jk jk jk 17 jkjk 18 21 jk 22

248 219 jk jk 247 220 jk jk 246 jk 245 jk 244 jk

243 jk HZ17 (55)

MICKLEHAM ROAD

HZ16 (55) 242 jk

221 jk 240 222 jk jk 239 jk 238 jk Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: kj Lost kj Avoid if possible Habitat Zone Impacts: Removed Avoid if possible

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 3 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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Legend Project Area 243 Study Area jk Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: HZ17 (55) kj Lost kj Avoid if possible Habitat Zone Impacts: Removed Avoid if possible

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 4 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 5 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

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CRAIGIEBURN ROAD

Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Habitat Zone Impacts: Retained

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 7 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

\\HC-AUS-VC-FS-01\jobs\AA009647\L-GIS\A_Current\B_Maps\AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13.mxd MRPV www.wsp-pb.com Legend HZ20j (55) Project Area Study Area CRAIGIEBURN ROAD Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Habitat Zone Impacts: Retained

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 8 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

\\HC-AUS-VC-FS-01\jobs\AA009647\L-GIS\A_Current\B_Maps\AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13.mxd MRPV www.wsp-pb.com Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 9 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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71 jk jk jk 76 75

Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: kj Avoid if possible

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 10 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: kj Lost kj Avoid if possible

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 11 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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jk

CRAIGIEBURN ROAD jk 122 115 131 k 125 jjk jk 137 138 jk jk

Legend Project Area Study Area Tree Impacts: kj Avoid if possible

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 12 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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HZ19 (55) CRAIGIEBURN ROAD

Legend Project Area Study Area

BRIDGEWATER ROAD Areas of Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: kj Lost kj Avoid if possible kj Retained Habitat Zone Impacts: Removed

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 13 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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HANSON ROAD

jk 262

HZ20i (55)

249 jk HZ23 (55)

261 jk HZ20h (55) HZ22 (55)

CRAIGIEBURN ROAD Legend 250 Projectjk Area HZ21 (53) 251 Study Area Areas ofjk Sensitive Vegetation Tree Impacts: jk 252 260kj Avoid253 if possible jk kj Retainedjk jk 254 Habitat Zone Impacts: Retained255 jk

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering andjk Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

© Arcadis. Copyright in the drawings, information and data recorded is the property of Arcadis. This document and the information are solely for the use of the authorised recipient and this document may not be used, copied or reproduced in whole or part for any purpose other than that which it was supplied by Arcadis. Arcadis makes no representation, undertakes no duty and accepts no responsibility to any third party who may use or rely upon this document or the Page 14 of 15 information. NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO 9001. © APPROVED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF© Arcadis.

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HANSON ROAD HZ20h (55) HZ22 (55)

CRAIGIEBURN ROAD 250 jk HZ21 (53) 251 jk jk 252 260 253 jk jk jk 254 jk 255 256 jk 257 jk

258 jk jk 259

HZ20g (55)

HZ20f (55) WALTERS STREET HZ20e (55)

HZ20d (55)

Legend Project Area Study Area Areas of Sensitive Vegetation

Tree Impacts:POTTER STREET kj Retained Habitat Zone Impacts: Retained

HOTHLYN DRIVE

Map: AA009647_GIS_270_A4L_v13 Author: RM 0 25 50 m Engineering and Technical Services Date: 31/05/2019 Approved by: LH ° 1:2,500 for Craigieburn Road West Upgrade Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Data source: VicRoads. Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning 2018 Scale ratio correct when printed at A4 Proposed Impacts

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Flora Species Lists

Key

Conservation status under FFG Act 1988 L: Listed, N: Nominated, R: Rejected, D: Delisted, I: Invalid PFS1: Protected flora species under the FFG Act that has been declared to be Conservation status under EPBC Act 1999 protected under section 46 of the FFG Act EX: Extinct, CR: Critically endangered, EN: Endangered, VU: Vulnerable and CD: Conservation dependant PFS2: Protected flora species under the FFG Act that are listed as threatened under section 10 of the FFG Act PFS1: Protected flora species under the FFG Act that belong to communities that are listed as threatened under section 10 of the FFG Act)

Origin Victorian Rare or Threatened Species (VROT) (DEPI 2014) *: exotic species; #: Victorian native species extended beyond natural range; Empty: x: Presumed extinct, en: Endangered, v: Vulnerable, r: rare and k: poorly known Indigenous species

Craigieburn Road Flora Species List

Species listed below were recorded during the site assessments undertaken in October and November 2017 by Katherine Smedley (Arcadis) with input from Karl Just (consultant botanist).

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

Monocotyledons

* Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass

Austrostipa bigeniculata Kneed Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa rudis Veined Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa scabra Rough Spear-grass PFS3

* Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass

* Bromus diandrus Great Brome

* Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Couch

* Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot

* Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Panic Veldt-grass

* Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt-grass

* Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog

* Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass

Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass

* Nassella neesiana Chilean Needle-grass

* Nassella trichotoma Serrated Tussock

* Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum

* Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu

* Phalaris aquatica Toowoomba Canary-grass

* Phalaris minor Lesser Canary-grass

Rytidosperma caespitosum Common Wallaby-grass PFS3

Rytidosperma setaceum Bristly Wallaby-grass PFS3

Rytidosperma spp. Wallaby Grass PFS3

Typha domingensis Narrow-leaf Cumbungi

Dicotyledons

# baileyana Cootamundra Wattle

Acacia implexa Lightwood

Acacia mearnsii Black Wattle PFS1

Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood

Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping Sheoak PFS3

* Arctotheca calendula Cape weed

Atriplex semibaccata Berry Saltbush

Bolboschoenus caldwellii Salt Club-sedge

* Brassica spp. Turnip

Carex appressa Tall Sedge

Cassinia arcuata Drooping Cassinia

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

# Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana River Oak

* Chamaecytisus palmensis Tree Lucerne

* Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle

* Coprosma repens Mirror Bush

# Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum

Crassula sieberiana s.l. Sieber Crassula

* Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn

* Cynara carduncularis Artichoke Thistle

* Cyperus eragrostis Drain Flat-sedge

* Echium plantagineum Paterson's Curse

* Erodium moschatum Musky Heron's-bill

Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red-gum PFS3

# Eucalyptus cladocalyx Sugar Gum

Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box

* Galenia pubescens var. pubescens Galenia

Geranium spp. Crane's Bill

* Helminthotheca echioides Ox-tongue

* Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed

Isolepis spp. Club Sedge

Juncus amabilis Hollow Rush

Juncus pallidus Pale Rush

Juncus spp. Rush

* Leontodon saxatilis subsp. saxatilis Hairy Hawkbit

* Lepidium bonariense Argentine Cress

* Lycium ferocissimum African Box-thorn

Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife

* Malva nicaeensis Mallow of Nice

* Malva parviflora Small-flower Mallow

* Marrubium vulgare Horehound

Melicytus dentatus s.l. Tree Violet

Oxalis perennans Grassland Wood-sorrel PFS3

* Plantago coronopus Buck's-horn Plantain

* Plantago lanceolata Ribwort

Pomaderris aspera Hazel Pomaderris

* Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. Blackberry

* Rumex conglomeratus Clustered Dock

* Rumex crispus Curled Dock

* Rumex spp. (naturalised) Dock (naturalised)

Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani River Club-sedge

Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Fireweed PFS3

* Sonchus asper s.l. Rough Sow-thistle

* Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle

* Stellaria media Chickweed

* Trifolium repens var. repens White Clover

* Vicia sativa subsp. nigra Narrow-leaf Vetch

Mickleham Road Flora Species List

Species listed below were recorded during the site assessments undertaken in September, October and December 2017 by Katherine Smedley (Arcadis) with input from Karl Just (consultant botanist).

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

Confiers

* Cupressus spp. Cypress

Monocotyledons

* Allium triquetrum Angled Onion

Tricoryne elatior Yellow Rush-lily PFS3

Bolboschoenus caldwellii Salt Club-sedge

Carex inversa Knob Sedge

Carex spp. Sedge

* Cyperus eragrostis Drain Flat-sedge

Eleocharis acuta Common Spike-sedge

* Isolepis hystrix Awned Club-sedge

Schoenus apogon Common Bog-sedge

* Romulea rosea Onion Grass

Juncus amabilis Hollow Rush

Juncus bufonius Toad Rush

Juncus flavidus Gold Rush

Juncus spp. Rush

Juncus subsecundus Finger Rush

* Agrostis capillaris var. capillaris Brown-top Bent

* Aira elegantissima Delicate Hair-grass

* Aira spp. Hair Grass

Amphibromus nervosus Common Swamp Wallaby-grass

* Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass

Austrostipa bigeniculata Kneed Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa curticoma Short-crown Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa gibbosa Spurred Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa oligostachya Fine-head Spear-grass PFS3

