environmental management ecological assessment report
environmental management
Ecological Assessment Report — EPBC Act Referral
Flinders Residential Development Undullah Road, Undullah
Pacifiq Communities Pty Ltd
8020 E 15November 2017
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Document Control
Title Ecological Assessment Report — EPBC Act Referral
Address Undullah Road, Undullah Queensland 4285
Job Number 8020 E
Client Pacifiq Communities Pty Ltd
Document Issue
Issue Date Prepared By Checked By
Draft (Client review) 28 September 2017 JB MS
Draft (Client review) 3 November 2017 JB AD
Draft (Client review) 10 November 2017 JB AD
Final 15 November 2017 JB AD
Disclaimer This report has been prepared for Pacifiq Communities Pty Ltd . Saunders Havill Group cannot accept responsibility for any use of or reliance upon the contents of this report by any third party.
Reports and/or Plans by Others Reports and/or plans by others may be included within this Environmental Management report to support the document.
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Table of contents
1. Introduction 5 1.1. Key action details 5 1.2. Purpose of this report 6
2. Methodology and process 9 2.1. Desktop research 9 2.2. Field surveys 9 Targeted species surveys 10
3. Legislation, policy and planning review 13 3.1. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 13 3.2. Nature Conservation Act 1992 15 3.3. Vegetation Management Act 1999 16 3.4. Other relevant Queensland environmental legislation and policy 21 Planning Act 2016 assessment benchmarks (Koala habitat) 21 Regional Planning Interests Act 2014 21 Fisheries Act 1994 22 State Planning Policy 22 ShapingSEQ South East Queensland Regional Plan 23
4. Ecological assessment 28 4.1. Introduction 28 4.2. Weeds and introduced species 38 4.3. High density domain 40 4.4. Low density domain 46 4.5. Waterway and biodiversity corridors domain 49 4.6. Results of targeted flora and fauna species surveys 53
Large-eared Pied Bat ( Chalinolobus dwyeri ) 54 Spotted-tailed Quoll ( Dasyurus maculatus maculatus ) 54 Collared Delma ( Delma torquata ) 54 Red Goshawk (Erythrotriorchis radiates) 55 Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) 55
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Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby ( Petrogale penicillata ) 55 Grey-headed Flying Fox ( Pteropus poliocephalus ) 56 Black-breasted Button Quail ( Turnix melanogaster ) 56 Boonah Tuckeroo ( Cupaniopsis tomentella ) 57 Shiny-leaved Condoo ( Planchonella eerwah ) 57 Plectranthus ( Plectranthus habrophyllus ) 57 Cooneana Olive ( Notelaea ipsviciensis ) 58 4.7. Koala critical habitat 58
5. Conclusions 61
6. Appendices 63
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Figures
Figure 1: Site context Figure 2: Site aerial Figure 3: Topography Figure 4: Regulated Vegetation Management map Figure 5: Vegetation Management Supporting Map Figure 6: Koala assessable development areas Figure 7: Koala habitat values Figure 8: Priority living areas Figure 9: ShapingSEQ regional biodiversity corridor and values Figure 10: Assessment domains Figure 11: Field survey effort Figure 12: Historical aerial imagery — 1944 Figure 13: Historical aerial imagery — 2004 Figure 14: Waterway corridors Figure 15: Critical koala habitat
Tables
Table 1: Targeted survey effort for threatened species Table 2: Protected Matters Search Tool extract of results Table 3: NCWR rare and threatened species extract of results Table 4: Flora observed Table 5: Fauna observed Table 6: Weeds and introduced flora species observed Table 7: Other weeds known to occur in the referral and surrounding areas Table 8: Threatened flora and fauna species observed
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1. Introduction
The Environmental Management Division of Saunders Havill Group was engaged by Pacifiq Communities Pty Ltd to prepare an Ecological Assessment Report for the proposed master planned residential community at Undullah Road, Undullah. The proposed development is considered an action that may have a significant impact on a matter protected under the Australian Government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The EPBC Act is administered by the Department of the Environment and Energy (the Department) and this report accompanies a referral to the Department and details the potential for significant impacts to protected matters. To assist the Department’s assessment of the referral, this report provides a review of the site’s ecological values in context of both the current Federal and State Government environmental legislation.
The referral area is approximately 2,015 hectares (ha) and abuts the western boundary of the Greater Flagstone Priority Development Area (PDA). The properties within the PDA to the immediate east are likewise currently under referral to the Department. The proposed master planned community is bound by rural residential properties and bushland to the north, south and west. Undullah Creek meanders through the referral area and Woollaman Creek and Dugandan Creek form the southern boundary. The location and an aerial image of the referral area are presented in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
1.1. Key action details
Proposed action To establish a master planned community (including residential, commercial, community and associated infrastructure uses) at Undullah Road, Undullah, Queensland
Address Undullah Road, Undullah Queensland 4285
Freehold land parcels Part lot 19 on S311970; part lot 1 on RP35158; lot 1967.7 ha 1on RP46806; lot 2 on RP46302; part lot 2 on RP46303; part lot 2 on RP896513; lot 2 on S31878; lot 32 on S311402; lot 390 on SP133193; lot 3 on RP46302; part lot 42 on SL5873; and lot 74 on S312820
Reserve land parcels Lot 78 on M33772; and lot 81 on S311859 5.2 ha
Road land parcels Mount Elliott Road; Undullah Road; Wild Pig 23.2 ha Creek Road; and un-named roads
Watercourse land parcels Undullah Creek 9.8 ha
Area Approximately 2,015 hectares
Local government area Logan City
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1.2. Purpose of this report This report presents and comments on the outcomes of field surveys completed to assess potential impacts of the proposed master planned community (i.e. the proposed action) on ecological values, specifically those protected under the EPBC Act. The methodology and processes to deliver this assessment are detailed in section 2, and a review of relevant state planning instruments is provided in section 3. The results of this work are presented and discussed in section 4.
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Figure 1: Site context
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Figure 2: Site aerial
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2. Methodology and process
The proposed action is in the planning phase and the methodology and processes to complete this assessment have incorporated relevant work completed thus far. This assessment comprises the following:
1. Section 2.1: desktop research; 2. Section 2.2: field surveys; 3. Section 3.: legislation, policy and planning review; 4. Section 4.: ecological assessment — field survey results and discussion; and 5. Section 5.: conclusions and recommendations.
2.1. Desktop research Desktop research that identifies relevant information for the site was completed prior to the commencement of field surveys. The primary legislative information reviewed for the referral area and surroundings is presented in Section 3. legislation, policy and planning review and listed below:
° EPBC Act Protected Matters Report (Australian Government); ° relevant EPBC Act survey guidelines (Australian Government); ° relevant EPBC Act listing advices including condition thresholds for each potentially occurring Listed TEC (Australian Government); ° Wildlife Online Extract (Queensland Government); ° Vegetation Management Report (Queensland Government); ° Regulated Vegetation Management Map and supporting information (Queensland Government); ° Land Suitability Map and supporting information (Queensland Government); and ° State interests mapping (e.g. Koala conservation, the South East Queensland Regional Plan (ShapingSEQ) , areas of regional interest) (Queensland Government).
In order to derive a field survey plan, the following resources were also reviewed:
° existing ecological reports and plans for the referral area (e.g. Ecological Assessment by consultant James Warren & Associates, December 2011; ° aerial photography history to assist with the broad delineation and historical disturbance patterns to vegetation communities; and ° topography which varies from steep and rolling hills to terraced river landscapes ( Figure 3).
2.2. Field surveys Tertiary-qualified and experienced Ecologists and Environmental Scientists completed detailed flora and fauna surveys across the referral area in September and October 2017. These were carried out using several survey methods to describe various on-site habitat and vegetation characteristics. The activities undertaken included:
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° General searches and species identification — The referral area was traversed by foot to identify and record vegetation communities and flora species. Particular attention was paid to any threatened species that were listed as potentially occurring on or within the vicinity of the referral area and specific micro assemblages which may support these threatened species. ° Observational survey — A detailed observational survey of the vertebrate fauna present on or that may utilise the referral area, including faunal lists and significance status of species under the EPBC Act (including listed threatened species and listed migratory species); and Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NCA). ° Descriptions and identifications — Descriptions of the major fauna habitats present and identification of habitat values within the area relevant to terrestrial vertebrate fauna, including ecological corridors.
Targeted species surveys Based on the desktop research and historical knowledge of the referral area, the survey effort for specific threatened species protected under the EPBC Act and NCA is listed in Table 1 . This list was compiled as a result of a review of the likelihood of each listed species occurring (refer to technical memo accompanying this referral) and historical knowledge based on surveys in the region completed by both Saunders Havill Group and James Warren & Associates Pty Ltd (December 2011). Consequently, specific searches for some listed species in section 3.1 are not listed in Table 1 as the referral area is known to be unsuitable habitat; however the survey and species identification efforts were extremely cognisant of the potential presence of all relevant listed species.
