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B.1 Shoalhaven Coastline and Jervis Bay – Physical and Environmental Context
B.1.1 Physical features
The Shoalhaven open coast extends 165 km along the NSW south coast, from Shoalhaven Heads to North Durras. Shoalhaven City Council manages 40 of Shoalhaven’s 109 beaches and 9 of its 14 estuaries, over a 165 km stretch of coastline. This is the largest stretch of managed coastline within any local government area in NSW. Ten of the beaches managed by Council are classified as being at high risk to coastal hazards, together with ten cliffs and bluffs. As a result, many of the studies and much of the risk management and mitigation works, have focussed on these areas. It is expected that the focus will need to expand into the future as more locations are impacted due to a changing climate. In addition, the remaining Council-managed open coast beaches will need to be considered in the CMP not only from a risk management and mitigation viewpoint, but from a social, environmental and cultural perspective also, as captured by the four coastal management areas described in the new Coastal Management SEPP. The following 10 beaches were prioritised for coastal hazard studies after being risk assessed for a 1% (100 ARI) coastal storm event in the 2004 Coastline Risk Management Report: • Shoalhaven Heads • Culburra Beach • Warrain Beach • Currarong Beach • Callala Beach • Collingwood Beach • Boat Harbour, Bendalong • Narrawallee Beach • Mollymook Beach • Collers Beach.
Physical descriptions of each of these beaches have been drawn from Shoalhaven Coastal Hazard Mapping Review prepared by Advisian (2016). 1. Shoalhaven Heads. Shoalhaven Heads is a small coastal town located on Seven Mile Beach at the foot of Mount Coolangatta and on the northern side of the Shoalhaven River entrance, a natural and untrained entrance. Seven Mile Beach is bounded by the town of Gerroa to the north, Crookhaven Heads to the south, Berrys Bay to the east and national parks inland. The most at-risk urban asset is the Sur Club, which came under threat during the storm and flooding event of 1978. The dunes at Shoalhaven Heads have previously undergone erosion due to the Shoalhaven River entrance’s behaviour during storms and flooding events stripping away sediment from the beach. Historically, the Shoalhaven Council’s policy is to maintain a v-shaped notch through the berm on Shoalhaven
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River entrance to influence the opening of the entrance at high water levels and alleviate flooding concerns. The influence of the entrance on the sediment budget of Shoalhaven Heads makes the beach a particularly unique one among the open coast. 2. Culburra Beach. Culburra Beach is located to the north-east of Wollumboola Lake and bound by Crookhaven River entrance to the north and Penguin Head to the south. Urban development along the beachfront is located behind highly vegetated dune which has undergone erosion due to storm cut and aeolian sediment transport. 3. Warrain Beach. Warrain Beach is a 10-kilometre-long open-coast beach located north-east of Jervis Bay. The beach is bounded by Penguin Head to the north and Cuurarong Head to the south. The location of Kinghorne’s Point along the midpoint of Warrain Beach means that the beach is separated into two distinct sediment compartments. 4. Currarong Beach. Currarong Beach is a 900m long beach located between the Currarong River entrance on the east and a bedrock outcrop on the west. There is a prominent rock outcrop midway of the beach which has formed a small salient influencing the beach morphology. Storm erosion and wave runup has eroded the dune to a steep shape.
5. Callala Beach. Callala Beach a 5-kilometre-long beach lo northern shore of Jervis Bay flanked by Callala Point to the north and Tapalla Point to the south. It is subject to ocean swell. However, wave climate at Callala Beach is much reduced, as it is in a semi-enclosed embayment, compared with that which, typically, is experienced on open-coast beaches along Shoalhaven City coastline. The incipient and frontal dune along have remained in a natural state, relatively undisturbed and covered in natural vegetation. However urban development has since reshaped and stripped the dune vegetation. Hard protection has been constructed on some areas of the dune to protect property from erosion.
6. Collingwood Beach. Collingwood Beach is located on the western shores of Jervis Bay and bounded by Moona Moona Creek entrance to the north and Orion Beach to the south. The beach is subject to ocean swell waves and wind waves, however like Callala beach, the ocean swells are less impactful than those experienced on the open coast. Dune vegetation along parts of Collingwood Beach has been deliberately damaged, causing the dunes to be more susceptible to erosion in future storms.
7. Boat Harbour Beach, Bendalong. Bendalong Boat Harbour Beach is located in Bendalong on the northern side of Red Point. The beach is approximately 300 metres long and is flanked by Red Point to the east and a rocky point on the west, separating the embayment from Washerwoman Beach to the west. The beach includes a range of facilities including a boat ramp, picnic areas, car parking, children’s play area and a toilet block, and is a very popular destination for boating, fishing and other ocean-based recreation.
7. Narrawallee. Narrawallee Beach is an open-coast beach located north of Ulladulla on the Shoalhaven coast. The beach is approximately 1.4 kilometres long and is flanked by an intertidal rock shelf at the southern end, and the sandstone headland of Preservation Rock and Narrawallee inlet at the northern end. The entrance to Narrawallee inlet is currently located to the north of Preservation Rock, and there is a prominent rock outcrop near the centre of the beach that has resulted in the formation of a salient. The southern end of the beach is flanked by a steep escarpment or bluff, and urban development, located behind a vegetated dune, flanks the northern half of the beach.
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8. Mollymook. Mollymook Beach is an open-coast beach located north of Ulladulla on the Shoalhaven coast. The beach is approximately two kilometres long and is flanked by a rocky sandstone headland of Bannisters Point at the northern end and an intertidal rock shelf to the south. Two small creeks cross the beach, one towards the southern end and another near the northern end. The entire beach is flanked by urban development and in some areas, the frontal dune has been interfered with, reshaped and denuded of natural vegetation, especially at the southern end where the Golf Club and Surf Club are located. Here, seawall structures have been constructed on the dune to protect property from erosion.
A dune has been recently constructed (April 2016) using sand sourced from dredging at Lake Conjola, on the northern side of Blackwater Creek, as well as a revetment constructed of rock and geobags. These works have reduced the coastal erosion and inundation hazard for the properties immediately north of the creek entrance, as well as reduced the propensity for the creek to break out towards the north along the beach.
9. Collers Beach. Collers Beach is located on the northern side of Ulladulla Head south of Mollymook Beach. The beach is approximately 150 metres long and is flanked by rocky headlands. The nearshore seabed comprises mainly rock reef. The beach is backed by the Mollymook Golf Course and there is a small residential subdivision on an elevated bluff to the north. On the northern side also are a car park and the start of a coastal walkway around to a local swimming hole (the Bogey Hole) and Mollymook Beach. There are some properties located behind the dune at the southern end of the beach.
Examples of the physical landscapes of the Shoalhaven coastal zone are shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
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Figure 1 – Example Shoalhaven open coast landscape - Culburra Beach, looking south showing foredune vegetation
Figure 2 – Example Cliff and Bluff and landscape – Penguin Head, Culburra
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B.1.2 Sediment Compartments
Carvallo and Woodroffe (2015) have undertaken a study of the coastal compartments of the eastern coast of NSW. They considered sediment compartments as subdivisions of the coast separated by major obstacles such as headlands, which stop longshore transport of sediment. Compartments were delineated based on physical characteristics as well as review and interpretation of hydrologic, geomorphic and sedimentological data. The following primary sediment compartments were identified for the Shoalhaven coast:
• A compartment centred on the Shoalhaven River estuary, encompassing Seven Mile Beach at Shoalhaven Heads, Culburra, Warrain and Currarong beaches; • A compartment centred on Jervis Bay, encompassing Callala and Collingwood beaches; • A compartment between Bannisters Point and Jervis Bay, encompassing Narrawallee beach; • A compartment between Warden Head and Bannisters Point, encompassing Ulladulla Harbour, Collers and Mollymook beaches.
These compartments have been further subdivided into secondary and tertiary sediment compartments by the presence of smaller headlands and based on sediment characteristics and transport. The Shoalhaven coastal compartment is dominated by the Shoalhaven River which is responsible for delivering significant quantities of sediment to the beaches in the compartment; with sand transport to the north limited by the presence of Black Head and sand transport to the south blocked by Beecroft peninsula.
McPherson et al. (2015) have delineated the coastline into similar sediment compartments when compared with those presented in Carvallo and Woodroffe (2015) – they identified secondary sediment compartments centred on the Shoalhaven River, Jervis Bay and a compartment between Ulladulla and Jervis Bay based on baseline reference data sets and a workshop with coastal experts.
When considering management of the coastline, under the NSW CM Act, CMPs are to be developed with regard to the natural processes of the coast including incorporating the use of coastal sediment compartments as ‘natural’ management units. The coastal sediment compartment approach identifies local government areas that share the same compartment, therefore requiring consultation between adjoining local councils in developing their CMPs. For the beaches of the Shoalhaven, Council shares the Shoalhaven sediment compartment (encompassing Seven Mile Beach) with neighbouring Kiama Council to the north.
The sand budget in the Shoalhaven River Estuary compartment is heavily reliant on the behaviour of Shoalhaven River entrance, affecting sediment budgets at Shoalhaven Heads, Culburra, Warrain and Cuurarong. Sources of sediment budget at this compartment include fluvial sand and mud supply, erosion of river flanks (mostly along Berry’s canal), sediment supply from rock headland erosion and biogenic production. Sand sinks include estuarine deposition, flood-tidal delta, loss of sand from beach to the barrier system and dredging around Pig Island. The sediment supply has influenced morphology of the nearby beaches as sand supply reduces as the beach creeps further from the river.
The other three sediment compartments undergo sediment exchange through transfer of sediment between beaches of the same compartment, which includes onshore-offshore sediment transport and
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sediment exchange between beach-shore face and shore face-inner continental shelf. The sediment compartments of the Shoalhaven coastal zone as delineated by NCCARF (2016) are shown in Figure 3.
B.1.3 Habitat
Fauna. Coastal lakes and estuarine creeks along the Shoalhaven coast provide a diverse, healthy and productive aquatic habitat of high ecological value, extensive areas of several endangered communities and roosting, feeding and breeding habitat for migratory shorebirds. There are whale migrations along the coast each autumn and spring. (CZMP)
The shore bird habitat is threatened by inappropriate recreational use such as dog walking along nesting areas.
The entire coastline is designated by DPI Fisheries as Key Fish Habitat. The Shoalhaven is one of the most popular fishing destinations in NSW and is home to a range of fish species such as bream, flathead, whiting, tailor, luderick, tailor, Australian salmon, bonito, trevally, drummer, snapper and kingfish.
The coastal dunes and beaches of the Shoalhaven provide habitat for diverse range of fauna including invertebrates (e.g. worms, insects and crabs), reptiles (e.g. skinks, snakes and goannas), birds and mammals (DLWC 2001).
Intertidal rocky habitats are found also throughout the Shoalhaven, that provide a hard substrate for the attachment of a variety of sessile marine invertebrates including barnacles, limpets, siphon shells, gastropods, tube worms and marine algae. A typical zonation of the marine flora and fauna attached to the intertidal rocky habitats is created as each individual organism / species has a preferred habitat range with an upper and lower limit determined by different environmental and biological factors.
Jervis Bay and surrounding waters are within the Jervis Bay Marine Park. Jervis Bay's clear waters are largely due to the joining of warm water from the East Australian Current and cooler water from the Bass Strait. With periodic upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich waters from the nearby Continental Shelf, these combined currents flow clockwise around the bay, completely flushing it out every 24 days or so (https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/marine-protected-areas/marine-parks/jervis-bay-marine-park).
Landforms provide a variety of habitats including deep water cliffs, exposed and sheltered sandy beaches, rock platforms, rocky reefs, soft-sediment bottoms, kelp forests, small estuaries, expansive seagrass meadows, mangrove forests and open ocean.
The region supports over 230 algae, hundreds of invertebrate and over 210 reef fish species, and sharks, rays, many marine mammals, birds and reptiles, including several threatened species. Aboriginal people have had strong ties to the Jervis Bay area over thousands of years and many culturally significant Aboriginal sites exist within the Marine Park.
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Figure 3 – Shoalhaven Sediment Compartments (NCCARF 2016)
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Flora. Marine flora include Posidonia, halophila, zostera and Ruppia seagrasses within Jervis Bay. Mangroves grow between mid and high tidal levels in protected areas. They can provide shoreline protection and serves as an important food source. The saltmarsh is an endangered ecological community and grows above the mangroves at the highest tidal levels. They play an important role in the estuarine food chain, providing habitat for invertebrate breeding and a foraging area for fish and shorebirds. All aquatic vegetation is protected under the NSW Fisheries Management (FM) Act 1994.
The beaches of the Shoalhaven are backed by coastal dune systems that vary in width and condition. Native coastal dune vegetation is highly adapted to withstand the harsh salt laden winds and sand drift which are typical of coastal beach environments. For example, growth of some plants such as Spinifex (Spinifex sericeus) and Beach Fescue (Austrofestuca littoralis) is stimulated by sand accretion, while others such as Coastal Wattle (Acacia sophorae) can withstand slow, partial burial by developing roots on buried branches (DLWC 2001).
Where significant human disturbance is absent, distinctive zonation of plants in the dune system may be observed, reflecting the increasingly protected / sheltered environment which is created with increasing distance from the shoreline. Three plant zones are usually recognised, extending landward from the backbeach: primary, secondary and tertiary. Primary zone species (grasses and creepers) colonise lower parts of the beach and trap abrasive sand particles forming a “foundation’’. Transient beach vegetation is generally dominated by grasses (e.g. Spinifex sericus and Festuca littoralis) which aid in the creation of incipient foredunes.
The foredune represents an elevated “wall” that can be colonised by secondary zone species (semi- permanent populations of herbs, shrubs and trees) to provide a wind deflecting “shutter” near the shoreline. These stabilise the foredune sand mass. Finally a “roof” forms from the growth of tertiary species (taller shrubs and trees), further elevating the wind and providing increased shelter to vegetation further inland. When exposed to persistently strong, salt-laden winds, remarkably streamlined canopy surfaces often develop (DLWC 2001, Figure 4).
It is essential to consider the surf zone, intertidal beach, dunefield and land behind the dunes as a single system (Brown and McLachlan 2002). As normal exchanges of sand between beaches and dunes and also along shore need to be maintained, only structures that are deemed to be economically essential should be considered for construction on beach and dune systems (Brown and McLachlan 2002).
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Figure 4 – Typical zonation of dune vegetation (DLWC 2001).
The land flora habitat of the Shoalhaven region can be defined under three broad categories:
• Sydney Basin: Mesozoic sandstones and shales; dissected plateaus; forests, woodlands and heaths; skeletal soils, sands and podzolics. • South Eastern Highlands: Steep dissected and rugged ranges extending across southern and eastern Victoria and southern NSW. Geology predominantly Palaeozoic rocks and Mesozoic rocks. Vegetation predominantly wet and dry sclerophyll forests, woodland, minor cool temperate rainforest and minor grassland and herbaceous communities. • South East Corner: A series of deeply dissected near coastal ranges composed of Devonian granites and Palaeozoic sediments, inland of a series of gently undulating terraces (piedmont downs) composed of Tertiary sediments and flanked by Quaternary coastal plains, dunefields and inlets. The regional climate is strongly influenced by the Tasman Sea and the close proximity of the coast to the Great Dividing Range. Vegetation consists of high elevation woodlands, wet and damp sclerophyll forests interspersed with rain-shadow woodlands in the Snowy River Valley. Lowland and coastal sclerophyll forests, woodlands, warm temperate rainforest and coastal communities occur in the lower areas.
B.1.4 Coastal assets
Assets along the open coast area include beach access ways, lookouts, surf clubs, boat ramps, shared paths, parks and public amenities natural areas, walking tracks, roads, water, stormwater and sewerage infrastructure. These assets and services support the community’s enjoyment of the coast.
B.1.5 Technical Context – Coastal Processes
Coastal hazards emerge from the impact of natural processes such as waves, currents, tides, strong winds, rainfall and long-term water levels. In particular cases, these processes can create hazards such as storm bite erosion of beaches, dune instability, flooding, movement of creek entrances, medium to
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long-term recession of some beaches and slope instability on cliffs and bluffs. Other processes include monthly tidal cycles from highwater springs to neap tides, seasonal variations in storm patterns affecting wave energy, wave direction and rainfall, southern oscillation index cycles of 7 – 10 years, and longer-scale variations in climate.
Coastal risk areas are those that are impacted by coastal hazards today or projected to be impacted by coastal hazards in the foreseeable future based on consideration of climate change and sea level rise till 2100.
Coastal cliff and slope instability locations were identified in 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2018 at Penguin Head, Plantation Point, Hyams Point, Berrara Point, Inyadda Point Manyana, Narrawallee, Bannisters Point, Collers Beach Headland, Rennies Beach and Racecourse Beach.
