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Appendix I Ecology & Planning Assessment Report
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Report Ecology and Planning Assessment Report
Prepared for Western Water
Prepared by CH2M Beca Ltd
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Contents 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Project description ...... 1 1.2 Assumptions, limitations and definitions ...... 1 2 Methods ...... 2 2.1 Desktop ecological assessment ...... 2 2.2 Ecological field assessment ...... 2 2.2.1 Native vegetation...... 2 2.2.2 Planted native and non-native vegetation ...... 3 2.2.3 Fauna habitat ...... 3 2.3 Likelihood of occurrence assessment...... 3 2.4 Desktop planning assessment ...... 4 3 Legislative and Policy Summary ...... 5 4 Desktop Assessment Results ...... 7 4.1 Ecology ...... 7 4.1.1 Ecological Vegetation Classes ...... 7 4.1.2 Threatened Communities ...... 7 4.1.3 Threatened Species ...... 7 4.1.4 Wetlands ...... 8 4.2 Planning ...... 9 4.2.1 Land Tenure ...... 9 4.2.2 Key Planning Scheme Provisions ...... 9 4.2.3 Planning Assessment ...... 12 4.2.4 Cultural Heritage Management Plan ...... 13 4.3 Existing Planning Permit ...... 13 5 Field Assessment Results ...... 15 5.1 Native Vegetation ...... 15 5.2 Threatened Ecological Communities ...... 19 5.3 Threatened Species...... 19 5.3.1 Threatened species listed under the EPBC Act and FFG Act ...... 19 5.3.2 Rare and threatened species listed on the VicAdv ...... 19 5.3.3 Protected flora listed under the FFG Act ...... 19 5.4 Noxious weeds and declared pest species ...... 20 6 Potential Impacts to Native Vegetation ...... 21 7 Mitigation ...... 21 7.1 Avoid and minimise...... 21 7.2 Mitigation measures...... 21 8 Legislative and Policy Implications ...... 22
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9 Conclusion and Next Steps ...... 23 9.1 Conclusion ...... 23 9.2 Next Steps ...... 23 10 References ...... 24
Appendices
Concept Design Layout ...... 26 Threatened Species ...... 1 Certificate of Title ...... 1 Habitat Hectare Assessment Results ...... 1 Remnant Tree Register ...... 1 Planning Permit ...... 1 Habitat Management Services Offset Plan ...... 1
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1 Introduction
CH2M Beca has been engaged by Western Water to prepare a combined Ecology and Planning Assessment of the proposed works for Stage 1 of the Gisborne Recycled Water Plant (RWP) Upgrade.
1.1 Project description Gisborne Recycled Water Plant (RWP) is owned and operated by Western Water (WW) and is located on Haywood Drive, Gisborne approximately 15km north-west of Sunbury and 40km north-west of Melbourne. The site is bordered by rural and agricultural land to the north, low density rural living to the east and south and the Calder Freeway to the west.
The Gisborne RWP treats wastewater from Gisborne, New Gisborne and Macedon townships and treated effluent produced by the plant is either supplied to customers through the Gisborne recycled water network or discharged under an EPA licence to Jacksons Creek. The plant is currently reaching the limit of its capacity. Growth in flows and loads to the plant are projected to increase in line with population from approximately 14,000 people to approximately 21,000 in 2035. To avoid negative impacts on Jacksons Creek, it is proposed to undertake the following upgrades to the plant:
◼ New common inlet screening and grit removal facility ◼ New odour control facility for inlet works consisting of a biotrickling filter with activated carbon polishing ◼ New membrane bioreactor (MBR) activated sludge process with provisions for future capacity augmentations ◼ Ferric sulphate dosing facility (or other suitable chemical phosphorus removal chemical) ◼ New effluent discharge pipework to Jacksons Creek ◼ Sludge dewatering, including polymer dosing facilities ◼ Electrical and ancillary services ◼ Site power supply upgrade ◼ Site road works
1.2 Assumptions, limitations and definitions Information from the desktop assessment is based on existing data only and is, therefore, only as reliable as the number of surveys previously undertaken (i.e. an area where many surveys have been taken in the past, will, most likely, have a more extensive list of species than areas where very little survey work has been undertaken). The accuracy of past surveys is also variable and point locations can be out by up to 1 km.
In addition to the number of previous surveys undertaken, there are other reasons why species, including threatened species, may not have previously been recorded. For example, at the time of historical site visits some plant species may not have been flowering and therefore not identified as being present within the area surveyed. Also, the data collected is likely to consist of opportunistic observations only, and, therefore, listed fauna species moving in and out of the area may not have been observed or recorded.
The field survey undertaken was a preliminary survey and thus the only recorded species were those that can be easily identified, heard or have distinctive signs, such as tracks, scats, diggings, etc. Many cryptic and nocturnal species would not have been identified during such a survey.
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2 Methods
2.1 Desktop ecological assessment A high-level desktop assessment was completed. A review of the following databases was undertaken to provide information on native vegetation, threatened ecological communities, and threatened flora and fauna species previously identified or modelled to occur within the project area:
Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment:
◼ Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) (DAWE 2020) – The PMST highlights Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) that are modelled to occur within the project area.
Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Biodiversity Databases:
◼ NatureKit (DELWP 2020) – This database comprises broad-scale modelling of native vegetation types across Victoria. Information includes modelled presence of native vegetation, modelled extent of Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC) as of 2005, Strategic Biodiversity Values (indicative of the contribution of the area to Victoria’s biodiversity values), and modelled condition of native vegetation present. ◼ Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) (DELWP 2020) – This database comprises historical observation records of flora and fauna species from across Victoria. Records are added opportunistically, as flora and fauna surveys are conducted within Victoria for a variety of purposes. The mapping of flora and fauna distribution and determination of species’ habitat preferences is an ongoing State Government process.
A five-kilometre (5 km) search area buffer was applied to the biodiversity database queries in order to consider the potential presence of mobile species that may occur in the locality and use the project area from time to time, but which have not been previously recorded occurring there.
2.2 Ecological field assessment
A field assessment of the investigation area was conducted by a Jacobs ecologist on 2 September 2020. The purpose of the field assessment was to identify the location and quality of native vegetation and fauna habitat based on the findings of the desktop assessment.
2.2.1 Native vegetation
Native vegetation is defined as ‘plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrub herbs and grasses’ (DELWP 2017). Native vegetation was mapped in accordance with the Guidelines for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation (the Guidelines) (DELWP 2017) as either:
Patch:
◼ An area of vegetation where at least 25 per cent of the total perennial understorey plant cover is native, or ◼ Any area with three or more native canopy trees where the drip line of each tree touches the drip line of at least one other tree, forming a continuous canopy, or ◼ Any mapped wetland included in the current wetlands map, available in DELWP systems and tools.
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Scattered tree:
◼ A native canopy tree that does not form part of a remnant patch. A native canopy tree is a mature tree (i.e. it is able to flower) that is greater than 3m in height and is normally found in the upper layer of the relevant vegetation type.
Other vegetation:
◼ Native vegetation that is not a remnant patch or scattered tree was incidentally identified such as scattered understorey trees.
2.2.2 Planted native and non-native vegetation
Planted native vegetation was recorded, and noxious weeds identified in accordance with the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (Victorian Noxious Weeds List).
2.2.3 Fauna habitat
Vegetation providing habitat was identified by an experienced ecologist during the site inspection, and was based on suitability, significance, and evidence of native fauna activity (i.e. nesting, foraging, scats, scratchings, and tracks)
2.3 Likelihood of occurrence assessment An assessment of the likelihood of relevant rare and threatened species and threatened ecological communities occurring within the investigation area was undertaken. This assessment was based on the known preferred habitats in comparison to the habitat available in the investigation area, and the frequency, timing and location of previous recordings. The likelihood of occurrence results is provided in Threatened Species.
