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ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING ECOLOGICAL ASSESSENT FOR PROPOSED SUBDIVISION OF LOT 10, DP 1240161, LAKES ESTATE STAGE 3B April 2020

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Contents

Document Control Page...... 5 1. Executive Summary ...... 6 Development Proposal ...... 6 Key Survey Results ...... 6 Impact of the Proposal ...... 6 Legislative Compliance ...... 6 2. Abbreviations ...... 8 3. Background Information ...... 9 3.1 Location of the Study Site and Key Definitions ...... 9 3.2 Development Proposal ...... 9 3.3 Soils, Topography and Geology ...... 9 4. Methods ...... 14 4.1 Desktop Study and Literature Review ...... 14 4.2 Flora Survey ...... 14 4.3 Fauna Survey ...... 15 4.4 Survey Timing and Limitations ...... 16 4.5 Weather Conditions ...... 16 5. Results ...... 17 5.1 Desktop Search Results ...... 17 5.2 Flora Survey Results ...... 20 5.3 Fauna Survey Results ...... 24 6. Impact Assessment ...... 30 6.1 Direct Impacts ...... 30 6.2 Indirect Impacts ...... 30 7. Coffs Harbour City KPOM Assessment ...... 32 7.1 Site Classification...... 32 7.2 KPoM Objective ...... 32 7.3 Management Actions...... 32 8. Biodiversity Conservation Act Assessment ...... 36 8.1 Assessment Pathway ...... 36 8.2 Test of Significance ...... 38 8.3 Conclusion ...... 41 9. EPBC Act 1999 - MNES Significance Assessment ...... 42 9.1 General Assessment Overview ...... 42 9.2 Koala Referral Assessment ...... 42

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9.3 Protected Species Assessments ...... 43 9.4 Migratory Species ...... 45 10. Recommendations ...... 47 10.1 General Clearing Measures ...... 47 10.2 Animal Welfare Considerations ...... 47 10.3 Tree Removal...... 47 10.4 Hollow-bearing Tree ...... 48 10.5 Tree Offsets ...... 48 10.6 Domestic Pets ...... 48 10.7 Sedimentation and Erosion Control ...... 48 10.8 Weed Control ...... 49 10.9 Fencing ...... 49 11. Conclusion ...... 50 12. References ...... 51 13. Appendices ...... 53

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List of Tables

Table 1: List of abbreviations used within the report ...... 8 Table 2: Locally recorded threatened species ...... 17 Table 3: Flooded Gum – Bangalow Wet Sclerophyll forest community description ...... 20 Table 4: Blackbutt – Apple Wet Ferny Forest Community Description ...... 21 Table 5: Summary of site habitat values...... 24 Table 6: Hollow-bearing tree data ...... 25 Table 7: Fauna species recorded during the survey ...... 28 Table 8: KPoM Management Actions Assessment ...... 32 Table 9: Assessment of BDAR requirement ...... 36 Table 10: Contribution to Key Threatening Processes ...... 39 Table 11: Koala habitat assessment ...... 43 Table 12: Trees to be Removed and Applicable DPC Compensatory Requirements ...... 48 Table 13: Number of Compensatory Trees Required ...... 48 Table 14: Potential occurrence assessment - flora ...... 57 Table 15: Potential occurrence assessment – fauna...... 63

List of Figures

Figure 1: Location of the subject site ...... 11 Figure 2: Subdivision layout plan ...... 12 Figure 3: Quaternary geology ...... 13 Figure 4: Location of HBT ...... 27 Figure 5: CKPoM Koala habitat mapping of the site and surrounding land ...... 34 Figure 6 Location of surveyed trees within the site ...... 35 Figure 7: Extract of Biodiversity Value Map, with subject property marked yellow ...... 37

List of Photos

Photo 1: View of the eastern part of the subject site ...... 10 Photo 2: View of the western part of the subject site ...... 10 Photo 3: Remnant vegetation in the eastern part of the site ...... 22 Photo 4: Remnant vegetation in the western part of the site ...... 23 Photo 5: Hollow-bearing tree recorded on site ...... 26 Photo 6: Lower opening to hollow in the trunk ...... 26

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Document Control Page Version Control

Version Purpose Author Reviewed / approved by Date Rev 2.0 Draft Report Steve Britt Will Steggall 4/10/2019 Rev 3.0 Final Steve Britt Will Steggall 21/10/2019 Rev 4.0 Final Steve Britt Will Steggall 24/03/2020 Rev 5.0 Final Steve Britt Will Steggall 01/04/2020

Distribution Control

Copy Purpose Method Issued to: Name Date 1 File Copy Electronic/Email Biodiversity Australia Chantal Sargeant 18/10/2019 Keiley Hunter Town 2 Client Review Electronic/Email Keiley Hunter 18/10/2019 Planning 3 File Copy Electronic/Email Biodiversity Australia Chantal Sargeant 21/10/2019 Keiley Hunter Town 4 Client Copy Electronic/Email Keiley Hunter 21/10/2019 Planning 5 File Copy Electronic/Email Biodiversity Australia Chantal Sargeant 24/03/2020 Keiley Hunter Town 24/03/2020 6 Client Copy Electronic/Email Keiley Hunter Planning 7 File Copy Electronic/Email Biodiversity Australia Chantal Sargeant 01/04/2020 Keiley Hunter Town 01/04/2020 8 Client Copy Electronic/Email Keiley Hunter Planning

Project Number: EC3645

Our Document Reference: EC3645-BEC-REP-LakesEsateEA-rev5.0

This document has been prepared to the requirements of the client identified on the cover page and no representation is made to any third party. It may be cited for the purposes of scientific research or other fair use, but it may not be reproduced or distributed to any third party by any physical or electronic means without the express permission of the client for whom it was prepared or Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd.

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1. Executive Summary

The site was assessed in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017 and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 - Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES).

Development Proposal The proposal is for a Modification of Consent – MP05-0129 Lakes Estate North Boambee Valley Staged Residential Subdivision. NSW Planning, Industry and Environment is the consent authority. The proposal involves a modification of the approved layout for part of Stage 3A and will result in the following changes:

• Amend lot layout from 5 large lots to 10 lots ranging in area from 467m2 to 584m2; and • Replace the fire trail with a public road.

Key Survey Results Site surveys were carried out in September 2019. The subject site comprises vacant, cleared land containing a small number of remnant trees, which adjoins wet sclerophyll forest communities. No threatened flora were recorded and the site vegetation does not qualify as an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC). No threatened fauna species were recorded within the property at the time of survey and a total of ten threatened fauna species were found to have at least a low potential to occur within the study area.

Impact of the Proposal The site has generally been cleared of native vegetation, except for several trees including preferred Koala food trees and small remnant patches of the understorey/groundcover strata, which are generally confined to the margins of the site and at the bases of some trees. Approximately 20 trees will require removal, including approximately eleven preferred Koala food tree, identified as Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) and one tree identified as the environmental weed; Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora). It is noted however that most of these trees were assessed in consideration of the original development application and are therefore have not been for offset purposes in this report. Only six additional trees require removal for the modification.

The loss of vegetation has potential to have a minor impact on the recorded and potentially occurring threatened species. Potential indirect impacts include, habitat fragmentation, increased human presence, edge effects and weed invasion.

Legislative Compliance State

SEPP 44 – Coffs Harbour City KPoM Assessment: The subject site contains Secondary Koala Habitat and adjoins Primary Koala Habitat, therefore an assessment as per the Coffs Harbour City Koala Plan of Management (KPoM) was undertaken. This found that the development can satisfy the KPoM Management Actions.

Coastal Management SEPP – No Littoral Rainforest or Coastal Wetlands are mapped within the study area.

Biodiversity Conservation Act and Regulation: The subject site is not mapped on the Biodiversity Values map and the area of clearing does not exceed the threshold to trigger the Biodiversity Assessment Method. The potentially occurring species and recorded ecological communities have been assessed as per the Test of Significance. This has determined that the proposal will not result in a significant effect

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on listed species or ecological communities, or their habitats. Hence, the proposal is not required to be assessed under the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM). Federal

Assessment under the EPBC Act – MNES determined that the impact of the proposal on MNES was unlikely to be significant. Hence referral to Department of Environment and Energy (DEE) for approval is not required.

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2. Abbreviations

Table 1: List of abbreviations used within the report

APZ Asset Protection Zone BAM Biodiversity Assessment Method BC Act Biodiversity Conservation Act BDAR Biodiversity Development Assessment Report CBD Central Business District DA Development Application DBH Diameter at breast height DCP Development Control Plan DEC Department of Environment and Conservation DEE Department of Environment and Energy EEC Endangered Ecological Community EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act HBT Hollow-bearing Tree KFT Koala Food Tree KPoM Koala Plan of Management KTP Key Threatening Process LEP Local Environment Plan LGA Local Government Area MNES Matter of National Environmental Significance NSW New South Wales OEH Office of Environment and Heritage PCT Plant Community Type PIR Passive Infrared Camera SAT Spot Assessment Technique SEPP 44 State Environmental Protection Policy No. 44 TEC Threatened Ecological Community VMP Vegetation Management Plan

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3. Background Information 3.1 Location of the Study Site and Key Definitions The subject site comprises the footprint of a proposed residential subdivision of land identified as Part Lot 10 in DP 1240161 Lakes Estate, which has an area of approximately 0.75 hectare and is zoned R2 – Low Density Residential under the Coffs Harbour Local Environmental Plan 2013 (LEP). The site is located at the northern end of Eyre Road and Amadeus Place, which will be connected by a new section of road that will form the northern margin of the site. The location of the subject site is shown in Figure 1.

The site is currently vacant land situated on a moderate hillslope with a southern aspect. The larger proportion of the land within the site is derived grassland that is maintained through regular slashing. The northern and eastern margins of the site contain wet sclerophyll forest that form the edge of a larger patch of forest. There is a powerline at the eastern margin of the site that continues northward from an existing electrical substation situated in the southeast corner. Several remnant trees are situated within the site. Existing residential development adjoins the site to the south.

The development footprint is defined as the area of land directly affected by the proposed development (the development footprint) and covers an area of 0.75 hectares. The subject property is defined as the extent of Part Lot 10 DP 1240161, being the northern-most part of the property, which occurs as three disjunct parcels of land. The study area is land within 50 metres of the subject site. The locality is land within a 10 kilometre radius of the site.

3.2 Development Proposal The proposed development involves a Modification of Consent – MP05-0129 Lakes Estate North Boambee Valley Staged Residential Subdivision. NSW Planning, Industry and Environment is the consent authority. The proposal involves a modification of the approved layout for part of Stage 3A and will result in the following changes:

• Amend lot layout from 5 large lots to 10 lots ranging in area from 467m2 to 584m2; and

• Replace the fire trail with a public road.

This will require the removal of six additional trees. A large significant hollow-bearing tree adjacent to the road can be retained and protected.

The development layout plan is shown in Figure 2.

3.3 Soils, Topography and Geology The site occurs on an erosional soil landscape except for a small area in the southwest corner, which occurs on a transitional soil landscape. The subject site lies at 14-28 metres elevation and generally falls to the south. There are no creeks, drainage lines or other distinctive topographical features on the site. The coastal quaternary geology mapping (Troedson and Hashimoto 2008) indicates that undifferentiated alluvial and/or colluvial sediments occur in the southwest corner of the site as shown in Figure 3.

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Photo 1: View of the eastern part of the subject site

Photo 2: View of the western part of the subject site

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Figure 1: Location of the subject site

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Figure 2: Subdivision layout plan

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Figure 3: Quaternary geology

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4. Methods

4.1 Desktop Study and Literature Review A desktop study was carried out prior to the field survey to gather relevant information and data. The following databases and Geographic Information System (GIS) layers were searched/obtained:

• Department of Environment and Energy Protected Matters Search Tool (DEE 2019); • Office of Environment and Heritage NSW BioNet/Atlas of Wildlife (OEH 2019a); • Office of Environment and Heritage Threatened Biodiversity Data Collection (OEH 2019b); • Coffs Harbour City Council Online Mapping Tool; • Coastal Quaternary Geology – North and South Coast of NSW digital data layer (Troedson & Hashimoto 2008); and • NSW Biodiversity Value Map.

4.2 Flora Survey The flora survey consisted of three main components:

• Identification, description and mapping of the vegetation communities on the site; • Searches for threatened species listed under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) undertaken in accordance with the NSW Guide to Surveying Threatened Plants (OEH 2016); and • Identification, mapping and condition assessment of any Endangered Ecological Communities listed under the BC Act, and EPBC Act.

Vegetation Classification and Mapping

Vegetation communities were sampled via random meander transects, which allowed for a more comprehensive flora inventory within the subject site;

Vegetation classifications were based on the NSW Plant Community Type (PCT) Classification. Identification of possible Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) was based on the data collected in the survey and review of the relevant listings on the OEH website (www.environment.nsw.gov.au) and Department of Environment and Energy– MNES SPRAT website (DEE 2019); and

Plant species were identified to species or subspecies level and nomenclature conforms to that currently recognised by the Royal Botanic Gardens and follows Harden (1990, 2007) and PlantNET (Royal Botanic Gardens 2019) for changes since Harden.

Threatened Flora Species

4.2.2.1 Searches Searches for threatened flora were carried out in the study area on 6 September 2019. Due to the small area of the site, threatened plant searches for locally and regionally recorded threatened species consisted of undertaking random meanders, which provided coverage of the whole site.