The following are brief descriptions of the coastal hazards impacting the Shoalhaven open-coast (CZMP, 2018)
• Storm cut (Short-term coastal erosion) is witnessed during storms when waves remove unconsolidated sands from the beach face and transport it into deeper waters as sand bars. A severe storm may cause the erosion to reach the frontal dune. The storm cut is defined as the volume of beach sand eroded from the subaerial (above 0m AHD) of the beach and dunes during a design storm. The most severely affected areas by this hazard include Shoalhaven Heads, Culburra Beach and Warrain Beach. • Slope instability affects assets at the 10 listed locations outlined previously. Dune slumping occurs when the dune face dries out after a storm cut as the sediment loses cohesion from water content loss. • Creek and Estuary entrance behaviour can induce coastal hazards whether natural or trained. Natural entrances migrate along the beach in response to freshwater flooding or coastal storm effects. An example is Mollymook where the creek entrances have migrated north and threatened public and private assets. Major storm events can often cause entrance breaks at unexcepted locations, which may destroy dunes and in turn renders any assets behind the dunes vulnerable. • Long-term beach changes and shoreline recession occurs following a storm when the sand removed from the berm and dunes is not completely replenished during the beach building phase following a storm period. This results in a long term ongoing recession of the shoreline, and may be a bigger issue in future with changes in wave energy and frequency. Currarong, Culburra and Callala beach have been identified as experiencing shoreline recession. • Sediment budget deficit. When sand is transported offshore into the surf zone, it may be moved along the shore by waves and currents outside of the sediment compartment. Some sand transported offshore may become trapped in offshore reefs, preventing return to the beach. Other losses of sand include inland transport of sand through wind energy (aeolian sand transport). If the quantity of sand removed from the compartment exceeds that of sand being transported in from adjacent beaches, there will be a long-term loss of sand from the beach. • Beach rotation. Studies of embayed beaches on the NSW coast have identified a sensitivity of shoreline alignment to mean wave direction, which has been linked to the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) (Short et al., 2000; Ranasinghe et al., 2004). Data from Ranasinghe (et al., 2004) indicated an anti- clockwise rotation of these beaches as a result of a positive value in the SOI and vice versa. These rotations were reflected in the translation of the mean waterline or swash zone of the beach berm and
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they did not affect the dune alignment. For a given degree of beach rotation, greater recession or progradation of the swash zone and, hence, greater beach sand exchange would be expected on longer beaches. • Ocean inundation of low lying areas. If dune levels are at a low level or the foreshore is not protected by dunes, a high ocean level and wave run-up may cause flooding and damage to structures. This has occurred at Culburra, Warrain, Collingwood, Narrawallee and Collers Beaches.
B.1.6 Climate Change
CSIRO’s State of the Climate Report (2016) concludes that sea level rose at a global averaged rate of 2.6 to 2.9 mm per year between 1993 and 2013. The South Coast Regional Sea Level Rise Planning and Policy Framework (2014) prepared by Whitehead & Associates concluded that sea levels offshore of the study area will rise at a similar rate to global average, and that any differences between the study area and Sydney will be minimal’. Changes to the frequency of different storms have been predicted but the details are poorly understood. East Coast Lows (ECLs) and tropical cyclone pattern changes are possible. ECLs particularly have a major effect on the coastal morphology. The sea-level fluctuations/change over the last 6000 years have been restricted to 2 metres. It is predicted that a similar magnitude of change will occur within the next century, and thus it is important to consider the impact this may bring to the coastal environment.
B.2 Shoalhaven River Estuary
Plans reviewed ▪ Shoalhaven River Estuary Management Plan (SCC, 2008) ▪ Shoalhaven River Entrance Management Plan for Flood Mitigation (SCC, 2006)
B.2.1 Locality
The Shoalhaven River Estuary flows out towards the low-lying floodplains at Nowra through a remote gorge 30 kilometres east of Goulburn. The estuary has a water surface area of 31.9 km2 and a total catchment area of 7085.8 km2. The estuary is unique in its diverse landforms and can be divided into three zones:
▪ Upper estuary – The river passes through steep vegetated slopes and sandstone cliffs, with discontinuous pockets of floodplains. ▪ Lower estuary – Once downstream of Nowra, or the Bomaderry Creek junction, the river widens into a large extensive floodplain.
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▪ Entrance – There are two entrances to the estuary, with the northern entrance located at Shoalhaven Heads and the southern entrance located above Culburra.
B.2.2 Environmental context
B.2.2.1 Flooding
Flooding
Historical characteristics and values
▪ There have been 48 floods since 1860 which have been registered as equalling or exceeding the minor flood level of 2.3m, 11 were considered moderate (3.3m – 4.3m) and 21 were considered major (> 4.3m). ▪ Flooding in the Lower Shoalhaven floodplain can occur from any of the following events − Shoalhaven River catchment flows following a rainfall event − Overbank flooding from Broughton Creek − Local flooding at the Shoalhaven Heads township − Wave forces penetrating through the two entrances (Shoalhaven Heads and Crookhaven Heads) ▪ The community is concerned that flooding is worsened when Shoalhaven Heads entrance is closed.
Challenges
▪ Many residential areas in the Lower Estuary are relatively low lying and vulnerable to inundation from minor impacting floods. This includes Terara village, Greenwell Point and Shoalhaven Heads. ▪ Access roads and residences can be flooded early on during storm events; increasing safety risk and causing evacuation issues. ▪ The average annual tangible damages for Lower Shoalhaven River floodplain was estimated to be approximately $1.8 million in 2006, not including damage to public utilities.
Management actions and objectives
▪ Development and refining of appropriate management procedures for flood prone areas on the basis of risk to infrastructure assets and safety. ▪ Flood management actions and plans should acknowledge the impact of climate change on flooding risk. ▪ Development restrictions on all new development in flood prone areas to ensure the number of properties subject to flooding risk does not increase. ▪ Increased education in the community and evacuation planning to help reduce risk to life. ▪ SES Shoalhaven City Local Flood Plan (2014) was prepared to help respond to flood emergencies.
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B.2.2.2 Erosion and sedimentation
Erosion and sedimentation
Characteristics
▪ In Shoalhaven River Estuary there is a consistent poorly vegetated and unstable riparian zone due to natural process of bank erosion. ▪ In the Upper Estuary, bank erosion primarily affects the margins of floodplain pockets. Other parts of the channel are made up of bedrock and more resistant to erosion. The following are some causes of bank erosion in the upper estuary: − These floodplain margins are eroded by flood scour or tidal currents. − Boat generated waves can cause bank erosion. − Livestock trampling and grazing on the bank can reduce vegetation growth. ▪ In the Lower Estuary, there are several locations of severe bank erosion driven by flood and tidal movements and change in the thalweg. The Healthy Rivers Commission (1999) concluded that intervention on geomorphic changes in the estuary using hard engineering solutions would cost a great deal and most likely create new problems.
Issues identified
▪ Bank erosion upstream of Nowra affects the health of riparian vegetation corridor, removes productive agricultural land and affects recreational access to the banks of the estuary. ▪ Severe stream bank erosion modifies the aquatic habitat by increasing sediment load, changing shade conditions or increasing local turbidity. ▪ Bank erosion in the lower estuary affects the amenity of the foreshore reserves and threatens community infrastructure. ▪ The following locations along the Lower Shoalhaven Estuary were identified in the Shoalhaven River Estuary Management Plan (2008) to have severe bank erosion − North bank, opposite Pig Island − South Bank between Pig Island and Numbaa Island − North bank, opposite Numbaa Island (upstream and particularly downstream of Broughton Creek junction) − Bevan Island − O’Keefes Point and Berrys Canal − Western shore of Comerong Island − Greenwell Point Reserve
Remedial Actions or objectives
▪ A “stable” or “fixed path” channel is not a realistic objective for the downstream estuary due to the dynamic nature of freshwater flows, tidal flow and historical evidence of the estuary’s morphing over time. ▪ A more appropriate direction with management of the banks is to maintain a well vegetated interface that is small enough to withstand small flood events and tidal currents. Healthily
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Erosion and sedimentation vegetated banks offer better ecological value to the estuary. ▪ Overall, the decision to improve vegetation along the foreshore and banks is to prioritise improving the biodiversity significance of the estuary and then secondly mitigate against bank erosion or maintaining a stable channel. ▪ Council seeks community understanding on the unrealistic nature of maintaining a fixed channel long-term using bank protection works. It is unnatural and may cause more issues than previous. − Previous attempts at using structural work to stabilise estuary banks downstream of Nowra have not been successful. ▪ Lastly, it is important to limit the impacts of erosion and sedimentation to those that are driven by natural processes, and not caused by local factors such as human intervention or industrial activity.
B.2.2.3 Water quality
Water quality
Values and characteristics
▪ The community believes that the estuary’s good water quality is a large contributor to the health of estuarine ecology, primary production and water-based recreation. ▪ Acid levels in Broughton Creek and many other creeks and drains on the Shoalhaven River floodplain are often above the ANZECC guidelines ▪ The salinity of the upper estuary increases under tidal influence during periods of low freshwater flow, which had occurred between 2001 to 2004. ▪ Acid sulfate soils (ASS) in the Broughton Creek section of Shoalhaven estuary floodplain has been recognised as an ASS hotspot. Prior to remedial action in the creek, very low pH levels were recorded, and fish kill incidents occurred. − Significance of ASS elsewhere on the floodplain (e.g. Crookhaven) has not been fully reviewed. ▪ Historic data has suggested that discharges from processing industries near the estuary have affected water quality, sediments and biota near the discharge points. ▪ Council undertakes water quality monitoring in the Shoalhaven River estuary at key sites and reports these to its online Aquadata portal, as indicated in Figure 5.
Issues identified
▪ The community is concerned that the current and future water extraction policies and rules can be detrimental to the health of Shoalhaven River. ▪ The community is concerned that water quality worsens when Shoalhaven Heads entrance is closed. ▪ Management of the floodplain drainage system will affect water quality by disturbing acid
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Water quality sulfate soils and ecological habitats in the lower estuary. ▪ There are point source discharges that affect the water quality of the estuary at various locations. ▪ Stormwater discharges from Nowra/Bomaderry affects water quality in the estuary (increases nutrient and suspended sediment levels) and increases litter in the estuary. ▪ Slightly elevated heavy metal concentrations were detected at several locations in the estuary. ▪ Dams and water extraction are contributing to elevated salinity levels in the upper estuary (by reducing freshwater flows), affecting estuarine habitats, but the significant of the impact is not well documented; ▪ Stormwater pollutants include bacteria from onsite wastewater treatment plants.
Remedial Actions
▪ To maintain the range and pattern of freshwater flows into the estuary within natural variability (in terms of high and low flows, wet and dry months, flooding etc). ▪ Investigate opportunities to reuse effluent flows from wastewater treatment plants and industrial processing plants. ▪ Require best practice management of urban stormwater for all new residential, commercial and industrial estates that drain to the estuary.
Figure 5 – Water quality monitoring sites in the Shoalhaven and Crookhaven estuaries (Aquadata, https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map/detail/112/ChemResults_AllTime)
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B.2.2.4 Ecology
Ecology
Characteristics
▪ Shoalhaven River estuary has an extensive area of approximately 1km2 of seagrass (primarily Zostera) (4.9% of the estuary area), 3.5km^2 of mangrove) (17% of estuary area) and 1.5 km2 of saltmarsh (7.4% of estuary area). ▪ Extensive areas in the lower estuary, including Comerong Island, Bevan/Old Man Island and margins of Curleys Bay were formally mapped as SEPP 14 wetlands. The estuarine wetlands for Shoalhaven/Crookhaven Estuary and Coomonderry Swamp are listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia. ▪ Coomonderry Swamp is the largest freshwater wetland on the south coast and is in good condition. It provides drought refuge and habitat for sensitive species. ▪ The sand shoals inside Shoalhaven Heads and wetlands on Comerong Island are an important habitat area for around 90 species of shore birds and waders, including 27 species that are subject to international agreements. − In particular, the lower estuary is of international significance for the Pacific Golden Plover and the Double Banded Plover, Eastern Curlew and Whimbrel. − Other species of State and National Significance include the Pied Oystercatcher, Sooty Oystercatcher, Ruddy Turnstone, Bar Tailed Godwit, Greenshank ▪ Significant populations of the green and golden bell frog are known to occur in Coomonderry Swamp and in the Crookhaven floodplain wetlands. ▪ The largest area of littoral rainforest on the south coast is located on Comerong Island. ▪ There are large numbers of threatened species, endangered populations and Endangered Ecological Communities (EECs) in the riparian corridor and on the floodplain of the Shoalhaven River estuary. − Remnant floodplain wetlands and Comerong Island are particularly important.
Issues identified
▪ Instream structures such as the Burrier Weir could affect the passage of fish in the upper estuary. ▪ Changes to salinity gradients, nutrient status and acidity may affect habitat integrity. ▪ The integrity of remnant vegetation in the riparian corridor has been degraded by weed invasion and ongoing bank erosion. ▪ Feral animals are reducing the success of breeding programs for threatened birds. ▪ Bushfires or poorly planned hazard reduction fires (backburning) may degrade EECs and threatened species habitats, particularly the swamp forest and floodplain wetlands. ▪ There is limited habitat connectivity between isolated areas of high habitat value. This is particularly the case for the lower estuary. ▪ Changes in specific habitats such as shallow shoals or increased access by predators can contribute to the loss of individual species numbers. For example – The roosting and breeding habitat for migratory waders in the lower estuary is particularly vulnerable to changes in sea
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Ecology level and changes in erosion and shoaling patterns. ▪ There is significant threat to the reduction in area of EECs from the clearing of riparian and floodplain vegetation from banks of Shoalhaven River, Crookhaven River and Broughton Creek. This is further compounded by floodplain drainage and flood mitigation schemes which have changed the hydrology of the floodplain wetlands and increased the acidity of surface and ground water. − Broughton Creek wetland decreased in area by 20% and Greenwell Point wetland decreased by 50% ▪ There is potential that the training walls and opening of Berry’s Canal has affected the salinity profile of the estuary, which is further accentuated by low freshwater flows during drought periods. This causes a persistent change to the salinity of estuary, allows more marine species to penetrate further into the upper estuary. ▪ Changes to the estuarine ecology have been caused by varied behaviour of freshwater inflows, either caused by a prolonged drought period/climate change or excessive or inappropriately timed water extractions. This impacts upon the viability of non-marine species and communities. ▪ The removal of microhabitat features for fish, such as deep pools or shading, can occur from changes in the sedimentary patterns of the estuary. For example, deep pools may be infilled by bank erosion material, which will reduce the habitat size for some species. A lack of riparian vegetation reduces habitat area from organic debris snagged onto the vegetation. ▪ There are physical barriers to fish passage such as flood gates, roads and culverts. ▪ There are chemical barriers to fish passage such as acidic water, caused by discharges of low pH water from acid sulfate soils. ▪ Potential spread of noxious marine algae (Caulerpa taxifolia) from existing infestations in St Georges Basin into Shoalhaven
Floodgate Impacts
A summary of common threats posed by floodgated drains on coastal floodplains was compiled by DPI in 2003. Many of these impacts are relevant to the Shoalhaven coastal floodplain, as are as follows: ▪ Impacts on juvenile fish and prawn migration ▪ Reduced fish passage and recruitment of juvenile fish behind floodgates. ▪ Increased incidence of “red spot” disease in fish and other sub lethal effects on fish and oysters. ▪ fragmentation and loss of fish habitat (physical and chemical separation); ▪ increased fish kills from acid or deoxygenation (from decay of backswamp or drain vegetation, algal blooms, etc.) ▪ increased export of acid and/or toxic metals from acid sulfate soils. In the Shoalhaven system, these impacts appear to be primarily associated with Broughton Creek; ▪ Enhanced “black water” impacts – rapid transport of deoxygenated water from the backswamp areas to the estuary. ▪ Increased acid discharge as a result of drain pumping in high permeability acid sulfate soils.
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Ecology ▪ Nutrient accumulation in drains and backswamp areas, enhancing the risk of algal blooms. ▪ Increased monosulfidic ooze (MBO) formation in drains, with subsequent transport to the estuary. ▪ Wetland loss and reduced habitat for water birds and waders. ▪ More fires in backswamps, leading to loss of organic topsoil and surface scalding. ▪ Both seagrass and saltmarsh are critical fishery habitat in the estuary. In the past, structures that control the extent of tidal flows on the coastal floodplain to increase area of agricultural land has degraded the area of aquatic habitat. ▪ Reedbeds add to the diversity of riparian habitats and assist with protection of unconsolidated banks from wave action. ▪ Mangroves are also another important fishery habitat.
Remedial Actions or objectives
▪ No net loss in the area of Endangered Ecological Communities by 2016 ▪ A net reduction in the presence of invasive species in riparian and floodplain vegetation by 2016. ▪ Diversity of aquatic macroinvertebrates is maintained or enhanced by 2016 ▪ No net loss in the area and health of seagrass habitat by 2016 ▪ The number and significance of impediments to fish passage, such as floodgates leading to floodplain wetlands, are reduced ▪ The top 10 priority blockages are removed by 2016 ▪ The length of bank with established reedbeds and mangrove communities increases. ▪ Connective corridors are established between remnants of wetland and riparian habitat on the floodplain and in the riparian zone by 2016.
B.2.2.5 Recreation
Recreation
Characteristics
▪ Shoalhaven residents value the low level of development along Shoalhaven, and enjoy the low- key recreational activities offered by the estuary. ▪ There are open public spaces along the river bank and fishing spots from the jetties. ▪ The forested visual catchment of the upper estuary is important in providing a remote and “wilderness” feel in the upper Nowra region. ▪ The upper estuary is valued for water sport activities such as water skiing and wake boarding (between Thompson’s Point and Gypsy Point) ▪ Most users launch their vessels at Greys Beach regional boat ramp.