The criteria used for assessing likelihood of occurrence are described in Table 2.1 and Table 2.2.
Table 2.1: Criteria for determining the likelihood of threatened species occurring in the investigation area
Likelihood Criteria
High ▪ Recent records of species from DELWP databases ▪ Review of aerial photography indicates potential habitat on site ▪ Review of habitat and distribution literature indicates the site is appropriate for this species. Moderate ▪ Historic records of species from DELWP databases ▪ Review of habitat distribution literature indicates the site is appropriate for this species ▪ Review of aerial photography indicates limited habitat on site. Low ▪ Species has not been previously recorded within DELWP database ▪ Review of aerial photography indicates that no available habitat is present on site ▪ Review of literature regarding habitat and distribution indicates the site is unlikely to be utilised by this species. Negligible ▪ Conditions within the project area are incongruous with requirements of the species (e.g. marine pelagic species could not occur in a terrestrial project area; or a highly degraded environment lacking in habitat features required for species), and/or ▪ The species has been deemed absent after sufficient survey effort (criterion generally reserved for particularly conspicuous species). N/A ▪ Legislation protecting threatened species does not apply to the species within the project area, as: ▪ The project area is outside the natural range of the species, and ▪ The species is present for non-conservation purposes (e.g. planted for amenity or has become naturalised in the area).
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Table 2.2: Criteria for determining the likelihood of threatened ecological communities occurring in the investigation area
Likelihood Criteria
High ▪ Mapping by DELWP indicates the EVCs likely to be present at the site are of a similar composition to the threatened ecological community ▪ Review of aerial photography indicates that native vegetation is likely to be present at the site ▪ Review of literature and general knowledge of vegetation in the area indicates the site is appropriate for this threatened ecological community. Moderate ▪ Mapping by DELWP indicates the EVCs likely to be present at the site are of a similar composition to the threatened ecological community ▪ It is difficult to determine from aerial photography whether the community is present, such as grassland communities ▪ Review of literature and general knowledge of vegetation in the area indicates the site is suitable for this threatened ecological community. Low ▪ Mapping by DELWP indicates the EVCs likely to be present at the site are not of similar composition to the threatened ecological community ▪ Review of aerial photography indicates that no native vegetation is likely present ▪ Review of literature and general knowledge of vegetation in the area indicates that the threatened ecological community is unlikely to be present at the site.
2.4 Desktop planning assessment A review of the following databases and documents was undertaken to assess the land within the Project area and identify planning approval requirements. These databases provide information of matters that may trigger the need to respond to State legislation.
◼ VicPlan (DELWP,2020c) A tool used to create property reports comprising spatial data mapping relating to planning information, such as zones and overlays. ◼ Certificates of Title (Fiegl and Newell 2020) comprises of Victorian Land Title and related searches such as title instruments. ◼ Planning Schemes Online (DELWP, 2020d) comprises of all Victorian planning schemes, including ordinance, maps, stories, amendments and incorporated documents.
Available aerial imagery was also interpreted to inform the desktop assessment across the Project area.
This assessment is based on information in the Gisborne RWP Stage 1 Capacity Augmentation Concept Design (CH2M Beca, 2020).
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3 Legislative and Policy Summary
Table 3.1 Summary of relevant legislation and policy
Legislation/ Policy Description Project relevance Commonwealth
Environment Protection and The EPBC Act has significant implications for Determine whether any MNES Biodiversity and Protection Act natural resource and environmental are likely to be ‘significantly’ management in Australia. This Act provides for impacted by the proposed 1999 (EPBC Act) the listing of threatened species, threatened works. ecological communities and key threatening processes. It also relates to actions likely to Recommend further have a significant impact on Matters of assessment where required, National Environmental Significance (MNES). such as targeted surveys. There are nine MNES: Where MNES may be ▪ World Heritage Sites impacted recommended ▪ National Heritage Places mitigation measures to avoid ▪ Ramsar Wetlands and reduce impact. If impact ▪ Nationally threatened species and ecological cannot be avoided the project communities will need to be referred to the ▪ Migratory species Commonwealth Department of ▪ Commonwealth marine areas Agriculture, Water and the ▪ Nuclear actions Environment (DAWE). ▪ the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Water resources from coal seam gas development or large coal mining development. State
Environment Effects Act 1978 (EE The EE Act provides for the assessment of Determine whether the extent of removal of native vegetation Act) actions that are capable of having a significant environmental effect. and habitat for threatened species of state significance Actions which might have a significant will trigger the need for a environmental effect should be referred to the referral under the Victorian Minister for Planning, who decides if Environmental Effects Act. an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) is required. An EES might be required where: Recommended further ▪ 10 ha or more native vegetation is being assessment where required, cleared; such as targeted surveys. If a ▪ There is a likelihood of regionally or state trigger for EES is met, significant adverse environmental effects; recommend mitigation ▪ There is a need for an integrated measures to avoid and reduce assessment of social and economic effects impact. If impact cannot be of a project or relevant alternatives; and/or avoided an EES referral will need to be submitted. ▪ Normal statutory processes would not provide a sufficiently comprehensive, integrated and transparent assessment. This Act also allows an applicant to write to the Secretary of the Victorian Department of Environment Land Water and Planning (DELWP) to confirm no EES is required. Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act The FFG Act provides a framework for Determine if any FFG-listed 1988 (FFG Act) biodiversity conservation in Victoria. flora or fauna species are likely to be affected or Threatened species and communities of flora threatening processes occur and fauna, as well as threatening processes, by the proposed works. are listed under this Act. A number of non-
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threatened flora species are also listed as If listed flora and fauna protected under the FFG Act. A Permit to Take species are to be removed is required to remove these species from from public land a Permit to public land. Take will need to be obtained. YVW is obliged to avoid and The Act requires that a public authority must reduce impacts to FFG values be administered so as to have regard to the in accordance with the flora and fauna conservation and management objectives of the Act. objectives of the Act. Amongst others the objectives of the Act include: Recommend further ▪ to guarantee that all taxa of Victoria's flora assessment where required, and fauna other can survive, flourish and such as target surveys. Where retain their potential for evolutionary listed flora and fauna species development in the wild; are identified or threatening ▪ to conserve Victoria's communities of flora processes likely, recommend and fauna; mitigation measures to avoid ▪ to manage potentially threatening processes; and reduce impact. and ▪ to ensure that the genetic diversity of flora and fauna is maintained. DELWP Victorian Advisory Lists The DELWP Victorian Advisory Lists (VicAdv) Determine if any species present are listed on the (VicAdv) are not a statutory list of threatened species, but rather list species for which conservation VicAdv lists and likely to be management is recommended by DELWP. affected by the proposed The VicAdv lists are comprised of the Advisory works within the Project area. List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria – 2014 (DEPI 2014), the Advisory List of Where listed flora and fauna Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria – species are identified, 2013 (DEPI 2013), and the Advisory List of recommend mitigation Threatened Invertebrate Fauna in Victoria – measures to avoid and reduce 2009 (DSE 2009). impacts. If listed flora and fauna species are to be The presence, or likely presence, of a species impacted an offset may be listed on the VicAdv lists is used to determine prescribed for the Project area whether species specific habitat is required to that incorporates habitat for be offset and for other project sustainability the affected species. measures. Planning and Environment Act The P&E Act provides the foundation for 1987 (P&E Act) planning schemes which are administered by local government and provide the structure for land use within Victoria.
The Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme, through the Victorian Planning Provisions, identifies where a planning permit is required associated with land use and development.
Planning approval is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation pursuant to Clause 52.17 Native Vegetation, exemptions may apply.