Table 1: Targeted survey effort for threatened species Species Survey methodology Large-eared Pied Bat Spotlighting, call playback and Echo-meter recording Chalinolobus dwyeri Boonah Tuckeroo Habitat suitability assessment, incidental surveys and meanders Cupaniopsis tomentella Spotted-tailed Quoll Infa-red motion sensor cameras with baited traps (i.e. targeted searches), Dasyurus maculatus maculatus spotlighting and incidental diurnal and nocturnal surveys Collared Delma Habitat suitability assessment, targeted surveys and meanders Delma torquata Red Goshawk Diurnal bird surveys, targeted surveys and incidental surveys Erythrotriorchis radiatus Swift Parrot Diurnal bird surveys, targeted surveys and incidental surveys Lathamus discolor Weeping Paperbark Habitat suitability assessment, incidental surveys and meanders Melaleuca irbyana Cooneana Olive Targeted surveys, habitat suitability assessments and incidental surveys Notelaea ipsviciensis Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby Infa-red motion sensor cameras with baited traps, spotlighting and Petrogale penicillata incidental diurnal and nocturnal surveys Koala Habitat suitability assessment, targeted survey and meanders, spotlighting Phascolarctos cinereus and diurnal and nocturnal incidental surveys Flinders Plum Habitat suitability assessment, incidental surveys and meanders Planchonella eerwah
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Species Survey methodology Grey-headed Flying Fox Spotlighting, call playback and Echo-meter recording Pteropus poliocephalus Black-breasted Button Quail Diurnal bird surveys, targeted surveys and incidental surveys Turnix melanogaster Shiny-leaved Condoo Habitat suitability assessment, targeted surveys, incidental surveys and Planchonella eerwah meanders Plectranthus Targeted surveys, habitat suitability assessments and incidental surveys Plectranthus habrophyllus
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Figure 3: Topography
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3. Legislation, policy and planning review
3.1. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 The Australian Government’s key piece of environmental legislation is the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) which is administered by the Department of the Environment and Energy (the Department). The EPBC Act has several objectives, as listed below, and aims to protect and manage matters of environmental significance which include nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.
Objectives of the EPBC Act (extract from the act): (a) to provide for the protection of the environment, especially those aspects of the environment that are matters of national environmental significance; and (b) to promote ecologically sustainable development through the conservation and ecologically sustainable use of natural resources; and (c) to promote the conservation of biodiversity; and (ca) to provide for the protection and conservation of heritage; and (d) to promote a co-operative approach to the protection and management of the environment involving governments, the community, land-holders and indigenous peoples; and (e) to assist in the co-operative implementation of Australia’s international environmental responsibilities; and (f) to recognise the role of indigenous people in the conservation and ecologically sustainable use of Australia’s biodiversity; and (g) to promote the use of indigenous peoples’ knowledge of biodiversity with the involvement of, and in co- operation with, the owners of the knowledge.
The Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) is a web-based interface that facilitates the identification of matters protected under the EPBC Act. Each search delivers a report that lists Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) and other matters protected under the EPBC Act that may be present in the selected area of interest.
For this referral, the area of interest is located at the point with coordinates -27.8319 (latitude) and 152.8364 (longitude) and a buffer of ten (10) kilometres (km). Based on the search results, the MNES relevant to the referral area are:
1. Wetlands of International Importance; 2. Listed Threatened Ecological Communities (TEC); 3. Listed Threatened Species; and 4. Listed Migratory Species.
For each listing above, the type of presence or proximity is nominated in the report (e.g. known to occur, likely to occur or may occur). Table 2 provides a summary of the listings that are known or likely to occur in the referral area. The complete results of the PMST search are included in Appendix A.
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Table 2: Protected Matters Search Tool extract of results Wetlands of International Importance Name Proximity Moreton Bay 40 – 50 km upstream Listed Threatened Ecological Communities Name Status Type of presence Brigalow ( Acacia harpophylla dominant and Endangered Known to occur within area codominant) Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia Critically Endangered Likely to occur within area White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Critically Endangered Likely to occur within area Woodland and Derived Native Grassland Listed Threatened Species Scientific name Status Type of presence Birds Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern [1001] Endangered Known to occur Dasyornis brachypterus Eastern Bristlebird [533] Endangered Likely to occur Erythrotriorchis radiates Red Goshawk [942] Vulnerable Likely to occur Lathamus discolour Swift Parrot [744] Endangered Likely to occur Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe [77037] Endangered Likely to occur Turnix melanogaster Black-breasted Button-quail [923] Vulnerable Likely to occur Mammals Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied Bat [183] Vulnerable Likely to occur Petauroides Volans Greater Glider [254] Vulnerable Likely to occur Petrogale penicillata Brush-tailed rock-wallaby [225] Vulnerable Known to occur Phascolarctos cinereus Koala (combined populations of QLD, Vulnerable Known to occur NSW and the ACT) [85104] Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox [186] Vulnerable Known to occur Plants Bosistoa transversa Three-leaved Bosistoa [16091] Vulnerable Likely to occur Bulbophyllum globuliforme Hoop Pine Orchid [6649] Vulnerable Likely to occur Cupaniopsis tomentella Boonah Tuckeroo [3322] Vulnerable Likely to occur Dichanthium setosum bluegrass [14159] Vulnerable Likely to occur Macadamia integrifolia Macadamia Nut [7326] Vulnerable Likely to occur Notelaea lloydii Lloyd's Olive [15002] Vulnerable Likely to occur Phaius australis Lesser Swamp-orchid [5872] Endangered Likely to occur Planchonella eerwah Wild Apple [17340] Endangered Likely to occur Plectranthus habrophyllus [64589] Endangered Likely to occur Samadera bidwillii Quassia [29708] Vulnerable Likely to occur Thesium austral Austral Toadflax, Toadflax [15202] Vulnerable Likely to occur Other Cycas ophiolitica [55797] Endangered Likely to occur Listed Migratory Species
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Scientific name Threatened Type of presence Migratory Marine Birds Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] - Likely to occur Migratory Terrestrial Species Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail [682] - Likely to occur Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch [609] - Known to occur Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher [612] - Known to occur Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail [592] - Known to occur Migratory Wetlands Species Pandion haliaetus Osprey [952] - Likely to occur Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank [832] - Likely to occur
3.2. Nature Conservation Act 1992 The Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NCA) classifies and protects significant areas (e.g. protected areas) and protects Queensland’s threatened plant and animal species. The Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation, 1994 (NCWR) lists plant and animal species presumed extinct, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, least concern, international or prohibited. The schedules of this regulation were considered in this report by obtaining a Wildlife Online Extract based on a ten (10) km radius from the coordinates -27.8319 (latitude) and 152.8364 (longitude). The rare and threatened species listed under the NCWR with the potential to occur in the area of interest are listed in Table 3 and the complete search results are provided in Appendix B.
Table 3: NCWR rare and threatened species extract of results Scientific name Common name Status Amphibians Adelotus brevis Tusked Frog Vulnerable Birds Calyptorhynchus lathami lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo (Eastern) Vulnerable Ninox strenua Powerful Owl Vulnerable Turnix melanogaster Black-Breasted Button-Quail Vulnerable Mammals Spotted-Tailed Quoll (Southern Dasyurus maculatus maculatus Vulnerable Subspecies) Petrogale penicillata Brush-Tailed Rock-Wallaby Vulnerable Phascolarctos cinereus (southeast Koala (Southeast Queensland Vulnerable Queensland bioregion) Bioregion) Plants Marsdenia coronata Slender Milkvine Vulnerable Melaleuca irbyana Weeping Paperbark Endangered Notelaea lloydii Lloyd's Native Olive Vulnerable Cupaniopsis tomentella Boonah Tuckeroo Vulnerable
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Scientific name Common name Status Planchonella eerwah Shiny-leaved Condoo Endangered
Amendments to the ‘protected plants’ regulatory framework under the NCA commenced on 31 March 2014, establishing new approval triggers and processes for clearing protected plants. A protected plant is defined as all Extinct, Endangered, Vulnerable and/or Near Threatened (EVNT) plant species listed by name in Schedules 1-5 of the NCWR and Least Concern wildlife, not listed by name but identified as a plant indigenous to Australia in Schedule 6.
A search of the Flora Survey Trigger Map identified the site is located within a ‘High Risk Area’ ( Appendix C). Consequently, field surveys in accordance with the Flora Survey Guidelines - Protected Plants published by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (DEHP) (2016) will be required prior to clearing. Based on the survey outcome, a clearing permit may be required if there are no applicable exemptions and the plant will be ‘taken’ as a consequence of the development. A clearing permit has a 12 month validity period therefore these flora surveys will be completed closer to the time of impact.