Issues identified
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Recreation
▪ Safety concerns around shoaling inside the Crookhaven Heads entrance, particularly during long dry periods when beach sediment tends to accumulate in the mouth of the estuary. The training walls at Crookhaven Heads contribute to this process. ▪ There is congestion on the boat ramps and the river upstream of Nowra, particularly during peak seasons and usage periods. ▪ Potential conflicts between active (high speed) and passive waterway users can create safety issues and resentment among users. This occurs particularly in the upstream of Nowra. ▪ Appropriate locations for any new local or regional boating facilities in the lower estuary need to be investigated, to meet the growing demand from the local and visitor population. ▪ There are many issues and conflicts between powered and non-powered recreational boating in the upper estuary. − Powered boating has been questioned in the upper estuary where the environment is more remote and provides a wilderness experience − Noise issues for passive recreational users − Safety issues for high speed vessels and non-powered vessels ▪ All boating activities may be limited by the insufficient ramp access or poor accessibility of the public foreshore by the river. ▪ Recreational fishing
Remedial Actions
▪ Council receives positive feedback about the facilities available. ▪ Low to negligible level of complaints about incompatible uses, particularly in the upper estuary, but also adjacent to popular reserves in the lower estuary. ▪ Public access to the foreshore is maintained at the local level.
B.2.2.6 Aboriginal and European Heritage
Aboriginal and European Heritage
Characteristics
▪ Bundanon homestead, in the upper regions of the estuary, is listed in the Register of the National Estate and has an indicative listing in the Commonwealth Heritage List. The place is significant for its “unique landscape of great natural beauty”. ▪ The NSW National Trust has classified the Berry Landscape Conservation Area, which includes the coastal landscape south from Kiama to Greenwell Point. The lower Shoalhaven River estuary and associated coastal floodplain are key elements of this valued rural landscape ▪ Shoalhaven River estuary is home to many important Aboriginal places told in traditional stories such as Mount Coolangatta and Crookhaven Headland. ▪ There are rock shelters and art sites in the sandstone regions that border the upper estuary. ▪ Middens and associated stone artefacts have been recorded near floodplains and banks of the
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Aboriginal and European Heritage estuary. ▪ Places that are associated with historical events, particularly in relation to agricultural land uses and fishing industries, where many Aboriginal people were employed in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.
European Heritage ▪ Multiple individual buildings and landscapes have been listed in National, State and Local heritage lists. ▪ Most of these items illustrate how the modern community of the area has evolved from the historic grazing and horticulture of the floodplains till today. ▪ Items that have had impact on the estuary process such as the training wall at Crookhaven Heads, Berrys Canal excavation, floodgates and drains and Tallowa Dam have not been listed in heritage lists.
Issues identified
▪ There are two areas of threats to Aboriginal cultural heritage values for Shoalhaven River estuary: − There is poor awareness of the significance of Aboriginal cultural values within the land use decision makers. This extends into issues such as limited understanding of Aboriginal archaeology in the region, physical changes to the environment masking significant Aboriginal areas, limited representation of the Aboriginal people in natural resource and land use committees and Aboriginal cultural information not being physically recorded. − Increasing use of the foreshore reserve areas and expanding urban development have lead to impacts on Aboriginal sites. ▪ The Aboriginal community’s values have not been fully incorporated into the management of floodplain and estuarine landscapes, and the local Aboriginal people have a low level of involvement in the local natural resource management planning. ▪ Inconsistent and disconnected documentation and management of European heritage sites located on the estuary and floodplain.
European Heritage ▪ Places listed in the National, State or local heritage list are protected under statutory legislation. ▪ Places listed under the National Trust register do not have statutory protection.
Remedial Actions
▪ Local Aboriginal community representatives participate in the Shoalhaven River NRFMC and will provide input into the estuary management plan.
B.2.2.7 Socioeconomics
Socioeconomics
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Socioeconomics
Characteristics
▪ The population of coastal villages increase up to five times during peak holiday periods. This number is much less in the estuary villages but there is still a substantial increase.
Primary production ▪ Commercial fishing ▪ Aquaculture (oysters) ▪ Grazing and dairying
Issues identified
▪ The availability of resources for implementation of detailed planning for high usage and high- profile estuary foreshore reserves e.g. associated with the Nowra CBD. ▪ The provision of a secure and ecologically sustainable water supply to support urban growth around the Shoalhaven estuary, as well as extraction to augment a secure supply for the Sydney Metropolitan Area. ▪ The long-term sustainability of commercial fisheries and oyster farming in the estuary is threatened by degradation/long-term reduction of the fishery habitat as well as higher compliance/regulation costs required.
Remedial Actions
▪ Farm management plans need to be developed for locations where active bank erosion cannot be effectively treated by structural controls. ▪ No closures of oyster harvesting due to poor water quality (long term aim). ▪ No closures of the estuary for swimming or boating due to poor water quality.
B.2.2.8 Climate change
Climate change
Characteristics
▪ There are potential impacts of climate change on the urban and coastal landscapes and communities in south eastern Australia. ▪ These general threats include sea level rise, changes in frequency and duration of extreme weather events such as gales, storms surges, droughts and floods. ▪ Predicted average warming of 0.4 to 2 degrees Celsius by 2030 and 1 to 6 degrees Celsius by 2070, combined with more extreme heat days (>35 degrees Celsius) ▪ Rainfall expected to be lower than average to severely deficient in south eastern Australia when compared with long term averages. ▪ Sea level rise of 0.1 to 0.4 metres within 50 years, accompanied by potential increase in coastal storminess and frequency of gale force winds
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Climate change
Issues identified
Local impacts of climate change include the following potential scenarios ▪ Landward migration of mangrove communities as sea level rises (these migration pathways may be constrained by land use decisions) ▪ Landward migration of saltmarsh communities – These are more constrained than mangroves because the require gentle shoreline gradients and less opportunistic colonisation of sand and mudflats. ▪ Changes to the salinity of the upper estuary, both from increased tidal incursion and during extended drought periods. Persistent salinity changes would modify/migrate various elements of aquatic ecology. ▪ Changes to the frequency and severity of flood events. ▪ Changes to the suitability of the estuary as a rooting, feeding or breeding habitat for migratory bird species. ▪ Changes to the severity and frequency of tidal or flood scouring. These changes will affect the severity and location of bank erosion, and sedimentation throughout the estuary. ▪ Changes to floodplain aquifers and associated floodplain wetlands, as well as water for agriculture and mobilisation of acidity currently stored in floodplain soils. ▪ Changes to the effects of storm surge, particularly in the lower estuary. ▪ Increased risk of high temperatures and changes in tidal regime on the viability of the oyster industry. ▪ Changes to the estuary and coastal biochemistry due to the increased sea levels. ▪ Epidemiology of mosquito transmitted diseases ▪ Changes to areas that are suitable and safe for recreational boating (in terms of water depth) – either from insufficient rainfall or increases sea level rise.
B.2.2.9 Visual amenity
Visual amenity
Characteristics
▪ The visual quality of the landscape of Shoalhaven River estuary is highly regarded by local residents and visitors. It has been recognised in National Heritage listings and in the NSW National Trust Register. ▪ The presence of water views is very important for residents. This has led to revegetation programs requiring a mix of tall and low growing plants in foreshore reserves. ▪ Overall, the following visual qualities of Shoalhaven are valued by the community: − Diversity: The narrow gorge of the upper estuary directly contrasts with the wide waterways and open floodplain landscape of the lower estuary. − Natural and rural outlooks: The Berry Landscape Conservation area comprises of a mix of
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Visual amenity natural areas, historic villages and rural lands (dairying and horticulture). The upper estuary is made up of high sandstone gorge, with natural vegetation dominating the higher slopes. Immediately bordering the river are pockets of agricultural land. In both the upper and lower estuary, much of the farming community continue to occupy old weatherboard farm houses. − Expansive views: In the upper and lower estuary, extensive views of river reaches are available from the banks. − Still protected waters: In the upper estuary, the enclosed nature of the water way and low flows provide a very still water surface. − Areas of estuarine wetland make for popular boating areas. ▪ Overall, although Shoalhaven river estuary may share similar physical characteristics to other estuaries in the south coast, it is unique in its visual landscape due to the size of its system, and the contrast between the tight river gorge and floodplain country.
Issues identified
The landscape values of Shoalhaven River estuary are threatened by both natural processes and land use decisions: ▪ The rapid growth of development along the foreshores of Shoalhaven River have resulted in increased litter along foreshore reserves and increase in demand for waterfront structures such as sea walls, jetties and moorings. ▪ Ongoing bank erosion in the lower estuary. ▪ Increased boating traffic in the upper estuary – there are associated noise amenity issues. ▪ Changes to the riverbank vegetation – The visual character of Shoalhaven River estuary is characterised by low levels of riparian vegetation and discontinuous floodplain vegetation communities. This was created through a history of clearing and grazing on the floodplain. For ecological reasons, it is sensible for restoring the riparian vegetation and connecting the floodplain communities, however this would disrupt the fundamental visual character of the estuary.
Remedial Actions
▪ Community feedback about visual quality of the estuary and adjacent landscapes, in all three sections of the estuary. ▪ It would be possible to document changes in the visual character of selected locations by taking photographs.
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B.2.2.10 Entrance management
Visual amenity
Characteristics
▪ Shoalhaven Heads is frequently closed by shoaled sand and incipient foredune build up, opening only during events of major flood events. A number of highly valued ecological communities and areas of recreational use sit adjacent to Shoalhaven Heads. − Both of these values could be compromised by a permanently or frequently opened entrance. ▪ Crookhaven Heads is maintained permanently open by a rock training wall and provides commercial and recreational boating access to the estuary. − The training walls at Crookhaven Heads are maintained to provide safe and stable entrance conditions for small and recreational vessels.
Remedial Actions
▪ To maintain a regime of minimal intervention in the opening and closing of the entrance at Shoalhaven Heads and to maintain a safe navigable channel at Crookhaven Heads.
B.2.2.11 Catchment flows
Flows from Shoalhaven river catchment into the estuary are highly variable, ranging from <100ML/day to 60,000ML/day. This variability influences the estuary water quality, primarily salinity, and morphology, and impacts on the ecology. Flow management (primarily in the form of water extraction) emphasises the impacts of this variability.
Community concerns about the potential impacts of flow management on the estuary include:
▪ Salinisation of the upper estuary (with associated ecological influences) ▪ Reduced productivity of the oyster industry in the lower estuary. ▪ Frequency, duration and extent of floodplain inundation. ▪ Changes to erosion and sedimentation processes in the upper estuary.
Flow management also impacts Shoalhaven Heads from a flooding and entrance management perspective.
SCA has been working towards a modified flow management regime for Shoalhaven to achieve higher yields for water supply. They have set out the following environmental flow objectives for Shoalhaven River:
▪ Protect natural low flows ▪ Protect or restore a proportion of freshwater and high flows ▪ Maintain and mimic natural flow variability
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▪ Ensure that management of river flows provides the necessary means to address contingent environmental and water quality events. ▪ Maintain and rehabilitate estuarine processes and habitats.
Overall, research shows that ecological and geomorphic variations observed in the estuary are driven by rainfall induced flow variability and tidal flows, rather than water extraction.
B.2.3 Community concerns
▪ The community is concerned about the maintenance of support for community-based programs such as the bush care and river care program. ▪ Community concerns that flooding is worsened when Shoalhaven Heads entrance is closed
B.3 Lake Wollumboola
B.3.1 Existing studies and plans
List of existing studies and plans of the specific estuary and give brief background information on the purpose and contents of the plan.
Plan Purpose and contents
Executive Summary only available. Lake Wollumboola Estuary Management Plan
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Plan Purpose and contents (2000)
Revised Estuary Management Plan (2013) Not available for review
Lake Wollumboola Protection Association This document is a submission report prepared Submission (Bray. F, 2008) by the Lake Wollumboola Protection Association discussing issues of concern regarding the natural environment, particularly population expansion, urban development and climate change on the South Coast estuaries, lakes and beaches.
Environmental Sensitivity of Lake Wollumboola: This document is a review of the available Input to Considerations of Development scientific literature relevant to the Applications for Long Bow Point, Culburra biogeochemistry and ecology of the lake. This Prepared by: Dr Peter Scanes, Dr Angus report is intended to provide background and Ferguson, Jaimie Potts Estuaries and Catchments scientific justifications for DPIE’s (separate) Science NSW Office detailed assessment of development proposals at Long Bow Point. The report provides a comprehensive picture of the lake’s typology, key processes, ecological significance and sensitivity.
B.3.2 Physical context
Lake Wollumboola is located between the Crookhaven River – Curley’s Bay to the north and Jervis Bay to the south and adjacent to Culburra Beach. The south-west region of the lake is reserved under Jervis Bay National Park (JBNP). Lake Wollumboola is considered to be a unique ICOLL, or a “back dune lagoon”; displaying different physical, chemical and ecological characteristics to most ICOLLs and acknowledged for its maturity, trapping efficiency, height above sea level and the complexity of ecological processes occurring within the lake.
Lake Wollumboola’s catchment size is relatively small compared to its lake size and therefore does not open often to the sea; with closures lasting up to eight years without any artificial intervention.
Maps and records have shown that since European settlement in 1805, the lake has not changed much in physical nature and has a rich history of Aboriginal use.
Lake Wollumboola and parts of its catchment are included in Jervis Bay National Park. The NSW NPWS South Coast Branch is responsible for the Lake’s management as well as parts of its catchment. Council’s area of responsibility includes Crown land along the lake’s northern shore above 0.86 m AHD, including Lakeside Park and the boat ramp area. Consultation with NPWS is needed to ensure that the CMPs are consistent with NPWS policy and management practice regarding Lake Wollumboola and to clarify responsibilities.
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B.3.3 Management areas
B.3.3.1 Water quality
Water quality
Characteristics
Hydrogen sulphide odours may be released occasionally when the lake opens and the water drains out exposing 60% of the lake bed, as it is perched above mean sea level, for example, if the entrance is opened artificially. A preferred management approach is to minimise change to the lake’s natural opening regime and focus on managing external factors such as improving quality of catchment runoff, stormwater treatment, and revegetating the foreshores to reduce sediment and nutrient runoff.
Baseline water quality monitoring has been undertaken in the past, measuring nutrients, turbidity and pathogens, with the results dating back to 1997 published on the Aquadata portal on Council’s website. Generally, the results indicate that the water quality of Lake Wollumboola has been good, but can suffer from low dissolved oxygen levels, low pH levels or elevated pathogen levels from time to time.
Issues identified
▪ The lake experiences occasional episode of poor water quality and generation of strong odours as a result of hydrogen sulphide release, which can occur if the Lake is artificially opened and large areas of the lakebed become exposed. ▪ Urban runoff from the adjacent urban development area can be a source of nutrients and pollutants in the Lake.
Remedial Actions
▪ Zoning/development controls within catchment area ▪ Control of urban runoff ▪ Community education on estuarine processes
B.3.3.2 Ecology
Ecology
Characteristics
▪ Lake Wollumboola is rich in biodiversity with over 300 flora species and over 300 fauna species. ▪ There are at least 28 Threatened Species that include birds, mammals and the Green and Gold Bell Frog. ▪ Seven Endangered Ecological Communities with 90% of the catchment being relatively undisturbed Currambene Lowland Forest (which is a notoriously poorly managed vegetation community), Salt Marsh, Swamp Oak Coastal Flood Plain Forest and Bangalay Sand Forest.
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Ecology ▪ Migratory bird species include the South-east coast sub species of the Little Tern (Sterna Albiforons), which breeds in Australia on the NSW and Victorian eastern coast. ▪ Lake Wollumboola supports 33 species of migratory birds, 12 NSW Threatened bird species, including Little Tern. ▪ Seagrass Ruppia
Issues identified
▪ In general, flora and fauna are at the risk of being impacted upon by most forms of development. ▪ Disconnection between State-listed and Commonwealth-listed threatened species means that there are some species that are not afforded the same level of protection as others. ▪ Climate change impacts such as sea level rise and increased storminess are a high potential threat to habitats or nests of migratory birds.
B.3.3.3 Entrance management
Entrance management
Characteristics
The information below comes from the Lake Wollumboola Flood Study presentation by WMA Water
▪ History of both natural and artificial openings
▪ From 1969 to November 2013 the lake has opened 21 times (SCC 2013)
▪ Five of the openings are judged to have occurred without human intervention, eight are estimated to have been manually instigated, and the cause of the other eight is unknown.
▪ The management strategy implemented by the NPWS is to manually open the lake if the level exceeds 2.75 m AHD. Most of the recent openings have been illegal openings by others, well below this level.
Issues identified
▪ Berm height directly influences flood levels, more so than in many other ICOLLs ▪ Changes to management for the purposes of flood mitigation are not feasible ▪ Entrance is managed by NPWS ▪ Overfloor flooding has occurred in the past at some properties near Lake Wollumboola, Greenbank Grove, East and West Crescent ▪ Future sea level rise is the most significant risk to existing development with respect to flooding, flood events will become more frequent.
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B.3.3.4 Recreation
Recreation
Characteristics
Lake Wollumboola is used mainly for passive recreation activities, including birdwatching, fishing, lake-watching, fishing, walking and canoeing, and contributes significantly to the visual amenity of the South Coast landscape.
B.3.3.5 Visual quality
Visual quality
Characteristics
▪ There is aesthetic value derived from the natural vistas that exist from the ocean to escarpment.
B.3.3.6 Aboriginal / European Heritage
Aboriginal / European Heritage
Characteristics
▪ The Jerrinja people continue to maintain their spiritual and custodial relationship with the land and waters of the Jervis Bay region.
B.3.3.7 Socioeconomic
Socioeconomic
Characteristics
▪ The town of Culburra lies on the north-eastern shore and areas around the lake that support grazing. ▪ The lake and catchment area are of high important to scientific studies. ▪ Economic values of Lake Wollumboola include commercial fishing, nature tourism and potentially Aboriginal cultural tourism.
B.3.3.8 Community Feedback
The Lake Wollumboola Estuary Management Plan (Kinhill, 2000) was developed in consultation with the then Lake Wollumboola Estuary Management Taskforce.