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4 Desktop Assessment Results
4.1 Ecology
4.1.1 Ecological Vegetation Classes Native vegetation is classified into Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) for mapping and conservation management purposes. The Department of Environment Land Water and Planning’s (DELWPs) database NatureKit indicates that two EVCs are modelled to occur within the project area:
◼ EVC 55 – Plains Grassy Woodland ◼ EVC 641 – Riparian Woodland
Both EVCs are characterised as open, tall (15 m) eucalypt woodlands. The understory of Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55) generally consists of a few sparse shrubs over a species-rich grassy and herbaceous ground layer. Riparian Woodlands (EVC 641) have a tussock grass-dominated understorey with tall shrubs being present and amphibious herbs occurring in occasional ponds and beside creeks (DELWP 2020).
4.1.2 Threatened Communities The Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) (DAWE 2020) query revealed five threatened ecological communities with the potential to occur within the 5 km buffer of the project area. These are listed in Table 4.1 below. The only FFG listed vegetation community with the potential to occur is Western Basalt Plains (River Red Gum) Grassy Woodland.
Table 4.1: Listed Threatened Ecological Communities
Name of Community Status Type of Presence
Grassy Eucalypt Woodland of the Critically Endangered Community known to occur within Victorian Volcanic Plain area Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Endangered Community may occur within area Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia Natural Temperate Grassland of the Critically Endangered Community may occur within area Victorian Volcanic Plain Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands Critically Endangered Community likely to occur within area (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Critically Endangered Community likely to occur within area Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland
4.1.3 Threatened Species The results of the Protected Matters Report using the EPBC Protected Matter Search Tool (PMST,(DAWE 2020)) and Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA,(DELWP 2020)) output indicate that there are a number of threatened flora and fauna species that have the potential to occur within the 5 km area of the activity area. Of the 29 flora species identified through the database search, 18 are listed under the FFG Act and seven are considered endangered under the EPBC Act. Of the 40 fauna species identified through the database search, six are critically endangered and three are endangered under the EPBC Act and 22 are listed under the FFG Act.
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A complete list of threatened species compiled through the desktop assessment process, including those listed on the Victorian Advisory List, can be found in Threatened Species.
4.1.4 Wetlands No wetlands of international importance (Ramsar Wetlands) are mapped within proximity to the Project area or are expected to be impacted by the proposed works. There are four DELWP mapped wetlands within a 5 km of the investigation area. These are listed in Table 4-2 and show in Figure 4-1 below.
Table 4-2 Description of local wetlands in proximity to site.
Wetland ID Proximity Name/Location Current State Impact
Wetland 70703 0.5 km south east Emmeline Drive Highly Disturbed and No impact Modified, no longer evident in landscape. Wetland 70721 3.5 km west Gisborne Golf Club Modified – No impact ornamental lake in golf course Wetland 70702 3 km north west Gisborne Flora Intact wetland area No impact Reserve remote from the site with no interaction. Wetland 70719 4 km north west Rosslynne Reservoir Large water supply No impact reservoir
Figure 4-1 Location of local wetlands in proximity to site (red circle) (DELWP Mapshare Vic 2020)
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4.2 Planning
4.2.1 Land Tenure Table 4.3 details the Certificate of Title for the Site.
A copy of the Certificate of Title can be found in Appendix C
Table 4.3: Assessment of land tenure.
Address Proprietor Restrictions Comments
1\TP599535 Western Region Water Nil No restrictions, 17 Haywood Drive, Corporation of 36 Macedon encumbrances or caveats. Gisborne, 3437 Street, Sunbury, VIC, 3429
4.2.2 Key Planning Scheme Provisions The following provisions apply to the area of investigation, and as shown in Figure 4-2 and Figure 4-3.Clause 35.03 Schedule 1 to Rural Living Zone (RLZ1)
◼ Clause 36.01 Schedule 1 to Public Use Zone (Services and Utility) (PUZ1) ◼ Clause 43.02 Schedule 5 to Design and Development Overlay (Emmaline Vale, Gisborne) (DDO5) ◼ Clause 43.04 Schedule 19 to Development Plan Overlay (Kilmore Road, Gisborne, Rural Living Area) (DPO19) ◼ Clause 52.17 Native Vegetation
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RLZ2
PUZ1
RDZ1
RLZ4
Figure 4-2: Project area and applicable zones (Source: LASSI Accessed: September 2020))
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DPO19
DDO5
Figure 4-3: Project area and applicable overlays (Source: LASSI Accessed: September 2020
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4.2.3 Planning Assessment Use
The use of the land for the purposes of a utility installation does not require a planning permit in a PUZ1.
Development
The PUZ1 also identified that no planning permit is required for buildings and works associated with a utility installation.
Vegetation Impactions
A permit is required to remove, destroy or lop any native vegetation under Clause 52.17 (Native Vegetation) of the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme.
Referral and Notice Requirements
There are two types of referral authorities:
◼ A recommending referral authority can make recommendations in regard to the conditions on permits, however these are not binding but are usually considered by Council in their permitting. ◼ A determining referral authority who if they object the proposal, Council must then refuse the planning permit application. Furthermore, if the referral authority supports the proposal subject to conditions, those conditions must be placed on any permit issued.
An application to remove, destroy of lop native vegetation in the Detailed Assessment Pathway, as defined in the Guidelines for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation (Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, 2017) requires referral to the Secretary to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (as constituted under Part 2 of the Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987).
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning are a determining referral authority.
Planning Application Public Notice
Council may determine the Project may result in material detriment and therefore requires the planning permit application to be put on public notice.
The public notice period will be a minimum of 14 statutory days.
Once the minimum notice period has finished, and if no objections/ submissions have been received, Council can make a decision in relation to the whether a planning permit should be issued or refused.
If an objection is received, Council can either refuse to grant a permit (specifying the reasons for refusal) or issue a Notice of Decision to Issue Permit (NOD) with conditions. Each objector / submitter has 28 days to lodge an application to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to review the NOD issued by the Council.
If the matter ends up at VCAT, there are likely to be significant delays, however, this is dependent on the nature of the matter. If no application made to VCAT, Council can issue the planning permit at the end of the 28-day period.
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Planning Fees
As set out by the State Government, the fee for a planning permit application associated with the removal of vegetation is between $1547.60 and $3413.70 if the development costs are between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.
Timing of an Application
Once submitted and a planning fee has been paid, Council is required to determine the planning permit application within 60 statutory days (all days excluding public holidays). However, on average, assessment periods of application are longer than the statutory period. Reports1 indicate that Macedon Ranges Shire Council, on average, take approximately 3-4 months to decide on a planning permit application, regardless of the type of permit being applied for.
If further information is required, referral or third-party notice undertaken, the clock will stop on permit the assessment until the request for further information is satisfied and the referral or third-party notice period is completed.
4.2.4 Cultural Heritage Management Plan A Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) is a written report prepared by a Cultural Heritage Advisor. A CHMP is required when a ‘high impact activity’ is planned in an area of ‘cultural heritage sensitivity’ (CHS). In these circumstances, planning permits, licences and work authorities can’t be issued unless a CHMP has been approved for the activity.
Multiple areas of CHS have been identified partially within the Project footprint and a mandatory CHMP has been identified as being required for the proposed Project. Council will require a copy of the approved CHMP prior to issuing a planning permit for vegetation removal.
4.3 Existing Planning Permit Planning Permit 2080233 was granted to WW in 2008 for the Project site to allow for the removal of native vegetation. Condition 2 of the planning permit specifies that within three months of commencement of works associated with the planning permit, an Offset Management Plan (OMP) to compensate for the vegetation removal must be submitted to and approved by the responsibly authority (Council). A copy of Planning Permit 2080233 can be found at Appendix F. A copy of the OMP can be found at Appendix G.
An Offset Management Plan (OMP) was prepared by Habitat Management Services, on behalf of WW, responding to the planning permit condition. It identifies an offset site west of the existing plant along Stephens Creek. The offset site is approximately 200m long and 10m wide on each side of the creek. It is likely that the proposed pipeline from the header pit to the inlet works will impact on the offset site.