3.3. Vegetation Management Act 1999 The Vegetation Management Act 1999 (VMA) is the key mechanism by which the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM) protects the state’s environmental resources pertaining to vegetation. Under the VMA, all land across the state is designated one of the following categories:
1. Category A area (Vegetation offsets/compliance notices/VDecs) 2. Category B area (Remnant vegetation) 3. Category C area (High-value regrowth vegetation) 4. Category R area (Reef regrowth watercourse vegetation) 5. Category X area (Exempt clearing work on Freehold, Indigenous and Leasehold land) 6. Water 7. Area not categorised
A Regulated Vegetation Management (RVM) map and report published by DNRM details the categories that apply to each property in Queensland. Category A, B, C or R vegetation may only be cleared in accordance with an exemption, self-assessable vegetation clearing code, area management plan or development approval. Category X vegetation is not regulated under the VMA therefore clearing may occur without an approval from DNRM. The RVM map is revised by DNRM on a non-regular basis however amendments can be pursued via the Property Map of Assessable Vegetation (PMAV) process. A PMAV is an agreement between a land owner and DNRM on the categories across the property and vegetation types based on ground-truthed information, and has effect until a new PMAV is agreed upon between the parties or the Chief Executive pursues a change as permitted under the VMA.
Supporting the RVM map and report are additional data that delineate the regional ecosystems (RE) (i.e. vegetation types), essential habitat vegetation based on the known location of threatened species, wetlands, watercourses and drainage features. Each of these datasets are relevant when clearing Category A, B, C or R
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vegetation, especially regional ecosystem type as each type has a conservation status, or VMA class, being endangered, of concern or least concern.
Unless exempt, approval for clearing Category A, B, C or R vegetation is required under the Planning Act 2016 (PA) — specifically assessment is required against an accepted development vegetation clearing code. The level of protection of Category A, B, C or R vegetation (i.e. restrictions under the code) is linked to the VMA class of the regional ecosystem.
A RVM map and report and interrogation of the State-wide property PMAVs was completed for the referral area ( Appendix D). Category B (137.9 ha) and Category X (1,839.0 ha) vegetation is mapped under a certified PMAV across the freehold parcels while the remaining areas are not captured by the PMAV as they comprise reserve, road and watercourse land parcels, and total 38.2 ha. Within these reserve, road and watercourse land parcels, there is 7.9 ha of Category B vegetation and the regional ecosystem types differ from those determined on the adjoining freehold parcels and as reflected on the PMAV. The regional ecosystems mapped as occurring across the referral area are as follows:
RE 12.3.7 – Least Concern
Description Narrow fringing woodland of Eucalyptus tereticornis , Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana +/- Melaleuca viminalis . Other species associated with this RE include Melaleuca bracteata , M. trichostachya , M. linariifolia . North of Brisbane Waterhousea floribunda commonly occurs and may at times dominate this RE . Melaleuca fluviatilis occurs in this RE in the north of the bioregion. Lomandra hystrix often present in stream beds. Occurs on fringing levees and banks of rivers and drainage lines of alluvial plains throughout the region. (BVG1M: 16a)
RE 12.9-10.2 – Least Concern
Description Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata open forest or woodland usually with Eucalyptus crebra . Other species such as Eucalyptus tereticornis and Corymbia intermedia may be present in scattered patches or in low densities. Understorey can be grassy or shrubby. Shrubby understorey of Lophostemon confertus (whipstick form) often present in northern parts of bioregion. Occurs on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 10b).
RE 12.9-10.7 – Of Concern
Description Eucalyptus crebra +/- E. tereticornis , Corymbia tessellaris , Angophora leiocarpa , E. melanophloia woodland. Occurs on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 13c). Vegetation communities in this regional ecosystem include: 12.9-10.7a: Eucalyptus siderophloia , Corymbia intermedia +/- E. tereticornis and Lophostemon confertus open forest. Occurs on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments in near coastal areas. (BVG1M: 12a).
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RE 12.9-10.17 – Least Concern
Description Open forest to woodland complex generally with a variety of stringybarks, grey gums, ironbarks and in some areas spotted gum. Canopy trees include Eucalyptus siderophloia , E. propinqua or E. major , E. acmenoides or E. portuensis , E. carnea and/or E. microcorys and/or Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata . Other species that may be present locally include Corymbia intermedia , C. trachyphloia , Eucalyptus tereticornis , E. biturbinata , E. moluccana , E. longirostrata , E. fibrosa subsp. fibrosa and Angophora leiocarpa . Lophostemon confertus or Whipstick Lophostemon confertus often present in gullies and as a sub canopy or understorey tree. Mixed understorey of grasses, shrubs and ferns. Hills and ranges of Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 9a). Vegetation communities in this regional ecosystem include: 12.9-10.17a: Lophostemon co nfertus dominated open forest. Occurs in gullies and southern slopes on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 28e). 12.9-10.17b: Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata open forest to woodland. Other canopy trees include Eucalyptus acmenoides , Angophora leiocarpa , E. siderophloia , E. carnea , E. propinqua and C. intermedia . Other species that may be present locally include Corymbia trachyphloia , Eucalyptus tereticornis , E. longirostrata , E. fibrosa subsp. fibrosa and Angophora leiocarpa . Lophostemon confertus (tree form and whipstick form) often present in gullies and as a sub canopy or understorey tree. Mixed understorey of grasses and shrubs. Hills and ranges on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 10b). 12.9-10.17c: Open forest of Eucalyptus carnea and/or Eucalyptus tindaliae +/- Corymbia citriodora subsp. variegata , Eucalyptus crebra , Eucalyptus major , Corymbia henryi , Angophora woodsiana , C. trachyphloia , E. siderophloia , E. microcorys , E. resinifera and E. propinqua . Lophostemon confertus often present in gullies and as a sub canopy or understorey tree. Occurs on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 9a). 12.9-10.17d: Open forest generally containing Eucalyptus siderophloia , E. propinqua , Corymbia intermedia . Other characteristic species include Lophostemon confertus , Eucalyptus microcorys and E. acmenoide s or E. portuensis . Other species that may be present locally include Corymbia trachyphloia subsp. trachyphloia , C. citriodora subsp. variegata , E. longirostrata , E. carnea , E. moluccana and occasional vine forest species. Hills and ranges on Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 9a). 12.9-10.17e: Eucalyptus acmenoides , E. propinqua , Corymbia intermedia +/- E. microcorys , Lophostemon confertus open forest. Mixed understorey of grasses, shrubs and ferns. Hills and ranges of Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments. (BVG1M: 9a).
The RVM map and report identified essential habitat for the vulnerable Tusked Frog ( Adelotus brevis ) (refer to Table 2) across remnant areas and species records within the referral area near Mount Elliott Road (northern part of the referral area). Drainage features, defined under the VMA, are mapped throughout the referral area with Undullah Creek being the largest system. Woollaman Creek and Dugandan Creek abut the southern boundary which is also a large system in the vicinity of the referral area.
The RVM Map and Vegetation Management Supporting Map for the referral area are presented in Figure 4 and Figure 5.
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Figure 4: Regulated Vegetation Management map
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Figure 5: Vegetation Management Supporting Map
Least concern vegetation along drainage lines
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3.4. Other relevant Queensland environmental legislation and policy The Queensland Planning Act 2016 came into force on 3 July 2017 and replaced the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (SPA). Under SPA, the proponent was granted a “Material Change of Use - Preliminary Approval (s242) Varying the Effect of the Logan Planning Scheme 2015” on 24 February 2016. This approval granted under SPA currently has effect.
Planning Act 2016 assessment benchmarks (Koala habitat) The Planning Act 2016 brought changes to the legislation and policy governing the protection of Koalas in South East Queensland (SEQ) whereby the overall process was consolidated into fewer legislative measures. Under the Planning Act 2016 , development must achieve assessment benchmarks listed in the Planning Regulation 2017 if the development takes place in a Koala habitat area shown on a map of Koala habitat values.
Koala habitat area is defined under the Planning Regulation 2017 as: koala habitat area means an area that— (a) is any of the following— (i) a bushland habitat area; (ii) a rehabilitation habitat area; (iii) an area of koala habitat value; but (b) is not an area unsuitable for koalas.
These bushland and rehabilitation habitat areas are identified in a map of Koala habitat values (Figure 6). The relevant legislative map of Koala habitat values for the referral area is SPP_KHV24 (dated 31 May 2010). The referral area has the following Koala habitat values mapped as occurring: • medium value bushland habitat • low value bushland habitat • medium value rehabilitation • low value rehabilitation • generally not suitable
The relevant legislative map of assessable development area for the referral area is SPRP_KHV24 (dated 31 May 2010). The referral area is not in a designated assessable development area (Figure 7).
Based on these designations, development will need to be in accordance with Schedule 11 of the Planning Regulation 2017 .