The issues that were identified included the following:
▪ Poor water quality
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▪ Strong odours as a result of hydrogen sulphide release during drought periods or when the lake opened to sea Since the 2000 Lake Wollumboola Estuary Management Plan, baseline water quality monitoring has been undertaken, measuring nutrients, turbidity and pathogens, with the results dating back to 1997 published on the Aquadata portal on Council’s website. Generally, the results indicate that the water quality of Lake Wollumboola has been good, but can suffer from low dissolved oxygen levels, low pH levels or elevated pathogen levels from time to time.
Council’s water quality monitoring locations at Lake Wollumboola are provided below in Figure 6.
Figure 6 – Lake Wollumboola water quality monitoring locations (Aquadata website, https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map)
B.4 St. Georges Basin and Sussex Inlet
Issues
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION Physical Features Physical Features St Georges Basin lies in the south coast region of NSW 150km south of 2 Habitat Health & Extent Sydney CBD. The estuary is moderately large at around 41 km . The Catchment Characteristics perimeter of the foreshore stretches to 40 km and the basin has an average depth of 5.3 metres with the deepest sections reaching 10 metres deep. The basin is considered to be immature (unfilled with
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sediment) compared to other coastal lakes. Bherwerre barrier, a large Holocene marine barrier, separates the Basin from Wreck Bay. The Basin discharges to the ocean through Sussex Inlet, a 6.5 km long channel with a width of 50 to 300 m wide. The Sussex Inlet entrance has no record of closure however it is confined by sand shoals at times.
The Basin is a largely unmodified shoreline and healthy waterway. It is made up of sixteen wetlands which are classified as part of Coastal Wetlands in the CM SEPP. Habitat Health & Extent There are three classifications of habitat in the St George Basin, the terrestrial, aquatic, and the transitional land between the two, riparian and wetlands. Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) woodland fringes much of the Basin with smaller areas of Swamp Paperbark (Melaleuca ericifolia) shrubland and Common Reed (Phragmites australis) reedland. The catchments on the southern and western sides of the basin are covered largely in native vegetation. Riparian Zones. The riparian zones lie in the interface between land and water and include endangered ecological communities such as Coastal Saltmarsh and Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest. Remnant vegetation along the riparian strip bordering the Basin has played a significant role in containing shoreline recession in the past 6000 years. However the north edge of the Basin has been cleared with only a single strip of casuarinas on the foreshore. This renders the bank vulnerable to wind and wave erosion. Shoreline assets such as jetties and boat ramps disturb the natural wave patterns in the area and threaten the riparian environment. Aquatic Zones. The aquatic habitat is made up of seagrass, mangroves and saltmarsh. Seagrass meadows are of high ecological value to the estuary as it fosters growth of fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Further, seagrass stabilises the sediment bed to help regulate nutrient levels and water quality in the basin.
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Mangroves grow between mid and high tidal levels and serve as an important food source, habitat and shoreline protection. Saltmarsh is considered an EEC and grows above the mangroves at the highest tidal levels. They play an important role in the estuarine food chain providing habitat for invertebrate breeding and a foraging area for fish and shorebirds. Saltmarsh is considered vulnerable to sea level rise and therefore at risk to climate change. Caulerpa taxifolia is a noxious marine algae that has been mapped along the Basin View foreshore, however latest advice in 2012 noted that Caulerpa is not an issue in the basin. Terrestrial Zones. The terrestrial zone of the basin is composed of wetland, national parks and state forests. There are 18 identified wetlands lying in the St Georges Basin catchment. These areas are considered to be of national significance as a habitat for migratory wetland species such as waders and shorebirds. The wetlands range from saltwater along Sussex inlet and freshwater in the inner sections of the basin, therefore serving a variety of species. Catchment Characteristics
2 The St Georges Basin’s 326 km catchment comprises of freshwater streams, the main basin, shrub, the inlet and fringing wetlands. Individual catchment areas for these components are expressed in table 1. Good to excellent water quality. Biologically diverse catchment with ecological communities and animal and plant populations of high conservation significance.
Coastal Processes Water Quality. Water quality is a crucial feature of the Basin for its purpose as an ecological habitat for aquatic flora and fauna, recreational use and visual amenity. The 1998 St Georges Basin EMP COASTAL PROCESSES identified the water quality as generally good and subsequent Estuary Processes samplings have confirmed this rating to hold till today. Climate Change Processes which affect water quality include the tributary inflows containing pollutants such as stormwater discharge and sediment, tidal Significant events since exchange of ocean water and freshwater and internal lake processes CZMP such as nutrient cycling. Any need to review/amend Pollution sources from catchment inflows which affect basin water hazard mapping quality include onsite sewage dispersal, rural land management, urban stormwater and sewage overflows. Tidal exchange of water at the inlet is limited due to the confined channel entrance. The duration to exchange a volume of water equal to the basin size is around 80 days. As such the tidal exchange process
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poses a limited impact on the water quality of the basin. With regards to internal lake processes contributing to water quality, there exists a complex system. Growth of aquatic vegetation is reliant on nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) which are supplied from catchment inflows or nutrient cycling. However, an excess of nutrient supply can cause algal bloom and consequent toxic effects. Water bodies affected by these issued are classified eutrophic. The decay of organic matter releases nutrients into the water to either spur on future plant growth or get buried in the sediments. Nitrogen is commonly released to the water as ammonia (NH3) or exists the system into the air as nitrogen gas (N2). Phosphorous readily binds with clays and is therefore more likely to bury in the sediment. The implication for this characteristic is that any disturbance of basin sediment such as dredging can break-up the sediment and re-release nutrients into the water and the removal of sediment means reducing the means to contain the nutrient cycle. Haese et al (2007) has found that the internal processing of nutrients in the sediment bed is the most important mechanism for the basin to cope with nutrient loads. Algal growth is low in the basin due to limited phosphorous available throughout the main basin. Haese et al has found in general there are very low nutrient concentrations in the basin. However despite the decent to good health of the basin, the St Georges Basin is vulnerable to major fluctuation in water quality due to the limited role of tidal exchange to flush the basin water and reliance on internal basin processes. Climate change will possibly escalate vulnerability of the basin.
Water quality is considered to be generally good in St Georges Basin. Processes which affect water quality include stormwater discharge, sewage overflows, sediment runoff, tidal exchange and nutrient cycling. Regular water quality monitoring has been undertaken by Council in St. Georges Basin and Sussex inlet, with the results published on the Aquadata portal on Council’s website at the locations shown in Figure 7. The results indicate that water quality generally meets default trigger values in the ANZECC Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (2000), for physical and chemical stressors for south-east Australia for slightly disturbed estuarine ecosystems.
Sedimentation and erosion. Sedimentation occurs around the Basin at multiple areas in several ways. Tributaries leading into the Basin bring in sediment infill. A flood tidal delta is developing on the Basin side of Sussex Inlet from sand deposition. Fine sediments such as muds and silts settle on the basin bed. Urban development and catchment clearing around the Basin has increased the infill rates compared to pre-European settlement, however these increases are minimal due to the sheer size of the basin
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relative to the size of settlements. Dune erosion is present along Sussex inlet where three large unvegetated dune slip faces are present at Little Manly, The Haven and The Big Dipper. These areas are subject to natural erosion caused by channel meander. The sedimentation resulting from the dune erosion is minimal and unlikely to cause channel shoaling. The main erosion mechanism for the Basin is local wind-generated waves which develop as wind blows over large water surfaces. The low level of boating relative to the size of the basin means boat wake erosion is limited. Erosion at Sussex Inlet is primarily driven by inlet tidal action. The two worst affected erosion areas are John Williams Reserve and Basin View foreshore reserve which are down-drift from recently constructed boat ramps. There are no built assets or services currently threatened by erosion hazards however the predicted sea level rise may lead to the recession of foreshores and thus increase erosion risk. Foreshore remediation tasks are currently scheduled to revegetate at risk sections of the foreshore as well as monitoring programs. Entrance management. Manipulation of the entrance and dredging of sand can change water depth, inundation regimes and salinity gradients in the estuary. Infill from tributaries contribute to pollution of the water quality and increase sediment in the basin. Development in the estuary zone can affect dune stability and increase sediment and nutrient level in the basin. Climate Change • Predicted sea level rise will lead to permanent increases in the basin tide levels. These impacts will pose challenges to the protection and management of foreshore access, which may become inundated and degrade faster. Any need to review/amend hazard mapping There were three top priority issues identified in the NSW Diffuse Source Pollution Strategy to amend catchment infill pollution for St Georges Basin: sediment pollution, nutrient pollution and pathogen pollution.
Aboriginal Heritage Aboriginal and European Heritage description drawn from St Georges SOCIAL Basin EMP. Aboriginal/European The Shoalhaven region has a richness of Aboriginal cultural heritage, Heritage which is reflected by the recognition of the strong spiritual ties that the Cultural/Social Values traditional owners continue to have with the land. Hinterland areas of the Jervis Bay region have not received as much archaeological scrutiny as those on the coast. A cultural heritage assessment of 166 hectares of land immediately north-east of Erowal Bay (MDCA, 2006) provides one
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of the few documented insights into Aboriginal people’s ties to this part of the estuary. Much of this section draws on this valuable work. This land forms part of an area where considerable coastal and estuarine resources were available to the Aboriginal people. Not surprisingly the broader Jervis Bay area, with its diverse landscape and aquatic resources, has been a place of occupation and visitation for Aboriginal people for thousands of years. The Basin and its tributaries would have supported a number of fish species and shellfish targeted for food. This would have been supplemented by birdlife and eels from freshwater lagoons and by the terrestrial resources of the hinterland. This would have been the case particularly when seasonal or weather effects affected the availability of marine resources.
The abundance of local food meant that the local environment allowed Aboriginal people to spend considerable periods in the one locale with some seasonal movement. The local people possessed a rich material culture. Consequently archaeological studies on the subject land have revealed stone artefacts including fragments and scrapers, and estuarine shell fragments most likely carried in by Aboriginal people. Evidence at the time of first contact demonstrates the use of stone and shell cutting and scraping tools, stone and bone spear points and barbs, fish hooks produced from shell blanks, canoes and huts from eucalypt bark, and fishing nets and bags wound from twine from tree bark.
Open campsite archaeological sites are known at Wrights Beach on the eastern shores of the Basin, near Erowal Bay and near The Wool Road at Old Erowal Bay. Investigation of lower sites on potentially waterlogged soils did not reveal Aboriginal archaeological sites.
The Corramy Regional Park Plan of Management (NPWS 2012) clarifies that Corramy is the Aboriginal name for the local area. The name was recorded in an 1840 census during a blanket distribution for an Aboriginal group camping at that locality.
Stone artefact scatters located on ridgelines and the foreshores of Wandandian Creek contain both local and traded stone. This indicates that the area was well used by Aboriginal people. (St Georges Basin EMP, SCC) European Heritage There are known sites of European heritage with local significance within the catchment of the Basin (MDCA 2006). These include sections of bush rock road kerb within the Heritage Estate and possibly trees containing survey marks or blazes dating around 1915 / 1916. The former and current Wool Road linked Jervis Bay to grazing lands to the south and west. This has local significance from its use since the 1840’s. The Erowal Farm site (footings and garden) was listed as a heritage item in the
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(then) Shoalhaven LEP 1985.
However, none of these European heritage sites appear to impact on the management of the estuary. (St Georges Basin EMP, SCC) Cultural/Social Values St Georges Basin holds significant tourist and residential infrastructure with close vicinity and access to a coastal and estuarine setting. It generally possesses a relaxed atmosphere for residents and holiday makers. The large expanse of water provides for primary recreational activities include boating, sailing, water-skiing, fishing and swimming in the basin and Sussex Inlet, bushwalking, sightseeing. The peaceful waterway is important for low speed vessel use in the inlet and access to inshore ocean waters for recreational fishing. The community believes that the continued protection and enhancement of the basin’s recreational attributes are of high priority to its management.
LEGAL (LAND TENURE) Land tenure Document public authority roles
ECONOMIC See response to ECONOMIC in Open Coast Equity/Distribution of wealth RELIANCE ON COAST FOR ECONOMY Willingness to pay Caravan parks and other tourist accommodation relay on holiday makers for income. Commercial outlets nearby the basin rely on a Reliance on coast related health and usable lake for income. Property values are reliant on the tourism/aquaculture health, visual amenity and cultural lifestyle of living near the basin.
• The community is concerned with the close proximity of the Jervis Bay Marine Park and the movement of recreational fishing vessels between estuaries potentially spreading Caulerpa. The Caulerpa infestation at Basin View boat ramp was noted by NSW Fisheries as a The significance and high risk to the unaffected Jervis Bay Marin Park to the north. sensitivity of coastal values • Importance to provide community education regarding importance and issues in the local council of riparian buffers and vegetation corridors. area. • A community survey indicated that pathways, general recreational facilities and ease of public access to the foreshore were the most appreciated recreational aspects of St Georges Basin. • It was identified that the existing boat ramps were the single biggest
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problem, and there is desire within the community for improved boating facilities and management. • Important to reduce conflict between different recreational user groups i.e. swimmers and boaters. Reduce conflict between recreational activities and natural environment i.e. boat wash and propeller damage to sea grass. Reduce spread of Caulerpa taxifolia. • Different boating controls were introduced such as No Boat Zones in swimming areas and wakeboarding restrictions in Wandandian Creek.
Figure 7 – Water quality monitoring sites at St. Georges Basin, Sussex Inlet and Swan Lake (Aquadata https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map/detail/112/ChemResults_AllTime)
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B.5 Swan Lake and Berrara Creek
Figure 8 – Swan Lake
B.5.1 Plans and studies reviewed
Plan Summary
This Swan Lake and Berrara Creek Natural Resources Swan Lake and Berrara Creek Natural Management Strategy (NRMS) provides a comprehensive and Resources Management Strategy integrated set of strategies to restore, protect and conserve the (SCC, 2002) natural resources of the waterways and their catchments to ensure that their use is ecologically sustainable in the long term. The NRMS is the result of combining estuary management planning and catchment management planning into one process.
The purpose of this document is to provide SCC and the Swan Lake Entrance Management community with a detailed program for the short-term and Policy (SCC, 2004) long-term management of the Swan Lake entrance. This includes the procedures to be followed by SCC to create artificial openings for the lake, the conditions which must be satisfied prior to artificial opening and the monitoring procedures for after the entrance has been opened.
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B.5.2 Physical context
Swan Lake is a large brackish coastal lake located south of St Georges Basin and Jervis Bay. It is an ICOL that is closed most of the time due to its relatively small catchment with lake openings lasting only a few weeks or months. The behaviour of the entrance significantly affects the lake’s characteristics such as its estuarine ecosystem, water quality, and flooding patterns. Swan Lake has a surface area of 4.5 – 5 km2 and a catchment area of 32 km2.
Berrara Creek is located two kilometres south of Swan Lake. The lower three kilometres of the creek normally behaves as a tidal estuary, however the mouth of the creek occasionally closes to the sea. Berrara Creek has a surface area of 0.2 km2 and a catchment area of 37 km2.
Swan Lake and Berrara Creek are important places for the significant value they provide from an environmental, social, commercial and recreational context. However, the unmanaged use of the estuaries by the local community and visitors has put pressure on the natural environment and systems.
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Figure 9 – Swan Lake and Berrara Creek catchments
B.5.3 Management areas
B.5.3.1 Water quality
Water Quality
Characteristics
SCC has historically undertaken water quality monitoring for Swan Lake. The findings from the Swan Lake Entrance Management Plan are as follows: ▪ Total phosphorus levels were below the ANZECC guidelines of <0.05 mg/L majority of the time. ▪ Total nitrogen levels were often above the ANZECC guidelines of 0.5 mg/L. ▪ Faecal coliform values within Swan Lake are extremely low. ▪ Dissolved oxygen concentrations in Swan Lake are very stable and critical to the cycling of
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Water Quality nutrients in the lake. ▪ The Swan Lake entrance has not been historically opened for the purposes of water quality improvement, and the monitoring results provide no reasons for this to change.
Issues identified
▪ Swan Lake Inlet has high levels of nitrogen which may explain the growth of macroalgae seen in the area. The naturally poor flushing characteristics of these lagoons may be a factor here. ▪ If water quality in Swan Lake is not protected, the following key estuarine attributes can degrade: ecology of the estuary; visual characteristics and aesthetic appeal of estuarine water may diminish; and the recreational characteristics of the estuary. ▪ Sewerage overflows are a significant risk to the lake’s water quality. There are three pumping stations around the edges of Swan Lake, located at: the west end of Hoffman Drive; the reserve at Yaroma Ave; and the reserve at Goonawarra Dr.
Remedial Actions
▪ Current EPA requires new sewerage schemes to have an 8 hours detention storage at average dry weather flow (ADWF). The current pumping stations have a 4 hour ADWF, and therefore there is potential to investigate upgrading the system. ▪ Minimise sewage contamination of Swan Lake and Berrara Creek from existing sewage management systems ▪ Improve system for reuse and disposal of effluent from reticulated sewerage scheme ▪ Control other pollutants at source ▪ Minimise pollutant transport in stormwater drains ▪ Ensure boating is not contaminating lake water ▪ Monitor water quality ▪ Educate residents and visitors on stormwater issues and solutions
B.5.3.2 Erosion and sedimentation
Values
▪ Council prioritises reducing erosion of soil from catchments and creek banks into Swan Lake to protect the waterway from excessive sedimentation.
Issues
▪ Accelerated sediment deposition has a detrimental effect on ecology of waterways. ▪ Sediment loads of Swan Lake are contributed by erosion of tracks and old gravel pits in the national park, as well as erosion of unsealed road verges and stormwater drains in the villages. ▪ Soil washed or driven off building sites enters the stormwater system and ultimately the waterways.