Austrostipa rudis Veined Spear-grass PFS3

* Avena barbata Bearded Oat

* Avena fatua Wild Oat

* Briza maxima Large Quaking-grass

* Briza minor Lesser Quaking-grass

* Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass

* Bromus hordeaceus Soft Brome

* Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass PFS3

* Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Couch

* Cynosurus echinatus Rough Dog's-tail

* Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot

* Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Panic Veldt-grass

* Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt-grass

* Gaudinia fragilis Fragile Oat

* Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog

* Hordeum leporinum Barley-grass

* Hordeum spp. Barley Grass

* Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass

* Lolium rigidum Wimmera Rye-grass

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass

* Nassella neesiana Chilean Needle-grass

* Nassella trichotoma Serrated Tussock

* Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum

* Paspalum distichum Water Couch

* Phalaris aquatica Toowoomba Canary-grass

* Phalaris minor Lesser Canary-grass

Poa labillardierei Common Tussock-grass

Rytidosperma caespitosum Common Wallaby-grass PFS3

Rytidosperma duttonianum Brown-back Wallaby-grass PFS3

Rytidosperma racemosum var. racemosum Slender Wallaby-grass PFS3

Rytidosperma setaceum Bristly Wallaby-grass PFS3

* Sporobolus africanus Rat-tail Grass

Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass

* Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue

* Vulpia spp. Fescue

Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea Wattle Mat-rush PFS3

Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis Wattle Mat-rush PFS3

Dicotyledons

* Galenia pubescens var. pubescens Galenia

* Schinus molle Pepper Tree

Eryngium ovinum Blue Devil PFS3

Eryngium vesiculosum Prickfoot PFS3

Platysace lanceolata Shrubby Platysace

* Arctotheca calendula Cape weed

Cassinia sp. aff. arcuata (Midlands) Drooping Cassinia

Centipeda cunninghamii Common Sneezeweed

* Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle

* Cynara cardunculus Artichoke Thistle

* Gamochaeta purpurea s.l. Purple Cudweed

Helichrysum luteoalbum Jersey Cudweed

* Helminthotheca echioides Ox-tongue

* Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed

* Leontodon taraxacum Hairy Hawkbit

Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Fireweed PFS3

* Sonchus asper s.l. Rough Sow-thistle

* Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle

* Echium plantagineum Paterson's Curse

* Myosotis spp. Forget-me-not

* Brassica spp. Turnip

* Lepidium africanum Common Peppercress

* Lepidium bonariense Argentine Cress

* Raphanus raphanistrum Wild Radish

* Opuntia spp. Prickly pear

* Stellaria media Chickweed

Atriplex semibaccata Berry Saltbush PFS3

Einadia nutans Nodding Saltbush PFS3

Convolvulus angustissimus subsp. omnigracilis Slender Bindweed PFS3 k

Convolvulus erubescens s.l. Pink Bindweed PFS3

Crassula sieberiana s.l. Sieber Crassula PFS3

* Genista monspessulana Montpellier Broom

* Lotus angustissimus Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil

* Medicago polymorpha Burr Medic

* Trifolium angustifolium var. angustifolium Narrow-leaf Clover

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

* Trifolium arvense var. arvense Hare's-foot Clover

* Trifolium campestre var. campestre Hop Clover

* Trifolium dubium Suckling Clover

* Trifolium glomeratum Cluster Clover

* Trifolium pratense Red Clover

* Trifolium repens var. repens White Clover

* Trifolium striatum Knotted Clover

* Trifolium subterraneum Subterranean Clover

* Vicia sativa subsp. sativa Common Vetch

* Erodium moschatum Musky Heron's-bill

Geranium spp. Crane's Bill

Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife

* Malva nicaeensis Mallow of Nice

* Malva parviflora Small-flower Mallow

* Modiola caroliniana Red-flower Mallow

# Acacia baileyana Cootamundra Wattle

Acacia implexa Lightwood

Acacia mearnsii Black Wattle PFS1

Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood

Acacia paradoxa Hedge Wattle

Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red-gum PFS3

# Eucalyptus cladocalyx Sugar Gum

# Eucalyptus lehmannii Bushy Yate

Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box

Eucalyptus ovata Swamp Gum

* Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia Desert Ash

Epilobium billardierianum Variable Willow-herb PFS3

Epilobium hirtigerum Hairy Willow-herb PFS3

Oxalis perennans Grassland Wood-sorrel PFS3

* Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob

* Oxalis purpurea Large-flower Wood-sorrel

* Oxalis spp. (naturalised) Wood Sorrel

* Plantago coronopus Buck's-horn Plantain

* Plantago lanceolata Ribwort

Veronica gracilis Slender Speedwell PFS3

* Acetosella vulgaris Sheep Sorrel

* Polygonum aviculare s.l. Prostrate Knotweed

Rumex brownii Slender Dock

* Rumex conglomeratus Clustered Dock

* Rumex crispus Curled Dock

* Rumex spp. (naturalised) Dock (naturalised)

Acaena spp. Sheep's Burr

* Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn

* Malus pumila Apple

* Prunus cerasifera Cherry Plum

* Prunus spp. Prunus

* Rosa rubiginosa Sweet Briar

* Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. Blackberry

* Rubus spp. Bramble

Asperula conferta Common Woodruff PFS3

* Coprosma repens Mirror Bush

* Populus spp. Poplar

* Salix spp. Willow

* Lycium ferocissimum African Box-thorn

Status Origin Scientific Name Common Name EPBC FFG VROTs

Melicytus dentatus s.l. Tree Violet PFS3

* Urtica urens Small Nettle

Note: Likelihood of occurrence based on two separate areas across Study Area: • Craigieburn Road – refers to the Study Area along either side of Craigieburn Road to the east of Mickleham Road; Extends from the Hume Highway in the east to the point where the Study Area changes direction to extend along Mickleham Road • Mickleham Road – refers to the Study Area along either side of Craigieburn Road and the section of Craigieburn Road that is located to the west of the Craigieburn Road / Mickleham Road intersection.

Significant Flora Species - Likelihood of Occurrence and Impact Assessment

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

River Swamp Wallaby-grass grows mostly in permanent swamps and also lagoons, billabongs, dams and roadside ditches. The species requires moderately fertile soils with some bare ground; conditions that are caused by seasonally- fluctuating water levels. The species has been previously recorded north of the Study River Swamp Area lon the VBA along Aitken Creek. Amphibromus fluitans Wallaby- Vulnerable Rejected 2 2008 Low Low Low grass Some patches of RSWG recorded in the Craigieburn R2 precinct in 2007/8 flora surveys. It was therefore considered to have a pre-survey likelihood of moderate as part of Arcadis (2017a). An assessment of the potential for areas across the Study Area to support this species formed part of the field surveys completed in October to November 2017, and August 2018. The revised likelihood is low.

A rare species of shallow, seasonally inundated depressions (gilgais) on water-retentive clay soils supporting grasslands and grassy woodlands. Known from near Mansfield and scattered occurrences near Yea, Heathcote, Craigieburn, Beaufort, Dunkeld and Casterton). Plump The species has been previously recorded along Mt Ridley Amphibromus Swamp Road and within Craigieburn Grasslands, east of the Hume Listed Endangered 4 1992 Low Low Low pithogastrus Wallaby- Highway. grass While rare within the local area, the species was deemed to have a moderate likelihood pre-survey as part of Arcadis (2017a). An assessment of the potential for areas across the Study Area to support this species formed part of the field surveys completed in October to November 2017, and August 2018. The revised likelihood is low.

Also known to occur in Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania. There are only 4 collections (all sterile) from Victoria (Breamlea, Little River, Smythes Range, Craigieburn) Elongate Poorly appear to belong to this species. Fertile material is required to Asperula charophyton 1 2008 Low Low Low Woodruff Known confirm the presence of this species in Victoria. The one record for the species on the VBA is from the south end of Craigieburn Grasslands. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Distributed in various locations in Victoria. This is a small Caesia parviflora var. Pale Grass- Poorly 1 1992 plant up to 50 centimetres tall, found in heath, woodland and Low Low Low vittata lily Known dry sclerophyll forest, usually near grasses.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km The one record for this species occurs further north of the Study Area along Mt Ridley Road; it predates intensive development in the Craigieburn Area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Scattered and uncommon, mainly in inland parts of Victoria, Winged in damp and swampy places. Callitriche umbonata Water- Rejected Rare 3 2012 The records for this species are from the south end of the Low Low Low starwort Craigieburn Grasslands. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

The species is found in seasonally moist to waterlogged sites with heavy, fertile, loamy soils, which are often slightly saline. It can tolerate short periods of complete submersion. Carex tasmanica Curly Sedge Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable 123 2018 The records for this species are located to the east of the Low Low Low Hume Highway, in and around Craigieburn Grasslands. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Occasional on heavier soils (clays, alluvium) supporting grassland and grassy woodland communities in central and south-western areas. Comesperma Small The one record for this species on the VBA is from the Listed Vulnerable 1 1995 Low Low Low polygaloides Milkwort Craigieburn Grasslands. Species was considered to have moderate likelihood pre- survey in Arcadis (2017a). Species deemed to have low likelihood following field survey given quality of habitat.