Opportunistic searches for threatened flora species were also undertaken during other activities on the development site. Given the small site area, the combination of these methods allowed a thorough search of its entire extent.

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4.2.2.2 Potential Occurrence Assessment Potential occurrence assessment of threatened flora species is provided in Appendix 2. This section assesses threatened species for their potential to occur on site.

4.3 Fauna Survey The fauna survey was undertaken by a Senior Ecologist under Biodiversity Australia’s scientific license and animal research authority. This was undertaken over one day on 6 September 2019. The methods per survey measure are detailed below.

Habitat Evaluation

This was the principal survey method employed to assess the suitability of site habitats for threatened species recorded in the locality, or in broadly similar habitats in the region.

Habitats on and adjacent to the site were defined and assessed according to parameters such as:

• Structural and floristic characteristics of the vegetation; • Degree and extent of disturbance; • Presence of water in any form; • Size and abundance of hollows and fallen timber; • Availability of shelter e.g. rocks, logs, hollows, undergrowth; • Wildlife corridors, refuges and proximate habitat types; and • Presence of mistletoe, nectar, gum, seed and sap sources.

This information is considered for evaluation of the potential occurrence of threatened species on or adjacent to the site based on cited ecology and personal experience/knowledge of the species.

Secondary Evidence/Reptile Searches

Physical habitat searches involved lifting up of any timber, rocks and debris, and inspection of dense vegetation and leaf litter for frogs and reptiles; inspection of trees for Koalas and claw markings; binocular inspection of trees; searches for nests; and searches for scats, owl regurgitation pellets, tracks and scratches.

Diurnal Bird Survey

This involved passive surveys (e.g. listening for bird calls) and active observation/binocular searches while walking around the entire development site; and opportunistically during other activities.

Hollow-bearing Tree and Koala Food Tree Survey

All hollow-bearing trees (HBTs) within the proposed development footprint were located and recorded via a GPS enabled tablet. These were marked with red and white barrier tape and given an identifier number. Any potential hollows found were inspected for signs of usage e.g. chewed or worn edges and assessed for potential habitat value.

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Potential Occurrence Assessment

Potential occurrence assessment of threatened fauna species is provided in Appendix 2. This section assesses threatened species for their potential to occur on site. Marine and estuarine species have not been considered as suitable habitat for these does not occur within the subject site.

Coffs Harbour City Koala Plan of Management

Part of the land within the subject site is mapped as Secondary Koala Habitat and adjoins Primary Koala Habitat to the west as per the Coffs Harbour City Koala Plan of Management 1999 (KPoM). All trees situated within the subject site (proposed development footprint) were located, identified and recorded.

4.4 Survey Timing and Limitations The fauna survey period fell in late spring, which is a period of lower (but increasing) activity for arboreal mammals, Microchiropteran bats, frogs and birds (DEC 2004). Longitudinal and latitudinal migrants such as the Swift Parrot would however be present at this time of year.

To counter any limitations, qualitative and quantitative habitat evaluation was used as well as a standard ecological field survey to assess the site’s significance to threatened species. Habitat evaluation conservatively assesses the potential occurrence of threatened species based on potentially suitable habitat and local records, providing a prediction of the likelihood of a particular threatened species occurring in the study area (DEC 2004, DECC 2007). This approach is considered best practice to address the principle of uncertainty.

4.5 Weather Conditions The weather over the survey period was generally fine and sunny with no rainfall recorded. The temperature range during the survey was 18-25°C. The minimum overnight temperature was 10°C (BOM 2019).

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5. Results

5.1 Desktop Search Results

Locally Recorded Threatened Species

The following table lists the threatened flora and fauna species identified in database and literature searches of the locality.

Table 2: Locally recorded threatened species

Common Name Scientific Name BC Act EPBC Act Source Flora Slender Marsdenia Marsdenia longiloba V V OEH Bionet Milky Silkpod Parsonsia dorrigoensis V E OEH Bionet Cryptic Forest Twiner Tylophora woollsii E E OEH Bionet Stinky Lily Typhonium sp. aff. brownii E - OEH Bionet Dwarf Heath Casuarina Allocasuarina defungens E E OEH Bionet Glenugie Karaka Corynocarpus rupestris subsp. rupestris V V OEH Bionet Square-stemmed Spike-rush Eleocharis tetraquetra E - OEH Bionet Red-fruited Ebony Diospyros mabacea E E OEH Bionet Rainforest Cassia Senna acclinis E - OEH Bionet Kennedia retrorsa V V OEH Bionet Coast Headland Pea Pultenaea maritima V - OEH Bionet Silverbush Sophora tomentosa E - OEH Bionet Crystal Creek Walnut Endiandra floydii E E OEH Bionet Rusty Rose Walnut Endiandra hayesii V V OEH Bionet Screw Fern Lindsaea incisa E - OEH Bionet Scrub Turpentine Rhodamnia rubescens E - OEH Bionet Native Guava Rhodomyrtus psidioides E - OEH Bionet Peach Myrtle Uromyrtus australis E E OEH Bionet Rough Doubletail Diuris praecox V V OEH Bionet Byron Bay Diuris Diuris sp. aff. chrysantha E - OEH Bionet Yellow-flowered King of the Fairies Oberonia complanata E - OEH Bionet Red-flowered King of the Fairies Oberonia titania V - OEH Bionet Southern Swamp Orchid Phaius australis E E OEH Bionet Ravine Orchid Sarcochilus fitzgeraldii V V OEH Bionet Hartman's Sarcochilus Sarcochilus hartmannii V V OEH Bionet Floyd's Grass Alexfloydia repens E - OEH Bionet Hairy Jointgrass Arthraxon hispidus V V OEH Bionet Tall Knotweed Persicaria elatior V V OEH Bionet Nightcap Oak Eidothea hardeniana E CE OEH Bionet Big Nellie Hakea Hakea archaeoides V V OEH Bionet

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Common Name Scientific Name BC Act EPBC Act Source Rough-shelled Bush Nut Macadamia tetraphylla V V OEH Bionet Scented Acronychia Acronychia littoralis E E OEH Bionet Orara Boronia Boronia umbellata V V OEH Bionet Headland Zieria Zieria prostrata E E OEH Bionet Low growing form, Diggers Head Zieria smithii E - OEH Bionet Austral Toadflax Thesium australe V V OEH Bionet Small-leaved Tamarind Diploglottis campbellii E E OEH Bionet Rusty Plum, Plum Boxwood Niemeyera whitei V - OEH Bionet Moonee Quassia Quassia sp. Moonee Creek E E OEH Bionet Insecta Black Grass-dart Butterfly Ocybadistes knightorum E OEH Bionet Coastal Petaltail Petalura litorea E Amphibia Stuttering Frog Mixophyes balbus E V Giant Barred Frog Mixophyes iteratus E E OEH Bionet Sphagnum Frog Philoria sphagnicolus V - OEH Bionet Wallum Froglet Crinia tinnula V - OEH Bionet Reptilia Pale-headed Snake Hoplocephalus bitorquatus V - Stephens' Banded Snake Hoplocephalus stephensii V - OEH Bionet Aves Emu pop. in the NSW NC bioregion Dromaius novaehollandiae Wompoo Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus magnificus V - OEH Bionet Rose-crowned Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus regina V - OEH Bionet Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus E - OEH Bionet Black Bittern Ixobrychus flavicollis V - OEH Bionet White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster V - OEH Bionet Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides V - OEH Bionet Square-tailed Kite Lophoictinia isura V - OEH Bionet Eastern Osprey Pandion cristatus V - OEH Bionet Pale-vented Bush-hen Amaurornis moluccana V - OEH Bionet Bush Stone-curlew Burhinus grallarius E - OEH Bionet Comb-crested Jacana Irediparra gallinacea V - Glossy Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami V - OEH Bionet Coxen's Fig-Parrot Cyclopsitta diophthalma coxeni E E OEH Bionet Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla V - OEH Bionet Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor E CE OEH Bionet Barking Owl Ninox connivens V - OEH Bionet Powerful Owl Ninox strenua V - OEH Bionet

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Common Name Scientific Name BC Act EPBC Act Source Eastern Grass Owl Tyto longimembris V - OEH Bionet Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae V - OEH Bionet Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa V - OEH Bionet Collared Kingfisher Todiramphus chloris V - OEH Bionet Brown Treecreeper (eastern subsp.) Climacteris picumnus victoriae V - OEH Bionet Regent Honeyeater Anthochaera phrygia E CE OEH Bionet Painted Honeyeater Grantiella picta V V OEH Bionet Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera V - OEH Bionet Barred Cuckoo-shrike Coracina lineata V - OEH Bionet Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus cyanopterus V - OEH Bionet Scarlet Robin Petroica boodang V - OEH Bionet Mammalia Spotted-tailed Quoll Dasyurus maculatus V E OEH Bionet Brush-tailed Phascogale Phascogale tapoatafa V - OEH Bionet Common Planigale Planigale maculata V - OEH Bionet Koala Phascolarctos cinereus V V OEH Bionet Eastern Pygmy-possum Cercartetus nanus V - OEH Bionet New Holland Mouse Pseudomys novaehollandiae - V Greater Glider Petauroides volans - V Yellow-bellied Glider Petaurus australis V - OEH Bionet Squirrel Glider Petaurus norfolcensis V - OEH Bionet Rufous Bettong Aepyprymnus rufescens V - Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus V V OEH Bionet Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus V V OEH Bionet Common Blossom-bat Syconycteris australis V - OEH Bionet Eastern Coastal Free-tailed Bat Micronomus norfolkensis V - OEH Bionet Golden-tipped Bat Kerivoula papuensis V - Southern Myotis Myotis macropus V - OEH Bionet Eastern Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus bifax V - Greater Broad-nosed Bat Scoteanax rueppellii V - OEH Bionet Eastern Cave Bat Vespadelus troughtoni V - OEH Bionet Little Bent-winged Bat Miniopterus australis V - OEH Bionet Eastern Bentwing-bat Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis V - Large Bent-winged Bat Miniopterus orianae oceanensis V - OEH Bionet Key: Critically Endangered (CE), Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V), Migratory (M).

Matters of National Environmental Significance

The results of the MNES search are provided in Section 9. The search was undertaken using a 10 kilometre search radius from the subject site. See Appendix 4 for the full report.

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5.2 Flora Survey Results

Vegetation Communities

The Coffs Harbour City Council (CHCC) vegetation mapping indicates that the site is situated at the junction of two mapped vegetation communities, including Coast and Hinterland Riparian Flooded Gum – Bangalow Wet Forest (CH_WSF01) and Northern Escarpment Blackbutt – Apple Wet Ferny Forest (CH_WSF09). The corresponding NSW Plant Community Type (PCT) for these communities are Flooded Gum – Tallowwood – Brush Box moist open forest of the coastal ranges of the North Coast (827) and Blackbutt – Turpentine open forest of the foothills of the NSW North Coast Bioregion (697) respectively.

The plant communities within the site is remnant vegetation comprising scattered trees no understorey and managed groundcover that is maintained through regular slashing. The aforementioned plant communities are in a more natural state at the margins of the site and on the adjacent land.

The principal species recorded in the remnants of the canopy was Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys). Other less abundant species included Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna), Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis) and White Mahogany (Eucalyptus acmenoides). The exotic species; Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) was also recorded. Remnants of the understorey and shrub layer were recorded at the margins and at the bases of remnant trees. The groundcover was comprised of an assemblage of both native exotic graminoids and herbaceous species.

The vegetation on site is not listed as a Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) or Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) under the BC Act or EPBC Act. The structure and condition of the recorded communities are further described in the following tables. Refer to the site photos following.

A flora list is provided in Appendix 1.

Table 3: Flooded Gum – Bangalow Wet Sclerophyll forest community description

Vegetation Community Flooded Gum – Bangalow Wet Sclerophyll Forest (CH_WSF01) Condition Remnant vegetation – mostly cleared and slashed NSW Plant Community No. 827: Flooded Gum – Tallowwood – Brush Box moist open forest of the coastal ranges of the Type (PCT) North Coast EEC Status Not an EEC Location and Area In the eastern parts of the subject site and adjacent to the eastern and north-eastern margins a) Canopy: Structure and Species: The dominant species included Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys), Sydney Blue Gum (Eucalyptus saligna) and Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera). Canopy height ranged from 15-25m and cover was sparse.

b) Understory: Structure and Species: Mostly absent within the site except for isolated remnants and at the northern and eastern margins. Species included Maiden’s Wattle (Acacia maidenii), Black Wattle (Callicoma serratifolia), Scentless Rosewood (Synoum glandulosum subsp. glandulosum), Forest Maple (Cryptocarya rigida), Murrogun (Cryptocarya microneura), Lilly Pilly (Acmena smithii), Blueberry Ash Description (Elaeocarpus reticulatus), Cheese Tree (Glochidion ferdinandi) and Sweet Pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum). Height of this strata ranged from 3-12m with a sparse cover.

c) Shrub layer: Structure and Species: Mostly absent within the site except for isolated individuals, small patches around the bases of remnant trees and at the northern and eastern margins. Species recorded included Coffee Bush (Breynia oblongifolia), Hairy Wilkiea (Wilkiea huegeliana), Rough Fruit Pittosporum (Pittosporum revolutum), Narrow-leaved Palm Lily (Cordyline stricta) and Orange Thorn (Pittosporum multiflorum). Exotic species recorded included Lantana (Lantana camara), Easter Cassia (Senna pendula var. glabrata), Groundsel Bush (Baccharis halimifolia) and juvenile Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora). Cover was generally sparse.