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▪ There is bank erosion in some of the more heavily used recreational areas on the eastern shore of Swan Lake.
Strategies
▪ Accommodate natural processes of lake and creek bank erosion and accretion but reduce human- induced erosion. ▪ Reduce amount of sediment entering the creeks, lake and wetlands from the catchments by controlling erosion at its sources.
B.5.3.3 Ecology
Ecology
Characteristics
▪ Swan Lake’s catchment supports a great variety of habitats, with its biodiversity of approximately 500 plant species, 150 bird species and at least 23 native mammal species. Most of this catchment lies in the Conjola National Park. ▪ The distribution and quantity of fishes, shellfish and crustaceans are reliant on the behaviour of the lake’s entrance opening patterns. ▪ The protected Green and Golden Bell Frog Litoria aurea has been detected breeding in the Sussex Inlet Sewer Treatment Plant overflow ponds. There has been no confirmation of these species in Swan Lake, however there is potential for it to occur if certain conditions are met. ▪ The vertebrate fauna of the area includes a variety of fish, frogs, lizards, snakes, water birds, shore birds, forest birds, bats and tree and ground dwelling mammals. ▪ Common waterbirds present at times on the waterways include Black Swans, Pelicans, Egrets, and various species of Cormorants and Ducks. ▪ There is little development in the catchments and large areas of land remain in unspoilt condition ▪ The fish, shellfish, crustaceans and other aquatic species are a valuable resource. ▪ Healthy seagrass, algae and foreshore vegetation provide important habitats, oxygenate the water and assist to stabilise the sediments of the lake and creek ▪ A range of internationally protected wading birds use the foreshore vegetation, sand and mud flats, rock shores, beach sands and wetlands for feeding, resting and breeding. ▪ Wetlands to the north of Swan Lake and at the mouths of Mondayong and Tetree Crek are protected under the Coastal SEPP.
Issues identified
▪ Introduced species such as foxes, rabbits, feral cats and dogs, threaten the native animal and plant population. ▪ Weeds are scarce in Swan Lake but prevalent in some areas and can threaten native plant communities. ▪ Dumping of garden refuse and other material can cause damage to bushland.
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Ecology ▪ Artificial opening of Swan lake can affect the natural fluctuations in fish and other aquatic populations. ▪ Significant vegetation and threatened populations of rare species are not included as part of the reserve system, and therefore are unprotected under law. ▪ There is damage and clearance of vegetation on foreshores
Remedial Actions
▪ Protect significant ecological communities and populations of rare or threatened species that are not in reserve system ▪ Retain the natural state of the Cudmirrah dunes ▪ Protect the natural values of foreshores and wetlands ▪ Educate visitors and residents on importance of protecting natural values ▪ Remove piles of garden waste from public areas ▪ Control weeds in bushland areas ▪ Protect lake and creek from introduction of Caulerpa taxifolia ▪ Maintain or establish buffer zones between developed areas and sensitive habitats, where possible ▪ Control populations of introduced animals in natural areas ▪ Reduce impact of roaming domestic animals on native animal populations ▪ Reduce impact of motor vehicle drivers on wildlife populations
B.5.3.4 Entrance management
Strategies
▪ Develop and adopt entrance management policy ▪ Minimise intervention in natural entrance behaviour, with full reinstatement in the longer term ▪ Adopt interim entrance management policy ▪ Prevent illegal opening of lake entrance
Issues
▪ Historically, the entrance has been artificially opened by Council when the lake water reaches 1.25m above AHD
B.5.3.5 Recreation
Strategies
▪ Zone different parts of lake for appropriate uses ▪ Protect foreshores and public reserves from degradation due to recreational use
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▪ Provide access to public foreshore land next to Berrara Creek ▪ Reduce impacts of motor vehicle drivers on recreational users of forest roads
B.5.3.6 Flooding
Characteristics, issues identified and remedial actions
Characteristics
The following flooding issues were informed by the Swan Lake Entrance Management Plan ▪ Inundation of accesses to private property around the lake are not an issue. The exception to this is ‘The Springs’ Lakeside Cabins at Swan Haven, which is located at a low area. ▪ Access roads are the first affected public assets by inundation, with approximately 80 metres of road to be affected if Swan Lake were to reach 2.5m AHD.
Issues identified
The following flooding issues were informed by the Swan Lake Entrance Management Plan ▪ Inundation of accesses to private property around the lake are not an issue. The exception to this is ‘The Springs’ Lakeside Cabins at Swan Haven, which is located at a low area. ▪ Access roads are the first affected public assets by inundation, with approximately 80 metres of road to be affected if Swan Lake were to reach 2.5m AHD.
Remedial Actions
The Swan Lake Entrance Management Plan recommends the following: ▪ Tide flaps to be installed on drainage pipes under Collier Drive to redirect surcharge away from the Swan Lake Tourist Park.
B.5.3.7 Visual quality
Strategies
▪ Maintain or restore visual character of natural landscapes and landforms ▪ Ensure built forms do not impact adversely on coastal scenery
B.5.3.8 Aboriginal/European Heritage
Values
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▪ Swan Lake and Berrara Creek are situated within the lands of the Wandandian speaking people and Budawang/Murramarang tribes of the Dhurga language group. Today, the area is covered by the Jerrinja Local Aboriginal Land Council. ▪ A survey of the roads in Cudmirrah NP, conducted in 1997, found 20 Aboriginal sites in addition to nine sites previously recorded in the park. Most of the recorded sites were axe grinding grooves and artefact scatters. Shell middens and rock shelters were also found. The area is rich in Aboriginal sites due to the proximity to a freshwater source, the coast and a variety of habitats for food. ▪ The non-Aboriginal history of the area includes occupation, logging, quarrying and grazing. Selective logging of hardwoods such as Blackbutt and Turpentine was carried out in the catchments of Swan Lake prior to its reservation as a national park. ▪ Council’s Heritage Study identified the following items of significance: Mondayong farm house, to the west of the lake, Swan Cabins (The Springs) at Swanhaven, and Glanville family cemetery at Berrara.
B.5.4 Community Feedback
Community consultation was undertaken by the Swan/Berrara Estuary Management Taskforce in preparation of the Swan Lake and Berrara Creek Natural Resources Management Strategy (SCC, 2002). The engagement involved informal discussions with community members and a survey to gauge local values and issues.
The following values for Swan Lake and Berrara Creek were considered the most highly rated by the community:
▪ The scenic quality of the lake, creeks, foreshores, dunes, beaches and headlands. ▪ Water quality of the lake and creeks. ▪ Populations of water birds, fish and other aquatic animals. ▪ The landscapes to the west and south. ▪ Recreational water activities. ▪ Health seagrass, algae and foreshore vegetation. ▪ Habitat for threatened and common native animal and plants.
The biggest issues of concern to the community were:
▪ Sewage disposal or potential overflows. ▪ Introduced species including foxes, cats, black rats and rabbits. ▪ Littering and dumping of garden and other waste in the bush and foreshores. ▪ Pollutants in the stormwater runoff from villages. ▪ Public health risks in the lake and creeks from bacterial contamination. ▪ The threat to fish stocks from commercial fishing. ▪ Loss or degradation of sensitive ecosystems and habitats for animals and plants.
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B.6 Lake Conjola
B.6.1 Physical Features
Lake Conjola is classified as a barrier estuary. It has steep valley sides and a central basin that formed when the sea level rose and drowned the river valley formed 6,500 years ago. It is an immature estuary that has remained largely unaffected by river sedimentation. Lake Conjola is one of 18 coastal waterways within the Shoalhaven LGA administered by SCC. The lake is located 50 km south of Nowra and 200km south of Sydney CBD. Lake Conjola shares characteristics of many south coast lakes and lagoons covering an area of 7 km2, generally open to sea but more recently closed by shoaling at its entrance, shallow near the entrance with depths of 2m, a popular tourist destination, drains a small catchment of 145 km2 of mostly forested land managed by State Forests and National Parks and Wildlife Service. It is classified as an ICOLL, Intermittently Closed and Open Lake and Lagoon, and historically has generally been open.
The Lake is separated from the ocean by a shallow sandy inlet 3 km long with an average channel depth of 1 m compared to the inner lake depths of 10 m. The entrance to the lake is composed of a delta of clean marine sand which occasionally forms a berm to close the lake.
B.6.2 Habitat Health & Extent
The behaviour of an ICOLL is particularly sporadic in the south-east region due to the unpredictable nature of rainfall, and as such the salinity regime of Lake Conjola is relatively variable to other estuaries. Estuaries provide a habitat for many species of fish, invertebrates, birds and plants from both marine and freshwater systems, and often support the recreational and commercial value of the lake. Plants and animals living in ICOLLs have adapted to the variability of the environment. A diverse range of habitats including seagrass beds, mangroves, saltmarsh, shoals, wetlands and rocky outcrops lie within Lake Conjola. Seagrass. Three seagrass species were recorded in a Lake Conjola 1985 study. Seagrass beds were patchy near the mouth of the Lake, reflecting the movement of the sandy shoals at the entrance. Seagrass communities were last reported to be in poor status in 2010 due to a loss of 68% seagrass area from 1985 – 2006. Previous studies suggested the increase in recreating boating over shallow seagrass beds to have contributed to decline in population.
Fauna. The fisheries resources of Lake Conjola include several hundred species of finfish, crustaceans (crabs, shrimps and prawns), molluscs (octopus, oysters, clams etc.) and other invertebrates. As far as is known, none are unique to Lake Conjola. They are all species that occur widely along the coastline of south-eastern Australia. Indeed some species, such as Tailor, have a worldwide distribution. Some of the larger species in particular, such as flathead, whiting, bream, luderick, tailor, prawns and Blue Swimmer Crabs, are targeted by recreational fishers and are therefore of direct socioeconomic value to the local community and visitors. The majority of species however are not targeted, but they still contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of the lake and the local community because they are part of the food chain for the larger, more desirable species or are part of the wider ecology of the Lake.
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B.6.3 Technical Context – Coastal Processes
The key estuary processes raised in the Lake Conjola EMP: Water Quality, Erosion & Sedimentation, Flooding, and Entrance Management. Water Quality. Water quality is an important feature for Lake Conjola to serve its use as an ecological habitat, recreational hub and landscape amenity. The quality is affected by a number of factors which include catchment inflows, point source pollutants, physical water exchange and internal lake processes. There is a perceived deterioration of water quality when the entrance is closed. The local community raised the following issues regarding Lake Conjola’s water quality. 1. Elevated levels of faecal coliforms particularly in Conjola Creek and Pattimores Lagoon 2. Turbidity related to sedimentation 3. Decrease in dissolved oxygen levels; and 4. Change in salinity regime in Lake Conjola and Pattimores Lagoon.
Council runs a water quality testing program known as Aquadata, which reports on water quality monitoring results at a number of locations throughout the LGA, including at Lake Conjola (Figure 10). This is in the form of a clickable database hosted on Council’s website. While there are some instances of elevated faecal coliforms and nutrient levels recorded in the data in the lower estuary (for example, after heavy rainfall in February 2020), generally the water quality is good, with water quality meeting default trigger values in the ANZECC Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (2000) for physical and chemical stressors for south-east Australia for slightly disturbed estuarine ecosystems.
Figure 10 – Lake Conjola Water Quality Monitoring Locations (Aquadata, https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map)
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Erosion and sedimentation is the process of material being transported into the lake or away from foreshores by action of waves, water and wind. The potential sources of sediment capable of infilling the Lake include the catchment, Lake foreshore and ocean. The processes would include: aeolian transport of barrier dune sands, fine catchment soil carried via flooding or storms, coarser sediment from bank erosion transported down tributary streams, estuary bank erosion from wind and boat wake, human influence and natural channel meandering and marine sand carried into the inlet channel by tidal exchange when the entrance is open. During preparation of the EMP, evidence of significant sedimentation existed dating back to 1944 in the shoals behind the entrance dune, suggesting majority of the deposited sand to originate from the southern entrance dune. It was noted that there were few existing erosion problems in the main water bodies of Lake Conjola, Berringer Lake and Pattimores Lagoon. Minor localised bank erosion had been identified generally along tidal channels connecting to the ocean. The EMP found that possible causes of sedimentation and erosion included: 1. Sediment generation – road construction and maintenance, agriculture and forestry land use practices, and urban development. 2. Bank Erosion – Natural channel migration, wind waves, freshwater flood flows, vegetation removal and human activities on banks/dunes, trampling by stock and boating activities (wake). 3. Aeolian/wind transport of exposed dunes. Flooding. The Lake Conjola Flood Study 2007 identified two main causes of flooding in Lake Conjola: intense rainfall and subsequent runoff into the lake and flooding resulting from severe ocean conditions big tide and storm surge (ocean flooding). A follow-up f 2013 flood risk management study plan identified a third cause of flooding at low level foreshore areas from gradual rise in lake level during long periods of entrance closure or particularly high tidal conditions with an open entrance.
The Flood Study determined that the condition of the entrance has a significant influence on flood behaviour in Lake Conjola. For low level catchment flooding, an effective open entrance provides for lower flood levels in comparison to a shoaled or closed entrance. However, generally for ocean flooding, an open entrance is less favourable as this allows greater penetration of ocean water into the estuary under storm surge (ocean flooding) conditions.
Catchment runoff and flooding performs significant role in the maintenance of the lake by introducing nutrients and organic material into the food chain, inundation of wetlands to maintain their wet-dry cycle, and scouring of the entrance channel sand shoals to transport the scoured sand offshore, which is then moved back onshore via waves and tidal action. There is potential for flooding on residential properties and caravan parks due to their low-lying nature. Entrance Management. A study undertaken in 1999 identified four basic entrance states: 1. Regime State – A steady end state whereby the entrance natural and gradually reaches an equilibrium point in absence of major floods, storm surges and tidal action. 2. Flood Scoured State – The condition where significant catchment flooding leads to scouring of the sand shoals at the entrance, leading to transportation of sand offshore and widening of the entrance. 3. Intermediate State – Rapid infilling of entrance shoals via wave action after a major flood (1 – 2 years)
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4. Storm Washover State – Major to severe storm waves wash over the entrance spit, leading to blocking of the entrance channel. Human intervention of the entrance behaviour is required when the lake reaches high levels to prevent low persistent flooding. The impacts on the ecology of the lake through artificial opening is unknown.
B.6.4 Climate Change
As a result of climate change sea level rise is predicted. This in turn could result in a rise in the Lake water level causing inundation of low lying urban areas and ecological communities.
The potential effects of climate change on the physical, chemical and biological processes of coastal lakes as outlined by Haines and Thom (2007) are provided below:
• Increases in rainfall intensity could increase the potential for delivery of sediments and nutrients from the catchment;
• Changes to ocean water levels will impact on foreshore erosion; and
• Undertake long term strategic planning to improve community resilience to climate change
Increasing Lake water levels will result in inundation of fringing wetlands, some of which (such as saltmarsh) may migrate landward if there are no intervening human structures. However, to the potential detriment of existing brackish and terrestrial vegetation communities; the rate of climate change may be faster than the rate at which some species can adapt.
B.6.5 Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Heritage
Description on Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Heritage has been drawn from the Lake Conjola EMP Review.
Both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people place cultural values on natural areas including aesthetic, social, spiritual and recreational values. Cultural values may be attached to the landscape as a whole or to individual components, for example to plant and animal species used by Aboriginal people.
Cultural values may consist of both physical remains and non-physical manifestations such as knowledge, stories and memories. Aboriginal people have utilised the resources of the area for the last 20,000 years, especially the Lake and coastline.
The Lake Conjola area is situated within the lands of the Wanda Wandian speaking people and the Budawang/Murramarang tribes of the Dhurga language group.
The Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve and Conjola National Park contain a large number of Aboriginal sites including burials, middens, campsites, rock shelters and grinding grooves.
An AHIMS search of recorded sites around Lake Conjola has identified 32 sites comprising 22 artefact scatters, 4 middens, 3 burials and 3 Potential Archaeological Deposits. A burial site on the south side of Lake Conjola, at the top of a high dune, was exposed when the dune eroded in 1998. The skeletal
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remains were salvaged and repatriated at a different location. There is some potential for further skeletal remains to be present within the sand dune.
B.6.6 Cultural/Social Values
Lake Conjola is highly valued for the recreational and tourism opportunities offered by its natural features. The lake provides for numerous coastal recreation activities such as power boating, skiing, sailing, canoeing, swimming and fishing. As a result, there is substantial economic dependence in the local community on the income generated by recreational use and tourism of the lake.
Non-Indigenous people have used the area for industry and recreation since the 1800s, particularly logging, silica mining, fishing and informal camping and beach activities along the coast.
Issues
ECONOMIC Equity/Distribution of wealth Refer to ECONOMIC response in Open Coast context. Willingness to pay There is substantial economic dependence in the local community on the income generated from recreation and tourism. Reliance on coast related tourism/aquaculture
Community and Government Involvement. Members of the Lake POLITICAL AND Conjola Task Force (LCTF), the local community, SCC Councillors and GOVERNANCE officers and State Government Departments prepared the Lake Conjola Estuary Management Plan.
• Conflicts involved with recreational activities include the following: 1. Conflict between passive and active recreation activities such as common locations, boat noise, inappropriate boating The significance and controls. sensitivity of coastal values 2. Cumulative impacts of development around the Lake and issues in the local council generating poor quality runoff and sewage disposal from area. foreshore development and inequitable allocation of water use areas. 3. Lack of public boating facilities leading to informal boat launching, which can disturb vegetation and ecology.