Condition 2 (g) of the Planning Permit 2080233 states that the offset plan should include details of methods of permanent protection for established offsets. Condition 4 of Planning Permit 2080233 states that any native vegetation removal on the site must be carried out in accordance with the OMP and must not be altered or modified without the written consent of the responsible authority.
The OMP, under the ‘Land Manager’s Commitments (section 9)’, requires Western Water, for a period of ten years from commencement, to ensure that no native vegetation (associated with the offset site) is removed,
1 https://knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au/councils/macedon-ranges/reports/summary
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5 Field Assessment Results
A field assessment of the investigation area was conducted by a Jacobs ecologist on 2 September 2020. The purpose of the field assessment was to identify the location and quality of native vegetation and fauna habitat based on the findings of the desktop assessment. This section describes ecological values present within the investigation area during the field assessment.
5.1 Native Vegetation The vegetation within the investigation area comprises planted native and non-native tree species. Native vegetation as Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC) was recorded in the north western portion of the project area in the vicinity of Stephens Creek and Jacksons Creek (see Figure 5-1). Several remnant (scattered) trees were also recorded within the study area.
Approximately 0.7 ha of native vegetation was mapped within the study area. This native vegetation occurred across four distinct habitat zones and three ecological vegetation classes. The EVCs recorded are largely outside the proposed construction footprint and should be clearly marked in the project Environment Management Plan to ensure there are no impacts. The establishment of no-go areas is recommended to ensure potential impacts are managed. Native vegetation within the study area is described by EVC in Table 5.1. A habitat hectare assessment was undertaken for each of the habitat zones and the results have been included in Habitat Hectare Assessment Results.
The investigation area also supported six large scattered trees and two large canopy trees (see Remnant Tree Register). All of the mapped trees have the potential to provide fauna habitat for a range of fauna.
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Figure 5-1: Map of vegetation
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Table 5.1: Native vegetation within the investigation area described by EVC
Habitat EVC Site photograph Description Zone ID
HZ1 641: DELWP describe Riparian Woodland within the bioregion as Riparian occurring beside permanent streams, typically on narrow alluvial Woodland deposits. Woodland to 15 m tall generally dominated by Eucalyptus camaldulensis over a tussock grass-dominated understorey. Tall shrubs may be present and amphibious herbs may occur in occasional ponds and beside creeks. While flooding may be common, sites are rarely inundated for lengthy periods. Within the investigation area Riparian Woodland was highly degraded, lacking a canopy, and with a shrub layer comprised of plantings. A indigenous grass (e.g. Common Tussock-grass Poa labillardierei) and other graminoid species were present, though understorey vegetation was mostly dominated by robust exotic perennial grasses.
HZ2 55_63: DELWP describe Plains Grassy Woodland within the bioregion as an Higher open, eucalypt woodland to 15 m tall. Occupies poorly drained, fertile Rainfall soils on flat or gently undulating plains at low elevations. The Plains understorey consists of a few sparse shrubs over a species-rich Grassy grassy and herbaceous ground layer. This variant occupies areas Woodland receiving approximately 500 – 700 mm annual rainfall. Within the investigation area Plains Grassy Woodland comprised an open canopy of large Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. viminalis (Manna Gum) over a degraded grassy understorey generally dominated by exotic species. A moderate suite of indigenous herbaceous species was present.
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Habitat EVC Site photograph Description Zone ID
HZ3, 851: DELWP describe Stream Bank Shrubland within the bioregion as tall HZ4a Stream shrubland to 8 m tall above a ground layer of sedges and herbs. A and Bank sparse eucalypt overstorey to 15 m tall may sometimes be present. HZ4b Shrubland Occurs along rivers and major streams where the watercourse consists of either rocky banks, a flat rocky stream bed or broad gravel banks which are often dry but are also regularly flooded by fast flowing waters. Within the investigation area Stream Bank Shrubland comprised plantings of indigenous shrub species with scattered eucalypts. As with other EVCs within the investigation area the ground-layer was dominated by exotic perennial grass species, though a moderate suite of indigenous herbaceous species was also present.
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5.2 Threatened Ecological Communities Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55) vegetation within the investigation area was assessed as to whether it comprised part of a Threatened Ecological Community (TEC). While elements of two TECs were present within this vegetation, neither was deemed to occur (see Table 5.2). No additional TECs listed under the EPBC Act or FFG Act were present within the investigation area. Table 5.2: Threatened Ecological Communities associated with Plains Grassy Woodland
Threatened Ecological Conservation status Present within Comments Community investigation area
Grassy Eucalypt Woodland EPBC Act – Critically No While elements of the community are of the Victorian Volcanic Endangered present (e.g. open eucalypt canopy, Plain presence of indigenous grassy understorey species), the vegetation is dominated by exotic species and therefore does not meet condition thresholds set out for this community.
Western Basalt Plains FFG Act - Listed No Vegetation does not meet structural (River Red Gum) Grassy and floristic description of community Woodland (e.g. lacks River Red Gums)
5.3 Threatened Species
5.3.1 Threatened species listed under the EPBC Act and FFG Act No threatened flora or fauna species listed under the EPBC Act or FFG Act were recorded within the investigation area during the current assessment. Of the 36 EPBC Act-listed species and 38 FFG Act-listed species identified as potentially occurring within the investigation area (Threatened Species) all are considered to have a low likelihood of occurrence.
5.3.2 Rare and threatened species listed on the VicAdv No regionally indigenous rare or threatened flora or fauna species listed under Victorian Advisory Lists were recorded within the investigation area during the current assessment. One flora species listed as rare— Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle)—was recorded within the investigation area, however this species is not indigenous to the region and its occurrence is the result of planting.
Of the remaining 59 rare or threatened species identified as potentially occurring within the investigation area none are considered to have a likelihood of occurrence greater than moderate.
5.3.3 Protected flora listed under the FFG Act The investigation area contained populations of six floral species protected under the FFG Act. A ‘Permit to Take’ will be required if avoidance of this flora cannot occur within the areas of public land:
◼ Acacia mearnsii (Black Wattle) ◼ Acacia verticillata s.l. (Prickly Moses) ◼ Senecio hispidulus s.l. (Rough Fireweed) ◼ Senecio quadridentatus (Cotton Fireweed) ◼ Senecio minimus (Shrubby Fireweed) ◼ Senecio glomeratus s.l. (Annual Fireweed)
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5.4 Noxious weeds and declared pest species A total of nine noxious weed species as listed under the CaLP Act were recorded within the investigation area (Table 5.3) all species are listed as Regionally Controlled within the Port Phillip and Westernport CMA region. Land owners have the responsibility to take all reasonable steps to prevent the growth and spread of Regionally Controlled species on their land.
Table 5.3: Noxious weed species
Species name Common name Noxious weed status
Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Regionally Controlled
Cynara cardunculus subsp. flavescens Artichoke Thistle Regionally Controlled
Hypericum perforatum subsp. veronense St John's Wort Regionally Controlled
Juncus acutus subsp. acutus Spiny Rush Regionally Controlled
Marrubium vulgare Horehound Regionally Controlled
Rosa rubiginosa Sweet Briar Regionally Controlled
Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. Blackberry Regionally Controlled
Silybum marianum Variegated Thistle Regionally Controlled
Ulex europaeus Gorse Regionally Controlled
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6 Potential Impacts to Native Vegetation
Based on the current proposed works most of the impacted areas will be within previously disturbed areas which are currently devoid of native vegetation. However, the following works component may have implications for native vegetation removal:
◼ Pipeline from header pit to inlet works: The current proposed alignment traverses HZ2 (Plains Grassy Woodland) and HZ3 (Stream Bank Shrubland) and comes within the TPZ of a large remnant tree (Tree ID 1). ◼ Effluent pipeline: Currently the pipeline intersects tree protection zone of a large remnant tree (Tree ID 8). There may not be TPZ implications though for this tree as it sits well below the height of the access track and the location of the pipeline. This should be confirmed by an arborist. 7 Mitigation
Any application to impact native vegetation for the purpose of undertaking Stage 1 of the Gisborne Recycled Water Plant (RWP) upgrade must be undertaken in accordance with the Guidelines for the Removal, Destruction or Lopping of Native Vegetation. Part of this application is to provide a statement as to what steps have been taken to ensure that impacts on biodiversity from native vegetation removal have been avoided or minimised.