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d) Ground layer:

Structure and Species: The majority of the site is derived grassland that is managed through regular slashing/mowing and comprises an open cover of grasses, graminoids herbs and ferns. The principal species recorded were mostly exotic species, including South African Pigeon Grass (Setaria sphacelata), Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), Broad-leaf Paspalum (Paspalum mandiocanum), Parramatta Grass (Sporobolus africanus), Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata), Goatweed (Ageratum conyzoides subsp. conyzoides), Common Chickweed (Stellaria media), Lamb’s Tongue (Plantago lanceolata), Flaxleaf Fleabane (Conyza bonariensis), Dock (Rumex sp.) and Common Sow Thistle (Sonchus oleraceus).

Common native species recorded in the derived grassland/managed area include Common Couch (Cynodon dactylon), Oxalis perennans, Pennywort (Hydrocotyle tripartita), Indian Pennywort (Centella asiatica) and Whiteroot (Lobelia purpurascens). In remnant areas of the plant community the more common species of the groundcover included Blue Flax-lily (Dianella caerulea), Common Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) and Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia).

Blady Grass (Imperata cylindrica), Wiry Panic (Entolasia strica), Tussock (Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei), Blue Flax-lily (Dianella caerulea), Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia) and Gristle Fern (Blechnum cartilagineum). The invasive exotic grass species; Broad-leaf Paspalum (Paspalum mandiocanum) was also recorded in the remnants and margins.

Common climbers included Lawyer Vine (Smilax australis), Sweet Sarsparilla (Smilax glyciphylla) and Milk Vine (Marsdenia rostrata). Height ranged from 0.02-0.7m.

Has been previously cleared, and maintained as managed grassland with scattered remnant trees. Condition Weed cover is moderate-high throughout.

Table 4: Blackbutt – Apple Wet Ferny Forest Community Description

Vegetation Community Blackbutt – Apple Wet Ferny Forest (CH_WSF09) Condition Remnant vegetation – mostly cleared and slashed NSW Plant Community No. 697: Blackbutt – Turpentine open forest of the foothills of the NSW North Coast Bioregion Type (PCT) EEC Status Not an EEC Location and Area In the western parts of the subject site and adjacent to the western and north-western margins e) Canopy: Structure and Species: The dominant species included Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys), Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis) and White mahogany (Eucalyptus acmenoides). Canopy height ranged from 15-25m and cover was sparse.

f) Understory: Structure and Species: Mostly absent within the site except for isolated remnants and at the northern and western margins. Species included Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon and Rose Myrtle (Archirhodomyrtus beckleri). Height of this strata ranged from 3-12m with a sparse cover. Description

g) Shrub layer: Structure and Species: Mostly absent within the site except for isolated individuals, small patches around the bases of remnant trees and at the northern and eastern margins. Species recorded included Coffee Bush (Breynia oblongifolia), Large-leaf Hop-bush (Dodonaea triquetra), Long-leaf Wattle (Acacia longissima) and Narrow-leaved Palm Lily (Cordyline stricta). Exotic species recorded included Lantana (Lantana camara), Easter Cassia (Senna pendula var. glabrata) and juvenile Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora). Cover was generally sparse.

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h) Ground layer:

Structure and Species: The majority of the site is derived grassland that is managed through regular slashing/mowing and comprises an open cover of grasses, graminoids herbs and ferns. The principal species recorded were mostly exotic species, including South African Pigeon Grass (Setaria sphacelata), Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), Broad-leaf Paspalum (Paspalum mandiocanum), Parramatta Grass (Sporobolus africanus), Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata), Goatweed (Ageratum conyzoides subsp. conyzoides), Common Chickweed (Stellaria media), Lamb’s Tongue (Plantago lanceolata), Flaxleaf Fleabane (Conyza bonariensis), Dock (Rumex sp.) and Common Sow Thistle (Sonchus oleraceus). Common native species recorded in the derived grassland/managed area include Common Couch (Cynodon dactylon), Oxalis perennans, Pennywort (Hydrocotyle tripartita), Indian Pennywort (Centella asiatica) and Whiteroot (Lobelia purpurascens). In remnant of the plant community the more common species of the groundcover included Blady Grass (Imperata cylindrica), Wiry Panic (Entolasia stricta), Echinopogon Tufted Hedgehog Grass (caespitosus var. caespitosus), Pastel Flower (Pseuderanthemum variabile) and Trailing Guinea Flower (Hibbertia dentata).

Common climbers included Lawyer Vine (Smilax australis), Snake Vine (Stephania japonica), Climbing Guinea Flower (Hibbertia scandens), Wombat Berry (Eustrephus latifolius) and Slender Tick-trefoil (Pullenia gunnii). Height ranged from 0.02-0.7m.

Has been previously cleared, and regenerated and logged in the past but is generally intact and in Condition good condition. Weed cover is low-moderate throughout.

Photo 3: Remnant vegetation in the eastern part of the site

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Photo 4: Remnant vegetation in the western part of the site

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Threatened Flora

5.2.2.1 Results of Threatened Flora Survey No threatened plants were recorded on the subject site.

5.2.2.2 Potential Occurrence Assessment As detailed in Section 5.1.1 of this report, searches of relevant literature and databases (OEH 2019) found records of 39 threatened flora species in the locality. The Protected Matters Search Tool also produced a list of additional potential occurrences in the locality. These are assessed for their potential to occur on site in Appendix 2.

Given the past disturbance of the habitat and thorough search of vegetation during the flora survey, it is considered highly unlikely that any threatened flora species would occur on the subject site. Thus no further threatened flora species are considered in the subsequent statutory assessments.

Endangered Ecological Communities

The vegetation on site does not qualify as an Endangered Ecological Community due to its topographic and landscape position and floristic/structural composition.

5.3 Fauna Survey Results

Koala Habitat Assessment All trees within the proposed development footprint were located by GPS, identified and assessed for evidence of Koala usage (including searching for scats at the bases of the trees and looking for other signs such as scratch marks on the trunks). Of the 25 trees surveyed, 14 were identified as the primary Koala food trees species; Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys). The locations of the surveyed Koala food trees are shown in Figure 6.

Habitat Evaluation, Corridors and Linkages

The following table summarises the habitat evaluation results and comments on regional/local corridors and habitat linkages.

Table 5: Summary of site habitat values

Habitat/Attribute Potential Values to Threatened Species Site/Study Area Type Occurrence Groundcover comprises an open cover of grasses, Groundcover No significance for any threatened species. graminoids herbs and ferns. No logs or debris (such as tree heads) are located Logs and debris No significance for any threatened species. within the site. One hollow-bearing trees was recorded in the Potential nesting/roosting for several threatened development footprint (Figure 4). The tree was species including Little Lorikeet, Eastern Coastal Hollows identified as a Tallowwood and is a remnant of the Free-tailed Bat, Greater Broad-nosed Bat, Brush- former canopy with various hollows. Hollow- tailed Phascogale and Squirrel Glider. bearing Tree data is shown in Table 5. Eucalypts in study area could potentially be used Remnant trees within the development site likely to Nectar Sources when flowering by Grey-headed Flying-fox and Little provide a limited nectar source. Lorikeet.

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Habitat/Attribute Potential Values to Threatened Species Site/Study Area Type Occurrence Primary preferred The site contains a number of Tallowwood which Site contains a small potential foraging resource for Koala browse are locally preferred Koala food tree species and the Koala. No Koala scats or Koala sightings were trees SEPP 44 listed primary browse species. recorded during the survey. Site does not contain any potential foraging resource Allocasuarinas No Allocasuarina sp. were recorded within the site. for the Glossy-black Cockatoo. No evidence of this species was recorded during the survey. No aquatic habitat occurs within the subject site. Aquatic/wetland The nearest aquatic habitat is a dam and Potential breeding habitat for the Green-thighed habitats associated drainage line located within the Frog, but has not been assessed for suitability. adjacent Council reserve approximately 40 metres to the west of the subject site. Lack of fruiting resource to attract threatened Fruiting species are rare on site and those frugivores such as Wompoo Fruit-dove, Rose- Fruiting species recorded are generally immature, hence do not crowned Fruit-dove, Barred Cuckoo Shrike and the provide a fruiting resource at present. Grey Headed Flying Fox. Caves, cliffs, overhangs, Not present on site Absence of roosts for obligate Microchiropteran bats. culverts, bridges Site unlikely to form a part of the foraging range of Small terrestrial No shrub or groundcover strata on site suitable as any of the large forest Owl species or raptors such as prey habitat for small terrestrial species. the Square-tailed Kite. Site vegetation does not provide a significant Site does not fall within an OEH mapped regional Corridors contribution to mapped regional and sub-regional or sub-regional corridor. corridors. Poorly developed groundcover over the land on the site would discourage use by small terrestrials’ dependant on continuous cover (e.g. Common Areas of forest habitat occur to the north, east and Planigale). west of the site. However, the only habitat present Habitat Linkages on site are a small number of remnant trees. Arboreal species such as the Koala and Gliders would be able to access the remnant vegetation within the site. Highly mobile species (e.g. birds and bats) would be able to move freely through the site. Key Habitat The site is not mapped as Key Habitat by OEH. N/A

Hollow-Bearing Trees One hollow-bearing tree was recorded within the development footprint during the survey. The details of the hollow-bearing tree is shown in Table 5 below. The location of the recorded hollow-bearing tree is indicated in Figure 5. An image of the HBT 1 shown in photo 5.

The perimeter road has been specifically designed to avoid removal of this tree. Arborist assessment has found that it can be safely retained next to the road.

Table 6: Hollow-bearing tree data

Trunk No. of Common Name Scientific Name Height (m) Hollow size Comments Diameter (cm) hollows

Tallowwood Eucalyptus microcorys 30 136 >5 All sizes At least 2 >100cm

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Photo 5: Hollow-bearing tree recorded on site

Photo 6: Lower opening to hollow in the trunk

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Figure 4: Location of HBT

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Observed/Detected Fauna

The surveys detected a limited range of fauna species due to the short survey period and modified conditions within the site as well as the presence of existing residential development on the adjacent land to the south. Several common avian species such as the Noisy Miner, Kookaburra and Pied Butcherbird were recorded. Some of the recorded species were observed on the site while others were seen flying overhead or heard calling from adjacent habitats. One reptilian species was detected during the survey. No amphibian or mammalian species were recorded in or adjacent to the subject site during the field surveys.

Table 6 provides the total fauna list for the site and details the method of detection for each species. No threatened fauna species were detected on site during field surveys.

Table 7: Fauna species recorded during the survey

Common Name Scientific Name Detection Method Reptilia Dark-flecked Garden Sunskink Lampropholis delicata VIS Aves Wonga Pigeon Leucosarcia melanoleuca HC Eastern Rosella Platycercus elegans Vis/HC Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus Vis/HC Brush Cuckoo Cacomantis variolosus HC Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeeguineae VIS White-throated Treecreeper Cormobates leucophaea HC Satin Bowerbird Ptilonorhynchus violaceus Vis Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus Vis Pied Butcherbird Cracticus nigrogularis Vis Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen Vis Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus HC Pied Currawong Strepera graculina Vis/HC Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus HC Yellow-faced Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops HC/VIS Noisy Miner Manorina melanocephala HC/VIS Lewin's Honeyeater Meliphaga lewinii Vis/HC Eastern Whipbird Psophodes olivaceus HC Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae Vis/HC Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Vis/HC Eastern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis HC Grey Fantail Rhipidura albiscapa HC Key: Vulnerable under BC Act and EPBC Act (bold). Observation Key: Heard Calling (HC), PIR Camera (Cam), Scats (SC), Visual Observation (VIS), Tracks or scratchings (TR)

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Threatened Fauna

5.3.5.1 Detected Threatened Fauna No threatened fauna species were detected during the survey period.

Note: Results of Koala surveys and a Koala Habitat assessment is provided in Section 7.2.

5.3.5.2 Potential Occurrence Assessment There are a number of threatened fauna species that have been recorded in the locality in the Bionet Atlas of Wildlife (OEH 2019), and a number of others are considered potential occurrences by the EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool (DEE 2019). These species are evaluated for their potential to occur on the subject site and their eligibility/requirement for further assessment is appended to this report as Appendix 3.

Note: Locally recorded marine species have not been addressed as there is no habitat for these species on the subject site.

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6. Impact Assessment

6.1 Direct Impacts The development proposal comprises a 10 lot residential subdivision of the land within the subject site. Native vegetation and habitat loss associated with the proposal covers approximately 0.75 hectares.

The majority of these trees are situated within the initial development footprint and were assessed previously in consideration of the original development application. The new layout involves deleting the fire trail and associated asset protection zone (APZ) and replacing this with a public road at the perimeter. Consequently, a slight change to the shape and extent of the proposed development footprint will ensue resulting in the need to remove an additional six trees. As the site comprises previously cleared land that is subject to an ongoing management regime, there is little understorey, shrub and groundcover strata present within the proposed development footprint.

One hollow-bearing tree was identified within the proposed development footprint as previously detailed in Section 5.3.3 of this report. The perimeter road has been redesigned to avoid removal of this significant tree. Protection/mitigation measures during construction are detailed in Section 10 of this report. An arborist assessment has also been undertaken which has shown that the tree can be safely retained.