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B.7 Narrawallee Inlet
B.7.1 Existing studies and plans
List of existing studies and plans of the specific estuary and give brief background information on the purpose and contents of the plan.
Plan Purpose and contents
The purpose of the strategy is to promote the Narrawallee Inlet Natural Resources long-term protection, restoration and Management Strategy. Adopted 25.6.2002 conservation of, and minimize impacts on, the natural resources of the Narrawallee Inlet, its waterways and catchments to ensure ecologically sustainable long-term use. The strategy key environmental management issues identified through consultation with the community and government representatives and from previous studies and reports. Implementable management actions, where appropriate, are then devised, each with an assigned level of priority and responsible owner.
NPWS Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve PoM The plan of management establishes the scheme 2006 of operation for the Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve and how it will be managed in the future. The Narrawallee Creek forms the southern boundary of the Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve; it does not include the Narrawallee Inlet. The plan is a statutory document under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. The plan provides primary management emphasis on the conservation of ecological values.
B.7.2 General physical description of the Estuary
Narrawallee Inlet is located by road about 230km south of Sydney and 60km south of Nowra. Narrawallee village is the northern end of the coastal community comprising Mollymook and Ulladulla and is well developed. The inlet is permanently open to the sea and is about 4km long. It enters the sea immediately north of the Narrawallee Headland. The entrance is considered to be stable and remains in a near natural state.
The inlet has four main tributaries: Croobyar, Yackungarrah and Currowar Creeks; and Garrads Lagoon. The creeks rise in the escarpment forest within 30km of the coast and traverse through agricultural lands joining the estuary in a floodplain and mature estuarine wetland and coastal forest complex.
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Most of the land surrounding the village is bushland reserved for public recreation, environmental and/or scenic protection. The catchment of Narrawallee Inlet is about 80 km2.
B.7.3 Environmental Context
The inlet’s tidal exchange allows marine and terrestrial processes to interact and produces a complex coastal environment. The inlet is mostly infilled with marine sands. The inlet includes theses habitats:
▪ Estuarine ecosystem – few water quality issues and minor changes to habitat.
▪ Freshwater ecosystem – much of the riparian vegetation has been cleared on agricultural land.
▪ Freshwater and estuarine wetlands – 196ha are protected under former SEPP 14 wetland (now included within the Coastal Management SEPP).
▪ Coastal eucalypt/banksia forest along dune system – historically damaged by ocean storms.
▪ Eucalypt, turpentine and forest red gum forests – remnants and pockets survive.
▪ Subtropical rainforest – appears to be stable.
Some low-lying wetland areas along Narrawallee Creek are classified as coastal wetlands under the former SEPP 14. There are also threatened and/or endangered flora and fauna species located within the Narrawallee catchment and Inlet communities afford foreshore protection.
The estuary is affected by the key management issues which respond to values and issues important to the community. They are described in the following sub-sections.
B.7.3.1 Water Quality
The water quality of the Narrawallee Inlet is considered to be good due to effective flushing during tidal exchange. However, there have been instances of poor water quality at the Inlet in the past (2000/01). Water quality issues occur in some of the creeks after rainfall and via surface run-off from upstream land management practices which can affect aquatic life in the freshwater creeks and potentially the upper reaches of the estuary.
Key water quality issues include:
▪ Pollutants in the stormwater run-off from urban areas.
▪ Foreshore erosion.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address water quality issues include:
▪ Upgrade urban stormwater treatment in Milton and Narrawallee
▪ Reduce the generation of pollutants in the stormwater from Milton and Narrawallee
▪ Promote best practice in the management of riparian areas
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B.7.3.2 Erosion and Sedimentation
The foreshore of Narrawallee Inlet is considered to be relatively stable but are at risk of erosion from boating activity or flooding.
Inlet sediment loading is caused by processes such as:
▪ Erosion of tracks and unsealed road verges
▪ Stormwater drains in Narrawallee and Milton
▪ Surface run-off from building sites and developed areas.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address erosion and sedimentation issues include:
▪ Stabilization work
▪ Revegetation program along the foreshore including fill, replanting and maintenance of vegetation cover
▪ Retain and protect the vegetated foreshores of the estuary
It is noted that some foreshore erosion and undercutting are apparent along the lower reaches of the estuary.
B.7.3.3 Water Flow
Several weirs have been constructed at Croobyar Creek to provide freshwater flow for local ecology and domestic and farming uses. This creek has two irrigation licenses which are infrequently used. Some of the weirs hold water during dry periods.
No specific water flow issues were surveyed in the community, however:
▪ Flooding and run-off the Milton urban area would increase local stormwater issues and affect water flow in the creeks.
▪ It is considered that water sensitive urban design and reinstatement of riparian vegetation would minimize run-off during rainfall and maintain water flow objectives.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address water flow issues include:
▪ Maintain natural water flows as far as possible into the creeks and estuary.
B.7.3.4 Nature Conservation
The Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve is significant for the quality of its habitats. Specific objectives for nature conservation are being developed.
Key nature conservation issues include:
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▪ The spread of weeds in native bushland
▪ Littering and degrading of natural areas
▪ The threat to fish stocks from loss of habitat
Past statistics (1990-6) suggests that commercial fishing yielded minimal commercial catch. The invasive algae species, Caulerpa taxifolia, was previously recorded (2001) upstream of the shoals and extensive enough that hand removal was not possible. Methods to introduce salt treatment and regular monitoring were supported as part of educating the local community and visitors.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address water flow issues include:
▪ Promote the understanding of the natural environment among residents and visitors
▪ Protect important ecological communities on private lands through a mixture of education and assistance
▪ Implement control programs for noxious and feral pests
B.7.3.5 Entrance Management
The entrance is mainly used for access to the sea by sea kayaks and personal water craft.
Key entrance management issues include:
▪ Powerboat and personal water craft usage in the channel
▪ Difficulties in launching boats at low tide
It is considered that dredging of the entrance to improve water quality is not necessary; there has been community interest in dredging the shoals inside the entrance to improve boat ramp access. There does not appear to be any further capacity to infill the inlet. The beach is being receded at a rate of 0.2 – 0.4 m/year likely from storm action.
There is no further intervention required at the estuary entrance. As a result the key strategies that have been implemented to address entrance management issues include:
▪ Minimise any intervention in the functioning of the estuary entrance
B.7.3.6 Recreation
Popular nature-based recreation activities undertaken by locals and visitors include foreshore walks, swimming, fishing and canoeing.
Recreation issues are many and include:
▪ powerboat and jet ski usage in the channel
▪ littering and degrading of natural area
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▪ illegal access to and camping on the foreshore
▪ adequacy of the recreational and boating facilities
▪ overcrowding and overuse of the recreational areas of the Inlet
Some residents are interested in improving boating access to the inlet and suggest that Council should provide good boating access. Any dredging to maintain boat access at mid and lower tidal conditions would likely increase boat usage, require upgrading of existing boating and parking infrastructure and affect the stability of the narrow foreshore reserve. The residents generally have minimal use of the inlet by power boats. Some residents want the inlet to remain a low-power boating area and consider that personal water craft usage is a danger to swimmers and may contribute to the erosion of banks.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address recreation issues include:
▪ Maintain inlet as a passive boating area, encouraging rowed rather than motorised craft
▪ Improve the visitor facilities at the Narrawallee foreshore and beach
B.7.3.7 Visual Quality
Areas of visual significance include:
▪ The views around the inlet and foreshore area with the inlet
▪ Urban areas surrounded by forests, and the coastal views along Narrawallee and Buckley’s Beach to and from the headland
Key visual quality issues include:
▪ Foreshore erosion
▪ Clearing of foreshore vegetation
▪ Expansion of urban areas
Scenic protection zones include the forested ridge immediately west of Narrawallee township.
Key strategies that have been implemented to address visual quality issues include:
▪ Restrict the development of foreshore structures along the estuary
B.7.3.8 Cultural Heritage
The inlet contains evidence of past Aboriginal and European heritage and this cultural heritage is under the pressures of change, land use and urban development. The inlet and coastline are thought to have been an Aboriginal settlement for over 20,000 years. Few likely sites of Aboriginal occupation along the foreshore area and frequently travelled paths have been identified. The catchment contains relics from the early settlement of pastoral landscapes and remains of a silica mining operation.
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Key strategies that have been implemented to address cultural heritage issues include:
▪ Ensure the protection of all known Aboriginal sites
▪ Promote the understanding of the Aboriginal and European heritage among locals and visitors
▪ Understand and plan for the conservation of the pastoral landscapes and heritage items
B.7.4 Socioeconomic Context
Narrawallee is a well developed residential area. It is a popular recreational area for locals and visitors; many houses and weekenders are holiday homes and there is a lack of specific tourist accommodation. The township population significantly increases during holiday periods which is considered to disrupt the low-key coastal lifestyle enjoyed by residents. Peak tourist seasons are over the summer holiday and Easter period. The catchment is a mix of pastoral landscape used for agricultural purposes and forest.
B.7.5 Community Feedback
B.7.5.1 Past community feedback
The Narrawallee Inlet Natural Resources Management Strategy (2002) was informed by community engagement through the Narrawallee Inlet Task Force which was established as an advisory committee to Council. Consultation with the community was undertaken as part of the development of the Strategy and included informal discussions and a questionnaire distributed to all residential areas in Narrawallee and Milton.
The key issues of concern for the community for Narrawallee Inlet included:
▪ Pollutants in the stormwater runoff from urban areas ▪ Introduced animals including foxes, cats, black rats and rabbits ▪ The spread of weeds in native bushland ▪ Powerboat and jet ski usage in the channel ▪ Littering and degrading of natural areas ▪ Loss of sensitive ecosystems, habitat for native species & rainforest remnants ▪ The threat to fish stocks from loss of habitat ▪ Foreshore erosion ▪ Clearing of foreshore vegetation ▪ Loss of the wildlife corridor linking the coastal and inland natural areas ▪ Public health risks in the Inlet from bacterial contamination
Appendix B – Shoalhaven CMP Scoping Study Advisian 57 of 86
B.7.5.2 What the community desires out of the estuary
Respondents to a survey of the Narrawallee Inlet community identified key values considered to be important and preserved into the future as part of the responsible management of the place. The key values include:
▪ Water quality of the creeks and Inlet ▪ The scenic quality of the entrance area, tidal flats, foreshores, beaches & headlands ▪ Habitat for threatened and common native animals and birds ▪ Populations of wading birds, fish and other aquatic animals ▪ The small pockets of remnant rainforest ▪ The coastal bushland and heath adjacent to the Narrawallee urban area ▪ The tall forests in the west of the catchment ▪ Recreational destination for local families with a safe environment for young children ▪ Seagrass beds, mangroves and foreshore vegetation ▪ The extensive wetlands around the Inlet ▪ Vegetation on the banks of creeks ▪ Nature-based recreation, walking, and education in the wetlands and nature reserve ▪ A diverse range of recreational activities, in particular boating, fishing and swimming
B.7.6 What actions are required in future
The Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve Plan of Management (2006) is the statutory document under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 informing the management of the Narrawallee Creek Nature. The Narrawallee Creek Reserve is a natural backdrop to the Narrawallee Inlet. Although the Narrawallee Creek Nature does not include the Narrawallee Inlet, per se, there are some actions identified in the Plan specific to the Inlet to preserve and manage the place.
The key values of the place identified in the Plan are geology and landform, biodiversity, cultural heritage, scenery, educational, tourism and recreational values. Key management directions and/or strategies under the Plan to preserve the values of the place include:
▪ Conserving biodiversity values through surveying and monitoring threatened species and communities, controlling introduced species
▪ Conserving cultural heritage through stakeholder engagement, monitoring and recording.
▪ Controlling public access to minimize damage to natural values and areas subject to erosion.
▪ Maintain access tracks to and from Narrawallee Inlet.
▪ Monitor Narrawallee Inlet foreshore areas to ensure sufficient vegetation cover
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Finally, it is noted that the NPWS is a member of the natural resources and floodplain management committee established by the Council to oversee the implementation of the Narrawallee Inlet Natural Resources Management Strategy (2002) for Narrawallee Inlet.
B.8 Burrill Lake
B.8.1 Existing studies and plans (or reference documents)
Burrill Lake has a surface area of approximately 4 km2, an entrance channel 3 km long and between one and five hundred metres wide and one major tributary, Stoney Creek.
The Burrill Lake catchment covers an area of 78 km2. It is largely covered by dry sclerophyll forest in the south and west (both National Park and private land) and agricultural grazing lands to the north.
Burrill Lake is a barrier-type estuary, formed by the drowning of a river valley following the last ice age some 6500 years ago. The channel is relatively shallow, less than 3m in depth, within 4 major shoals along its length. The entrance shoal is the only active shoal. The entrance is located between a rock platform and the beach sand barrier, resulting in a highly constricted mouth.
Previous studies and plans for Burrill Lake include:
• the Interim Entrance Management Policy (Peter Spurway and Associates, 2008)
• Burrill Lake Estuary and Catchment Management Plan (Shoalhaven Council, 2002)
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• Burrill Lake Estuary Processes Study (WBM Oceanics, 2002)
Plan Purpose and contents
Purpose of this plan is to provide a Burrill Lake Estuary and Catchment Management comprehensive and integrated set of strategies Plan (December 2002) to enhance, protect and conserve the natural resources of Burrill Lake and its catchments to ensure its use is ecologically sustainable in the long term.
Burrill Lake Interim Entrance Management Policy This interim policy considers issues related to • the closures of Burrill Lake entrance in 2005 and 2006 • blocking in 2005 of the previous ebb tidal channel across the entrance shoal • impacts of lake closure on lake ecology, wetlands and water quality • impacts on tourism / economy, recreation and amenity • infrastructure levels and intervention levels in Burrill.
B.8.2 Physical context
Burrill Lake is located in the City of Shoalhaven on the south coast of New South Wales. The lake is approximately 230km south of Sydney, 65km south of Nowra and 6km south of Ulladulla.
Burrill Lake has a surface area of approximately 4 km2 consisting of an entrance channel 4km long and 100 – 500m wide and the Stoney Creek major tributary. The Burrill Lake catchment covers a 78 km2, which is largely
Burrill Lake is open to the sea for most of the time, tidal exchange can cease by natural processes when the entrance closes.
B.8.3 Management areas
B.8.3.1 Ecology
The major habitats in Burrill lake include: the water column; reeds and sedges; seagrass; rocky shores; and unvegetated soft substrates (sand and mud flats).
▪ Reeds and Sedges: The reeds and sedges at Burrill Lake meet the definition of the Coastal Saltmarsh recently listed as an endangered ecological community. The foreshore vegetation at Burrill Lake was recorded as the most diverse of eight south coast estuaries studied by CSIRO. There are three main species that dominate the saltmarsh in the area. These include the Juncus kraussi, Cyperus laevigatus and Baumea sp.
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▪ Seagrass: Seagrass meadows are widely recognised as one of the most productive estuarine ecosystems. They provide a habitat, food and shelter for a range of invertebrate and fish species and are an important nursery area for fish and prawns and considered to be of direct fisheries value. The following image from the REF for Burrill Lake shows the varioation and distribution of seagrass in Burrill Lake over time. The main seagrass species recorded in September 2000 is the eelgrass Zostera capricorni and Z. muelleri.
B.8.3.2 Water quality
Key Values
▪ Water quality determines the ecological character of an estuary and its tributaries. ▪ Further, water quality has an impact on the level of recreational and commercial activity, for the tourist industry and also local community. ▪ Burrill Lake’s water quality is generally of a moderate to high quality and is suitable for recreation, aquatic systems and aquatic seafood. The water can also be used for irrigation, stock and domestic usage at a limited quantity. ▪ The priority for the water quality in Burrill Creek is to meet the NSW Governments Interim Water Quality Objectives (EPA regulation). These objectives are potentially outdated.
Issues
The State of the Environment Report (2001) reports that the water quality for Burrill Lake are undergoing the following issues:
▪ For the reporting period between 1998 – 2000, the water quality was generally good except for fluctuations in levels of dissolved oxygen, higher faecal coliforms in the upper catchment in Stoney Ck and peaks of high phosphorous levels in September and November 1999. ▪ The Burrill Lake Processes Studies undertaken in 2001/2 identified the following concerns in the lake – the tidal section of Stoney Creek had the poorest water quality caused by runoff from large agricultural catchments and poor flushing frequency (>150 days); there is increasing water quality issues in the northern basin due to poor flushing frequency (100 – 120 days); and the southern basin has a relatively poor flushing frequency of (90 – 100 days). ▪ The study recognised that grazing operations was the largest contributor to water quality issues, and varying and urban uses being less significant.
▪ Council has recorded the results of historical water quality monitoring at various sites within Burrill Lake on the Aquadata portal on their website (Figure 11), which shows that recent water quality results within the lower estuary have been good, with very few instances of elevated pathogen levels, following upgrade of the sewer system in the early 2000’s.
Actions taken/To be taken
The Processes identified the following actions to be important to protect water quality in Burrill Lake:
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1. Actions that preserve and protect the watercourses, including creek fencing and revegetation, stabilisation of drainage lines and foreshore protection 2. Second priority actions included non-structural source controls such as development controls, public education on fertiliser and effluent management 3. The lowest priority actions include inline stormwater treatment such as sediment traps.
Figure 11 – Water Quality monitoring locations at Burrill Lake (Aquadata https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map/detail/112/ChemResults_AllTime)
B.8.3.3 Erosion and sedimentation
Key values
▪ It is important for Burrill lake to minimise erosion of soil from adjacent land to the catchments to protect the lake from excessive sedimentation.