7.1 Avoid and minimise All efforts to avoid and minimise impacts to native vegetation mapped in Figure 5-1 should be made initially through the design phase of the project. This includes altering alignments to avoid native vegetation and utilising previously disturbed areas as construction zones wherever possible. Altering construction methods can also reduce native vegetation impacts.
Avoid impacts to large remnant trees (as per Figure 5-1). This includes the large Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis) within HZ2 adjacent to the header pit located at the top of the hill at the north west end of the activity area. It is recommended the pipeline be moved as far from the tree as practical.
In addition, efforts to avoid planted areas should be made. Whilst there may be no planning permit obligations for impacts to these areas, they are an important habitat source for fauna and should be avoided where practicable. Such features provide important landscape amenity and screen the site from adjoining properties.
Where impacts to native vegetation cannot be avoided, and all efforts to minimise impacts have been exhausted, an application to remove native vegetation through a planning permit must be pursued.
7.2 Mitigation measures
In addition to the avoiding and minimising impacts to native vegetation, a number of mitigation measures are proposed to mitigate the risk of any residual impacts to biodiversity that might result from the proposed construction works. Those include:
◼ Restrict activities to access tracks and designated ground disturbance footprint: All construction- related activities should be restricted to the exiting access tracks and ground disturbance footprint. ◼ Trees that are to be retained are to be protected in accordance with Australian Standards: AS4970- 2009 Protection of Trees on Development Sites.
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◼ Avoid felling trees that are considered to be ‘lost’ due to TPZ impacts: Where feasible, trees that are considered to be ‘lost’2 as a result of the proposed works in TPZ are to be left in situ. ◼ Undertake fauna salvage if trees require removal: Where trees are required to be removed, an ecologist / wildlife handler must be engaged to check for fauna occupancy. Where fauna is identified, fauna are to be safely relocated prior to the removal of habitat. Any interaction with wildlife through habitat clearing activities must be undertaken by a person holding a Section 28A Wildlife Act 1975 authorisation. ◼ Implement appropriate erosion and sedimentation controls: Environmental management for erosion and sediment control, in accordance with EPA Victoria construction guidelines (Publications 275, 480 and 960) will be implemented for works in the vicinity of waterways and wetlands. Controls are to be implemented such that the water quality of waterways within and adjacent to the investigation area is to be maintained at pre-construction levels. ◼ The spread of noxious weeds and pest animals must be controlled in accordance with the CaLP Act. A Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) is to be prepared that details necessary management and mitigation measures to minimise potential impacts to the environment for the proposed construction activities. 8 Legislative and Policy Implications
Table 8.1 outlines the policy and legislation that is relevant to this planning and ecology assessment which will inform the Works Approval Application (WAA) for the Stage 1 upgrade of Gisborne RWP. Table 8.1: Policy and legislation implications for the project
Policy/Legislation Project relevance/ actions required
Environment Protection and Biodiversity No action required under this Act. Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)
Environment Effects Act 1978 (EE Act) No action required under this Act. Planning approval under the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme is required for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation, Planning and Environment Act 1987 (P&E Act) pursuant to the following: ▪ Clause 52.17 Native Vegetation And the Guidelines for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation (the An assessment of the final functional design against the site Guidelines) vegetation characteristics recorded within this report will be required to inform the relevant planning permit application.
A ‘Permit To Take’ will be required if impact to flora protected under Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG the FFG Act cannot be avoided. Act)
No rare or threatened species were recorded onsite (with the Victorian Advisory Lists (VicAdv) exception of one non-indigenous species) and no further consideration is required. A number of noxious weed species were recorded within the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 investigation area (see Section 5.4). Control measures are to be (CaLP Act) included within the CEMP to prevent the spread of noxious weeds and pest animals.
2 where the technicalities of the Tree Protection requirement mean that where greater than 10% of the Tree Protection Zone is impacted the tree is considered ‘lost’ from an approval’s perspective. Such trees should be retained where considered safe to do so.
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9 Conclusion and Next Steps
9.1 Conclusion This Ecology and Planning Assessment addresses the known and potential ecological values and planning constraints within the Project area. This assessment intends to inform the Works Approval Application (WAA) for the Stage 1 upgrade of Gisborne RWP. The following has been identified:
◼ Based on the planning assessment, it has been determined that planning approval for use and development associated with a minor utility installation is exempt under the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme, pursuant to Clause 62.01 (Uses not requiring a permit) and Clause 62.02-2 (Buildings and Works). ◼ Based on the planning and ecology assessment, it has been determined that planning approval for the removal of native vegetation, including dead native vegetation, is required under the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme, pursuant to Clause 52.17 (Native Vegetation).
9.2 Next Steps The following steps are required in order proceed with the Stage 1 upgrade of Gisborne RWP. ◼ Determine the extent of native vegetation impact and calculate the number of credits that would be required to offset the vegetation impacts of the project. ◼ A ‘Permit to Take’ will need to be acquired from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) if any FFG listed flora or fauna species are likely to be affected or threatened by processes occurring from the proposed works. ◼ A CEMP is to be prepared that details necessary management and mitigation measures (detailed in Section 7) to minimise potential impacts to the environment from the proposed construction activities. ◼ Submit a Planning Permit Application to Macedon Ranges Shire Council to facilitate the removal of native vegetation associated with the Project. There are two pathways WW can take in regard the planning permit application, as follows: – Option 1: WW apply for a planning permit prior to the completion of a detailed design of the pipeline. ▪ If granted, construction of the project would be able to begin as soon the completion of the detailed design phase. ▪ There are programme risks associated with this option, as, due to the current lack of assessment area, the extent of vegetation removal may be subject to change, thus affecting the conditions of an approved planning permit, potentially delaying the programme due to the need for a planning permit amendment. ▪ Flexible conditions on the planning permit may allow for a greater flexibility in vegetation removal conditions. ▪ As the project intersects an area of CHS, a CHMP must be prepared and approved before a planning permit is granted, potentially delaying the application stage. – Option 2: WW apply for a planning permit after the completion of a detailed design of the pipeline. ▪ Construction of the project must wait until the planning permit application has been granted, potentially causing delays to the programme. ▪ Vegetation removal and associated offsets would be less likely needing amendment due to accuracy and knowledge of assessment area ▪ As the project intersects an area of CHS, a CHMP must be prepared and approved before a planning permit is granted. Submitting a permit at a later stage of the design may allow time for the completion and approval of a CHMP.
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10 References
Cogger, H. (2014). Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Clayton, CSIRO Publishng.
DAWE. (2020). "Protected Matters Search Tool." from http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected- matters-search-tool.
DAWE. (2020). "Species Profile and Threats Database." from http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat.
DAWE. (2020). "Species Profile and Threats Database: Synemom plana - Golden Sun Moth." Retrieved 9/3/2020, from http://www.environment.gov.au/sprat.
DELWP (2017). Guidelines for the removal, destruction or lopping of native vegetation. Melbourne, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Government of Victoria.
DELWP. (2020). "Bioregions and EVC Benchmarks." from https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/biodiversity/bioregions-and-evc-benchmarks#vriv.
DELWP. (2020). "NatureKit." Retrieved 2020, from http://maps.biodiversity.vic.gov.au/viewer/?viewer=NatureKit.
DELWP. (2020). "Victorian Biodiversity Atlas." from https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/biodiversity/victorian-biodiversity-atlas.