6.2 Indirect Impacts The following potential indirect impacts may be associated with the proposal:

a) Fragmentation and landscape change: The proposal will contribute to local fragmentation to a minor extent as some remnant trees will require removal. There is likely to be small decrease in connectivity associated with the removal of the trees, however the impact of this is predicted to be minimal due to the extent of existing land clearing on the land within the site and adjacent land to the south.

b) Injury/mortality during clearing: The hollow-bearing tree recorded on the site is proposed to be retained. Therefore, the potential for fauna injury/mortality associated with this tree during clearing is considered to be low. Due to the absence of the understorey, natural groundcover, logs and other debris on the ground there is no potential habitat for most terrestrial fauna species. As such there is little potential for fauna injury/mortality during any site works. Pre-clearing surveys by an ecologist in relation to the removal of trees are recommended.

c) Edge effects: The subject site is situated at the current urban/bushland interface, therefore edge effects are already a significant issue along the northern and western margins.

d) Fencing: Fences have potential to obstruct the movement of fauna across the site. Any additional or new fencing should be Koala friendly and not pose any barrier or block Koala movement.

e) Weed invasion: Weeds currently occur across the site. The proposal has the potential to introduce new weed species through planting of undesirable species or garden escapes invading the adjacent forest habitats.

f) Erosion and sedimentation: Standard mechanisms and controls will be required to ensure that erosion and sedimentation impacts do not extend beyond the development footprint where they could potentially impact other vegetation and drainage lines on adjacent land. Stormwater and runoff will need to be managed adequately to ensure that potential impacts are minimised.

g) Noise and vibration: The construction phase will temporarily increase noise levels however this will be diurnal only and is not expected to pose significant impacts to potentially occurring threatened species.

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h) Introduction of feral species: New residents may wish to keep domestic pets. This has the potential to increase the number feral species in the area and result in predation of native fauna if animals are not contained.

i) Increased human presence: With the development of the site for residential purposes, an increase in the level of human presence is expected. This is predicted to impact on local fauna, however it is likely to be minimal due to the extent of the current human presence associated with existing residential development adjoining the site.

j) Artificial Lighting: The new residential subdivision development is likely to incorporate external lighting. If directed into adjacent vegetation, it may impact nocturnal fauna by changing their behaviour or making them more vulnerable to predation.

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7. Coffs Harbour City KPOM Assessment

7.1 Site Classification The Coffs Harbour City Koala Plan of Management (KPoM) is a comprehensive Koala plan of management covering the Coffs Harbour City Local Government Area. The Koala habitat mapping provided in the KPoM (via the online mapping tool) indicates that the land in the northern part of the subject site contains secondary Koala habitat, while primary Koala habitat adjoins the western margin of the site (adjacent to the proposed development footprint) as indicated in Figure 5.

7.2 KPoM Objective As Primary Koala Habitat is located on adjacent land to the west of the proposed development site, the objective and management actions applicable to lands adjoining Primary Koala Habitat as listed under Section 3.3 of Part A of the KPoM must be considered.

The objective in relation to lands adjoining Primary Koala Habitat are:

To minimise impacts on Primary Koala Habitat from development proposed on adjoining lands, particularly where such areas may contain scattered preferred Koala trees and to maintain opportunities for free movement of Koalas between areas of habitat.

7.3 Management Actions Section 3.3 of Part A of the KPoM lists the management actions for lands adjoining Primary Koala Habitat. The proposal is assessed by these actions to demonstrate compliance with the KPoM in the following table:

Table 8: KPoM Management Actions Assessment

Performance Criteria Compliance Assessment The proposal will not result in barriers to Koala movement The proposed subdivision development is an extension of existing residential development located on previously cleared land and forms the current bushland/urban interface. There is no change to the current extent of Koala habitat and no barrier will result from the proposed development of the site. Boundary fencing does not prevent the free movement of Any boundary fencing associated with the proposed Koalas development will not prevent the free movement of Koalas as adjacent habitat and existing linkages therein are not affected. Lighting and Koala exclusion fencing is provided where The proposed residential subdivision comprises 10 lots and a appropriate on roadways adjacent to the Koala habitat small section of road to form a loop between Eyre Road and Amadeus Place. The traffic volumes likely to be generated will be small and slow moving. Koalas are also unlikely to cross the road as all available habitat and resources will be situated to the north and west of the site. Listed tree species, including Tallowwood (Eucalyptus Fourteen Tallowwood trees are located within the proposed microcorys), Swam Mahogany (E. robusta), Flooded Gum (E. development footprint and approximately 11 of these will need grandis), Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis) and Small-fruited to be removed. Compensatory planting will be undertaken in Grey Gum (E. propinqua) to be retained, where possible. appropriate locations elsewhere on the subject property in accordance with the requirements of the DCP. New local roads are designed to reduce traffic speed to 40 The proposed link road will have a maximum speed limit of 40 kph in potential Koala “blackspots” kph and shall incorporate traffic control measures to help manage the speed limit. Preferred Koala trees are used in landscaping where suitable Any trees planted in the proposed road reserve shall be Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys). All street trees shall be planted on the northern side of the road only so that Koalas are

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not encouraged to cross the road. Threats to Koalas by dogs have been minimised (i.e. banning All property fencing (around yards) shall be Koala proof. dogs or confining dogs to Koala proof yards) Fire protection zones, including fuel reduced zones and The link road and front yard areas of allotments within the radiation zones, are provided outside the area of Primary proposed residential subdivision will form an APZ adjacent to Koala Habitat the Koala habitat.

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Figure 5: CKPoM Koala habitat mapping of the site and surrounding land

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Figure 6 Location of surveyed trees within the site

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8. Biodiversity Conservation Act Assessment

8.1 Assessment Pathway Under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017, Part 4 developments under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (other than State Significant Development) are assessed through the following process:

• For developments in which the impact exceeds the clearing threshold, will impact any area mapped on the Biodiversity Value Map or impact on an area of Outstanding Biodiversity Value, a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) will be required. This assesses the impact using the Biodiversity Assessment Method (BAM) and determines the offset obligations required. Offsets can be met through several options including:

• Purchase and retirement of biodiversity credits from the open market.

• Establish a biodiversity stewardship site and create credits via managing the land for conservation in perpetuity.

• Pay an amount of money into the newly established Biodiversity Conservation Trust who will source credits on behalf of the proponent.

• Developments which fall below the clearing threshold and do not impact on sensitive biodiversity values must be assessed under the new five part test of significance (replacing the former seven part test). If the test determines that a significant impact is likely, a BDAR will be required. There is no offset obligation for Part 4 developments which fall below the threshold and/or are unlikely to have a significant impact on threatened species and/or ecological communities.

The table below provides an assessment to determine if a BDAR is required.

Table 9: Assessment of BDAR requirement

Criteria Response

Will the development require clearing of native Yes vegetation? Has the development been granted Biodiversity No Certification? Is the development considered State Significant No Infrastructure? Does the development affect an area mapped in the No – refer to Figure 7 NSW Biodiversity Values Map? Minimum lot size on which the development is 0.04 ha located. Will the development require the removal of >0.25 No – Small number of remnant ha of vegetation? trees to be removed Result BDAR not required

The above assessment has determined that a BDAR is not required for the proposal. The next stage of the assessment which determines whether the development is likely to have a significant effect threatened species or ecological communities is provided below.

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Figure 7: Extract of Biodiversity Value Map, with subject property marked yellow

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8.2 Test of Significance The Test of Significance is prescribed under Part 7, Division 1, Section 7.2 of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. The purpose of the Test of Significance is to determine whether a proposed development or activity is likely to significantly affect threatened species or ecological communities, or their habitats. If it is determined that a development or activity will have a significant effect, a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report will be required. The Test of Significance has been prepared in consideration of the Threatened Species Test of Significance Guidelines (OEH 2018).

Entities to be Assessed

The potential occurrence assessment in Appendix 2 and 3 have determined that the following species are considered to be potentially occurring in the study area and are also subject to the Test of Significance:

• Little Lorikeet • Eastern Free-tail Bat • Brush-tailed Phascogale • Eastern False Pipistrelle • Koala • Little Bent-wing Bat • Squirrel Glider • Eastern Bent-wing Bat • Grey-headed Flying Fox • Greater Broad-nosed Bat

Responses a) In the case of a threatened species, whether the proposed development or activity is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction. The proposed development involves a 10 lot residential subdivision of the land and extension of Eyre Road, which will become a perimeter road around the northern side of the site and connect to Amadeus Place to form a loop.

Native vegetation and habitat loss and modification associated with the proposal comprises removal of several, generally isolated remnant trees.

The remainder of the site (approximately 0.75 hectares) has been previously cleared of native vegetation and is maintained through regular ongoing management actions such as grass cutting/slashing. Approximately, 11 preferred Koala food trees situated within the proposed development footprint may need to be removed. One hollow-bearing tree situated at the northern margin of the proposed development footprint will be retained. There is some potential for indirect impacts such as noise, artificial lighting and predation on native fauna from domestic pets.

The habitat within the subject site has been highly modified through past land clearing and is unlikely to provide any useful resources for most terrestrial species dependant on continuous cover such as the Giant Barred Frog. Arboreal species such as the Koala and gliders would be able to access the small number of remnant trees within the site, while highly mobile species such as birds and bats would be able to move freely through the site. However, available resources within the site for any threatened species are generally limited and unlikely to support breeding. Habitat that is more likely to support the local populations of threatened species occurs in nearby land to the north and west, which contain forest habitats. As such, removal of the limited habitat from within the site is unlikely to place a viable population of the subject species at risk of extinction.

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b) In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the proposed development or activity:

(i) Is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) Is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction. No EECs are present on the subject site. c) In relation to the habitat of a threatened species or ecological community:

(i) The extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the proposed development or activity, and

(ii) Whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed development or activity, and

(iii) The importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species or ecological community in the locality. Habitat to be removed comprises a small number of remnant trees from existing cleared land, which represents a small portion of the habitat available to the subject species in the locality. The trees are unlikely to be sufficient in themselves to be capable of supporting any threatened species.

The vegetation proposed to be removed (remnant trees) do not make any significant contribution to habitat connectivity and no areas of habitat will become isolated as a result of the proposal.

The site offers limited potential habitat for a small number of threatened fauna species. However, given the extent of modification and limitations of the site’s habitat, these species would be reliant on adjacent and nearby habitats to fulfil their lifecycle requirements and the limited vegetation within the development footprint would not be of any key importance. d) Whether the proposed development or activity is likely to have an adverse effect on any declared area of outstanding biodiversity value (either directly or indirectly).

The proposed development will not directly or indirectly affect an area of outstanding biodiversity value. e) Whether the proposed development or activity is or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to increase the impact of a key threatening process. A Key Threatening Process (KTP) is defined as a process that threatens, or may have the capability to threaten, the survival or evolutionary development of species, populations or ecological communities.

The following table lists all of the current KTP’s listed under the BC Act and whether the proposed activity is recognised a threatening process.

Table 10: Contribution to Key Threatening Processes

Key Threatening Processes Will Proposal Affect KTP? Aggressive exclusion of birds from woodland and Yes – The species is already forest habitat by abundant Noisy Miners Manorina present due to the existing melanocephala residential development Alteration of habitat following subsidence due to No longwall mining Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers and No streams and their floodplains and wetlands

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Key Threatening Processes Will Proposal Affect KTP? Yes – Vegetation removal and greenhouse gasses generated by Anthropogenic Climate Change machinery used during construction Bushrock removal No Approximately 10 remnant trees to Clearing of native vegetation be removed. Competition and grazing by the feral European Rabbit, No - European Rabbit already Oryctolagus cuniculus occurs within the area Competition and habitat degradation by Feral Goats, No Capra hircus Competition from feral honey bees, Apis mellifera No Death or injury to marine species following capture in No shark control programs on ocean beaches Entanglement in or ingestion of anthropogenic debris No in marine and estuarine environments Forest eucalypt dieback associated with over-abundant No psyllids and Bell Miners Herbivory and environmental degradation caused by No feral deer High frequency fire resulting in the disruption of life cycle processes in plants and animals and loss of No vegetation structure and composition Importation of Red Imported Fire Ants Solenopsis No invicta Infection by Psittacine Circoviral (beak and feather) Disease affecting endangered psittacine species and No populations Infection of frogs by amphibian chytrid causing the No disease chytridiomycosis Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi No Introduction and establishment of Exotic Rust Fungi of the order Pucciniales pathogenic on plants of the No family Myrtaceae Introduction of the Large Earth Bumblebee Bombus No terrestris Invasion and establishment of exotic vines and No scramblers Invasion and establishment of Scotch Broom (Cytisus No scoparius) Invasion and establishment of the Cane Toad (Bufo No marinus) Invasion of native plant communities by African Olive No Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata. Invasion of native plant communities by No Chrysanthemoides monilifera Invasion of native plant communities by exotic Yes – New landholders may plant perennial grasses exotic species within the site Invasion of the Yellow Crazy Ant, Anoplolepis No gracilipes into NSW

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Key Threatening Processes Will Proposal Affect KTP? No - Lantana already occurs within Invasion, establishment and spread of Lantana the development footprint, but will (Lantana camara) be removed during the construction phase. Loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped garden plants, including No aquatic plants No – The hollow-bearing tree Loss of Hollow-bearing Trees occurring within the development site will be retained Loss or degradation (or both) of sites used for hill- No topping by butterflies Predation and hybridisation by Feral Dogs, Canis lupus No familiaris Predation by Gambusia holbrooki (Plague Minnow or No Mosquito Fish) Predation by the European Red Fox Vulpes vulpes No Yes – New landholders may wish to keep domestic cats. Predation by the Feral Cat Felis catus Recommendations provided to reduce potential impacts. Predation by the Ship Rat Rattus rattus on Lord Howe No Island Predation, habitat degradation, competition and No disease transmission by Feral Pigs, Sus scrofa

8.3 Conclusion The Test of Significance has determined that the proposed development would not result in a significant impact on threatened species or ecological communities. Therefore, a BDAR is not required for the development proposal.