Issues
▪ Erosion throughout the catchment occurs from a range of sources; the most significant being contributed to by developments, intensive agriculture and instream erosion. ▪ Creek banks and watercourses throughout the agricultural area are poorly vegetated. Coupled with grazing pressure, there is an increase in stream erosion. ▪ A river health assessment carried out in the Burrill Lake catchment, prepared by DLWC in 2002, identified that there was poor riparian vegetation cover, absence of vegetation regeneration, occurrence of bank erosion and sediment deposition and direct stock access to the streams. ▪ The major source of sediment in the creek is from forested sandstone areas.
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▪ Foreshore erosion was identified as a relatively minor issue. ▪ Sediment plumes in Burrill Lake were resulting from development activity at the creek.
Actions taken/to be taken
▪ Protect riparian and foreshore vegetation through implementation of foreshore management strategies, educating community and seeking financial assistance.
B.8.3.4 Water flow
Water flows through Stoney Creek and Burrill Lake is important for the freshwater ecology and domestic or farm water supply. Freshwater flows are required to maintain the brackish state of Burrill Lake and is critical for the ecological processes such as fish migration.
Issues
▪ There was limited understanding of the freshwater flow through Stoney Creek due to the lack of flow meter in the stream.
B.8.3.5 Flooding
Flooding can endanger urban assets and infrastructure and cause inconvenience to the residents. This is particularly an issue for Burrill Lake as over 400 residences are within the 1 in 100 year flood area.
Flooding plays a pivotal role in the ecological cycle of the foreshore and lake by bringing nutrients into the lake system. This contributes to the growth of difference species by providing a food source. However, it can also reduce the water quality of the lake, which may take weeks to clear.
Flooding is also important in scouring out the lake entrance and moving marine sands from shoals into the beach area.
Issues
▪ Flooding of Burrill Lake occur from three scenarios: major flooding throughout catchment caused by high rainfall events; localised flooding events caused by rainfall; and inundation of foreshore areas caused by entrance closure. ▪ Flooding at Burrill Lake poses little to no direct risk to life due to the slow movement of the water. However, many residents would have little experience managing flood events. There is no flood warning system for the area. ▪ New building are required to have a floor level above 2.3m AHD. In the scenario of a localised flood, residences with levels below 2m AHD may encounter access issues. Several low lying roads in the area such as Kendall Crescent and Dolphin Point Road would be inaccessible. ▪ Overall, inundation is not expected to continue for any length of time after heavy rainfall ceases.
Actions taken/to be taken
▪ The 2002 Estuary and Catchment Management Plan identified that a Flood Management Plan is a priority to develop and implement.
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B.8.3.6 Nature conservation
Burrill Lake and its tributaries support a large range of ecological communities. They are a vital environmental aspect to conserve and also an attractive attribute for the community and visitors. Burrill Lake is a major recreational fishery for finfish and crustaceans.
The seagrass beds in the lake play an important role in maintaining sediment stability, water quality and provide shelter and food for a wide range of aquatic biota.
▪ The six fish species, Sea Mullet, Luderick, Yellow-fin Leatherjacket, Sand Mullet and Six-spined Leatherjacket were the most abundant. Entrance management is an important aspect of recruiting fish into the estuary. ▪ There are six coastal wetlands around the lake that were formerly listed under SEPP 14, now the Coastal SEPP. These are made up of sedges, saltmarsh and Swamp Oak.
Issues
▪ NSW Fisheries believe that the greatest future threat to fishing resources of the lake will arise from elevated turbidity levels, which reduces light penetration into the water and reduce the growth of seagrass. ▪ Disturbance from boat propellers and anchors can also damage the seagrass beds. ▪ The tidal flats in the channel are important in the aquatic food chain and also serve as a resting and feeding area for migratory birds. Australia is obligated under international treaties to protect these areas. ▪ The foreshore vegetation of at Burrill Lake was recorded as the most diverse of eight south coast estuaries studied by CSIRO in 1981. Six wetlands bordering the estuary were protected under the former SEPP 14, now Coastal SEPP. ▪ The community has raised their own concerns on the increase in area and density of reeds and sedges in Burrill Lake, which causes: access restrictions in the water, trapping litter and rubbish in high use areas, providing habitat for pests and vermin and reducing the visual appeal of the lake. This however conflicts with State Agencies views that the foreshore and intertidal vegetation are vital to providing important ecological functions. As such, only minor management actions were proposed in relation to the treatment of reeds and sedges. ▪ The Caulerpa taxifolia, an invasive alga has been identified in Burrill Lake.
Actions taken/to be taken
▪ Promote understanding of the natural environment among residents and visitors ▪ Protect important ecological communities on private lands through a mixture of education and assistance ▪ Implement control programs for noxious, feral and marine pests
B.8.3.7 Entrance management
The entrance area is the most frequently used section of the Burrill Lake for visitors and residents.
Appendix B – Shoalhaven CMP Scoping Study Advisian 64 of 86
Issues
▪ Burrill Lake general remains open to the sea and has sufficient tidal exchange to maintain good water quality. ▪ Condition of the entrance governs some key values in the inlet and estuary, including water quality, inundation of low-lying areas, the ecology of the wetlands around the inlet channel and the diversity and abundance of a range of aquatic species. ▪ Closure of the entrance would immediately disrupt the oyster farming industry. A rise in the water level above 1m AHD would being to disrupt the functioning of residential areas and tourism. Initial inundation would affect wetlands and foreshore areas, and then affect caravan parks. ▪ In the past, the council has always mechanically opened the lake when the water level reached 1.25m AGH. This level was selected because few community assets fell below this level.
B.8.3.8 Recreation and tourism
Issues
▪ Recreational demand for Burrill Lake come from three groups: Chrismas and Easter holiday periods, lower level of visitor usage from non-holiday periods and use by the local population. ▪ Swimming in the estuary occurs in the lower part of the channel near the entrance. The highway bridge has become a popular location for swimming and diving, according to the 2002 Estuary Management Plan. ▪ Recreational fishing is undertaken by both locals and visitors. ▪ Commercial fishing in Burrill Lake ceased in 2002. ▪ The priority for Shoalhaven City Council is to allow for provision of public facilities along the foreshore in order to improve the capacity of visitors able to enter and use the water near the channel and entrance. ▪ Maria Avenue boat ramp is usable at lake levels up to 1.1m AHD, however there are safety concerns of the edges of the ramp not being marked.
Actions taken/to be taken
▪ Improve the visitor facilities in high use areas ▪ Increase opportunities for visitor usage of foreshores and reserves ▪ Provide necessary infrastructure for a recreational boating and fishing program
B.8.3.9 Visual quality
The visual quality of the Burrill Lake is a significant quality of the waterbody. Council’s objective is to retain the visual amenities of the lake as best as possible.
Issues
▪ The visual quality of the lake can be impacted by insensitive or incompatible development around the foreshore; ▪ Clearing of the lakeside vegetation
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▪ Accelerated development of the rural or forested areas ▪ Too many private foreshore structures such as jetties and reclaimed land.
B.8.3.10 Cultural heritage
Burrill Lake’s catchment has been the site of Aboriginal occupation for over 20,000 years. The Burrill Rock Shelter is the most significant of these Aboriginal sites, being of international archaeological significance. The catchment is also rich in relics from early European settlement. Many farm buildings and public buildings in Milton highlight the importance of agricultural production from the area. 73 items from Milton were listed on the Shoalhaven Heritage Study, as well as 23 from the rural area and three from Burrill Lake.
Issues
▪ Aboriginal foreshore sites have been subjected to damage from erosion, storms and construction activity ▪ A number of sites require actions to prevent continuing degradation. ▪ European heritage items require listing onto the Shoalhaven LEP to be granted statutory protection from developments.
B.8.4 Community Feedback
Past community engagement took place during preparation of the Interim Entrance Management Policy (Peter Spurway and Associates, 2008), the Burrill Lake Estuary and Catchment Management Plan (SCC, 2002) and Burrill Lake Estuary Processes Study (WBM Oceanics, 2002). Further, the Burrill Lake Task Force advisory committee also sought for community engagement with the Burrill Lake community. The following insights were gathered from these engagement opportunities:
▪ Burrill Lake’s visual amenity (or scenic quality) is highly valued by the community and visitors, which is composed of the lake, beach, foreshores, townscape, boating and former dairy farms around Milton. ▪ The community raised issues about the useability and safety of the Maria Avenue and Kendall Crescent boat ramps, the safety issues of slippery algae on private jetties and navigation safety. ▪ The community raised water quality and aquatic ecology issues such as the spread of Caulerpa taxifolia, poor flushing frequency of the lake, management of agricultural and urban runoff, impact of the bridge and health of the foreshore’s vegetative and riparian environment. ▪ The community is concerned about the impact of opening or closing of Burrill Lake on tourism, oyster farming, and recreational fishing. ▪ Flooding in Burrill Lake creates a variety of issues for the community including: inundation of accessways such as the jetty and walking tracks, increase in mosquito breeding, inundation of local roads and infrastructure and underfloor flooding of houses. ▪ Community is misinformed on the nature of ICOLs and the natural cycle of entrance opening and closures. There is potential for an investigation on the impacts of artificial lake opening on the characteristics of the lake.
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B.8.5 History, Current and Future
▪ Shoalhaven City Council proposes to breach the entrance barrier to Burrill Lake when the water levels reach a specified trigger level, to reduce risk of potential flooding to public roads, built assets and private properties. ▪ These proposed works were in accordance with the entrance management strategies that were in the Burrill Lake Estuary and Catchment Management Plan that was adopted in December 2002. In the past, Council has mechanically opened the lake when the water level approached 1.25m AHD and when rain was expected within the next 24 hours.
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B.9 Tabourie Lake
B.9.1 Existing studies and plans
The following studies and plans of the estuary have been referenced for this Scoping Study:
Plan Purpose and contents
The Plan guides management of the waterway Lake Tabourie Revised Estuary Management and surrounding environment. It is the result of: Plan. Adopted June 2013 • the new Guidelines for preparing Coastal Zone Management Plans (DECCW, 2010) • a review and update of the 1997 Tabourie Lake Estuary Management Plan to ensure the Plan remains current.
The Policy aims to provide the Council and Tabourie Lake Entrance Management Policy community with a detailed procedure for the (Cardno, 2018) short-term and long-term management of the Tabourie Lake entrance for flood mitigation purposes.
B.9.2 General physical description of the Estuary
Tabourie Lake is about 200km south of Sydney. The estuary is 1.5km2 with a catchment of 47.7km2. The main basin of the lake is typically one metre in depth and the lake entrance is restricted allowing for minimal tidal exchange or flushing when open to the ocean. The lake connects to the ocean via Tabourie Creek and there are several sub-catchment areas for Tabourie Lake.
The land tenure map in the Plan shows that Tabourie Lake and surrounding land is predominantly managed by NPWS (31.7% of the catchment). Land (public reserve) surrounding Tabourie Creek further downstream near Lake Tabourie village is predominantly managed by Council (1.7% of the catchment). Tabourie Creek is managed by the Crown.
B.9.3 Environmental Context
The revised Plan’s management areas respond to values and issues important to the community and strongly focus on biodiversity and estuary health. The key issues are described in the following sub- sections.
B.9.3.1 Water Quality
The community identified concerns for threats to Tabourie Lake water quality and amenity from development, pollution, siltation and weeds. The ecology, health, amenity and recreational use of the Lake is susceptible to pollutants originating from the catchment, particularly urbanized areas.
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Historical water quality data indicated some tributaries of the Lake having elevated nutrient levels. During the 2008 – 10 water quality sampling period in the lake basin, a Water Quality Index (WQI) fluctuating between ‘medium’ to ‘good’. Nutrient levels, dissolved oxygen levels and faecal coliform levels can fluctuate from typical counts. Furthermore, an estuary health report card (2010) for the Lake based on chlorophyll-a, turbidity and saltmarsh extents indicated a ‘fair’ rating.
It is generally considered that the sediment infill rate in the lake basin are slow and shallowing of the Lake is a minor issue.
Key water quality issues include:
• Catchment inflows, primarily sediment and nutrients (i.e. nitrogen and phosphorus)
• Water exchange between ocean and freshwater sources
• Internal lake processing of nutrients controlling nutrient availability
The Tabourie Sewerage Scheme minimizes the potential risk of pollution from overflow events in the lake or its catchment.
The lake basin and Tabourie Creek are classified as high probability estuarine potential acid sulphate soils (PASS). Areas at higher risk of disturbance to PASS are located along tributary streams. They are unlikely to be disturbed such that PASS became a risk to the health of receiving estuary waters.
Key strategies to address water quality issues include:
• Manage catchment inputs from potential redevelopment areas
• Reduce nutrient inputs by managing current sediment loads entering local watercourses
• Management of sensitive private lands
• Public education
Results of historical water quality monitoring dating back to the 1990's are published on the Aquadata portal on Council’s website (Figure 12), which indicate only some isolated instances of elevated faecal coliforms and enterococci in the lower estuary since the early 2000’s.
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Figure 12 – Water quality monitoring locations at Lake Tabourie (Aquadata - https://webreports.esdat.net/SCC#results-map/detail/112/ChemResults_AllTime)
B.9.3.2 Biodiversity
Tabourie Lake contains ecological communities (animals and plants) in the riparian zones and wetlands. The catchment contains endangered ecological communities (ECCs). These include the terrestrial community of Bangalay Sand Forest and riparian communities of Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh and Swamp Sclerophyll Forest. It is noted that less frequent inundation of the wetlands may be a result of manually opening the lake. It is not known whether manually opening the lake is resulting in the wetlands contracting or changing composition and distribution of flora and fauna species. However, an entrance opening policy is recommended to aim to maintain regular wetting of the wetlands and it requires information on critical levels for inundation.
The aquatic habitat of Tabourie Lake includes seagrass, mangroves and saltmarsh. Seagrass communities in the estuary were reported as being in ‘very poor’ condition (2010). This may be a natural response to lowering of water levels in the lake basin rather than suggesting an issue. Saltmarsh is vulnerable to changes from sea level rise, however, saltmarsh communities in the estuary were reported as being in ‘very good’ condition (2010). No fish species classified as threatened are known or expected to occur in the lake.
Key strategies to address biodiversity issues include:
• Preserve and improve riparian buffers
• Seagrass bed health
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• Lake opening strategy
B.9.3.3 Access and Recreation
Tabourie Lake provides for recreational opportunities such as swimming, fishing and canoeing which is complimented by other activities at the coastal beach at the mouth of the estuary.
Predicted sea level rise will likely result in permanent increases in lake levels which would impact on foreshore access management. As a result, potential inundation, accelerated degradation of pathways and the siting of new facilities must be carefully considered in the future management of the place.
Boating navigation around the shallow water of the lake basin is generally not an issue. However, navigation at the confluence of Lemon Tree Creek and the entrance channel can be an issue during times of drought coinciding with very low lake levels.
Historically, intervention at the entrance opening has been minimal. However, intervention operations have been devised to improve intervention efficiency and minimize impacts from scouring and flooding. A flood study (2010) modelling the opening process of Tabourie Lake revealed that removal of additional sand from the entrance channel would have no beneficial impact on opening efficiency.
Key strategies to address access and recreation issues include:
• Foreshore access improvements
• Consideration of climate change impacts
• Bank erosion and boating and navigability
B.9.3.4 Cultural Heritage
The local Aboriginal people inhabited the Shoalhaven region and the coastal and estuarine environments of Tabourie Lake. Middens are known to occur beside Tabourie Lake, which confirms that the lake and rock platforms of Crampton Island provided for shellfish targeted as food. The local Aboriginal people would have hunted fish and crustaceans from the lake and wetlands.
Europeans have used the area for transport, industry and recreation since the 1800s. A dray track crossed the mouth of Tabourie and pine plantations around Tabourie Lake were introduced in the 1920s. Most of the pine was destroyed in a 1968 wildfire and a long-term rehabilitation program have been implemented for the pine areas.
Key strategies to address cultural heritage issues include:
• Recognition of Aboriginal cultural heritage
• Protection of Aboriginal sites and artefacts
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B.9.3.5 Climate Change
Climate change is expected to increase flood risks to settlements, the delivery of services and natural ecosystems in and around the coastal and estuarine environments at Tabourie Lake. There are potential impacts on the lake entrance and the physical, chemical and biological processes of the lake.
A first pass assessment indicated key issues of lake level rise in 100 years’ time. These include:
• More significant impacts to undeveloped public land than private lands
• Small reduction in the area of foreshore reserve available for public recreation
• Endangered ecological communities would likely be inundated, some without the possibility of retreating landward.
• Major impact on entrance intervention levels
• Inundation with saline tidal water may release acidity from ASS at localized areas in the short- term.
The Tabourie Lake Flood Study (2010) indicates that flooding of Lake Tabourie village would generally be equally derived from rainfall in the catchment or ocean inundation events, both accounting for future sea level rise scenarios. The condition of the entrance significantly affects current flood behavior. The Study noted that removal of sand from the entrance channel throat would have no beneficial impact on entrance opening efficiency. Council relies on natural scouring during the next flood event to remove sand build-up.
Key strategies to address climate change issues include:
• Floodplain risk management
• Improve knowledge base of climate change impacts around the lake foreshore
• Pre-emptive climate change responses
• Planning and land survey data
B.9.4 Socioeconomic Context
Tabourie Lake is a popular recreational resource for residents and visitors. The lake is relatively undeveloped in terms of residential, commercial and tourist facilities. There is a caravan park and some minor commercial outlets and tourist accommodation which rely on holiday visitors for income.
The lake offers the following recreation attractions:
• The lake – fishing, prawning, canoeing and swimming
• The coast – swimming, fishing and surfing
• The catchment – bushwalking, car touring and sightseeing.