Apparently endemic to Victoria where found mostly around High for Habitat Zone 16 although this area has Convolvulus and west of Melbourne in grassland and grassy woodland on Slender Poorly Present been removed by works angustissimus subsp. 11 2013 heavy clay soils. High Bindweed Known undertaken by a utility omnigracilis (Habitat Zone 16) Species was observed within Study Area within Habitat Zone service provider in this 16. area

Widespread throughout the state except for the north-west and the alpine and adjacent mountainous areas, and usually at low elevations (under c. 100 m) where mostly in grasslands and riverine River Red Gum woodland on soils that are prone Pale Swamp Coronidium gunnianum Vulnerable 1 2005 to inundation. Low Low Low Everlasting The one record for the species present on the VBA is located along the train line between Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Species is widely planted along roadsides and in parklands Species may be removed for aesthetic and amenity purposes. The species is not under current Upgrade indigenous to the Craigieburn area but does occur as planted Present as Planted Present as Planted Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum 1 2014 design – refer to specimens in this location. It was recorded during the current Specimens Specimens Homewood Consulting assessment within the Study Area confines along Craigieburn (2019) Road.

Widespread in Victoria but apparently endangered and Tough Scurf- Cullen tenax Listed Endangered 7 2000 seldom collected. Generally, grows in drier parts of the state Low Low Low pea in grassland and grassy woodland on heavy soils.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km The records on the VBA are from the Craigieburn Grasslands and undeveloped areas on the north side of Craigieburn Road East. In Arcadis (2017) modified habitat was identified at western end of Study Area. This area was still unlikely to contain habitat however. Field survey in 2017 and 2018 indicate that this species is unlikely to occur due to habitat modification and disturbance.

An uncommon species mostly from inland parts of Eastern Victoria where found mainly in woodland and open-forest. The records on the VBA are from the Craigieburn Grasslands Slender Tick- Desmodium varians 17 2010 and undeveloped areas on the north side of Craigieburn Low Low Low trefoil Road East. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Species occurs most commonly in lowland grasslands, grassy woodlands, valley grassy forest and creek lines of herb-rich woodland. Typically, occurs on well drained to seasonally wet fertile sandy loams to heavy cracking clays derived from Silurian or Tertiary sediments, or from volcanic geology. Sites are dominated by a grassy understorey with Kangaroo Grass and Blackwood as a common understorey tree. Matted Flax- Dianella amoena Endangered Listed Endangered 34 2014 There are records for this species relatively close to the Study Low Low Low lily Area in Burt-Kir-Min Reserve (500m south of the Study Area) and in Amberfield Reserve (200m south of the Study Area). Other records for the species occur in and around Craigieburn Grasslands and further east. The species was not observed during field surveys across the Study Area and is not expected to occur there. While it was deemed to have a moderate likelihood of occurrence in Arcadis (2017a) this has been revised to Low.

Largely confined in Victoria to the south-west (Penola- Dergholm area, Grampians, Lake Fyans) with outlying occurrences near Castlemaine, Avoca, Skipton, Camperdown and extraordinary disjunctions near Sale where very rare and Trailing Hop- in perhaps also in the upper Murray River area (represented Dodonaea procumbens Vulnerable Vulnerable NA NA Low Low Low bush by a single, 1883 specimen of uncertain provenance). Grows in low-lying, often winter-wet areas in woodland, low open- forest and grasslands on sands and clays. There are no records for this species in the VBA. It is not expected to occur within the Study Area.

A morphologically variable hybrid between E. camaldulensis subsp. camaldulensis and E. ovata subsp. ovata from the lower Yarra River north-east of Melbourne (Kew, Viewbank, Eucalyptus X Studley Park Endangered 1 2004 Watsonia). Low Low Low studleyensis Gum The one record for this species on the VBA is from the south end of the Craigieburn Grasslands. This species is not expected to occur within the Study Area.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

An uncommon species of damp to dryish, usually sheltered sites in grassy woodlands, often along drainage lines or in seepage areas. Formerly including Geranium spp. 1, 2 and 4 but here more narrowly defined. Geranium solanderi var. Austral There is one record for this species near Aitken Creek where Vulnerable 7 2012 Low Low Low solanderi s.s. Crane's-bill it crosses Aitken Boulevard. This record is from 2006 and predates intensive development of the Craigieburn area. Most records for the species are from around Mt Ridley. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Apparently endemic in Victoria. Known only from basaltic grassland (now generally weedy) in the Glenroy- Broadmeadow’s area, Riddells Creek and Malmsbury, and until 2000, presumed to be extinct. Formally known from the Large-flower far NE near Wodonga. Geranium sp. 1 Listed Endangered 2 2012 Low Low Low Crane's-bill The records for this species on the VBA are from near Somerton Road and near Donnybrook. Species was considered to have moderate likelihood pre- survey in Arcadis (2017a). Given the quality of habitat, this was downgraded to Low.

In Victoria, currently known only from Stawell, Yan Yean, Eltham, and Bonegilla areas. Incomplete specimens from near Goroke and Hamilton areas may be of this species. Found in open, grassy areas of dry woodland to forest. Pale-flower Geranium sp. 3 Rare 4 2012 There are records for this species south of the Study Area Low Low Low Crane's-bill along Aitken Creek, close to the Craigieburn Train Station area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Clover Glycine is found across south-eastern Australia in native grasslands, dry sclerophyll forests, woodlands and low open woodlands with a grassy ground layer. Soils generally have a sandy component being either sand or loamy sand but Clover Clover Glycine has also been found on clay soils. Glycine latrobeana Glycine, Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable NA NA Species was considered to have moderate likelihood of Low Low Low Purple Clover occurrence pre-survey in Arcadis (2017a) as suitable habitat potentially present at western end of the Study Area. Field survey revealed that these areas have low quality understorey in general and are not likely to support this species.