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9. EPBC Act 1999 - MNES Significance Assessment

9.1 General Assessment Overview The provisions of the EPBC Act (1999) require determination of whether the proposal has, will or is likely to have a significant impact on a “matter of national environmental significance”. These matters are listed and addressed in summary as follows:

1) World Heritage Properties: The site is not listed as a World Heritage area nor does the proposal affect any such area.

2) National Heritage Places: The site is not listed as a National Heritage Place nor does the proposal affect any such area.

3) Ramsar Wetlands of International Significance: A Ramsar wetland does not occur on the site, nor does the proposal affect a Ramsar Wetland.

4) EPBCA listed Threatened Species and Communities: No federally listed threatened species listed under the EPBC Act was recorded on site. The Koala and Grey-headed Flying Fox are considered a potential occurrence. As assessed below, the proposal is not considered likely to have a significant impact on these species.

5) Migratory Species Protected under International Agreements: No Migratory species is likely to be significantly affected by the proposal as assessed below.

6) The Commonwealth Marine Environment (CME): The site is not within the CME nor does it affect such.

7) The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: The proposal does not affect the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

8) Nuclear Actions: The proposal is not a nuclear action.

9) A water resource, in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development: The proposal is not a mining development.

It is considered that, the proposal is not required to be referred to Department of Environment and Energy (DEE) for approval under the EPBC Act (1999).

9.2 Koala Referral Assessment The habitat on site has been assessed using the Koala habitat assessment tool from the EPBC Act Referral Guidelines (Department of the Environment 2014). To qualify as critical habitat, it must score 5 or more. This is shown in the following table:

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Table 11: Koala habitat assessment

Attribute Score Reason Several records occur within 2 km of the site on Bionet Atlas, in Desktop the last 5 years. Koala Occurrence 1 No Koalas were recorded and Koala scat searches failed to On-ground detect evidence of the Koala onsite. Desktop N/A Vegetation structure and 1 The development site is cleared but contains a small number of composition On-ground remnant trees including one SEPP 44 listed feed tree species (Tallowwood). Habitat connectivity 0 Site adjoins but is not part of a contiguous (forest) landscape. Desktop OEH Bionet has no records of Koala road kill in the study area. Key existing threats 1 Domestic dogs and roads in surrounding rural-residential areas On-ground would be a likely threat to local Koalas. The habitat to be removed is unlikely to be important for achieving the interim Recovery value 0 recovery objectives for the Koala. Total 3 Site does not qualify as critical habitat.

As per the Koala habitat assessment tool, the subject site does not qualify as critical habitat. Therefore, further assessment to determine if the proposal will adversely affect this habitat and/or interfere substantially with the recovery of the Koala and require referral to the Minister has not been undertaken.

9.3 Protected Species Assessments An assessment of significance of the proposal on the Koala and Grey-headed Flying Fox is as follows.

Factors To Be Considered for Vulnerable Species

The guidelines to assessment of significance to this Matter, define an action is as likely to have a significant impact on a Vulnerable species, if it will: a) Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species, or: b) Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population, or: c) Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations, or: d) Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species, or: e) Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population, or: f) Modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline, or: g) Result in invasive species, that are harmful (by competition, modification of habitat, or predation) to a Vulnerable species, becoming established in the Vulnerable species’ habitat, or: h) Introduce a disease that may cause a species to decline, or: i) Interferes substantially with the recovery of the species.

An important population is one that is necessary for a species’ long-term recovery. This includes such populations as:

• Key populations either for breeding or dispersal; • Populations that are necessary for maintaining genetic diversity; and/or

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• Populations that are near the limit of the species range.

9.3.1.1 Assessment of Significance This section addresses each of the previous points listed. a) Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species: Koala

The proposal will require the removal of a small number of trees, including preferred Koala food trees from within the proposed development footprint, which is otherwise cleared managed land. Whilst the tree removal will see a relatively small loss of food resources for this species, the local Koala population is not expected to decrease due to the extent of habitat to remain on adjoining land containing mapped Koala habitat.

Grey-headed Flying Fox

The proposal will require the removal of a small number of trees, which provide a limited potential foraging resource. While in very strict terms a negative effect, this loss will have a very minor impact on the local Grey-headed Flying-fox population as the site in total would only form a very minute fraction of this species wider opportunistic/seasonally variable foraging range.

The study area is also not a known roost for the Grey-headed Flying-fox (Eby 2000) and better quality alternative foraging habitat in the locality is evidently extensive. The proposal will thus not lead to a long- term decrease in the size of these important populations. b) Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population: In relation to the Koala, the proposal will remove some preferred foraging species in the study area which is very small compared to the significant areas of habitat on the surrounding land, particularly to the north and west of the site, which are mapped as Koala habitat. Therefore, the proposal is not expected to result in a significant reduction in the area of occupancy of an important population.

In relation to the Grey-headed Flying-fox, the minor loss of foraging habitat on the subject site is insignificant relative to the area of occupancy which is measured in terms of hundreds of thousands of hectares. Consequently, the proposal would not reduce the area of occupancy of the important population. c) Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations: The Grey-headed Flying-fox is highly mobile and known to be capable of crossing human-modified habitat. The proposal will not create a barrier to movement of the species. Thus it will not fragment an existing important population.

The Koala is also relatively mobile, able to cross clearings and roads, though is highly susceptible to other threats such as dog attack and vehicle strike. Sufficient connectivity will remain on adjacent land and the development of the subject site will not form a barrier for the Koala. Therefore, no fragmentation or isolation of an important population is likely to occur as a result of the proposed development. d) Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species: “Critical habitat” refers to areas critical to the survival of a species or ecological community may include areas that are necessary for/to:

• activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting or dispersal; • succession; • maintain genetic diversity and long term evolutionary development; or

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• reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species/community.

The vegetation (remnant trees) on site is not considered critical habitat for the Grey-headed Flying-fox. Post- development, the other habitats on adjacent land will remain available to help support the viability of the local population of these species.

As demonstrated in Section 7.2, the site does not qualify as critical habitat for the Koala. Therefore, the proposal is not considered to significantly affect habitat critical to the survival of the Koala or other subject species. e) Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population: In relation to the Grey-headed Flying-fox, the habitat within the site to be removed would not represent potential breeding habitat and its removal is unlikely to disrupt the breeding cycle of these species.

In relation to the Koala, the small number of preferred Koala food trees to be removed will be offset by compensatory planting, as per the requirements of the DCP. In the longer term, the compensatory measures are expected to be sufficient to maintain the status quo with respect to the availability of resources for the local population. f) Modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline:

As detailed previously, the degree of vegetation loss resulting from the proposed development is not significant enough to affect a local population of the subject species to the point that it could cause a decline of the species. g) Result in invasive species, that are harmful (by competition, modification of habitat, or predation) to a Vulnerable species, becoming established in the Vulnerable species’ habitat: No new species that affects the subject species is likely to be introduced as a direct result of the proposal. h) Introduce a disease that may cause a species to decline: No disease that poses a potential risk to these species is likely to be introduced to the site. i) Interferes substantially with the recovery of the species: Ideally, the goal in threatened species recovery is to increase the abundance and range of the threatened species, so that it is not at risk of becoming extinct. As detailed previously, the proposal will result in the removal/modification of a very small amount foraging resource that is not significant enough to interfere with their recovery.

In relation to the Koala, the proposal conflicts with recovery of the species via removing foraging habitat. The offset measures proposed will generally result in the long-term viability of habitat available to the local Koala population, which will assist in its recovery.

9.3.1.1.1 Conclusion

The proposal is not considered likely to have a significant impact on the Koala or Grey-headed Flying-fox, and thus a referral to DEE is not required.

9.4 Migratory Species No migratory species were recorded during the field surveys. The habitat present across the site provides potential habitat for a few listed migratory species such as the Horsefield’s Cuckoo, White-throated Needletail, Black-faced Monarch, Spectacled Monarch, Satin Flycatcher and Rufous Fantail.

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These species are collectively assessed below.

Factors To Be Considered

The guidelines to assessment of significance to this Matter, define an action as likely to have a significant impact on a migratory species, if it will: a) Substantially modify (including fragmenting, altering fire regimes, altering nutrient cycles or altering hydrological cycles), destroy or isolate an area of important habitat of the migratory species, or; b) Result in an invasive species that is harmful to the migratory species becoming established in an area of important habitat of the migratory species, or; c) Seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migration or resting behaviour) of an ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species.

An important area of habitat is:

1) Habitat used by a migratory species occasionally or periodically within a region that supports an ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species, or: 2) Habitat utilised by a migratory species which is at the limit of the species range, or; 3) Habitat within an area where the species is declining.

9.4.1.1 Assessment of Significance This section addresses each of the previous points listed. a) Substantially modify (including fragmenting, altering fire regimes, altering nutrient cycles or altering hydrological cycles), destroy or isolate an area of important habitat of the migratory species: The site is not considered likely to constitute an important area of habitat given that it is not of sufficient extent to support an ecologically significant proportion of any of the above listed species. b) Result in an invasive species that is harmful to the migratory species becoming established in an area of important habitat of the migratory species: An invasive species is one that may become established in the habitat, and harm the migratory species by direct competition, modification of habitat, or predation. The proposal will not introduce any such invasive species. c) Seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migration or resting behaviour) of an ecologically significant proportion of the population of the species: No disruption of the lifecycle of any migratory bird is likely as:

• Habitat affected is either only marginally suitable, and/or locally abundant. • No significant extent of potential or known nesting/breeding habitat is affected. • No significant extent of potential or known foraging habitat will be affected.

9.4.1.1.1 Conclusion

In view of the above, no migratory bird is considered likely to be significantly affected by the proposal.

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10. Recommendations

The following are recommended to be included as conditions of consent if the proposal is approved. The conclusions of this assessment assume the measures are implemented and effective in mitigating impacts.

10.1 General Clearing Measures The following measures are recommended to manage clearing:

• The extent of the development footprint to be clearly marked (e.g. via pegging/fencing/flagging) before clearing in order to prevent any inadvertent clearance beyond what is required and has been assessed and to avoid damage or encroachment into the root zone of retained trees. This fencing/marking is to remain until all clearing and construction is completed. • Site induction is to specify that no clearing is to occur beyond the marked area. All vehicles are only to be parked in designated areas. • Clearing and earthworks is to avoid damage to root zones of any retained trees. • Weeds are not to be mulched with native vegetation and should be taken to a licenced landfill facility.

10.2 Animal Welfare Considerations The following is recommended to be implemented to minimise risk of direct mortality of fauna during clearing works:

• The area of clearing work is to be inspected for Koalas and other fauna by an ecologist immediately prior to commencement of any vegetation removal involving machinery and/or tree-felling. Pre-clearing checks will include searches of habitat e.g. lifting and destruction of logs, searches for bird nests, and raking of leaf litter. Other than Koalas, any detected fauna is to be relocated off-site. Any bird nest considered active is to be removed in a manner that allows retrieval of eggs/young, and these are to be taken into care by FAWNA. • If a Koala is present in the proposed clearing area, works are to be suspended until the Koala moves along on its own volition. If the Koala is located in a position that a 50 metre buffer may be established, works may proceed outside this buffer.

10.3 Tree Removal Only trees identified for removal should be removed. Preference should be given to retaining the following trees in order of importance:

• Hollow-bearing trees (must be retained) • Tallowwood (Koala Food trees) • Bloodwood (potential Glider sap trees) • Allocasuarina (Glossy Black Cockatoo foraging tree)

Any trees to be retained should be clearly marked and an exclusion zone (outside the tree root zone) is to be established to prevent any damage to retained trees.

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10.4 Hollow-bearing Tree The hollow-bearing tree shall not be removed or harmed in any way. An exclusion zone (outside the tree root protection zone) is to be established and clearly marked to prevent any damage to the root structure.

10.5 Tree Offsets Offsets for tree removal shall be in accordance with the compensatory requirements prescribed in Section E.1 of the DCP. The following table details the surveyed trees within the site (as per the survey plan prepared by Newnham Karl Weir – File No. 13267 STG 3A(ii) DA r1 as amended and dated 14/10/2019) and the applicable compensatory replacement requirements.

Table 12: Trees to be Removed and Applicable DPC Compensatory Requirements

Height DBH Replacem Tree No. Surveyed Trees DCP Habitat Type (m) (cm) ent Rate 25 Eucalyptus microcorys 8 25 Secondary Koala (adjacent primary) 1:5 35 Acacia melanoxylon 15 45 Other 1:2 36 Acacia melanoxylon 15 50 Other 1:2 38 Eucalyptus microcorys 15 47 Secondary Koala (adjacent primary) 1:5 39 Eucalyptus microcorys 15 43 Secondary Koala (adjacent primary) 1:5 42 Eucalyptus microcorys 15 55 Secondary Koala (adjacent primary) 1:5

The total number of compensatory plantings is detailed in the following table.

Table 13: Number of Compensatory Trees Required

Number of Species Common Name Replacement Eucalyptus microcorys Tallowwood 20 Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood 4 Total 24

It is recommended that a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) be prepared to guide the planting of compensatory trees and their maintenance in the longer term.