Regional Planning Interests Act 2014 The Regional Planning Interests Act 2014 seeks to balance the state’s land uses and has the purpose of:
(a) identify areas of Queensland that are of regional interest because they contribute, or are likely to contribute, to Queensland’s economic, social and environmental prosperity; and (b) give effect to the policies about matters of State interest stated in regional plans; and (c) manage, including in ways identified in regional plans—
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(i) the impact of resource activities and other regulated activities on areas of regional interest; and (ii) the coexistence, in areas of regional interest, of resource activities and other regulated activities with other activities, including, for example, highly productive agricultural activities.
Spatial information that accompanies the act identifies Strategic Environmental Areas, Priority Agricultural Areas, Priority Living Areas and Strategic Cropping Areas across the state (Figure 8).
The referral area is identified as a Priority Living Area, and no other areas under the act are mapped across the referral area.
Fisheries Act 1994 The Fisheries Act 1994 deals with the use, conservation and improvement of Queensland’s fisheries resources and fish habitats. The act in conjunction with the Planning Act 2017 seeks to ensure adequate provision for fish movement and habitat access during development processes that include:
• operational works involving the removal, destruction or damage of a marine plant; • work that is completely or partly within a declared Fish Habitat Area; • a material change of use for aquaculture; and • operational works that is constructing or raising a waterway barrier.
The following State Development Assessment Provisions (SDAP) regulate development that may impact resources protected under the Fisheries Act 1994 :
• State code 11: Removal, destruction or damage of marine plants • State code 12: Development in a declared fish habitat area • State code 17: Aquaculture • State code 18: Constructing or raising waterway barrier works in fish habitats
Development in the referral area will not include work that impacts matters protected under the Fisheries Act 1994 .
State Planning Policy The Queensland Government’s single State Planning Policy (SPP) confirms the hierarchical order of the State planning instruments, with the SPP placed third below the Planning Act 2016 and Planning Regulation 2017 , and equal with Regional Plans. Local planning instruments and other instruments are lower in hierarchy.
The core of the SPP is contained in Part D, where it identifies Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) in land use planning and development. These MSES are state interests that will be integrated into local government planning schemes across Queensland as part of planning scheme revisions and/or replacements.
The MSES mapped as occurring in the referral area are:
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• threatened species and iconic species • Regulated Vegetation - endangered/of concern in Category B (remnant) • Regulated Vegetation - essential habitat • Regulated Vegetation - intersecting a watercourse
Each of these MSES are presented in the preceding Figures 3 to 5 .
ShapingSEQ South East Queensland Regional Plan The ShapingSEQ regional plan came into effect on 11 August 2017 and identifies the regional biodiversity values across the region. The plan identifies regional biodiversity corridors and values for consideration as part of development assessment.
The referral area is not mapped as occurring within a regional biodiversity corridor or value area, however these areas are adjacent to the north, south and west ( Figure 9).
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Figure 6: Koala assessable development areas
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Figure 7: Koala habitat values
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Figure 8: Priority living areas
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Figure 9: ShapingSEQ regional biodiversity corridor and values
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4. Ecological assessment
4.1. Introduction The referral area has been divided into three domains to facilitate discussion of the survey results across flora, fauna and ecological community parameters. Each domain is directly related to the plan of development, which is predominantly influenced by the topography of the land (Figure 10 ):
1. Section 4.3 High density domain — this area will provide a centre area with a mix of uses and activities including business, retail, professional, administrative, community, entertainment, cultural and residential, and typical urban living allotments across a range of densities with the exception of rural residential. 2. Section 4.4 Low density domain — this area will provide rural residential living (e.g. average densities of five dwellings per hectare) and opportunities for tourism and agricultural activities. 3. Section 4.5 Waterway and biodiversity corridors domain — comprising of three major waterways and smaller secondary areas.
Following these discussions, topics specific to the EPBC Act are discussed to deliver an overall assessment of the referral area relating to protected matters:
1. Section 4.6 Results of targeted flora and fauna species searches — the species listed in Table 1 were likely or known to occur in the referral area and the field survey effort targeted these species. 2. Section 4.7 Koala critical habitat mapping — the Koala is known to occur in the referral area and critical habitat for the species has been thoroughly investigated and calculated.
The ecological field survey effort across the referral area is illustrated in Figure 11 . In summary, the following was completed across the ten (10) days of ecological surveys (with reference to the applicable survey guidelines under the EPBC Act):
• identification of vegetation community types and boundaries • call playback along major waterways onsite • diurnal and nocturnal bird surveys • seed inspection where suitable habitat for threatened species was identified • spotlighting, call playback and Echo-meter recording • habitat suitability assessment, incidental surveys and meanders • infa-red motion sensor cameras with baited traps, spotlighting
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Figure 10: Assessment domains
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Figure 11: Field survey effort
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The results presented herein are based on observations and investigations by Saunders Havill Group’s Ecologists and Environmental Scientists during ecological surveys completed in 2017. Results from surveys completed by other parties are also presented with references as the discussion necessitates.
Contextually, the investigation site covers approximately 2,015 hectares and is accessed via Wild Pig Creek to the south, Undullah Road to the east and Mount Elliott Road to the north/north-west. The referral area ranges from approximately two-hundred and thirty (230) metres above sea-level in the north-western corner down to thirty (30) metres above sea level in the vicinity of Woollaman Creek. The landform consists of undulating to steep rises and hills, falling to major alluvial gullies and stream bed and banks. The referral area is currently managed for rural purposes and has had a history of agricultural uses including cattle farming and logging.
The referral area is mapped as containing primarily category X unregulated vegetation and approximately 145.8 ha of remnant vegetation, of which 7.8 hectares is mapped as least concern regional ecosystems and the remaining 138.0 ha is a composite of least concern and of concern regional ecosystems. The composite regional ecosystem is located across multiple polygons, of which all contain 50% least concern RE 12.9-10.2, 40% of concern RE 12.9-10.7 and 10% least concern RE 12.9-10.17a. The least concern regional ecosystems are mapped across separate remnant polygons as RE 12.3.7, RE 12.9-10.2 and RE 12.9-10.17a.
Overall, the referral area was found to be relatively disturbed by historical clearing, logging practices and cattle grazing, particularly in the central and eastern aspects. Reduced ongoing maintenance and thinning of the understory/mid-canopy has resulted in dense Acacia sp. regrowth and an abundance of introduced species across the majority of the referral area.
SHG undertook significant contemporary flora and fauna field assessments over the referral area between September and October 2017. These surveys were carried out to address all EPBC issues, however, the primary focus was placed on the Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) as they are known to occur in the region. Additional EPBC specific surveys were also completed (refer to Table 1) which had the potential to confirm if species such as the Chalinolobus dwyeri (Large-eared Pied Bat), Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (Spotted-tailed Quoll), Delma torquata (Collared Delma), Lathamus discolour (Swift Parrot), Petrogale penicillata (Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby), Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying-fox) and Turnix melanogaster (Black-breasted Button Quail) were present on- site. The survey effort is shown in Figure 11 .
Based on the ecological surveys completed, broad observations and results across the referral area are as follows:
• The land has been historically used as a cattle grazing and logging property in areas where the topography is suitable (i.e. stopes less than 8 o). Cattle yards are situated outside and to the north east of the referral area.
• The confluence of Undullah Creek and Woollaman Creek is at the south-eastern boundary of the referral area. Downstream, there is a confluence with the Logan River. The mouth of Logan River is at Moreton Bay, a Wetland of International Importance. The length between the confluence of Woollaman Creek with Logan River and Moreton Bay is approximately 85 km. Based on these distances and planned development type (a master planned residential community), a measurable effect to the Moreton Bay
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protected wetland as a result of the action is very unlikely. Further west of the investigation area is the top of the catchment, which includes large areas of conservation.
• Surveys of the vegetation community reviewed the regional ecosystem types across the Category B and Category X areas — o regional ecosystems 12.9-10.2, 12.9-10.7, 12.9-10.17a and 12.3.7 were confirmed as present in the Category B locations as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 o these regional ecosystems are associated with land zone 9-10 and land zone 3 which are not suitable for the Lowland rainforest of Subtropical Australia and White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland TECs o TECs were not observed in the referral area o None of the Category B or Category X areas meet the condition thresholds of a listed TEC o There are nil listed TEC present in the referral area.
• The following threatened fauna species protected under the EPBC Act were confirmed as present as part of ecological surveys completed in 2017 (i.e. known to occur): o Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) occur over a range of open forest and woodland communities but ultimately their habitat is defined by the presence of koala food trees. Koalas are usually found in higher densities where food trees are growing on more fertile soils and along watercourses. This species is known to occur within the local area and was identified in the vicinity of the referral area.
o Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying Fox) occur in a variety of habitats with movements dependent upon food availability. Individuals of this species were observed throughout the spotlighting periods utilising the flowering Eucalyptus sp. as a foraging source, particularly Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum). No roosting sites were observed on-site or in the vicinity.