All infraspecific taxa included in Advisory List. Two subspecies are recognised, both present in Victoria. Rosemary Grevillea rosmarinifolia Rare 4 2016 The records for this species are from Craigieburn Grasslands. Low Low Low Grevillea The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support remnant examples of this species.

Occurs in and around saline depressions on the Volcanic Adamson's Lachnagrostis adamsonii Endangered Listed Vulnerable 2 1990 Plain where recorded from Portalington west almost to the Low Low Low Blown-grass South Australian border. Three subspecies are recognised.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km The two records on the VBA are from the east side of Craigieburn Grasslands. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support remnant examples of this species.

Inhabits mainly grassland or occasionally woodland communities. Also known from seasonal, slightly brackish swampy sites east of Melbourne. Lachnagrostis punicea Purple Blown- Listed Rare 13 2000 The 13 records for this species are from the Craigieburn Low Low Low subsp. punicea grass Grasslands which is east of the Hume Highway. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support remnant examples of this species.

Very rare in Victoria, the only recent collections from roadside verges near Wickliffe, Willaura, Streatham, Inverleigh and Creswick. All other collections were gathered last century, Leucochrysum albicans from Mt Cole, the Grampians and the Port Fairy district. Hoary Sunray Endangered Listed Endangered NA NA Low Low Low var. tricolor There are no records on the VBA for this species. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support remnant examples of this species. Has not been recorded in the area.

Has been reported from a couple of isolated sites at Wilsons Promontory, but only one of them, near the headwaters of Chinaman Creek, has been confirmed recently. The one record for this species on the VBA is from east of the Oval Wedge- Lindsaea trichomanoides Listed Endangered 1 2000 Hume Freeway. This record is likely from the time this Low Low Low fern Freeway was being developed when the area was essentially farmland. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support remnant examples of this species.

Species may be removed Species is widely planted along roadsides and in parklands under current Upgrade Melaleuca armillaris Giant Honey- for aesthetic and amenity purposes. The species is not Likely present as planted Likely present as planted Rare 6 2014 design – refer to subsp. armillaris myrtle indigenous to the Craigieburn area but does occur as planted specimens specimens Homewood Consulting specimens in this location. (2019)

Uncommon throughout its range, and in Victoria recorded only from Bendigo, Ballarat, Daylesford and Brisbane Ranges districts with an old record labelled simply ‘Ovens R.’. Pauridia vaginata var. Poorly Yellow Star 1 1992 There is one record for this species on Mt Ridley Road that Low Low Low brevistigmata Known pre-dates intensive development of the area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Occurs in rock crevices, often in exposed situations in various locations across Victoria. The one record for this species is from the south end of Inland Sickle- Poorly Pellaea calidirupium 1 2008 Craigieburn Grasslands near Somerton Road in undeveloped Low Low Low fern Known areas. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

Grows in grassland, open shrubland and occasionally woodland, often on basalt-derived soils. Mostly west of Plains Rice- Pimelea spinescens Critically Melbourne (to near Horsham), but extending as far north as flower, Spiny Listed Endangered NA NA Low Low Low subsp. spinescens Endangered Echuca. Rice-flower Has not been recorded in the area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Widespread and growing among rocks and in rock-crevices, often in dry or exposed areas in various locations across Pleurosorus Glandular Poorly 1 2008 Victoria. Low Low Low subglandulosus Blanket-fern Known The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

The common tussock grass of streamsides and alluvial flats through most of the State, but rare in the north-west (e.g. at Wood Wood, north-west of Swan Hill) and uncommon in the Wimmera (e.g. Donald, Dimboola districts) and rare above c. Basalt 1500 m, where largely replaced by the very similar but more Poa labillardierei var. Poorly Tussock- 5 2013 robust P. helmsii. Low Low Low (Volcanic Plains) Known grass The 5 records for this species are located along the Craigieburn Train line south of the Study Area and in the Craigieburn Grasslands. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Species grows mainly in open sedge swampland or in wet grassland and wet heathland generally bordering swampy regions. Sites are generally low altitude, flat and moist. Soils are generally moderately rich damp sandy or black clay Maroon Leek- Prasophyllum frenchii Endangered Listed Endangered NA NA loams. Climate is mild, with an annual rainfall of 600–1100 Low Low Low orchid mm, predominantly in winter and spring. Has not been recorded in the local area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Uncommon to rare in Victoria and recorded only from seasonally wet clay soils fringing Lake Omeo in the east and Lakes Corangamite, Goldsmith and Kennedy in the west (between Colac and Hamilton). Brackish Ranunculus diminutus Plains Rare 3 1998 The 3 records for this species are from the Craigieburn Low Low Low Buttercup Grasslands, east of the Hume Highway, and on the northern side of Craigieburn Road East. All records are in areas that have not been subject to intensive development. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

All mainland states. In Victoria occurs on a few steep rocky slopes and broad ridges between Sunbury and Geelong (e.g. Jacksons Creek, Long Forest, Werribee Gorge, Steiglitz, Species may be removed Buckleys Falls on the Barwon River), but locally rather under current Upgrade Fragrant Possibly present as Possibly present as Rhagodia parabolica Rare 4 2017 common, and in mallee at a few scattered locations in the design but would have Saltbush planted specimens planted specimens northwest. been planted at this Species is widely planted as part of revegetation works. It location. was not recorded as part of this Study but could be present as planted specimens within the Study Area.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Status Status Victorian sites Date of Common Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name under under Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name Study Area Study Area Species EPBC Act FFG Act Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

In Victoria confined to basaltic grasslands between Rokewood and Melbourne where endangered due to loss of habitat (formerly occurring as far west as Casterton, and on Rutidosis Button Endangered Listed Endangered NA NA the Gippsland Plain near Newry). Low Low Low leptorrhynchoides Wrinklewort Species has not been recorded in the local area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

In Victoria largely confined to remnant Themeda grasslands Large-fruit on loamy clay soils derived from basalt from near Melbourne Fireweed, west to Skipton area. Also known from auriferous ground Senecio macrocarpus Vulnerable Listed Endangered NA NA Low Low Low Large-fruit near Stawell. Groundsel Has not been recorded in the area. The habitat within the Study Area is disturbed and unlikely to support this species.