DEPI (2013). Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria - 2013. East Melbourne, Department of the Environment and Primary Industries.
DEPI (2014). Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria - 2014. East Melbourne, Department of the Environment and Primary Industries, Government of Victoria.
DSE (2009). Advisory List of Threatened Invertebrate Fauna in Victoria - 2009. East Melbourne, Department of Sustainability and the Environment, Government of Victoria.
Hawking, J. H., L. M. Smith and K. Le Busque (2009). Identification and Ecology of Australian Freshwater Invertebrates.
International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. (2018). "The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2018-2: Western Yellow Wagtail." from https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/103822349/132196844.
Jeanes, J. and G. Backhouse (2006). Wild Orchids of Victoria, Australia. Seaford, Aquatic Photographics.
Pizzey, G. and F. Knight (2012). The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia. Sydney, Harper Collins Australia.
RBGV. (2014). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
RBGV. (2015). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
RBGV. (2016). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
RBGV. (2017). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
RBGV. (2018). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
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RBGV. (2019). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
RBGV. (2020). "Flora of Victoria Online (VicFlora)." from https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/.
SWIFFT. (2020). "Statewide Integrated Flora and Fauna Teams." from http://www.swifft.net.au.
Van Dyck, S. and R. Strahan (2008). The Mammals of Australia. Sydney, Reed New Holland.
Walsh, N. and T. Entwisle (1994). Flora of Victoria Volume 2: Ferns and Allied Plants, Conifers and Monocotyledons, Inkata Press, Melbourne.
Walsh, N. and T. Entwisle (1996). Flora of Victoria Volume 3: Dicotoledons; Winteraceae to Mytaceae, Inkata Press, Melbourne.
Walsh, N. and T. Entwisle (1999). Flora of Victoria Volume 4: Dicotoledons; Cornaceae to Asteraceae, Inkata Press, Melbourne.
Wilson, S. and G. Swan (2008). A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia - Second Edition. Sydney, Reed New Holland.
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Threatened Species
Threatened species identified through the desktop assessment, and a determination of their likelihood of presence within the investigation area determined though field assessment are listed below.
Table A 1: Key to species conservation status
Key to species conservation status
Status under the EPBC Act CR Critically endangered
EN Endangered
VU Vulnerable
Status under the FFG Act LA Listed
Status on the VicAdv
en Endangered
vu Vulnerable
r Rare
nt Near Threatened
Table A 2: Key to species likelihood of presence
Key to species likelihood of presence
Present High ▪ Species recorded within the investigation area by the ▪ Recent records of the species in the vicinity of the present study. investigation area, and/or; ▪ The investigation area contains high-quality habitat for the species
Moderate Low ▪ Limited or historic records of the species in the vicinity of the ▪ No previous records of the species in the vicinity of the investigation area, and/or; investigation area, and/or, ▪ The study area contains potential habitat for the species ▪ The investigation area contains limited or no suitable habitat for the species, and/or; ▪ The investigation area lies outside the geographic range of the species.
Table A 3: Threatened flora identified as relevant to the investigation area.
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Confined to eastern Victoria from the upper Macalister River area near Mt Howitt south to near Yarram and east to near Present – though occurrence is the result Acacia howittii Sticky Wattle r 2012 1 Tabberabbera. Grows in moist forest. Widely cultivated and of plantings, and the species is not naturalising in some areas (e.g. Daylesford, Greater indigenous to the region. Melbourne, Dandenong Ranges etc.) (RBGV 2018).
Confined to the Bacchus Marsh area (Lerderderg Gorge, Long Forest, Coimadai, Balliang and Werribee) where it occurs in low Bacchus Marsh Acacia rostriformis L vu 2013 2 hilly areas in Eucalyptus woodland. Records from outside the Low Wattle Bacchus Marsh area are thought to be mislabelled or possibly of cultivated material (RBGV 2018).
Largely confined to permanent swamps, principally along the Murray River between Wodonga and Echuca, uncommon to rare in the south (e.g. Casterton, Moe, Yarram), probably due Amphibromus River Swamp to historic drainage of wetlands (RBGV 2016). Largely VU R PMST Low fluitans Wallaby-grass restricted in greater Melbourne to seasonal wetlands and mudflats of River Red Gum swamps of the Lower Yarra and Plenty/Merri volcanic plains north of Melbourne (Cam Beardsell pers. comm.).
In Victoria, apparently confined to eastern Victoria from near- Rigid Spider- Caladenia tensa EN vu PMST coastal heathy woodlands to open forests on well-drained Low orchid sandy soils (RBGV 2015).
Confined to a limited area near Stawell in western Victoria Caladenia Candy Spider- VU L en PMST where it grows in herb-rich Yellow Box woodland on seasonally Low versicolor orchid wet soils. Flowers Sep to Nov (Jeanes and Backhouse 2006).
Convolvulus Mostly in grassland, grassy woodland. Flowers mainly in angustissimus Slender k 2016 1 Spring, Summer (but spasmodically throughout the year) Low subsp. Bindweed (Walsh and Entwisle 1999). omnigracilis
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km Widespread throughout the state except for the north-west and the alpine and adjacent mountainous areas, and usually at low elevations (under c. 100 m) where mostly in grasslands and Coronidium Pale Swamp vu 2011 5 riverine Eucalyptus camaldulensis woodland on soils that are Low gunnianum Everlasting prone to inundation. Flowers (Nov.–) Feb.–Apr.(–Jun.) (RBGV 2018).
Largely confined to drier grassy woodland and grassland Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily EN L en 2017 59 communities south of the Dividing Range and now much Low depleted through its range (RBGV 2017).
Grows in low-lying, often winter-wet areas in woodland, low Dodonaea Trailing Hop- VU vu PMST open-forest and grassland on sands and clays (Walsh and Low procumbens bush Entwisle 1996).
Eucalyptus Very restricted in Victoria, to the Woodend – Gisborne region Black Gum VU L en PMST Low aggregata (Walsh and Entwisle 1996).
Extending west from Glengarry (near Traralgon) to Melbourne and north-west to Daylesford and Ararat. Collections of small- budded and -fruited swamp gums from east of Cavendish may be this taxon. Very small-fruited forms of the species occur in remnant stands in outer southeastern to northeastern Eucalyptus Melbourne suburbs (e.g. Scoresby, Wantirna, Yan Yean). Yarra Gum R r 2010 2 Low yarraensis A poorly known species whose distribution appears to have been much fragmented by the clearing of the natural habitat. It is distinguished from E. ovata by the completely rough bark and smaller leaves, buds and fruits. Fresh leaves steeped in hot water emit a bitter-almond (cyanic) odour, a reaction not observed in E. ovata (RBGV 2018).
Geranium An uncommon species occurring in damp to dryish, sheltered Austral solanderi var. vu 2003 1 sites of grassy woodlands, often along drainage lines or Low Crane's-bill solanderi s.s. seepage areas (Walsh and Entwisle 1999).
Large-flower Known from only two records in Broadmeadows. Flowers April Geranium sp. 1 L en 2010 4 Low Crane's-bill (Walsh and Entwisle 1999).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Pale-flower Found in open, grassy areas of dry woodland forest. Flowers Geranium sp. 3 r 2017 3 Low Crane's-bill Sep.-Jan (Walsh and Entwisle 1999).
Widespread but of sporadic occurrence and rarely Glycine latrobeana Clover Glycine VU L vu PMST encountered. Grows mainly in grasslands and grassy Low woodlands (Walsh and Entwisle 1996).
Occurs in and around saline depressions on the Volcanic Plain Lachnagrostis Adamson's EN L vu PMST where recorded from Portalington west almost to the South Low adamsonii Blown-grass Australian border (RBGV 2015).