• The desktop review and past surveys by other parties indicate the following threatened fauna species protected under the EPBC Act have the potential to occur; however the species were not found: o Chalinolobus dwyeri (Large-eared Pied Bat) are listed as a vulnerable species under the EPBC Act. This species roosts in caves, crevices in cliffs, old mine workings and in the disused bottle shaped mud nests of Petrochelidon ariel (Fairy Martin). They frequent low to mid elevation dry open forest and woodland in close proximity to these features. They are found in well-timbered areas containing gullies.
o Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (Spot-tailed Quoll) require forests with suitable den sites such as rock crevices, caves, hollow logs, burrows and tree hollows. This species has a preference for mature wet forest habitat, especially in areas with rainfall 600 mm/year. Unlogged forests that has been less disturbed by timber harvesting are also preferred.
o Petauroides Volans (Greater Glider) subsist almost entirely on the young leaves and flower buds of select eucalypt species, especially Eucalyptus radiata (Narrow-leaved Peppermint), Eucalyptus viminalis Manna Gum) and Eucalyptus acmenoides (White Mahogany). A natural predator of this
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species is the Ninox strenua (Powerful Owl), which has been identified utilising the investigation area. They generally prefer habitats that are in older forest and have large numbers of hollows. The home range of this species is between 0.7–3 ha and tends to have a population density of 0.01–5 individuals per hectare.
o Delma torquata (Collared Delma) is restricted to SEQ within Eucalyptus sp. dominated woodlands that retain rocky ground cover. Although this species was not observed throughout the field survey period, environmental conditions to support this species were observed. However, a large portion of this habitat is infested with Lantana montevidensis (Creeping Lantana) and has significant cattle damage.
• A variety of common avi-fauna were observed utilising the site as part of a broader home range. Two (2) listed marine species were observed throughout the survey period, both of which are common throughout SEQ: o Ardea ibis (Cattle Egret) o Merops ornatus (Rainbow Bee-eater)
• All flora and fauna observed during field surveys are listed in Table 4 and Table 5 .
Table 4: Flora observed Scientific Name Common Name Canopy/sub canopy species Acacia concurrens Black Wattle Acacia disparrima Hickory Wattle Acacia fimbriata Fringed Wattle Acacia leiocalyx Early Flowering Black Wattle Allocasuarina littoralis Black She Oak Allocasuarina torulosa Forest Oak Alphitonia excelsa Soap Tree Angophora leiocarpa Smooth Bark Apple Angophora subvelutina Smudgee Apple Asparagus africanus Climbing Asparagus Fern Brachychiton discolor Lace Tree Casuarina cunninghamiana River She Oak Cinnamomum camphora Champhor Laurel Corymbia citriodora Spotted Gum Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood Corymbia torelliana Cadaghi Coryombia tessellaris Moreton Bay Ash Cupaniopsis parvifolia Small Leaved Tuckeroo Drypetes deplanchei Yellow Tulipwood Elaeocarpus reticulatus Blueberry Ash Eucalyptus acmenoides White Mahogany Eucalyptus carnea Thick-leaved White Mahogany Eucalyptus crebra Narrow Leaf Ironbark Eucalyptus siderophloia Grey Ironbark Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum
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Scientific Name Common Name Euclayptus moluccana Gum-topped Box Ficus obliqua Small-leaved Fig Flindersia australis Crows Ash Grevillea robusta Silky Oak Jacksonia scoparia Dogwood Jagera pseudorhus Foambark Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena Lophostemon confertus Brush Box Lophostemon suaveolens Swamp Box Macaranga tanarius Macaranga Macfadyena unguis-cati Cat's Claw Creeper Maclura cochinchinensis Cockspur Thorn Mallotus philippensis Red Kamala Melaleuca linariifolia Snow in Summer Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca saligna Willow Bottlebrush Melaleuca viminalis Weeping Bottlebrush Melia azedarach White Cedar Morus alba White Mulberry Parsonisa straminea Monkey Rope Vine Petalostigma pubescens Quinine Bush Platycerium bifurcatum Elkhorn Fern Platycerium superbum Staghorn Rhodosphaera rhodanthema Deep Yellowwood Schefflera actinophylla Umbrella Tree Schinus terebinthifolius Broadleaved Pepper Syzygium australe River Cherry Shrub species Breynia oblongifolia Coffee Bush Cassytha glabella Devil's Twine Exocarpus cupressiformis Native Cherry Exocarpus latifolius Broad-leaved Cherry Ficus coronata Creek Sandpaper Fig Grewia latifolia Dog's Balls Ipomoea cairica Mile-a-minute Lantana camara Lantana Leptospermum variable Tea-tree Ochna serrulata Ochna Opuntia tomentosa Velvety Tree Pear Psidium cattleianum Cherry Guava Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant Senna pendula Easter Cassia Smilax australis Austral Sarsparilla Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco Tree Solanum torvum Devil's Fig Tecoma stans Yellow Bells Trema tomentosa Poison Peach Typha orientalis Bulrush Xanthorrhoea johnsonii Forest Grass Tree Ground and water plant species
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Scientific Name Common Name Adiantum hispidulum Maidenhair Fern Ageratina riparia Mistflower Ageratum houstonianum Blue Billygoat Weed Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual Ragweed Andropogon virginicus Whisky Grass Asclepias curassavica Red-head Cotton Bush Asplenium australasicum Birds Nest Fern Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel Bush Bidens pilosa Cobbler's Pegs Cayratia clematidea Slender Grape Centella asiatica Pennywort Cheilanthes distans Bristle Cloak Fern Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass Chloris virgata Feathertop Rhodes Grass Chrysocephalum apiculatum Yellow Buttons Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Commelina diffusa Wandering Jew Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane Cymbopogon refractus Barbed Wire Grass Cyperus involucratus Umbrella Sedge Cyperus polystachyos Bunchy Sedge Dianella longifolia Blueberry Lilly Dianella nervosa Blueberry Lilly Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Dockrilla linguiformis Tick Orchid Drynaria rigidula Basket Fern Eustrephus latifolius Wombat Berry Gahnia aspera Saw Sedge Geitonoplesium cymosum Scrambling Lilly Gomphocarpus physocarpus Balloon Cotton Bush Goodenia rotundifolia Goodenia Hardenbergia violacea Native Sarsaparilla Heliotropium amplexicaule Blue Heliotrope Histiopteris incisa Bats Wing Fern Hygrophila costata Sword Leaf Stricta Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass Juncus usitatus Common Rush Lantana montevidensis Creeping Lantana Lobelia purpurascens White Root Lomandra hystrix Creek Mat Rush Lomandra longifolia Mat Rush Lomandra multiflora Many-flowered Matrush Ludwigia peploides Water Primrose Megathyrsus maximus Guinea Grass Melinis minutiflora Mollasses Grass Melinis repens Red Natal Grass Murdannia graminea Slug Herb Myriophyllum aquaticum Parrot's Feather Neonotonia wightii Glycine Nymphaea caerulea Blue Water Lilly
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Scientific Name Common Name Oplismenus aemulus Creeping Beard Grass Oplismenus hirtellus Pademelon Grass Oplismenus undulatifolius Basket Grass Ottochloa gracillima Graceful Grass Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Passiflora foetida Stinking Passionflower Passiflora suberosa Corky Passion Vine Peperomia blanda Peperomia Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed Philydrum lanuginosum Woolly Frogmouth Plectranthus parviflorus Plectranthus Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass Pteridium esculentum Bracken Pyrrosia confluens Robber Fern Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed Sida cordifolia Flannel Weed Sida rhombifolia Paddy's Lucerne Solanum nigrum Blackberry Nightshade Solanum seaforthianum Brazilian Nightshade Sorghum halepense Johnson Grass Sporobolus jacquemontii American Rat's Tail Grass Themeda quadrivalvis Grader Grass Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass Urochloa mutica Para Grass Wahlenbergia gracilis Graceful Bluebell Xanthium occidentale Noogoora Burr
Table 5: Fauna observed Scientific Name Common Name Amphibians Crinia signifera Eastern Common Froglet Litoria brevipalmata Green-thighed Frog Litoria nasuta Rocket Frog Rhinella marina Cane Toad Birds Alcedo azurea Azure Kingfisher Alectura lathami Australian Brush-turkey Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck Aquila audax Wedge-tailed Eagle Ardea ibis Cattle Egret Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret Ardea pacifica White-necked Heron Artamus leucorynchus White-breasted Woodswallow Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Centropus phasianinus Pheasant Coucal Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood-Duck Climacteris picumnus Brown Treecreeper Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina tenuirostris Cicadbird
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Scientific Name Common Name Cormobates leucophaea metastasis White-throated Treecreeper Corvus orru Torresian Crow Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra Dendrocygna eytoni Plumed Whistling Duck Dicururus bracteatus Spangled Drongo Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron Entomyzon cyanotis Blue-faced Honeyeater Eolophus roseicapilla Galah Eurystomus orientalis Dollarbird Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel Gallinula tenebrosa Dusky Morehen Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow Macropygia amboinensis Brown Cuckoo-Dove Malurus cyanochlamys Superb Fairy Wren Malurus lamberti Varigated Fairy Wren Malurus melanocephalus Red-backed Fairy Wren Manorina melanocephala Noisy Minor Meliphaga lewinii Lewin's Honeyeater Melithreptus albogularis White-throated Honeyeater Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater Milvus migrans Black Kite Neochima temporalis Red-browed Finch Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon Pardalotus striatus Straited Pardalote Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant Philemon corniculatus Noisy Minor Platycercus adscitus Pale-headed Rosella Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth Psophodes olivaceus Eastern Whipbird Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail Scythrops novaehollandiae Channel-billed Cuckoo Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill Strepera graculina Pied Currawong Taeniopygia bichenovii Double-barred Finch Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus Scaly-breasted Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing Mammals Bos taurus European Cattle Canis lupus dingo Dingo Canis lupus familiaris Dog Equus caballus Horse Isoodon macrourus Northern Brown Bandicoot
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Scientific Name Common Name Lepus europaeus European Brown Hare Macropus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying Fox Sus scrofa Pig Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail Possum Vulpes vulpes Red Fox Reptiles Cryptoblepharus virgatus Wall Skink Eulamprus quoyii Eastern Water Skink Intellagama lesueurii Eastern Water Dragon Lamproppholis delicata Grass Skink Pogona barbata Bearded Dragon Lialis burtonis Burton's Snake Lizard Pseudechis porphyriacus Red-bellied Black Snake Pseudonaja textilis Eastern Brown Snake Varanus varius Lace Monitor
4.2. Weeds and introduced species Weeds are a common occurrence in environments modified from their natural state to support agricultural activities such as cattle grazing. Sixty-six (66) introduced species were identified throughout the survey period including twenty-two that are listed under Queensland’s Biosecurity Act 2014 . Of these twenty-two (22) species, eleven are listed as ‘Restricted Invasive Plant’ and eleven (11) are listed as ‘Other Invasive Plant’. The weeds observed are listed in Table 6.