Uncommon grass of scattered occurrence through drier areas of the state (e.g. Mt Arapiles, basalt plains just west of Melbourne, Strathbogie Ranges, Killawarra Forest near Rye Beetle- Wangaratta, Beechworth, Suggan Buggan). Usually occurring Tripogonella loliiformis Rare 1 2013 Low Low Low grass on shallow soils overlying rock. The one record on the VBA is from the Craigieburn Graslands. The Study Area is not likely to support this species.

Grows in lowland swamps usually on black cracking clays. In New South Wales it occurs as far north as the Southern Swamp Xerochrysum palustre Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable 1 2005 Tablelands and ranges up to about 1300 m altitude. Low Low Low Everlasting Preferred habitat does not occur within the area. The one record present on the VBA is from Roxburgh Park.

Significant Fauna Species - Likelihood of Occurrence and Impact Assessment No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

The Grey Goshawk has a stronghold in Victoria; particularly the white form in the Otway Ranges, where wet forests and gullies containing Mountain Grey Gum Accipiter Grey adjoin partly cleared farmlands. They occur in lower Listed Vulnerable 1 1986 Low Low Low novaehollandiae Goshawk densities in similar habitats in the Strzelecki Ranges, Gippsland Plains and Otway Plains. Elsewhere in the State they are occasionally seen in woodlands, dry forests, suburban parks and wooded farmlands.

Regular, widespread but mostly uncommon summer migrant to Australia (Aug-May). Wide range of coastal or inland wetlands, with varying levels of salinity. Mainly muddy margins of rocky shores of wetlands; often Common around estuaries and deltas of streams; also, lakes, Actitis hypoleucos Migratory Vulnerable 1 1980 Low Low Low Sandpiper pools, billabongs, reservoirs, dams and claypans; associated with mangroves. Large coastal mudflats are not favoured. May very occasionally visit areas in an around Aiken Creek or Highland Lake, but likelihood of impacts is low.

Occurs in temperate eucalypt woodlands, most commonly box-ironbark associations and wet lowland coastal forests. Nests usually constructed in eucalypts, casuarinas or mistletoes. Species inhabits woodlands that support a significantly high abundance and species richness of bird species. These woodlands have Regent Critically Critically Anthochaera phrygia Listed 1 1986 significantly large numbers of mature trees, high canopy Low Low Low Honeyeater Endangered endangered cover and abundance of mistletoes. According to EPBC PMST species may occur within the Local Government Area, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site. Has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist.

Dry open forest and woodland, with sparse grassy understorey and abundant surface rock. Particular preference for hilly, north-west facing, well-drained Pink-tailed Aprasia parapulchella Vulnerable Listed Endangered NA NA slopes with outcropping sedimentary rock. Often Low Low Low Worm-lizard shelters beneath rocks and in ant tunnels, on which it preys. Secretive and seldom seen. Study area lacks habitat complexity (especially suitable shelter sites)

Often occur over cliffs and beaches and also over islands and sometimes well out to sea. They also occur over settled areas, including towns, urban areas and cities. Mostly occur over dry or open habitats, including riparian woodland and tea-tree swamps, low scrub, Fork-tailed heathland or saltmarsh. Also found at treeless grassland Apus pacificus Migratory NA NA Low Low Low Swift and sandplains covered with spinifex, open farmland and inland and coastal sand-dunes. The sometimes occur above rainforests, wet sclerophyll forest or open forest or plantations of pines (Higgins 1999). Forage aerially, up to hundreds of metres above ground, but also less than 1 m above open areas or over water.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

Habitat includes terrestrial wetlands, estuarine, littoral Low: impacts to Aitken and moist grass habitats. Forages in open, shallow Creek associated with water and generally avoids dry or deeply flooded areas. bridge crossing will be Breed in wetlands with fringing or flooded trees or other minimal in context of Marine (not tall vegetation in which nests are built. Are known to use that available within Ardea alba Great Egret applicable to this Vulnerable 16 2015 mangroves along the coast. Roosts in trees or near Moderate Low creekline for this area) wetlands. May occasionally visit areas in an around species. Appropriate Aiken Creek that border the Study Area. Disturbance mitigation measures and some habitat modification will occur in area of will also be applied to preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken Creek bridge ameliorate impacts on upgrade. habitat.

The Cattle Egret is widespread throughout coastal and hinterland Australia, with a stronghold in SE Australia. It Ardea ibis Cattle Egret Marine NA NA is a winter-spring migrant in Victoria, where it frequents Low Low Low stock paddocks/pasture, croplands, wetlands/drains, coastal mudflats, and tips.

Freshwater wetlands, shallow rivers, swamps. As species is possibly synonymous with Ardea intermedia, Plumed Ardea plumifera Listed Endangered 1 1980 listing status for A. intermedia is presented. Low Low Low Egret This species could occasionally use grassy roadside edges when wet or flooded.

Hardheads inhabit deep to shallow wetlands with open Low: impacts to Aitken water and fringing emergent vegetation. The species Creek associated with feeds by diving in deep water and occasionally by bridge crossing will be dabbling just under the water surface. These birds are minimal in context of most common in the wetland systems of inland that available within Aythya australis Hardhead Vulnerable 35 2013 Australia. Moderate Low creekline for this May occasionally visit areas in an around Aiken Creek species. Appropriate or Highlands Lake that border the Study Area. mitigation measures Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in will also be applied to area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken ameliorate impacts on Creek bridge upgrade. habitat.

Usually seen in small numbers on the deep waters of Low: impacts to Aitken well-vegetated fresh to saline lakes, swamps and Creek associated with occasionally shallow inlets and bays. Nests are formed bridge crossing will be in low vegetation in areas sheltered by surrounding minimal in context of vegetation. that available within Biziura lobata Musk Duck Vulnerable 44 2010 Moderate Low creekline for this May occasionally visit areas in an around Aiken Creek species. Appropriate or Highlands Lake, mitigation measures Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in will also be applied to area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken ameliorate impacts on Creek bridge upgrade. habitat.