10.6 Domestic Pets The landholders may wish to keep domestic pets (cats and dogs). These should be restrained to the vicinity of the residences and yards at all times unless they are on a lead to avoid potential injury to native fauna. Pets should not be allowed to roam in the dedicated Vegetation Management Area. Dogs should be restricted within a yard that is enclosed by a Koala proof fence.

10.7 Sedimentation and Erosion Control Standard soil and sedimentation control measures will be required throughout the clearing works to ensure that habitats on the site and in the study area, including the ephemeral stream are not substantially affected by erosion and sedimentation.

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10.8 Weed Control Disturbance of the development site’s soils and vegetation removal has potential to encourage weed invasion. Hence, it is recommended that:

• Disturbance of vegetation and soils on the site should be limited to the areas of the proposed work and should not extend into adjacent vegetation. • All plant used for clearing and construction works is to be inspected for presence of weeds. • Appropriate collection and disposal of all weed material removed via clearing. • Removal of any new weed infestations that have developed throughout the construction phase.

10.9 Fencing Temporary fencing may be required during earthworks and construction. Fences have potential to obstruct the movement of fauna across the site. Any fencing required should be Koala friendly, permeable and not pose a barrier or risk of entanglement to fauna (e.g. post and plain wire).

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11. Conclusion

This report has assessed the impact in relation to a modification of development consent for a staged residential subdivision of the land within the subject site. The development will require the removal of several remnant native trees situated on the site, including a number of preferred Koala food trees.

No threatened species of flora and fauna were recorded during the survey and the vegetation on site does not qualify as an EEC. Ten threatened species were identified as having at least a low potential to use the site as a small part of a larger range.

The site was assessed in accordance with the Coffs Harbour City Koala Plan of Management. One species of preferred Koala food tree, identified as Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) was recorded within the site. No Koala activity was recorded and measures to mitigate the removal of preferred Koala food trees as prescribed under the Coffs Harbour Development Control Plan 2015 have been recommended.

The significance assessments carried out for the proposed development determined that the proposal is not expected to significantly impact upon the known/potentially occurring threatened species on site due to the extent of existing disturbance and modification of the habitat within the site; the fact that local populations of the subject species would extend beyond the site; and the proposed ameliorative measures detailed in this report.

Consequently, the proposal is not considered to require a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report, or referral to the DEE for approval under the EPBC Act.

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12. References

Australian Koala Foundation (2007). Planning Guidelines for Koala Conservation and Recovery: A Guide to Best Planning Practice. Australian Koala Foundation, Brisbane. Website .

Biodiversity Conservation Act (2016). Website .

Brooker, MIH & Kleinig, DA (2006). Field Guide to Eucalypts. Volume 1, South-eastern Australia, Bloomings Books, Hawthorn, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC 2004). Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Development and Activities. Working Draft. NSW DEC, Hurstville.

Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC 2007). Threatened Species Assessment Guidelines: The Assessment of Significance. NSW DECC, Hurstville.

DECC (2008). Recovery Plan for the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). NSW DECC, Hurstville.

Department of Environment and Energy (DEE 2019). Matters of National Environmental Significance Search Tool. Website .

Department of the Environment (2014). EPBC Act referral guidelines for the Vulnerable Koala (combined populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory). Department of the Environment.

Eby, P. (2000). A Case for Listing Grey-Headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) as Threatened in NSW Under IUCN Criterion A2. In: Proceedings of a Workshop to Assess the Status of the Grey-Headed Flying Fox in NSW. Richards, G. (Ed.). Australasian Bat Society, Sydney.

Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2004A00485.

Harden, G.J. (Editor) (1990) Flora of NSW. Vol 1-4. NSW Press, Sydney.

Harden, G.J, McDonald, B. and Williams, J.B. (2007). Rainforest Climbing Plants – A field guide to their identification. Gwen Harden Publishing, Nambucca Heads.

Jurskis, V. and Potter, M. (1997). Koala Surveys, Ecology and Conservation at Eden. Research Paper No. 34. State Forests, Sydney.

NSW Government (1995). State Environmental Planning Policy No 44 - Koala Habitat Protection.

Office of Environment and Heritage (2016). NSW Guide to Surveying Threatened Plants.

OEH (2018). Threatened Species Test of Significance Guidelines.

OEH (2019a) Bionet/Atlas of Wildlife. Website .

OEH (2019b) Threatened Species. Website .

Phillips, S, and Callaghan, J. (1995). The Spot Assessment Technique for determining the significance of habitat utilisation by Koalas. Addendum to Proceedings of a conference on the status of the Koala in 1995. Australian Koala Foundation. Brisbane.

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Phillips, S. and Callaghan, J. (2011). The Spot Assessment Technique: a tool for determining levels of localised habitat use by Koalas Phascolarctos cinereus. Australian Zoologist 35(3): 774-780.

Royal Botanical Gardens (2019). PlantNET. Website .

Triggs, B. (1996). Scat, track and other traces. New Holland, Sydney.

Troedson, A.L. and Hashimoto, T.R. (2008). Coastal Quaternary Geology – north and south coast of NSW. Geological Survey of New South Wales, Bulletin 34.

Van Dyck, S., Gynther, I. and Baker, A. (2013). Field Companion to the Mammals of Australia. Brisbane, Australia: New Holland Publishers.

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13. Appendices

A-1 Site Vegetation List

Common Name Scientific Name Canopy White Mahogany Eucalyptus acmenoides Tallowwood Eucalyptus microcorys Blackbutt Eucalyptus pilularis Sydney Blue Gum Eucalyptus saligna Turpentine Syncarpia glomulifera Trees and Shrubs Green Wattle Acacia irrorata subsp. irrorata Long-leaf Wattle Acacia longissima Maiden’s Wattle Acacia maidenii Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon Lilly Pilly Acmena smithii Rose Myrtle Archirhodomyrtus beckleri Groundsel Bush* Baccharis halimifolia* Hairy Apple-berry Billardiera scandens Coffee Bush Breynia oblongifolia Black Wattle Callicoma serratifolia Camphor Laurel (juvenile)* Cinnamomum camphora* Narrow-leaved Palm Lily Cordyline stricta Murrogun Cryptocarya microneura Forest Maple Cryptocarya rigida Large-leaf Hop-bush Dodonaea triquetra Blueberry Ash Elaeocarpus reticulatus Cheese Tree Glochidion ferdinandi Lantana* Lantana camara* Pink-flowered Doughwood Melicope elleryana Veined Mock-olive Notelaea venosa Slender Rice-flower Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia Orange Thorn Pittosporum multiflorum Rough Fruit Pittosporum Pittosporum revolutum Sweet Pittosporum Pittosporum undulatum Easter Cassia* Senna pendula var. glabrata* Scentless Rosewood Synoum glandulosum subsp. glandulosum Veiny Wilkiea Wilkiea huegeliana Climber and Scramblers Slender Tick-trefoil Desmodium gunnii

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Common Name Scientific Name Slender Tick-trefoil Desmodium varians Wombat Berry Eustrephus latifolius Scrambling Lily Geitonoplesium cymosum Trailing Guinea Flower Hibbertia dentata Climbing Guinea Flower Hibbertia scandens Milk Vine Marsdenia rostrata Lawyer Vine Smilax australis Sweet Sarsparilla Smilax glyciphylla Snake Vine Stephania japonica var. discolor Ferns Rainbow Fern Calochlaena dubia Gristle Fern Blechnum cartilagineum Prickly Rasp Fern Doodia aspera Common Bracken Pteridium esculentum Graminoids Common Couch Cynodon dactylon Forest Hedgehog Grass Echinopogon ovatus Wiry Panic Entolasia stricta Blady Grass Imperata cylindrica Paspalum* Paspalum dilatatum* Broadleaf Paspalum* Paspalum mandiocanum* South African Pigeon Grass* Setaria sphacelata* Parramatta Grass* Sporobolus africanus* Forbs Goatweed* Ageratum conyzoides subsp. conyzoides* Indian Pennywort Centella asiatica Flaxleaf Fleabane* Conyza bonariensis* Slender Celery* Cyclospermum leptophyllum* Blue Flax Lily Dianella caerulea Cudweed* Gnaphalium sp. Pennywort Hydrocotyle tripartita Catsear* Hypochaeris radicata* Whiteroot Lobelia purpurascens Spiny-headed Mat-rush Lomandra longifolia Oxalis* Oxalis debilis var. corymbosa* Oxalis perennans Lamb's Tongues* Plantago lanceolata* Pastel Flower Pseuderanthemum variabile Clustered Dock* Rumex conglomeratus*

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Common Name Scientific Name Fireweed* Senecio madagascariensis* Bindyi* Soliva sessilis* Common Sowthistle* Sonchus oleraceus* Chickweed* Stellaria media* Ivy-leaved Violet Viola hederacea

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A-2 Potential Occurrence Assessment The following tables are used as a summary to address threatened species in terms of potential occurrence and requirement for formal assessment. A threatened species has been assessed if it is: a) Recorded on-site; or b) Not recorded on site, but recorded within a 10 kilometre radius (the locality), and may occur to some degree on-site due to potential habitat, key habitat component, etc.

Likelihood of occurrence is based on the probability of occurrence in terms of:

• Habitat extent (e.g. sufficient to support an individual or the local population; comprises all of home range; forms part of larger territory, etc.); quality (i.e. condition, including an assessment of threats, historical land uses on and off-site, and future pressures); interconnectivity to other habitat; and ability to provide all the species life-cycle requirements (either the site alone, or other habitat within its range); • Occurrence frequency (i.e. on-site resident; portion of larger territory or seasonal migrant); and • Usage i.e. breeding or non-breeding; opportunistic foraging (e.g. seasonal, migratory or opportunistic); marginal fringe of core range; refuge; roosts; etc.

An indicative 1-5 scale used by the author to indicate the likelihood of the species to potentially occur in the habitat on the study sites (if they have not been recorded in the locality) is as follows:

• 0: Unlikely (<1% probability) - no potentially suitable habitat; too disturbed; or habitat is very poor. No or few records in region or records/site very isolated e.g. by pastoral land, urbanisation, etc. • 1: Low (1-25%) - few minor areas of potential habitat; highly modified site/habitat; or few habitat parameters present, but others absent or relatively insignificant (sub-optimum habitat). Usually very few records in locality. • 2: Fair (25-50%) - some significant areas of potential habitat, but some habitat parameters limited. Potential for occasional foraging e.g. from nearby more optimal areas or known habitat. Records at least within 10-15 km radius of site. • 3: Moderate (50-75%) - quite good potentially suitable habitat on and adjacent to the site, and/or good quality and abundance of some vital habitat parameters. Records within <10km, or adjacent to site, or adjacent to high quality habitat where species likely to occur. • 4: High (>75%) - very good to optimum habitat occurring on or adjacent to the site (support breeding pair or population). Recorded within 5-10km of site in same or similar habitat.

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A-2-1 Flora Species Eligibility for Test of Significance and MNES Assessment

Table 14: Potential occurrence assessment - flora

Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? Found in subtropical and warm temperate rainforest, lowland moist or open eucalypt forest adjoining Clear Milkvine https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspe - V 150 rainforest and, sometimes, in areas with rock outcrops. No ciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10507 Marsdenia longiloba Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found in subtropical and warm-temperature rainforest, No on rainforest margins, and in moist eucalypt forest up Milky Silkpod https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V E 1 to 800m, on brown clay soils. Suitable habitat does not ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10587 Parsonsia dorrigoensis occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Grows in moist eucalypt forest, moist sites in dry Cryptic Forest Twiner https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe eucalypt forest and rainforest margins. Suitable habitat E E 2 No Tylophora woollsii ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10816 does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Only known from four locations in the ranges west of Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga. Occurs on reasonably Stinky Lily https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe fertile soils, in moist eucalypt forest and the moist E - 1 No Typhonium sp. aff. brownii ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10818 eucalypt forest-subtropical rainforest interface. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Grows mainly in tall heath on sand, but can also occur on clay soils and sandstone. Also extends onto Dwarf Heath Casuarina https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E E 76 exposed nearby-coastal hills or headlands adjacent to No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10037 Allocasuarina defungens sandplains. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present.

Glenugie Karaka Found in dry rainforest on steep basalt boulder slopes. https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe Soil is scarce but relatively high in nutrients and very V V 2 No Corynocarpus rupestris subsp. ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10181 well-drained. Suitable habitat does not occur within the rupestris site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found in damp locations on stream edges and in and Square-stemmed Spike-rush https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe on the margins of freshwater swamps. Suitable habitat E - 7 No Eleocharis tetraquetra ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10265 does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present.