Table 6: Weeds and introduced flora species observed Scientific Name Common Name Biosecurity Act 2014 Ageratina riparia Mistflower Other Invasive Plant Ageratum houstonianum Blue Billygoat Weed Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual Ragweed Restricted Invasive Plant Andropogon virginicus Whisky Grass Asclepias curassavica Red-head Cotton Bush Asparagus africanus Climbing Asparagus Fern Restricted Invasive Plant Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel Bush Restricted Invasive Plant Bidens pilosa Cobbler's Pegs Cassytha glabella Devil's Twine Centella asiatica Pennywort Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass Chloris virgata Feathertop Rhodes Grass Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel Restricted Invasive Plant Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Commelina diffusa Wandering Jew Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane Corymbia torelliana Cadaghi Cyperus involucratus Umbrella Sedge Cyperus polystachyos Bunchy Sedge
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Scientific Name Common Name Biosecurity Act 2014 Dichondra repens Kidney Weed Dockrilla linguiformis Tick Orchid Gomphocarpus physocarpus Balloon Cotton Bush Heliotropium amplexicaule Blue Heliotrope Hygrophila costata Sword Leaf Stricta Ipomoea cairica Mile-a-minute Lantana camara Lantana Restricted Invasive Plant Lantana montevidensis Creeping Lantana Restricted Invasive Plant Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena Other Invasive Plant Macfadyena unguis-cati Cat's Claw Creeper Restricted Invasive Plant Maclura cochinchinensis Cockspur Thorn Megathyrsus maximus Guinea Grass Melinis minutiflora Mollasses Grass Melinis repens Red Natal Grass Morus alba White Mulberry Myriophyllum aquaticum Parrot's Feather Neonotonia wightii Glycine Nymphaea caerulea Blue Water Lilly Ochna serrulata Ochna Other Invasive Plant Opuntia tomentosa Velvety Tree Pear Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Passiflora foetida Stinking Passionflower Other Invasive Plant Passiflora suberosa Corky Passion Vine Other Invasive Plant Peperomia blanda Peperomia Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed Philydrum lanuginosum Woolly Frogmouth Psidium cattleianum Cherry Guava Pteridium esculentum Bracken Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant Other Invasive Plant Schefflera actinophylla Umbrella Tree Other Invasive Plant Schinus terebinthifolius Broadleaved Pepper Restricted Invasive Plant Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed Restricted Invasive Plant Senna pendula Easter Cassia Other Invasive Plant Sida cordifolia Flannel Weed Sida rhombifolia Paddy's Lucerne Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco Tree Other Invasive Plant Solanum nigrum Blackberry Nightshade Solanum seaforthianum Brazilian Nightshade Solanum torvum Devil's Fig Sorghum halepense Johnson Grass Sporobolus jacquemontii American Rat's Tail Grass Restricted Invasive Plant Syzygium australe River Cherry Tecoma stans Yellow Bells Restricted Invasive Plant Themeda quadrivalvis Grader Grass Other Invasive Plant Typha orientalis Bulrush Other Invasive Plant Urochloa mutica Para Grass Xanthium occidentale Noogoora Burr
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Other introduced species were identified in the James Warren and Associates Pty Ltd Ecological Assessment (2011) across the referral and surrounding areas, and these are listed in Table 7.
Table 7: Other weeds known to occur in the referral and surrounding areas Scientific name Common name Biosecurity Act 2014 Aristolochia elegans Dutchman’s Pipe Restricted Invasive Plant Bauhinia sp. Orchid tree Bryophyllum delagoense Mother of Millions Restricted Invasive Plant Cyanthillium cinereum Little Ironweed Eugenia brasiliana Brazilian Cherry Ludwigia peploides Water Primrose Rivina humilis Coral Berry Senna sulfurea Golden Senna Setaria sphacelata Pigeon Grass Verbena bonariensis Purple Top
4.3. High density domain The high density domain occupies the central to eastern aspect of the referral area and is bound by Woollaman Creek to the south. Undullah Creek traverses north to south through the central aspect of the site. This domain slopes inwards from two (2) high points on the western and eastern aspects, to the central low point of Undullah Creek. Given the relatively gradual undulating nature of the land in comparison to the steep rises and hills of the balance of the referral area, this area provides an ideal environment to pursue agricultural activities. Cattle grazing and logging have historically occurred throughout this domain and the impacts typically associated with these land uses were evident.
The key site observations for the high density domain from the field survey were:
• The central aspect of this domain contains open paddocks currently utilised for cattle grazing (Images 1- 6). These areas are periodically slashed and largely devoid of shrub and canopy vegetation. Some small clusters of established mature native specimens are scattered across the open paddocks, however, these communities are too small to be mapped under the VMA as remnant due to individual patches less than 1 ha in size. Due to the regular maintenance and slashing of this area, the groundcover has promoted a mosaic of introduced grasses amongst patches of mature tree specimens. The majority of the area is dominated by exotic grasses and introduced pastoral weed species, including Cynodon dactylon (Couch Grass), Lantana camara (Lantana), Bidens pilosa (Cobbler’s Pegs), Ageratum houstonianum (Blue Billy Goat Weed), Melinis repens (Red Natal Grass) and Chloris virgate (Rhodes Grass).
• The balance of the high density domain (excluding the remnant polygons) consists of non-remnant unmaintained regrowth. The regrowth vegetation species are representative of pre-clear regional ecosystems within the area: 12.9-10.2, 12.9-10.7, 12.9-10.3, 12.9-10.17 and 12.3.7. The regrowth is dominated by Acacia species including Acacia disparrima (Hickory Wattle), Acacia concurrens (Black Wattle) and Acacia leiocalyx (Early Flowering Black Wattle) and scattered Eucalyptus and Corymbia species including Eucalyptus siderophloia (Grey Ironbark), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow Leaf Ironbark), Corymbia
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citriodora (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Corymbia tessellaris (Moreton Bay Ash). Regrowth vegetation representative of least concern RE 12.3.7 was also observed along the drainage features and watercourses within the high density domain.
• The high density domain contains three (3) remnant vegetation polygons under the VMA. The remnant polygons are all mapped RE 12.9-10.2. The vegetation within these polygons is consistent with the mapping and is dominated by Corymbia citriodora (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark) and Lophostemon confertus (Brush Box). The understory of the mapped remnant areas is dominated by Acacia species, including Acacia disparrima (Hickory Wattle), Acacia concurrens (Black Wattle) and Acacia leiocalyx (Early Flowering Black Wattle). Other species recorded in lower densities included Alphitonia excelsa (Soap Tree), Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She Oak), and Corymbia tessellaris (Moreton Bay Ash). Recruitment of Eucalyptus and Corymbia species was also recorded within the sub- canopy layers. The ground layer was dominated by a mix of introduced and native grass/groundcover species, including Lantana montevidensis (Creeping Lantana), Lantana camara (Lantana), Aristida spp and Eustrephus latifolius (Wombat Berry).