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The population is relatively small. For instance, the Tabourie Sewerage Scheme is designed to service a permanent equivalent population of 663 and peak holiday equivalent of 1,562.
B.9.5 Community Feedback
B.9.5.1 Past community feedback
In 2009, the Far Southern Natural Resources and Floodplain Management Committee undertook a community survey to gauge community priorities and concerns, as part of the revised Estuary Management Plan for Tabourie Lake. Prior to that, in 1986 during the exhibition of the Tabourie Lake Estuary Management Plan the local community raised specific issues for Lake Tabourie.
As part of the Tabourie Lake Entrance Management Policy updated in November 2018 (Cardno, 2018), a community workshop was held to discuss the findings of the entrance management policy review. Six entrance management options were ranked by the community, including:
• Do nothing • Continue existing approach • Raise Trigger Level • Berm-height management or use of a dry-notch • Construction of a permanently open entrance • Pilot channel.
It was found that the most preferred options for entrance management by the community included raising the trigger level for entrance opening, and the use of a dry notch, followed by the existing approach. There was both strong support and strong opposition for construction of a permanently open entrance which was found to be an option that polarized the community.
The following issues were identified by the community survey undertaken for the revised Estuary Management Plan:
Community Issues and Values Identified
Water Quality and Amenity
There was concern for the water quality and amenity of the lake, including threats from impacts of development, pollution, siltation and weeds. The lake is highly valued by the community for the recreational opportunities it offers, including swimming, fishing, canoeing and prawning.
Foreshore Access
Foreshore access is identified as an important issue, including future increases in sea levels posing challenges to foreshore access.
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Community Issues and Values Identified
Erosion and Sedimentation
Flooding
Visual Quality
Lake Ecology
Recreation and Tourism
B.9.5.2 What the community desires out of the estuary
As part of the Lake Tabourie Revised Estuary Management Plan (2013), the values identified in the 1997 Plan were modified based on community consultation, research data and consultation with the Far South Natural Resources and Floodplain Management Committee. The revised values are:
Ecological
• Diversity of aquatic species and habitats and a biologically diverse catchment
• Largely unmodified shoreline
• Water quality supporting a viable lake ecosystem
Social
• Relatively undeveloped lake and catchment in terms of residential, commercial and tourist facilities
• Popular recreational resource for residents and holiday visitors.
• High level of visual amenity and natural beauty
Economic
• Caravan parks and minor commercial outlets and tourist accommodation
• Property values
B.9.6 What actions are required in future
It is recommended that the strategies and associated actions in the Lake Tabourie Revised Estuary Management Plan (2013) and 1997 Tabourie Lake Estuary Management Plan to address identified issues are implemented and their implementation status regularly monitored. In accordance with the new Guidelines for preparing Coastal Zone Management Plans (DECCW, 2010), future management of the natural resources of the lake must address as a minimum requirement:
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• Health of the estuary
• Actions to manage the pressures affecting the estuary’s health
• Projected climate change impacts or risks to estuary health
Addressing these key areas would facilitate the preservation of the key values of the place.
Finally, it is recommended that Council implement the Tabourie Lake Entrance Management Policy updated in November 2018 (Cardno, 2018). The Policy aims to provide Council and community with an instructive procedure for the short-term and long-term management of the Tabourie Lake entrance for flood mitigation purposes.
The measures in the Tabourie Lake Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan (FRMP) would likely remove the need to undertake entrance management and mechanical lake openings to mitigate nuisance flooding of foreshore land. Therefore, the author intends the Policy be adopted as an ‘interim policy’ until the measures in the FRMP to manage flood risks are fully funded and implemented. Until this has occurred, it is recommended that the Policy is reviewed every five years.
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B.10 Estuaries for which the majority of land tenure is NPWS or JBMP
Estuary Description
Carama Inlet/Creek Site description Carama Creek and sections of its catchment forms part of the Jervis Bay National Park (JBNP) and Woollamia Nature Reserve (WNR). Carama Creek has extensive estuarine wetlands with multiple distinct saltmarsh communities near the mouth entering Jervis Bay at Hare Point. It is located west of Warrain Beach. Environmental values The Creek has natural, scenic and recreational values. In the past, vegetation communities at the estuarine wetlands have been disturbed by off-road vehicle use and native vegetation restoration is a high priority. The estuarine wetland is home to vulnerable species of wading birds. The Jervis Bay National Park Plan of Management identifies visitor opportunities for interpretive information of the estuarine environment at Carama Creek.
Management responsibility Carama Inlet/Creek, as part of the JBNP, is managed by NPWS under their relevant Plan of Management.
Moona Moona Creek Site Description Jervis Bay National Park includes the Moona Moona Creek bed and intertidal areas. Environmental values Moona Moona Creek has estuarine wetland environments providing similar habitat and demonstrating similar values to Carama Creek. Management responsibility Moona Moona Creek and some of its catchment is part of the Jervis Bay Marine/National Park. Hence, NPWS is responsible for its management. NPWS strategies relating to Moona Moona Creek involve promoting walking track networks.
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Estuary Description
Moona Moona Creek Site description Moona Moona Creek forms part of the Jervis Bay National Park (JBNP) and Woollamia Nature Reserve (WNR). The park and reserve are located roughly 20 kilometres southeast of Nowra along the northern and western shores of Jervis Bay. Moona Moona Creek flows into Jervis Bay at Huskisson. Environmental values Moona Moona Creek is a suitable habitat for a 9 vulnerable species of wading birds including the great knot, large sand plover, lesser sand plover, sooty oystercatcher, pied oystercatcher, broad-billed sandpiper, black-tailed godwit, sanderling and terek sandpiper. Along Moona Moona Creek is an estuarine complete composed of three distinct communities which include saltmarsh herbland-shrubland, mangrove shrubland-woodland and swamp oak woodland. ▪ There is a moderately healthy wetland environment along Moona Moona Creek. ▪ Climate change: Associated effects in ▪ A tall forest of blackbutt grows in protected locations on the deep sand dunes north of Moona Moona Creek. ▪ The middle reaches of Moona Moona Creek adjacent to Naval College Road, where there occurs the only known population of the threatened plant Melaleuca biconvexa in the park and reserve. ▪ Vulnerable to surface water run-off. ▪ Moona Moona Creek is used recreationally for boating, fishing, hiking and cycling. Management responsibility Moona Moona Creek, as part of the JBNP, is managed by NPWS under their Plan of Management. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 requires for NPWS to prepare a plan of management for each national park and how that area will be managed for years ahead. The plan of management establishes management actions for Moona Moona Creek as part of the Jervis Bay National Park. Moona Moona Creek, as part of the Jervis Bay National Park, is managed by NPWS under their plan of management.
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Estuary Description
Nerrindillah Creek Lagoon (Monument Beach) Site description Plans reviewed: Nerrindillah Creek Lagoon (Monument Beach) forms part of the Conjola National Park, which was Conjola National Park Plan of Management 2009 reserved in 1994 and expanded when merged with Cudmirrah National Park in 2003. Nerrindillah Creek Lagoon is an ICOLL, a saline coastal lagoon with an intermittently closed entrance. The estuary area is 0.1km^2 and the total catchment area is 17.2km^2. Environmental Values ▪ The hooded plover has been recorded breeding near the entrances to Nerrindillah Lagoon ▪ Heritage – Selective logging of hardwoods such as blackbutt, turpentine and bloodwood was carried out in central and western parts of the park from the 1900s. The logging has left numerous logging trails and log dumps, and stumps. It is report that a forestry camp was formerly located on lower Nerrindillah Creek. ▪ Heritage - The remains of a small weir are located on Nerrindillah Creek where it is crossed by Nerringillah Road. It is reported that the weir, along with associated piping, formerly supplied drinking water to the village of Bendalong. ▪ Water quality is generally good in Nerrindillah Creek because of the small amount of development in the catchments and low topography. However, it is still possible for former quarries and unsealed roads in the park to contribute to sediment runoff. Rehabilitation of these quarries and roads would reduce this. ▪ Nerrindillah Lagoon is an ICOL and reserved within the park. These lagoons do not affect built assets during times of high water levels and should be allowed to follow natural opening regimes. ▪ Scenic driving and vehicle access is available for the community or visitors to use the lagoon for bushwalking, fish, canoeing and swimming. However, uncontrolled vehicle use has damaged riparian vegetation. Barriers are considered to prevent this in future. CMP required or not The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 requires for NPWS to prepare a plan of management for each national park and how that area will be managed for years ahead. The plan of management establishes management actions for Nerindillah Lagoon as part of the Conjola Park
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Estuary Description It is therefore recommended that Shoalhaven City Council does not progress any Coastal Management Program for Nerindillah Lagoon.
Termeil Lake Termeil Lake, along with Maroo Lake, are coastal lakes within the Meroo National Park. It is located Plans reviewed: north of Meroo Lake. Meroo NP PoM 2010 The Lake demonstrates similar values to Meroo Lake. Further, previous research (2003) identified potential threats to the Green and Golden Bell Frog in Meroo and Termeil Lakes. Pre 1998 Management Plan in SCC archives Key environmental management issues include: ▪ protecting water quality and health of the coastal lake. ▪ minimising erosion on coast and lake fringes affected by recreational use. ▪ restricting commercial fishing. The management of national parks in NSW is primarily governed by the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and the policies of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). It is noted that the Park includes the majority of the Termeil Lake bed. Furthermore, up to 47% of the Termeil Lake catchment is encompassed by the Park or state forest. Hence, the management and conservation of Termeil Lake is considered to be the responsibility of the NPWS. However, liaison with the Council ought to be undertaken, as necessary, to facilitate environmental management strategies and/or outcomes identified in the Plan of Management.
Meroo Lake Meroo Lake is located within the southern section of Meroo National Park (the Park) along the Plans reviewed: coastline, between Tabourie Lake Village and Bawley Point. The park extends to the mean high-water mark. Meroo NP PoM 2010 The foreshores and fringing wetlands of the Lake have biological, natural landscape, Aboriginal heritage Pre 1998 Management Plan in SCC archives and recreational value. Key environmental management issues include: ▪ protecting water quality and health of the coastal lake. ▪ minimising erosion on coast and lake fringes affected by recreational use. ▪ implementing controlled public access.
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Estuary Description The management of national parks in NSW is primarily governed by the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and the policies of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). It is noted that the bed of the Lake is not incorporated into the Park. However, desktop searches suggest that Meroo Lake is now included within the Park. Furthermore, up to 39% of the Meroo Lake catchment is encompassed by the Park or state forest. Hence, the management and conservation of Meroo Lake is considered to be the responsibility of the NPWS. However, liaison with the Council ought to be undertaken, as necessary, to facilitate environmental management strategies and/or outcomes identified in the Plan of Management.
Willinga Lake Willinga Lake forms part of Meroo National Park managed by NPWS under the NPW Act. Willinga Lake Plans reviewed: is a saline coastal ICOL with a 0.3 km^2 estuary area and a 13.6 km^2 catchment area. Willinga Lake is located 70km south of Nowra. Meroo National Park Plan of Management 2010 Environmental values ▪ All lakes, including Willinga Lake, have a high conservation value due to the relatively low levels of disturbance in their catchments. Only 10% of NSW estuaries remain in near pristine condition, and this includes Willinga Lake. ▪ Diverse water birds including international migratory birds associated with lakes and wetlands ▪ At least 12 threated fauna species including significant populations of the nationally endangers green and golden bell frog ▪ Hooded Plover have been recorded near moths of Willinga Lakes. There are less than 25 pairs of this species known to occur in NSW and the Willinga Lake entrance has been identified as a prime breeding habitat for the species. ▪ An invertebrate survey in 1998 at the southern edge of Willinga Lake by CSIRO entomologists David Rentz and Penelope Greenslade indicated that the area generally supports a rich and rare insect population. CMP required or not The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 requires for NPWS to prepare a plan of management for each national park and how that area will be managed for years ahead. The plan of management
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Estuary Description establishes management actions for Willinga Lake as part of Meroo NP. It is therefore recommended that Shoalhaven City Council does not progress any Coastal Management Program for Willinga Lake.
Durras Lake Murramarang National Park spans 44km of coastline between the Bawley Point-Kioloa area and Plans reviewed: Batemans Bay on the south coast of NSW. The central part of the south coast is very attractive and retains much of its natural forest cover under State Forest. Murramarang National Park Plan of Management 2002 Environmental values ▪ Small areas of E. botryoides woodland occur along the coastline in the northern part of the park while south of Durras Lake the bangalay is replaced by Casuarina glauca, E. paniculate, E. agglomerate and E. globoidea. The woodland is closely interlinked with areas of scrub and heath. ▪ Fringing Casuarina glauca swamp communities occur on the edge of Durras Lake with Juncus sp., Phragmites Australia, Melaleauca ericifolia and Leptospermum attenuatum. CMP required or not The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 requires for NPWS to prepare a plan of management for each national park and how that area will be managed for years ahead. The plan of management establishes management actions for Durras Lake as part of Murramarang NP. It is therefore recommended that Shoalhaven City Council does not progress any Coastal Management Program for Durras Lake.
B.11 Smaller Estuaries
Estuary Description
Currarong, Abrahams Bosom and Plutus Creeks These three small permanent creek systems and their catchments are located near Currarong village on Plans reviewed: the Beecroft Peninsula. All three creek systems have partly estuarine environments. Currarong Creek is Currarong Natural Resources Management
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Estuary Description Strategy. Adopted 18.12.2001 practically defined as the boundary between the Beecroft Peninsula and a sandy isthmus. Currarong Creek Entrance Management Plan. The Currarong Natural Resources Management Strategy (the Strategy) aims to conserve, restore and Adopted July 2007 protect Currarong’s natural waterway resources. Adoption of the Strategy saw changes to legislation affecting the creek; the introduction of the Marine Park Zoning Plan (2002).
Key environmental management issues include:
▪ protecting water quality and biodiversity. ▪ minimising erosion of soil and creek banks and excessive sedimentation. ▪ maintaining scenic, natural and recreational values.
The Currarong Creek Entrance Management Plan (the Plan) was identified as a high priority action in the Strategy. It is understood that the Council has a shared responsibility to manage the entrance to Currarong Creek and that Council has actively managed the entrance in the past through dredging. It is noted that the tidal section of Currarong Creek is part of the JBMP.
The preferred management option is to intermittently dredge the entrance to improve navigability when certain criteria are met and subject to consultation, environmental assessment and approvals.
Wowley Creek/Gully No information to be found on Wowly Creek. Based on a desktop search, it is a very small gully that discharges into Callala Bay.
Based on the size of the waterbody, it is considered not to require a CMP.
Berrara Creek Berrara village is located near the mouth of Berrara Creek. Much of the land surrounding the Creek is Plans reviewed: bushland reserved as national park. The lower portion of the creek is normally a tidal estuary. The Swan Lake & Berrara Creek Natural Resources estuary has a surface area of about 0.2 square kilometres and the Berrara Creek catchment is about 37 Management Plan. Adopted 17.12.2002 square kilometres. The tidal rise and fall are considered to be cyclical and reasonably regular.
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Estuary Description Key environmental management issues include:
▪ protecting water quality, aquatic ecosystem health and biodiversity. ▪ minimising erosion of soil and creek banks and excessive sedimentation. ▪ balancing recreational use with the protection of natural resources. About 98% of the catchment is national park, including the Creek bed. Hence, its management is largely the responsibility of NPWS.
Currambene Creek Currambene Creek is part of the Jervis Bay catchment, which is managed by the Marine Park Authority. Plans reviewed: Therefore it would primarily be managed under the Jervis Bay NP Plan of Management. Shoalhaven CZMP At Currambene Creek (southern end of Callala Beach) a training wall was constructed to reduce the risk of creek breakout at Myola.
Mollymoke Farm Creek – Mollymook Beach Various coastal hazards can be created by both trained and natural estuary entrances. Natural Plans reviewed: entrances tend to migrate along the beach in response to freshwater flooding and coastal storm effects (NSW Government, 1990). This phenomenon has been seen at some beaches where Blackwater Creek Shoalhaven CZMP and Mollymoke Farm Creek entrances had migrated north in some storms, threatening both public and private assets. Training walls have been constructed on the northern side of both creeks to mitigate these threats.
Blackwater Creek – Mollymook Beach Various coastal hazards can be created by both trained and natural estuary entrances. Natural entrances tend to migrate along the beach in response to freshwater flooding and coastal storm effects (NSW Government, 1990). This phenomenon has been seen at some beaches where Blackwater Creek and Mollymoke Farm Creek entrances had migrated north in some storms, threatening both public and private assets. Training walls have been constructed on the northern side of both creeks to mitigate these threats.
Millards Creek – Ulladulla Harbour Millards Creek is the main watercourse in Ulladulla and flows into Ulladulla Harbour. The catchment is Plans reviewed: about 4.5 square kilometers. Only the lower portion is a tidal estuary. Millards Creek Urban Stream Corridor
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Estuary Description Management Plan. Adopted 18.12.2007 The Plan was prepared by Council to manage the natural resources of the Corridor. It identified that past management efforts have broadly focussed on vegetation management; a key gap is the mitigation of impacts from modifications to the catchment hydrology and introduction of concentrated flows via the constructed drainage network. It is noted that the Plan incorporates actions identified in the Millards Creek Rehabilitation Plan (SCC, 2005)
Council is responsible for implementing the Plan and its actions. Council will review priorities on an annual basis.
Key environmental management issues include:
▪ minimising impacts of stormwater drainage and flow variability and instream structures. ▪ minimise impacts of erosion and sedimentation on aquatic health. ▪ balancing recreational use with the protection of natural resources.
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