Collected from scattered sites on the volcanic plain, but now much reduced from its former range and recorded recently only from e.g. Moorabool, Winchelsea, Bacchus Marsh, Woodend, Lepidium Basalt Trentham. Most recent collections are from disturbed, rather EN L en PMST Low hyssopifolium s.s. Peppercress weedy sites. One collection from near Port Fairy is noteworthy for its occurrence in a slightly saline estuary amongst saltmarsh and fringing sedgeland. Flowers mostly summer-autumn (RBGV 2019).
Very rare in Victoria, the only recent collections from volcanic grassland remnants in the Wickliffe, Willaura, Streatham, Inverleigh and Creswick districts. All other Victorian collections Leucochrysum were made last century, from e.g. Mt Cole, the Grampians and albicans subsp. White Sunray EN L en PMST the Port Fairy district. Collections from the Victorian alps have Low tricolor been attributed to this subspecies, but they may be the result of hybridisation between Leucochrysum alpinum and Leucochrysum albicans subsp. albicans. Flowers Nov.-Dec (RBGV 2017).
Mainly confined to near-coastal sandy heaths, scrubs slightly raised above saltmarsh, riparian scrubs, rocky coastlines and Melaleuca foothill outcrops eastwards from about Marlo. Occurrences to NA – species not indigenous to region. Giant Honey- armillaris subsp. r 2016 2 the west are naturalized from cultivated stock. Commonly Represented in landscape by planted and myrtle armillaris grown for ornament across Victoria, as a windbreak or street naturalised specimens. tree and sometimes giving rise to seedlings, particularly after fire (RBGV 2019).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Widespread and often locally common in Victoria, and Microseris Plains Yam- vu 1996 1 occupying a wide range of habitats. Flowers mainly through Low scapigera s.s. daisy Spring and Summer (Walsh and Entwisle 1994).
Grows in grassland, open shrubland and occasionally Pimelea Spiny Rice- woodland, often on basalt-derived soils. Mostly west of spinescens subsp. CR L en PMST Low flower Melbourne (to near Horsham), but extending as far north as spinescens Echuca (RBGV 2017).
The common tussock grass of streamsides and alluvial flats Poa labillardierei through most of the State, but a distinctive form with completely Basalt Tussock- var. (Volcanic k 2017 3 glabrous lemmas, lacking a web, occurs near drainage lines of Low grass Plains) the Volcanic Plain. It is often more robust than typical forms of the variety which may grow in association with it (RBGV 2018).
Widespread across southern Victoria, but rare. Occurs in Prasophyllum Maroon Leek- EN L en PMST grassland, heathland and open forest on well-drained or water- Low frenchii orchid retentive sand or clay loams (RBGV 2018).
Apparently localized in Victoria, but exact range uncertain due Pterostylis Green-striped VU L vu 1990 1 to confusion with closely allied species. Grows in moist areas of Low chlorogramma Greenhood heathy and shrubby forest, on well-drained soils (RBGV 2018).
In Victoria confined to basaltic grasslands between Rokewood Rutidosis Button and Melbourne where endangered due to loss of habitat EN L en PMST Low leptorhynchoides Wrinklewort (formerly occurring as far west as Casterton, and on the Gippsland Plain near Newry) (RBGV 2015).
Senecio Rare, restricted in Victoria to a few herb-rich winter-wet Swamp psilocarpus VU vu 2016 3 swamps throughout the south of the state, west from Sale, Low Fireweed growing on volcanic clays or peaty soils (RBGV 2017).
Stylidium armeria Restricted to dry, shaly soils in grassy or heathy woodland in Hairy-leaf subsp. pilosifolium L en 2009 1 the south-east Macedon Ranges near Barringo and Riddels Low Triggerplant Creek and also in the Pyrete Range (RBGV 2020).
Thelymitra Widely distributed but rare, in coastal sandy flats or slightly Spiral Sun- matthewsii VU L vu PMST elevated sites (to 400 m) in well-drained soils (sandy loams to Low orchid gravelly limestone soils) in open forest. Plants colonise
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km disturbed sites and slowly disappear as these sites stabilise. Flowers open widely on warm days, but are self-pollinating and short–lived. Flowers Aug-Sep (-Oct) (RBGV 2014).
Occurs in lowland swamps, usually on black cracking clay soils, Xerochrysum Swamp scattered from near the South Australian border north-west of palustre VU L vu 2016 8 Low Everlasting Portland to Bairnsdale district, but rare due to habitat depletion (RBGV 2018).
Table A 4: Threatened fauna identified as relevant to the investigation area.
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Shallow, pebbly, muddy or sandy edges of rivers and streams, coastal to far inland; dams, lakes, sewage ponds; margins of Common Actitis hypoleucos vu PMST tidal rivers; waterways in mangroves or saltmarsh; mudflats; Low Sandpiper rocky or sandy beaches; causeways, riverside lawns, drains, street gutters (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Dry open forest, woodlands, or red ironbark, yellow box, white Anthochaera Regent CR L cr PMST and yellow gum, mistletoe on river she-oaks, trees in Low phrygia Honeyeater farmlands, streets, gardens (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Fork-tailed Aerial, over open country, from semi deserts to coasts, islands, Apus pacificus Mig PMST Low Swift sometimes over forests or cities (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Shallows of rivers, estuaries, tidal mudflats, freshwater Ardea alba Great Egret L vu wetlands; sewage ponds, irrigation areas, larger dams etc Low 2018 2 (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Deep, permanent wetlands, large open waters, brackish coastal Aythya australis Hardhead vu swamps, farm dams, ornamental lakes , sewage ponds (Pizzey Low 2018 1 and Knight 2012).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Botaurus Australasian Narrow habitat preferences, preferring shallow, vegetated EN L en PMST Low poiciloptilus Bittern freshwater or brackish swamps (Pizzey and Knight 2012). Tidal mudflats, saltmarshes, mangroves; shallow fresh, brackish or saline inland wetlands; floodwaters, irrigated Sharp-tailed Calidris acuminata Mig PMST pasture and crops; sewage ponds and saltfields (Pizzey and Low Sandpiper Knight 2012).
Curlew Tidal mudlfats; saltmarsh, saltfields; fresh, brackish or saline Calidris ferruginea CR L en PMST Low Sandpiper wetlands; sewage ponds (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Prefers shallow fresh waters, often with low grass or other Pectoral Calidris melanotos nt PMST herbage; swamp margins, flooded pastures, sewerage ponds; Low Sandpiper occasionally tidal areas, saltmarshes (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Drier forests/woodlands/scrubs, with fallen branches; Climacteris Brown nt particularly River Red Gum lined water courses (Pizzey and Low picumnus Treecreeper 2006 1 Knight 2012).
Dasyurus Has a wide range of habitats, including rainforest, open forest, Spot-tailed maculatus EN L en PMST woodland, coastal heathland and inland riparian forest (Van Low Quoll maculatus Dyck and Strahan 2008).
A grassland specialist, potential habitat for the Striped Legless Lizard includes all areas which have, or once had, native grasslands or grassy woodlands (including derived grasslands) Striped Legless Delma impar VU L en PMST across the historical range of the species, provided that area Low Lizard retains suitable tussock structure, the soil is of appropriate type and structure, and the site has not had major disturbance such as ploughing (DAWE 2020).
Lightly treed inland plains, gibber deserts, sandridges, pastoral Falco hypoleucos Grey Falcon L en PMST lands, timber watercourses; seldom in driest deserts (Pizzey Low and Knight 2012).