• The mapped remnant polygons are associated with steep slopes and gully lines. Analysis of historical imagery shows that in 1944 the high density domain was entirely logged, with the exception of the currently mapped remnant polygons (refer to Figure 4). Therefore, given the historical land use practices (logging and cattle grazing) of the referral area, these polygons have remained uncleared due to accessibility issues associated with the steep terrain.
• This domain contains numerous mapped watercourses that represent drainage features or overland flow paths that do not possess features typically associated with a watercourse (e.g. defined bed and bank, riparian vegetation etc.). These drainage features or overland flow paths would only contain water in periods of high rainfall events (i.e. ephemeral drainage lines) and contain very few opportunities for water to be retained. Excluding Undullah and Woollaman Creek (discussed in Section 4.5 ), this domain only contains one (1) un-named creek that holds features definitive of a watercourse. This watercourse is a tributary of Woollaman Creek and traverses the entirety of the referral area. It enters the high density domain on the western boundary in the central aspect, before flowing into Woollaman Creek on the southern boundary. This watercourse contains definable bed and banks, riparian vegetation and permanent pooling water. Further assessment and discussion on waterways is provided in Section 4.5 .
• The historical clearing of native vegetation is most evident through an analysis of aerial imagery dating back to 1944. As shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13 , historical imagery of the site indicates initial logging practices cleared nearly the entirety of the site (excluding steep slopes). This logging event was followed by the integration of cattle grazing activities on the terraced landscapes adjacent to waterways, while the ridgelines continued to be strategically logged. Since the ceasing of logging operations, the areas of favourable topography have seen the continuation of cattle grazing practices and the associated land clearing and management. Where the land was predominantly utilised for logging (i.e. ridgelines), it now represents a non-remnant unmaintained regrowth vegetation community.
• Detailed habitat assessment mapping based on the Habitat Assessment Tool under the referral guidelines indicates that 301 ha of critical habitat for the Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) lies within of the
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high density domain. No direct observations of this specimen were recorded within the high density domain however their presence is highly likely as they were observed on land adjacent to the referral area during field surveys.
• Suitable foraging habitat and direct observations of Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying Fox) species occurred within the high density domain during the field survey event. Direct observations consisted of small numbers of individuals, indicating that a direct roosting site is not located within the referral area, but rather the site is utilised as patch habitat and opportunistic foraging when mobilising. More suitable foraging and roosting habitat for this species is located within the biodiversity corridor to the west of the referral area.
• Given that the majority of the high density domain has been historically logged, is cleared of remnant vegetation and is managed for cattle grazing, utilisation of the domain by fauna is largely limited to the species that have adapted to highly modified environments.
• The major fauna movement corridors within this domain are associated with the waterways, as discussed in Section 4.5.
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Figure 12: Historical aerial imagery — 1944
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Figure 13: Historical aerial imagery — 2004
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Image 1: Category X vegetation on rolling hills. Image 2: Unmaintained regrowth on rolling hills
Image 3: Active cattle grazing paddock Image 4: Active cattle grazing paddock
Image 5: Weed infestation on unmaintained paddocks Image 6: Dense weed infestation in high density domain
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4.4. Low density domain The low density domain occupies the western to central aspect of the referral area and is bound by the high density domain to the east, two (2) mountain peaks to the west in the neighbouring land and Woollaman Creek to the south. This domain is extremely undulating with multiple steep rises, hills and gullies. Notably, the domain has a high point (220m ASL) in the south-eastern corner and multiple ridgelines (approx. 160-180m ASL) in the northern and central aspects which fall inward towards two (2) prominent gully lines. Historical aerial imagery indicates that this land was heavily logged from the 1940s until the late 1990s (similar to the high density domain). Due to the steep undulating nature of the land within the low density domain the land use practices are limited, therefore, since the ceasing of the logging operation the land appears unmanaged. The broad vegetation communities and ecological values of the low density domain are representative of the historical land uses.
The key site observations for the low density domain from the field survey were:
• The southern aspect of this domain, adjacent to Wild Pig Creek Road contains open paddocks that have been historically used for cattle grazing and cattle holding yards. Similar to the high density domain, clusters of established native specimens are scattered across the domain and surrounding the existing dams. Due to the regular maintenance and slashing of this area in parts, the groundcover has promoted a mosaic of introduced grasses amongst patches of mature native trees. Exotic grasses and introduced pastoral weed species throughout the area include Cynodon dactylon (Couch Grass), Lantana camara (Lantana), Bidens pilosa (Cobbler’s Pegs), Ageratum houstonianum (Blue Billy Goat Weed), Melinis repens (Red Natal Grass) and Chloris virgate (Rhodes Grass).
• The ridgelines and lower slopes in the northern aspect of this domain consists of non-remnant unmaintained regrowth. These ridgelines and lower slopes have historically been cleared to facilitate access tracks for logging practices. Similar to the high density domain, the regrowth vegetation species are representative of pre-clear regional ecosystems within the area: 12.9-10.2, 12.9-10.7, 12.9-10.3 and 12.9-10.17. The regrowth is dominated by Acacia species including Acacia disparrima (Hickory Wattle), Acacia concurrens (Black Wattle) and Acacia leiocalyx (Early Flowering Black Wattle) and scattered Eucalyptus and Corymbia species including Eucalyptus siderophloia (Grey Ironbark), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow Leaf Ironbark), Corymbia citriodora (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Corymbia tessellaris (Moreton Bay Ash).
• The steep slopes (excluding the remnant polygons) consist of non-remnant eucalypt, Corymbia , Lophostemon and Allocasurina regrowth. The regrowth vegetation species are representative of pre-clear regional ecosystems within the area: 12.9-10.2, 12.9-10.7, 12.9-10.3 and 12.9-10.17. The regrowth is dominated by Lophostemon confertus (Brush Box), Allocasuarina littoralis (Black She-oak), Corymbia citriodora (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus siderophloia (Grey Ironbark) and Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark).
• The major drainage features and watercourses within the low density domain contained regrowth representative of pre-clear regional ecosystem 12.3.7. The regrowth was dominated by Melaleuca viminalis (Weeping Bottlebrush) and Casuarina cunninghamiana (River She-oak), with scattered Corymbia intermedia (Pink Bloodwood) and Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum). It should be noted that the drainage features and watercourses are heavily weeded with Lantana camara (Lantana).
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• The low density domain contains numerous remnant polygons under the VMA. The remnant polygons are mapped least concern RE 12.9-10.2, RE 12.9-10.17a and composite of concern RE 12.9-10.2/12.9- 10.7/12.9-10.17a. The vegetation within these polygons is consistent with the mapping and is dominated by Corymbia citriodora (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaved Ironbark), Eucalyptus siderophloia (Grey Ironbark), Angophora leiocarpa (Smooth-barked Apple) and Lophostemon confertus (Brush Box) and contains scattered Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum) and Eucalyptus melanophloia (Silver-leaved Ironbark), particularly within the of concern regional ecosystem communities. The ground layer was dominated by a mix of introduced and native grass/groundcover species, including Lantana montevidensis (Creeping Lantana), Lantana camara (Lantana), Aristida spp and Eustrephus latifolius (Wombat Berry). Lantana montevidensis (Creeping Lantana) was the most recorded species throughout each of the remnant polygons.
• As with the high density domain, mapped remnant polygons are associated with steep slopes and gully lines which do not appear to have been logged (based on historical imagery) (refer to Figure 4). Therefore, given the historical land use practices of the referral area, these polygons have remained uncleared due to accessibility issues associated with the steep terrain.
• This domain contains numerous mapped watercourses under the VMA that represent drainage features or overland flow paths that do not possess features typically associated with a watercourse (e.g. defined bed and bank, riparian vegetation etc.). These drainage features or overland flow paths would only contain water in periods of high rainfall events and contain very few opportunities for water to be retained. Excluding Woollaman Creek (discussed in Section 4.5 ), the low density domain only contains one (1) un-named creek that holds features definitive of a watercourse. This watercourse is a tributary of Woollaman Creek and traverses the entirety of the referral area. It enters the low density domain on the western boundary in the central aspect and flows west to east. This watercourse contains definable bed and banks, riparian vegetation and permanent pooling water. Further assessment and discussion on waterways is provided in Section 4.5 .
• The historical clearing of native vegetation is most evident through an analysis of aerial imagery dating back to 1944. As shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13 , a timeline of historical imagery of the site indicates an initial logging practices that cleared the entirety of the site (excluding steep slopes). This logging event was followed by the integration of cattle grazing activities on the terraced landscapes adjacent to waterways, while the ridgelines continued to be strategically logged. Since the ceasing of logging operations, the areas of favourable topography have seen the continuation of cattle grazing practices and the associated land clearing and management. Where the land was predominantly utilised for logging (i.e. ridgelines), it now represents a non-remnant unmaintained regrowth vegetation community.