Widespread distribution but uncommon across SE Australia. Favours permanent freshwater wetlands with tall, dense vegetation, particularly bulrushes and spike Australasian Low: no direct impacts Botaurus poiciloptilus Endangered Listed Endangered NA NA rushes, where it forages at night for amphibians, Low Low Bittern invertebrates and crustaceans. to preferred habitat Species may occur within the LGA, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km No previous records on VBA, only modelled habitat within 5km.

Rare throughout south-eastern Australia where it inhabits open forests and woodlands with a sparse Bush Stone- grassy ground layer and fallen timber. Nests in a Burhinus grallarius Listed Endangered 1 1940 Low Low Low curlew shallow scrape on ground. Very old record. Habitat is fragmented and disturbed and unlikely to support a current population.

Prefers muddy edges of shallow fresh or brackish wetlands, with inundated or emergent sedges, grass, saltmarsh or other low vegetation. This includes Sharp-tailed Calidris acuminata Migratory NA NA lagoons, swamps, lakes and pools near the coast, and Low Low Low Sandpiper dams, waterholes, soaks, bore drains and bore swamps, saltpans and hypersaline salt lakes inland. Modelled habitat, but no VBA records within 5km.

Distributed around most of the coastline of Australia. Occurs along the entire coast of NSW, particularly in the Hunter Estuary. occupies littoral and estuarine habitats, Critically Curlew and in New South Wales is mainly found in intertidal Calidris ferruginea Endangered / Endangered NA NA Low Low Low Sandpiper mudflats of sheltered coasts. Migratory Species may occur within the LGA, but not necessarily in a 5km radius of a site. Suitable habitat will not be impacted.

Summer migrant (Aug-April) Mainly shallow, fresh to saline wetlands; usually coastal but are occasionally found inland. Habitat includes coastal lagoons, estuaries, bays, swamps, lakes, inundated grasslands, Pectoral Near saltmarshes, river pools, creeks, floodplains and Calidris melanotos Migratory NA NA Low Low Low Sandpiper Threatened artificial wetlands. They forage in shallow water or soft mud at the edges of wetlands and often close to low fringing or emergent vegetation. No records on VBA. Preferred habitat will not be impacted.

Distributed throughout south eastern Australia, Coastal Rivers of Victoria, occurs in a broad range of habitats including permanent riverine waterholes, lakes, farm Low: impacts to Aitken dams and shallow temporary ponds, greatest Creek associated with abundance in shallow, ephemeral waterholes or in bridge crossing will be bodies of water that are remote from remnant rivers, minimal in context of that available within Eastern often in the absence of other turtle species. Able to creekline for this Snake- Data distribute overland. Chelodina longicollis 12 2017 Moderate Low species. Appropriate necked Deficient Records for species occur within Merri Creek and mitigation measures Turtle Greenvale Reservoir. Given connectivity between Merri will also be applied to Creek and Aitken Creek, some potential to occur at ameliorate impacts on least within Aitken Creek, with lower potential in habitat. Low: no direct Highlands Lake. impacts to preferred Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in habitat area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken Creek bridge upgrade.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

Low: impacts to Aitken This is mainly a summer migrant to Victoria, although Creek associated with some remain here over winter. They inhabit shallow bridge crossing will be freshwater swamps and fresh or brackish lakes, minimal in context of that available within Whiskered Near favouring areas with emergent vegetation. Chlidonias hybridus 5 2006 Moderate Low creekline for this Tern Threatened May occur within 5km of the Study Area. species. Appropriate Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in mitigation measures area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken will also be applied to Creek bridge upgrade. ameliorate impacts on habitat.

Summer migrants to Vic from northern wintering areas. Occur in mallee scrubs, dry woodlands and box-ironbark Marine (not Black-eared Near forests, mainly north of the Great Divide. They feed in Chrysococcyx osculans applicable to this NA NA Low Low Low Cuckoo Threatened low shrubs and from open ground among trees; lay their area) eggs in nests of other birds. Occasional or irregular visitor south of the Great Divide (Higgins 1999).

Inhabits Eucalyptus dominated communities with a grassy understorey, often on rocky ridges or in gullies where it forages for and seeds. Nests in a Speckled Chthonicola sagittatus Listed Vulnerable 3 1978 depression in the ground or the base of a low dense Low Low Low Warbler plant, often among fallen branches and other litter. Very disturbed, groundstorey density and leaf litter lacking throughout the Study Area. .

This species occurs in open grasslands, open shrublands, saltbush, open woodlands, crops and Spotted Near Circus assimilis 6 1991 similar low vegetation that allows hunting. Their stick Low Low Low Harrier Threatened nests are built in low trees. Suitable habitat in the area is now fragmented and disturbed.

Recorded in a range of treed habitats including tropical, subtropical and temperate rainforests, vine thickets, wet Dasyurus maculatus Spot-tailed Endangered Listed Endangered 2 1910 and dry sclerophyll forest, woodland and coastal scrub. Low Low Low maculatus Quoll No suitable habitat for species is present within the Study Area.

A range of open forests, woodlands and grasslands, where they would build a den amongst fallen logs or Eastern Regionally Dasyurus viverrinus Endangered Listed 2 1910 rock piles. Found in open forest, scrubland and heath Low Low Low Quoll Extinct habitats, especially where interspersed with grassy clearings. Dens in burrow, hollow log or rock crevice.