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Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? Usually grows as an understorey tree in lowland Red-fruited Ebony https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe subtropical rainforest, often close to rivers. Suitable E E 1 No Diospyros mabacea ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10227 habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Grows on the margins of subtropical, littoral and dry Rainforest Cassia https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 3 rainforests. Suitable habitat does not occur within the No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10753 Senna acclinis site. The species is unlikely to be present. Believed to be restricted to the Mount Dangar area and https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe the adjacent Goulburn River catchment. Found in a Kennedia retrorsa V V 2 No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10442 variety of habitats.. The species is unlikely to be present within the site. Occurs in grassland, shrubland and heath on exposed Coast Headland Pea https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe coastal headlands and adjoining low coastal heath. V - 8 No Pultenaea maritima ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10939 Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Occurs on coastal dunes Suitable habitat does not Silverbush https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 9 occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10765 Sophora tomentosa present. Found in warm temperate, subtropical rainforest or wet sclerophyll forest with Brush Box overstorey. Also in Crystal Creek Walnut https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 1 Camphor Laurel and in disturbed and regrowth sites No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10269 Endiandra floydii Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Has a restricted distribution from Burleigh Heads in Queensland to the Richmond River in northeast NSW. Rusty Rose Walnut https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe Found in lowland subtropical and warm temperate V V 1 No Endiandra hayesii ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10270 rainforest on alluvium or basaltic soils Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. In NSW it is known only from a few locations between Woombah and just south of Coffs Harbour. Occurs in dry eucalypt forest on sandstone and moist shrubby Screw Fern https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 9 eucalypt forest on metasediments, usually in No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10482 Lindsaea incisa waterlogged or poorly drained sites. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present.

Scrub Turpentine https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 65 Found in littoral, warm temperate and subtropical No Rhodamnia rubescens ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20341 rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest usually on volcanic

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Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? and sedimentary soils Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Pioneer species found in littoral, warm temperate and subtropical rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest often Native Guava https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 22 near creeks and drainage lines. Suitable habitat does No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20342 Rhodomyrtus psidioides not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found only within a number of reserves in the far north- east of NSW west of Mullumbimby. Grows in warm Peach Myrtle https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E E 2 temperate rainforest on less fertile soils derived from No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10825 Uromyrtus australis rhyolite rock Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Known from between Bateau Bay and Smiths Lake. Grows on hills and slopes of near-coastal districts in Rough Doubletail https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 3 open forests which have a grassy to fairly dense No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10240 Diuris praecox understorey. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Known from a single location only, at Byron Bay. Grows Byron Bay Diuris https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe in low-growing grassy heath on clay soil. Suitable E - 1 Diuris sp. aff. chrysantha ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10241 habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Grows on trees and rocks in littoral rainforest, Yellow-flowered King of the subtropical rainforest, dry rainforest, wet or dry https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe eucalypt forests, dunes (including stabilised sands), Fairies E - 2 No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10570 stream-side areas, swampy forests and mangroves. Oberonia complanata Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Occurs in littoral and subtropical rainforest and Red-flowered King of the paperbark swamps, but can also occur in eucalypt- https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe Fairies V - 1 forested gorges and in mangroves. Suitable habitat No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10571 Oberonia titania does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Restricted to coastal and near-coastal environments, particularly Littoral Rainforest and the TEC; Lowland Brown Fairy-chain Orchid https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V - 1 Rainforest on Floodplain. Suitable habitat does not ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10868 Peristeranthus hillii occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present.

Lesser Swamp-orchid https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E E 6 This species is limited to areas of swampy grassland No Phaius australis ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10610 and swampy forest. No suitable habitat occurs on the

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Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? subject site and no local records. Unlikely to occur within site. Grows mainly on rocks, amongst organic matter, in cool, moist, shady ravines, gorges and on cliff faces in Ravine Orchid https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 2 dense subtropical rainforest at altitudes between 500 No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10744 Sarcochilus fitzgeraldii and 700m. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Favours cliff faces on steep narrow ridges supporting eucalypt forest and clefts in volcanic rock from 500 to Hartman's Sarcochilus https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe 1,000m in altitude. Also found occasionally at the bases V V 1 No Sarcochilus hartmannii ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10745 of fibrous trunks of trees, including cycads and grass- trees. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Occurs only on the NSW mid north coast from Coffs Harbour to Scotts Head. Grows in swamp sclerophyll forest where Swamp Oak Casuarina glauca and/or Floyd's Grass https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E - 46 Broad-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia are No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10036 Alexfloydia repens usually the dominant canopy species. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Moisture and shade-loving grass, found in or on the Hairy Jointgrass https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe edges of rainforest and in wet eucalypt forest, often V V 3 No Arthraxon hispidus ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10066 near creeks or swamps. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Grows in damp places, especially beside streams and Tall Knotweed https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe lakes. Occasionally in swamp forest or associated with V V 2 No Persicaria elatior ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10590 disturbance. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found only in the Nightcap Range north of Lismore. Nightcap Oak https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe Occurs in upland warm temperate rainforest, usually E CE 1 No Eidothea hardeniana ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10260 near creeks. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Restricted to the hinterland between Kempsey and Taree, around Mt Boss, Broken Bago and Lansdowne. Big Nellie Hakea https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 1 Grows on steep, rocky, sheltered slopes and in No Hakea archaeoides ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10387 deep gullies in open eucalypt forest Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present.

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Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? Confined chiefly to the north of the Richmond River in north-east NSW, extending just across the border into Queensland. Many records, particularly those further Rough-shelled Bush Nut https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 1 south, are thought to be propagated. Found in No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10499 Macadamia tetraphylla subtropical rainforest, usually near the coast. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Occurs in transition zones between littoral rainforest and swamp sclerophyll forest; between littoral and Scented Acronychia https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E E 7 coastal cypress pine communities; and margins of No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10030 Acronychia littoralis littoral forest Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found at only a few locations between Glenreagh and Lower Bucca, north of Coffs Harbour. Grows in and Orara Boronia https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 3 around gullies in wet open forest. Suitable habitat does No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10102 Boronia umbellata not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Restricted to four coastal headlands in the Coffs Harbour area Low where it grows in grassy heath on Headland Zieria https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe exposed sites and wind-pruned open or sparse E E 2 No Zieria prostrata ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10863 shrubland on more sheltered aspects. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Known only from Diggers Head at Coffs Harbour. Low growing form, Diggers Occurs in low heath with Kangaroo Grass (Themeda https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe Head E - 2 australis) on a coastal headland. Suitable habitat does No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10864 Zieria smithii not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Occurs in grassland on coastal headlands or grassland and grassy woodland away from the coast, often in Austral Toadflax https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V V 6 association with Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis). No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10802 Thesium australe Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Confined to the warm subtropical rainforests of the Small-leaved Tamarind https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe NSW-Queensland border lowlands and adjacent low E E 1 No Diploglottis campbellii ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10231 ranges. Suitable habitat does not occur within the site. The species is unlikely to be present. Found in gully, warm temperate or littoral rainforests Rusty Plum https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe V - 228 and the adjacent understorey of moist eucalypt forest. No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10044 Niemeyera whitei Suitable habitat is not present within the site.

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Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? Scattered distribution from the Moonee Creek area north of Coffs Harbour to north-east of Grafton. Occurs Moonee Quassia https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpe E E 4 in shrubby layer below tall moist eucalypt forest and tall No ciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10723 Quassia sp. Moonee Creek dry eucalypt forest, including forest edges, mostly at lower altitudes Key: Critically Endangered (CE), Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V).

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A-2-2 Fauna Species Eligibility for Test of Significance and MNES Assessment

Table 15: Potential occurrence assessment – fauna.

Significance BC EPBC No. of Species Link to Profile Likelihood of Occurrence Assessment Act Act Records Required? Insecta Found in open swampy coastal habitat. Eggs are laid Australian Fritillary https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene singly on a leaf of the caterpillar's food plant, the - CE 0 No Argynnis hyperbius inconstans dspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10064 Arrowhead Violet (Viola betonicifolia). Unlikely to occur within site. Habitat is predominantly located in swamp sclerophyll Black Grass-dart Butterfly https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene forest. Considered to be monophageous, with Floyd's E - 207 Ocybadistes knightorum dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10573 Grass (Alexfloydia repens) being the only larval food plant known. Unlikely to occur within site. Found in subtropical rainforest below about 600m elevation. Potential breeding habitat is restricted to areas where the caterpillar's food plant, a native Pink Underwing Moth https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E E 0 rainforest vine, Carronia multisepalea, occurs in dspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10625 Phyllodes imperialis smithersi subtropical rainforest. Adult moths require the low light conditions of the rainforest in order to breed. Unlikely to occur within site. Occupies a variety of permanent to semi-permanent coastal freshwater wetlands. Adults emerge from late October to late January and probably live for no more Coastal Petaltail https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E - 5 than three months. Larvae dig long branching burrows dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20139 Petalura litorea under the swamp. They are slow growing and the larval stage lasts at least 10 years. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Amphibia Usually associated with acidic swamps on coastal sand Wallum Froglet https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene plains. The species typically occurs in sedgeland and V - 48 No Crinia tinnula dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10183 wet heathland as well as swamp sclerophyll forest. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in rainforest and wet, tall open forest in the Stuttering Frog https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E V 1 foothills and escarpment on the eastern side of the No Mixophyes balbus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10536 Great Dividing Range. Lives in deep leaf litter and thick understorey vegetation on the forest floor. Breeds in

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streams during summer after heavy rain. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found along freshwater streams with permanent or Giant Barred Frog https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene semi-permanent water, generally (but not always) at E E 62 No Mixophyes iteratus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10538 lower elevation. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Typically found in high rainfall areas at high elevation in Sphagnum Moss beds or seepages on steep slopes. Sphagnum Frog https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 5 Habitat often occurs in rainforest (including Antarctic No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10620 Philoria sphagnicolus Beech forest) and wet sclerophyll forest. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Reptilia Found mainly in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands, cypress forest and occasionally in rainforest or moist Pale-headed Snake https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene 1 eucalypt forest. A highly cryptic species that can No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10412 Hoplocephalus bitorquatus spend weeks at a time hidden in tree hollows. Unlikely to occur within site. Found in rainforest and eucalypt forest and rocky areas up to 950m in altitude. The species is nocturnal and Stephens' Banded Snake https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 40 shelters between loose bark and tree trunks, amongst No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10414 Hoplocephalus stephensii vines, or in hollow trunks limbs, rock crevices or under slabs during the day. Unlikely to occur within site. Aves Formerly widespread in north-eastern NSW, now restricted to coastal/near-coastal areas between Evans Emu Head and Red Rock and a small isolated https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E - 1 population further west in the Bungawalbin area. No Dromaius novaehollandiae dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10250 (endangered population) Generally absent from densely settled regions and largely absent from south-eastern coastal and subcoastal regions. Unlikely to occur within site. Occurs in, or near rainforest, low elevation moist eucalypt forest and brush box forests. Feeds on a Wompoo Fruit-Dove https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 113 diverse range of tree and vine fruits and is locally No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10707 Ptilinopus magnificus nomadic - following ripening fruit. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Occurs mainly in sub-tropical and dry rainforest and Rose-crowned Fruit-Dove https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene occasionally in moist eucalypt forest and swamp forest, V - 32 No Ptilinopus regina dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10708 where fruit is plentiful. Suitable habitat is not present within the site.

Red Goshawk https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene Inhabits open woodland and forest, preferring a mosaic CE V 0 of vegetation types, a large population of birds as a No Erythrotriorchis radiatus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10279 source of food, and permanent water. Often found in

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riparian habitats along or near watercourses or wetlands. In NSW, preferred habitats include mixed subtropical rainforest, Melaleuca swamp forest and riparian Eucalyptus forest of coastal rivers. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. This species is found in areas containing large open water for foraging. Nests are often build in tall White-bellied Sea Eagle http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V - 34 emergent eucalypts and often have dead branches or No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20322 Haliaeetus leucogaster trees nearby used as ‘guard roosts’. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Occupies open eucalypt forest, woodland or open woodland. Sheoak or Acacia woodland and riparian Little Eagle https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 3 woodlands of interior NSW are also used. Nests in tall No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20131 Hieraaetus morphnoides living trees within a remnant patch. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in a variety of timbered habitats including open forest and woodland with a particular preference for Square-tailed Kite http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened timbered watercourses. A specialist hunter of V - 13 No Lophoictinia isura SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10495 passerines, especially honeyeaters, and most particularly nestlings as well as insects in the tree canopy. Unlikely to occur within site. A water-dependent species which favours river mouths and coastal lakes and lagoons. Forages over large Eastern Osprey http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V M 79 waterbodies and breeds in nests constructed in the No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10585 Pandion cristatus dead branches high in the canopy. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. An estuarine or freshwater species found in areas of Australasian Bittern http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened E E 0 dense sedges, reeds and rushes. Suitable habitat for No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10105 Botaurus poiciloptilus this species is not present within the site. Inhabits terrestrial and estuarine wetlands, generally in Black Bittern https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 8 areas of permanent water and dense vegetation. No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10441 Ixobrychus flavicollis Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in close proximity to a water sources. Generally Black Necked Stork http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened E - 30 inhabits lakes, swamps, mudflats and mangroves. No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10275 Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in areas with a permanent water source and a Comb-crested Jacana http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened good cover of surface vegetation. It is most commonly V - 2 No Irediparra gallinacea speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10435 recorded in freshwater swamps, billabongs and ponds. Suitable habitat is not present within the site.

Australian Painted Snipe https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E E 0 Prefers the fringes of swamps, dams and nearby No Rostratula australis dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10734 marshy areas where there is a cover of grasses, lignum,

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low scrub or open timber. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits tall dense understorey or ground-layer vegetation on the margins of freshwater streams and Pale-vented Bush-hen https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 3 natural or artificial wetlands, usually within or bordering No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10042 Amaurornis moluccana rainforest or forests. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits open forest and woodland with a sparse Bush Stone-curlew https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene E - 3 grassy ground layer and fallen timber. Suitable habitat No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10113 Burhinus grallarius is not present within the site. Requires Allocasuarina and/or Casuarina species to Glossy Black Cockatoo http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V - 101 forage and large tree hollows to breed. Suitable No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10140 Calyptorhynchus lathami habitat is not present within the site.