• Detailed Koala habitat mapping based on the Koala Habitat Assessment Tool in the referral guidelines indicates that approximately 767 ha of critical habitat for the Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) lies within the low density domain. No direct observations of this specimen were recorded within the low density domain.
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• Suitable habitat and direct observations of Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying Fox) species occurred throghout the low density domain during the field survey event. Similar to observations in the high density domain, direct observations consisted of small numbers of individuals, indicating that a direct roosting site is not located within the referral area, but rather the site is utilised as patch habitat and opportunistic foraging when mobilising. More suitable foraging and roosting habitat for this species is located within the biodiversity corridor to the west of the referral area.
• The major fauna movement corridors within this domain are associated with the waterways and adjacent biodiversity corridor, as discussed in Section 4.5.
Image 7: Regrowth representative of RE12.9-10.2 Image 8: Regrowth L. confertus on steep slope
Image 9: Exposed rock and regrowth native vegetation Image 10: Steep slopes with regrowth
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4.5. Waterway and biodiversity corridors domain The referral area contains several mapped waterways under the VMA and Fisheries Act 1994 , however, waterway assessments during the field survey effort identified four (4) distinguishable watercourses. The remainder represent ephemeral overland flow paths and/or drainage features that do not contain watercourse characteristics and only function during heavy rainfall events. Of the distinguishable watercourses identified, one is Woollaman Creek which bounds the referral area to the south and another is Undullah Creek which traverses the referral area from north to south within the eastern aspect. The other two (2) identified waterways are un- named creeks that traverse the referral area. One un-named creek is located in the northern aspect of the referral area and flows west to east, while the other is located in the central aspect of the referral area and flows from the western boundary to the south-eastern aspect (Figure 14 ). All of the distinguishable watercourses within the referral area contain an identifiable top of bank, bed and bank features, riparian vegetation and water pooling or flowing.
A waterway corridor is defined as the waterway channel and its associated riparian zones. A waterway corridor preserves areas of the riparian zone that protect or enhance native vegetation, creek health, biodiversity and fauna connectivity and dispersal. The major functions of a waterway corridor and riparian vegetation include:
• The provision of food, breeding and habitat for aquatic and terrestrial fauna; • The provision of fauna dispersal and movement between identified local, regional or state biodiversity corridors; • The provision of fauna refugia in developed landscapes and enhancing links between habitats that would otherwise remain fragmented; • The stabilisation of channel banks against erosion; • Shading and maintenance of natural temperatures within waterways; and • Recruitment of large woody debris into the stream and for riparian habitat over the long term.
The identifiable watercourses within the referral area provide several of the functions specified above. The major provision provided by the distinguishable watercourses within the referral area is fauna dispersal and movement to a recognised state biodiversity corridor (Flinders-Karawatha Corridor Network). The two (2) major creeks, Woollaman Creek and Undullah Creek, link directly to the Flinders-Karawatha corridor to the west and north, respectively. Meanwhile, the two (2) un-named watercourses provide lateral connectivity between the major creek networks (Woollaman Creek and Undullah Creek) and the State biodiversity corridor. The lateral connectivity provided by the un-named watercourses allows for fauna species to traverse the referral area, where adjoining vegetation is heavily disturbed and weed infested.
Biodiversity and fauna movement corridors can be defined as contiguous or semi-contiguous patches of vegetation or wildlife habitat (of any shape or size) that provide a conduit of movement and dispersal for species, particularly threatened species between relatively large vegetated areas. Corridor functionality and effectiveness is determined by their role in (DEHP 2015):
• facilitating seasonal movement; • facilitating movement through highly modified landscapes and access to unexploited habitat; • improving dispersal success;
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• increasing the effective size of meta-populations by allowing for the exchange of genes between subpopulations; • allowing colonisation of empty patches and prevent and reverse local extinction; • providing habitat for resident populations; and • maintaining landscape scale ecological and evolutionary processes along geological, hydrological, altitudinal and climate gradients and provide ecological responses to climate change.
Terrestrial corridors, in conjunction with large tracts of remnant vegetation, maintain ecological and evolutionary processes by ensuring large-scale seasonal/migratory species processes and movement of fauna is maintained, connectivity between large tracts/patches of remnant vegetation is maximised and key areas for rehabilitation and offsets are identified and recognised. The location of biodiversity corridors is crucial in achieving effective corridor functionality and ensuring the conservation of threatened species. DEHP (2015) have identified the following five (5) principles that should assist in determining the location of a biodiversity corridor:
• complement riparian landscape corridors; • follow major watershed/catchment and/or coastal boundaries; • incorporate major altitudinal/geological/climatic gradients; • include and maximise connectivity between large tracts/patches of remnant vegetation; and • include and maximise connectivity between remnant vegetation in good condition.
Adjacent to the property boundary of the referral area (to the north, west and south) lies the Flinders-Karawatha corridor network which is 56,350 ha of bushland and is the largest continuous corridor south of the Brisbane River (DEHP 2015). The corridor extends from the 1,200 ha Karawatha Forest on the southern edge of Brisbane City, along Oxley Creek, through the Greenbank Military Training Area and south along the Teviot Range to Flinders Peak, Mt Joyce and Wyaralong Dam, north-east of Boonah (DEHP 2015). The corridor provides habitat and movement for a range of species that have Federal, State and Local significance, supports significant cultural heritage values and offers scenic amenity and outdoor recreation opportunities. Significant areas of conservation estate as identified by the DEHP (2015) include Karawatha Forest, White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate, Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate, Mt Perry Conservation Park, Flinders Peak Conservation Park and the Mt Joyce Recreation Park. Of the areas identified as significant conservation estates, the Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate and Flinders Peak Conservation Park (State controlled National Park) are located to the north/north-west of the referral area.
The Flinders-Karawatha corridor provides habitat and refuge for twelve (12) threatened species under the EPBC Act, five (5) of which are Endangered and seven (7) Vulnerable. The twelve (12) identified species are:
• Cupaniopsis tomentella (Boonah Tuckeroo) – vulnerable; • Notelaea lloydii (Lloyd’s Olive) – vulnerable; • Planchonella Eerwah (Shiny-leaved Condoo) – endangered; • Plectranthus habrophyllus (Plectranhus) – endangered; • Anthochaera phrygia (Regent Honeyeater) – endangered; • Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (Spotted-tailed Quoll) – endangered; • Lathamus discolour (Swift Parrot) – endangered; • Petrogale penicillata (Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby) – vulnerable;
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• Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) – vulnerable; • Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying Fox) – vulnerable; • Rostratula australis (Australian Painted Snipe) – endangered; and • Turnix melanogaster (Black-breasted Button Quail) – vulnerable.
Immediately adjacent to the referral area within the balance of L2/RP896513, L19/S311970, L42/SL5873, L1/RP35158, and L2/RP46303 and entirely within L80/SL1163 and L79/S312955 remains the most ecologically valuable land within close proximity to the referral area. Within the balance of this land approximately 390.79 hectares is mapped as remnant vegetation (least concern, of concern and endangered vegetation communities), with areas holding significant habitat features such as rocky escarpments, north-facing rocky outcrop, dens, caves, intact bushland remnant and a patch of lowland subtropical rainforest. Field surveys conducted by JWA (2011) and SHG (2016 & 2017) in the region have confirmed the EPBC listed Planchonella Eerwah (Shiny-leaved Condoo) — endangered, Petrogale penicillata (Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby) — vulnerable, Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala) — vulnerable and Pteropus poliocephalus (Grey-headed Flying Fox) — vulnerable utilising this land. Habitat suitability assessments of this land indicate that habitat to support the Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (Spotted-tailed Quoll) — endangered is also available.
Extensive field studies conducted by JWA (2011) and SHG (2016 & 2017) indicate that the referral area holds limited intact bushland, while possessing none of the other unique habitat features identified within the adjacent land (rocky escarpments, north-facing rocky outcrop, dens, caves and lowland subtropical rainforest). Although there are some provisions of linear corridor function (north-south) in the western extent and along the major waterways, due to the historical land clearing, current land uses and future planned land-use for residential housing, the vegetation provides limited long-term stepping stone connectivity and patch habitat throughout the broader Logan/Scenic Rim region. More significant linear connectivity corridors and habitat features are present to the immediate west (adjacent bushland remnant and Finders-Karawatha corridor) of the referral area. The land immediately adjacent to the referral area provides multiple unique habitat features, major altitudinal gradients and connectivity between large tracts of intact remnant vegetation. Further, given the proximity to the Finders-Karawatha corridor, it is considered the most ecologically significant in ensuring the survival and success of the above listed EPBC threatened species.
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