMS improvements include:

• Review of common objectives and targets The PRREMS Operational committee (PRREMSOC) undertook a review of the issues, associated risks, objectives and targets of the PRREMS. The objectives and targets are now summarised into 6 core value areas: 1) Flora & Fauna; 2) Soil & Water; 3) Air Quality; 4) Natural Resources; 5) Cultural Heritage & Visual Amenity and 6) Sustainable Tourism. There are now 10 common objectives and 18 targets including some new targets.

• ‘Earthcheck’ reporting and benchmarking system An ‘Earthcheck’ on-line reporting and benchmarking system (through EC3 Global - the commercial arm of the Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre) was established in January 2007 to facilitate data management. The ‘Earthcheck’ system involved the set up of a data interface allowing lodges to submit target reports on-line and the subsequent issuing of two reports each year (summer & winter) to lodges on their environmental performance against the targets. It benchmarks environmental performance against industry standards and can identify operational areas that may need improving. The system will be further refined to combine the 3 reporting requirements into one annual submission which will help move towards an annual reporting regime for the PRREMS in 2008-09. Historical data has also been migrated.

• ‘Lodge Environment Manual’: A guide to managing environmental risk and monitoring environmental performance. This is being developed as a reference guide for use by the accommodation premises in the PRR to help them understand and fulfil their EMS obligations. Two copies of the manual will be provided to each lodge. One will reside with the lodge EMS contact officer and the other will remain in the lodge for visitors and members to use. The manuals will be produced in a folder format to allow for new environmental information to be included as it becomes available. The manual along with the refined ‘Earthcheck’ system will be in full operation for the 2008-09 reporting period.

• Lodge EMS contact officers: To help facilitate all the imminent changes to the PRREMS EMS contacts will be established within each of the lodges. This will allow for improved two way communication. A comprehensive email distribution list will provide a conduit for the rapid distribution of information on current environmental and EMS issues amongst the lodges. These contact officers will be responsible for distributing this information to their members either through the club newsletters or other means.

2006-2008 PRREMS Report

For more information:

Website: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/PRREMS

Email: [email protected]

Postal address: Attention: Resorts EMS Officer, NPWS, Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne, NSW, 2627

This report has been produced by DECCW on behalf of the PRREMS Operational Committee made up of stakeholder representatives.