Coxen's Fig-Parrot Usually recorded from drier rainforest and adjacent https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene wetter eucalypt forest but rarely seen due to its small E E 3 No Cyclopsitta diophthalma dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10195 size and cryptic habit. Suitable habitat is not present coxeni within the site. Forages primarily in the canopy of Eucalyptus forest and woodland. Also forages in Angophora, Melaleuca and other tree species. Riparian habitats are Little Lorikeet https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene particularly used, due to higher soil fertility and hence V - 21 Yes Glossopsitta pusilla dspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20111 greater productivity. The hollow-bearing tree situated within the site provides potential nesting habitat. Low likelihood of the species to potentially occur within the site. On the mainland, occurs in areas where eucalypts are Swift Parrot https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene flowering profusely or where there are abundant lerp E CE 0 No Lathamus discolor dspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10455 infestations. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits woodland and open forest, including fragmented remnants and partly cleared farmland. It is Barking Owl https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 3 flexible in its habitat use therefore, hunting can extend No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10561 Ninox connivens in to closed forest and more open areas. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Occurs in sclerophyll forests and requires an Powerful Owl http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened abundance and diversity of prey species. Tree hollows V - 30 No Ninox strenua speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10562 are also required for nesting. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in areas of tall grass, including grass tussocks, Eastern Grass Owl https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene in swampy areas, grassy plains and swampy heath as V - 7 No Tyto longimembris dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10819 well as in cane grass or sedgeland on flood plains. Suitable habitat is not present on the site.

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Occurs in forest and woodland with a sparse Masked Owl http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened understory. It requires tree hollows for nesting and an V - 23 No Tyto novaehollandiae speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10820 abundance and diversity of prey species. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Occurs in most types of rainforest as well as moist eucalypt forest. Roosts by day in the hollow of a tall Sooty Owl https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene forest tree or in heavy vegetation; Hunts by night for V - 36 No Tyto tenebricosa dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10821 small terrestrial and arboreal mammals; Nests in very large tree-hollows. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Generally restricted to mangrove associations of Collared Kingfisher https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene estuaries, inlets, sheltered bays and islands, and the V - 8 No Todiramphus chloris dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10810 tidal flats and littoral zone bordering mangroves. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found in eucalypt woodland and dry open forest of the inland slopes and plains, mainly those dominated by stringybark or other rough-barked eucalypt species, usually with an open grassy understorey, sometimes Brown Treecreeper (eastern with one or more shrub species. Also found in mallee https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene and River Red Gum forest bordering wetlands with an subspecies) V - 2 No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10171 open understorey of acacias, saltbush, lignum, Climacteris picumnus victoriae cumbungi and grasses. Fallen timber is an important habitat component for foraging. Less commonly recorded in similar woodland habitats on the coastal ranges and plains. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits dry open forest and woodland, particularly Regent Honeyeater http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened CE CE 6 Box-Ironbark woodland, and riparian forests of River No SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10841 Anthochaera phrygia Sheoak. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits Boree/ Weeping Myall, Brigalow and Box-Gum Woodland and Box-Ironbark Forest. A specialist feeder Painted Honeyeater https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V V 1 on the fruits of mistletoes growing on woodland No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10357 Grantiella picta eucalypts and acacias. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits eucalypt forest and woodland, especially those containing rough-barked species and mature smooth-barked gums with dead branches, mallee and Varied Sittella https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 19 Acacia woodland. Feeds on arthropods gleaned from No dspeciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20135 Daphoenositta chrysoptera crevices in rough or decorticating bark, dead branches, standing dead trees and small branches in the tree canopy. Suitable habitat is not present within the site.

White-throated Needletail https://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- Spends most of its time in the air where it feeds on - V 0 small, flying insects. It is a migratory species that No Hirundapus caudacutus bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=682 breeds in central Asia spends its winters in the south

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 67 ABN 81 127 154 787

ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING | APRIL 2020

including Australia. The site is unlikely to form part of the species habitat. Found in dense, low vegetation including heath and open woodland with a heathy understorey. In NSW the Eastern Bristlebird https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene habitat occurs in open forest with dense tussocky grass E E 0 No Dasyornis brachypterus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10206 understorey and sparse mid-storey near rainforest ecotone. The subject site is not within the known or predicted distribution of this species. Occupies rainforest, eucalypt forest and woodland, clearings in secondary growth, swamp woodland and Barred Cuckoo-shrike https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 10 timber along watercourses. Usually seen in pairs or No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10176 Coracina lineata small flocks foraging among foliage of trees for insects and fruit. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Inhabits dry, open eucalypt forest and woodland with Dusky Woodswallow an open or sparse understorey and ground-cover of https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene grasses or sedges and fallen woody debris. Also V - 2 No Artamus cyanopterus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20303 recorded in shrubland, heathland and occasionally cyanopterus moist forest or rainforest and adjacent farmland. Low chance of occurrence. Found in dry eucalypt forest and woodland. The understorey is typically open and grassy with few scattered shrubs and usually contains abundant logs Scarlet Robin https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 1 and fallen timber. Breeds on ridges, hills and foothills No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20133 Petroica boodang of the western slopes, the Great Dividing Range and eastern coastal regions. The site is unlikely to form part of the species habitat. Found in grassy eucalypt woodland, including Box- Gum Woodland and Snow Gum Woodland. Also Diamond Firetail https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene occurs in open forest, mallee, Natural Temperate V 1 No Stagonopleura guttata dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10768 Grassland, and in secondary grassland derived from other communities. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Mammalia Prefers forest habitats with dense vegetation. For Spotted-Tailed Quoll http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V E 25 nesting, caves, large hollow logs or tree hollows are No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10207 Dasyurus maculatus required. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Generally found in areas of dry sclerophyll open forest containing sparse groundcover. The hollow-bearing Brush-tailed Phascogale https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 4 tree situated within the site provides potential denning Yes dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10613 Phascogale tapoatafa habitat. Low likelihood of the species to potentially occur within the site.

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 68 ABN 81 127 154 787

ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING | APRIL 2020

Inhabits rainforest, eucalypt forest, heathland, marshland, grassland and rocky areas where there is Common Planigale https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene surface cover, and usually close to water. Active at V - 1 No Planigale maculata dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10635 night and during the day shelter in saucer-shaped nests built in crevices, hollow logs, beneath bark or under rocks. Unlikely to occur within site. Now largely restricted to the coast of central and northern NSW. Inhabits open heathland, woodland with New Holland Mouse http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- - V 2 a heathy understorey and vegetated sand dunes. No bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=96 Pseudomys novaehollandiae Prefers deeper top soils and softer substrates for digging burrows. Unlikely to occur within site. Found in a variety of dry open forest types with dense, low ground cover and a diverse mixture of ferns, grass, Hastings River Mouse https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene sedges and herbs. Access to seepage zones, creeks E E - No Pseudomys oralis dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10689 and gullies and permanent shelter such as rocky outcrops and fallen logs is important. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Occurs in tall mature eucalypt forest generally in areas with high rainfall and nutrient rich soil. Feeds primarily Yellow-bellied Glider http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened on plant and insect exudates (nectar, sap, honeydew, V - 26 No Petaurus australis speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10601 manna) with pollen and insects providing protein. Den, often in family groups, in hollows of large trees. Unlikely to occur within site. Recorded in a range of vegetation communities, including Blackbutt, Forest Red Gum and Red Bloodwood forests, Coastal Banksia heathland and Squirrel Glider http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V - 19 Grey Gum/Spotted Gum/ Grey Ironbark dry hardwood Yes speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10604 Petaurus norfolcensis forests. The hollow-bearing tree situated within the site provides potential denning habitat. Low likelihood of the species to potentially occur within the site. Occurs in eucalypt forest and woodland along the east coast of Australia. Feeds exclusively on eucalypt Greater Glider http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened E V 4 leaves, buds, flowers and mistletoe. Shelters in tree No speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=20306 Petauroides volans hollows and will use up to 18 hollows within home range of 1 to 3 ha. Unlikely to occur within site. Preferred Koala food trees occur within the subject site. No Koalas were recorded and Koala scat searches failed to detect evidence of Koala activity. Five Koala Koala https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene records located within 500m. Two of these are older V V 1160 Yes Phascolarctos cinereus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10616 than 10 years, three of the records are from 2012, 2014 and 2015. Low chance that the site may be used for foraging as part of a larger range or by transient individuals.

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 69 ABN 81 127 154 787

ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING | APRIL 2020

Found in a range of habitats from rainforest through sclerophyll forest and woodland to heath, but in most Eastern Pygmy-possum https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene areas woodland and heath appear to be preferred, V - 2 No Cercartetus nanus dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10155 except in north-eastern NSW where the species is most frequently encountered in rainforest. Unlikely to occur within site. Inhabits a variety of forest types from tall, moist eucalypt forest to open woodland, with a tussock grass Rufous Bettong https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 1 understorey. A dense cover of tall native grasses is the No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10033 Aepyprymnus rufescens preferred shelter. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found on the southeast coast from Queensland to Long-nosed Potoroo (SE http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi- eastern Victoria and Tasmania. Inhabits coastal heath mainland) V V 2 bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1066 and dry and wet sclerophyll forest. Dense understorey No Potorous tridactylus 2 with occasional open areas is an essential part of habitat. Unlikely to occur within site. Occurs in subtropical and temperate rainforest, tall sclerophyll forest and woodland, heath and swamp habitats as well as urban gardens and cultivated fruit Grey-headed Flying-fox https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V V 209 crops. Roosting camps usually located within 20km of Yes dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10697 Pteropus poliocephalus regular food sources and commonly in gullies, close to water, in vegetation with a dense canopy. Limited foraging resources available within site. Often roosts in littoral rainforest and feed on nectar and pollen from flowers in adjacent heathland and paperbark swamp. The species has also been Common Blossom-bat https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 11 recorded in a range of other vegetation communities, No dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10785 Syconycteris australis such as subtropical rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest and other coastal forests. Suitable habitat is not present within the site. Found along the east coast from south Queensland to southern NSW. Occurs in dry sclerophyll forest, Eastern Free-tail Bat http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened woodland, swamp forests and mangrove forest east of V - 2 Yes Mormopterus norfolkensis speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10544 the Great Dividing Range. Roosts mainly in tree hollows but will also roost under bark or in man-made structures Potential of occurrence within site. Found on the southeast coast and ranges from southern Queensland to Victoria and Tasmania. Eastern False Pipistrelle http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened Prefers moist habitats, with trees taller than 20m. V - 1 Yes Falsistrellus tasmaniensis SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10331 Generally roosts in eucalypt hollows, but has also been found under loose bark on trees or in buildings. Potential of occurrence within site.

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 70 ABN 81 127 154 787

ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING | APRIL 2020

Roosts in caves (near their entrances), crevices in cliffs, Large-eared Pied Bat http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened old mine workings and in the disused, bottle-shaped V V 0 No Chalinolobus dwyeri SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10157 mud nests of the Fairy Martin. Found in well-timbered areas containing gullies. Unlikely to occur within site. Occurs in moist eucalypt forest, rainforest, vine thickets, wet and dry sclerophyll forest, Melaleuca swamp, dense coastal forest and banksia scrub. Roosts Little Bent-wing Bat https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene V - 41 in caves, tunnels, tree hollows, abandoned mines, Yes dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10533 Miniopterus australis stormwater drains, culverts, bridges and sometimes buildings. Potential of occurrence within site (foraging only).

Eastern Bent-wing Bat Caves are the primary roosting habitat, but also use http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened derelict mines, storm-water tunnels, buildings and V - 21 Yes Miniopterus schreibersii speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10534 other man-made structures; Hunts in forested areas. oceanensis Potential of occurrence within site (foraging only). Generally, roosts in groups of 10-15 close to water in caves, mine shafts, hollow-bearing trees, stormwater Southern Myotis http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened channels, buildings, under bridges and in dense V - 5 No Myotis macropus SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10549 foliage. Forages over streams and pools catching insects and small fish by raking their feet across the water surface. Unlikely to occur within site.

Range extends along Australia’s east coast. In NSW appears to be confined to the coastal plain and nearby Eastern Long-eared Bat https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatene coastal ranges, extending south to the Clarence River V - 4 No Nyctophilus bifax dSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10567 area, with a few records further south around Coffs Harbour. Coastal rainforest and patches of coastal scrub are particularly favoured. Unlikely to occur within site. Commonly found in tall wet forest but utilises a variety of habitats from woodland through to moist and dry Greater Broad-nosed Bat http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened V - 11 eucalypt forest and rainforest. Usually roosts in tree Yes SpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=10748 Scoteanax rueppellii hollows but it has also been found in buildings. Potential of occurrence within site. Very little is known about the biology of this uncommon Eastern Cave Bat http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatened species. Cave-obligate species that is usually found in V - 3 No Vespadelus troughtoni speciesapp/profile.aspx?id=10829 dry open forest and woodland near cliffs or rocky overhangs. Unlikely to occur within site. Key: Critically Endangered (CE), Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V), Migratory (M).

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 71 ABN 81 127 154 787

ASTORIA DEVELOPMENTS C/- KEILEY HUNTER TOWN PLANNING | APRIL 2020

A-3 EPBC MNES Search Results

Biodiversity Australia Pty Ltd 2 72 ABN 81 127 154 787