In streams, burrow in moist soil, in yabby burrows, ground Galaxiella pusilla Dwarf Galaxias VU L en PMST Low water and underground streams (Hawking, Smith et al. 2009).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Gallinago Freshwater or brackish wetlands, preferring to be close to Latham's Snipe nt Low hardwickii 2016 2 protective vegetation cover (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Mistletoes in eucalypt forests/woodlands; black box on Painted watercourses; box-ironbark-yellow gum woodlands; Grantiella picta VU L vu PMST Low Honeyeater paperbarks, Casuarinas; mulga, other acacias; trees on farmland; gardens (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Airspace over forests, woodlands, farmlands, plains, lakes, Hirundapus White-throated coasts, towns, feeding companies frequency patrol back and VU L vu PMST Low caudacutus Needletail forward along favoured hilltops and timbered ranges (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Open grassy woodland, with dead trees, near permanent water Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot CR L en PMST and forested hills, coastal heaths, pastures with exotic grasses, Low weeds, roadsides, orchards (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Swamp woodlands, rushes, reeds, rank grass in swamps, Lewinia pectoralis Lewin's Rail L vu Low 2018 10 creeks, paddocks; wet heaths (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
A largely aquatic species found among vegetation within or at the edges of permanent water – streams, swamps, lagoons, Growling Grass Litoria raniformis VU L en PMST farm dams and ornamental ponds. Often found under debris on Low Frog low, often flooded river flats. Frequently active by day (Cogger 2014).
Black-faced Monarch is found in rainforests, eucalypt Monarcha Black-faced Mig PMST woodlands, coastal scrub and damp gullies. It may be found in Low melanopsis Monarch more open woodland when migrating (DAWE 2020).
This species occupies a range of damp or wet habitats with low vegetation, from damp meadows, marshes, waterside pastures, sewage farms and bogs to damp steep and grassy tundra. In Motacilla Eastern Yellow Mig PMST the north of its range it is also found in large forest clearings. It Low tschutschensis Wagtail breeds from April to August, although this varies with latitude. Does not breed in Australia (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources 2018).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Satin Flycatchers inhabit heavily vegetated gullies in eucalypt- Myiagra Satin dominated forests and taller woodlands, and on migration, Mig PMST Low cyanoleuca Flycatcher occur in coastal forests, woodlands, mangroves and drier woodlands and open forests (DAWE 2020).
Estuaries, tidal mudflats, sandspits, saltmarshes, mangroves; Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew CR L vu PMST occasionally fresh or brackish lakes; bare grasslands near Low water (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Nycticorax Shallow margins of rivers, wetlands, mangrove-lined estuaries, Nankeen Night- caledonicus nt offshore islands, floodwaters, garden trees (Pizzey and Knight Low Heron 2011 1 2012).
Creeks and rivers along Australia's eastern seaboard. Formerly Ornithorhynchus at various locations along the Murray River. Burrows in banks anatinus Platypus N Low of waterways, with an identifiably horizontally oval cross- 2017 2 section. Generally breeds in September. Occur in littoral and coastal habitats and terrestrial wetlands of Pandion cristatus Eastern Osprey Mig PMST tropical and temperate Australia and offshore islands (DAWE Low 2020).
Pedionomus Sparse, treeless, lightly grazed native grasslands/herbfields Plains- torquatus CR L cr PMST with bare ground, old cereal crops, short Lucerne, sparse Low wanderer saltbush, low shrubland (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Petauroides A variety of eucalypt-dominated habitats, ranging from low, Southern volans VU L vu PMST open forests on the coast to tall forests on in the ranges and Low Greater Glider low woodland westward of the Dividing Range
Phalacrocorax Coastal waters with sloping shorelines; estuaries, bays, tidal varius Pied Cormorant nt inlets, large inland lakes and rivers, irrigation ponds, coastal Low 2017 2 mangroves and offshore islands (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Phascogale Well developed dry forest and woodland areas, with Brush-tailed tapoatafa L vu stringybarks and trees with hollows (Van Dyck and Strahan Low Phascogale 2016 1 2008).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Larger shallow waters, inland and coastal, well-vegetated Platalea regia Royal Spoonbill nt shallow freshwater wetlands, saltfields, mangroves, islands, Low 2017 1 farm dams occasionally (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Potorous Inhabits coastal heath and dry and wet sclerophyll forests. tridactylus Long-nosed Prefers relatively thick ground cover and is concentrated in VU L nt PMST Low trisulcatus Potoroo areas where soil is light and sandy. Generally restricted to areas where rainfall > 760mm (Van Dyck and Strahan 2008).
Predominately a freshwater fish but is considered diadromous because the fry have a marine phase. The majority of its life is spent in freshwater, inhabiting rivers and streams, usually in Prototroctes cool (5-26°C), clear waters with a gravel substrate and Australian maraena VU L vu PMST alternating pool and riffle zones but it has also been recorded to Low Grayling occur in turbid water with muddy-bottomed, heavily silted habitat as well. Grayling can penetrate well inland, and have been reported over 100 km upstream from the sea, provided there are no barriers to movement (SWIFFT 2020).
Pseudemoia Tussock grasslands with few or no trees from highlands in ne pagenstecheri Tussock Skink vu Victoria to low-altitude basalt plains of sthn Vic (Wilson and Low 2003 1 Swan 2008). Pteropus Camps of this species are found in gullies, typically not far from Grey-headed poliocephalus VU L vu PMST water and usually in vegetation with a dense canopy (Van Dyck Low Flying-fox and Strahan 2008).
In east and south-east Australia mainly inhabits wet sclerophyll Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail Mig PMST forests, often in gullies with a dense shrubby understorey and Low often including ferns (DAWE 2020).
Rostratula Well-vegetated shallows and margins of wetlands, dams, Australian australis EN L cr PMST sewage ponds; wet pastures, marshy areas, irrigation systems, Low Painted-snipe lignum, tea-tree scrub, open timber (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Native temperate grassland and open grassy woodlands, may Synemon plana Golden Sun CR L cr PMST also be found in degraded grasslands dominated by exotic Low Moth Chilean Needlegrass (DAWE 2020).
Conservation status Last # Common record records Likelihood of presence within the Scientific name Habitat name EPBC FFG VicAdv within within 5 investigation area 5 km km
Mudflats, estuaries, saltmarshes, margins of lakes; wetlands, Tringa nebularia Common vu PMST claypans, fresh and saline; commercial saltfields and sewage Low Greenshank ponds (Pizzey and Knight 2012).
Appendix D – Habitat Hectare Assessment Results
Habitat Hectare Assessment Results
Habitat Zone HZ1 HZ2 HZ3 HZ4 Bioregion Victorian Victorian Victorian Victorian Volcanic Volcanic Volcanic Volcanic Plains Plains Plains Plains EVC Max score 641: RW 55_63: PGW 851: SBS 851: SBS
Large Old Trees 10 0 4 0 0
Canopy Cover 5 0 5 3 3
Lack of Weeds 15 0 0 0 0
Understorey 25 15 15 15 15
Recruitment 10 10 3 0 0
Site Condition Site Organic Litter 5 2 4 0 0
Logs 5 0 2 0 0
Total Site Score 75 27 33 18 18
Patch Size 10 6 6 6 6
Neighbourhood 10 2 2 2 2
Value Distance to Core Area 5 1 1 1 1 Landscape Total Landscape Score 25 9 9 9 9
Habitat Score 100 36 42 27 27
Habitat points = #/100 1.00 0.36 0.42 0.27 0.27
Appendix E – Remnant Tree Register
Remnant Tree Register
Tree Tree type Patch Species DBH (cm, largest Tree TPZ (m) ID ID stem only) size 1 Canopy Tree HZ2 Eucalyptus viminalis 150 Large 18.0
2 Scattered Tree N/A Eucalyptus viminalis 90 Large 10.8
3 Scattered Tree N/A Eucalyptus camaldulemsis 93 Large 11.2
4 Scattered Tree N/A Eucalyptus camaldulensis 92 Large 11.0
5 Scattered Tree N/A Eucalyptus camaldulensis 92 Large 11.0
6 Canopy Tree HZ3 Eucalyptus sp. (Dead) 107 Large 12.8
7 Canopy Tree N/A Eucalyptus viminalis 160 Large 19.2
8 Scattered Tree N/A Eucalyptus viminalis 150 Large 18.0