Found mainly in Natural Temperate Grassland but has also been captured in grasslands that have a high exotic component. Also found in secondary grassland near Natural Temperate Grassland and occasionally in open Box-Gum Woodland. Habitat is where grassland is Striped dominated by perennial, tussock-forming grasses such Delma impar Legless Vulnerable Listed Endangered 3 1991 Low Low Low as Kangaroo Grass, Spear-Grasses. and Poa tussocks, Lizard and occasionally Wallaby Grasses. Sometimes present in modified grasslands with a significant content of exotic grasses. Sometimes found in grasslands with significant amounts of surface rocks, which are used for shelter.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km Nearest records for this species that occur within a 5km radius are from Merri Creek, east of the Hume Highway with most recent records from 1991; nearest records further afield are located west of Melbourne Airport. While western end of site contains agricultural grasslands, mown roadside areas or unmanaged areas of Plains Grassy Woodland with a mown or unmown weedy understorey, this habitat is not likely to support this species.

Plains, scrublands, open woodlands, coastal heaths, alpine pastures, semi-deserts, margins of lakes, Dromaius Near Emu 3 2014 pastoral and cereal growing areas, mostly absent from Low Low Low novaehollandiae Threatened closely settled parts, common in pastoral and cropping regions, state forests and national parks.

Little Egrets inhabit mudflats, saltworks and shallow margins of tidal estuaries and inland rivers and lakes. They are more often recorded on coastal and saline Marine (not wetlands than are Intermediate or Great Egrets. The 3 Egretta garzetta nigripes Little Egret applicable for this Listed Endangered 5 1991 species of egrets are widespread in Australia, but status Low Low Low area) is vulnerable outside the tropics. Highlands Lake has minimal habitat features that would support a population of this species.

The Black Falcon has a stronghold in inland Australia. Most Victorian records come from the lowlands and only occasionally from the foothills. It occurs mainly over Black croplands, grasslands and wooded farmlands. To catch Falco subniger Vulnerable 5 2005 Low Low Low Falcon flushed prey, they sweep low over croplands and grasslands and are often attracted by smoke from grassfires and late-summer burning off. This species nests in trees in old stick-nests of other birds.

Species has broad habitat requirements and occurs in slow flowing and still, shallow, permanent and temporary freshwater habitats such as swamps, drains Dwarf Galaxiella pusilla Vulnerable Listed Endangered NA NA and the backwaters of streams and creeks, often Low Low Low Galaxias containing dense aquatic macrophytes and emergent plants. Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Low: impacts to Aitken A migratory species. The species migrates to Victoria Creek associated with from breeding grounds in Japan. In Victoria this species bridge crossing will be is widely distributed in a range of habitats including minimal in context of that available within Latham's Near heavily vegetated freshwater swamps, and pools or Gallinago hardwickii Migratory / Marine Nominated 8 2006 Moderate Low creekline for this Snipe Threatened ditches in heaths or subalpine herblands. species. Appropriate Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in mitigation measures area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken will also be applied to Creek bridge upgrade. ameliorate impacts on habitat.

A nomadic species that occurs at low densities Painted Grantiella picta Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable NA NA throughout its range, most commonly found on the Low Low Low Honeyeater inland slopes of the Great Dividing Range in NSW. Inhabits Boree, Brigalow and Box-Gum Woodlands and

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km Box-Ironbark Forests where it forages for the fruits of mistletoes growing on woodland eucalypts and . Nests within the outer canopy of drooping eucalypts, she-oak, paperbark or mistletoe branches. According to EPBC PMST species may occur within the Local Government Area, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site. Has not been recorded in the area previously

Occur in the Northern Plains and along adjacent parts of the Murray river as well as on the plains and adjacent foothills of w. Vic. Uses shallow wetlands, farm dams, flooded areas, margins of large lakes, pastures, grasslands, crops and stubbles. Obtains food from the Grus rubicunda Brolga Listed Vulnerable 1 2002 Low Low Low surface of the ground or by digging in moist areas. Nests are usually made on the ground on islands or as isolated mounds within wetlands. Drainage and grazing of wetlands and other human activities have contributed to reductions in numbers.

Inhabits coastal habitats and terrestrial wetlands. Inhabits areas with large areas of open water including Low: impacts to Aitken larger rivers, swamps, lakes, the sea. Creek associated with There are records for this species to the north-east of bridge crossing will be the Study Area at Yan Yean Reservoir; to the east minimal in context of White- Marine (not around Sugarloaf Reservoir; and around the Port Phillip that available within Haliaeetus leucogaster bellied Sea- applicable to this Listed Vulnerable NA NA Bay coastline relatively close to the CBD. Moderate Low creekline for this Eagle area) There is some potential that the species could species. Appropriate occasionally pass through the Study Area and mitigation measures immediate surrounds. will also be applied to ameliorate impacts on Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in habitat. area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken Creek bridge upgrade.

Species is almost exclusively aerial, most commonly recorded above open forest and rainforest. They are less commonly recorded flying above woodland. They White- also commonly occur over heathland, but less often Hirundapus caudacutus throated Migratory / Marine Vulnerable 4 1981 over treeless areas, such as grassland or swamps. Low Low Low Needletail Species may occur within the Local Government Area, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site. Has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist.

Mostly found in sheltered coastal embankments, including harbours, lagoons, inlets, bays, estuaries and Caspian Near Hydroprogne caspia Migratory Listed 3 2007 river deltas, usually with sandy or muddy margins. Will Low Low Low Tern Threated use artificial wetlands, including reservoirs, sewage ponds and saltworks.

It is found in all mainland states of Australia, throughout much of the subtropical areas of the inland, from Amethyst the Selwyn Range and from Carnarvon to Kalgoorlie. It icilius Hairstreak Listed Vulnerable 1 2015 Low Low Low is generally common except in the SE end of its range in Butterfly central and western Victoria, where it is now very scarce.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km Adults are most abundant in December in SE Australia. Habitat is open woodland, grassland and arid shrubland in lower rainfall areas, where patches of larval food plants grow- usually Wattles in SE Aust. Survey undertaken for species by Canzano (2018a) within Craigieburn Golf Course as deemed most suitable habitat. Surveys did not indicate presence of this species in this location and it is not expected to occur elsewhere in the Study Area, Reclassified from medium (in Arcadis 2017) to low following survey by Canzano (2018a)

Migrates from breeding grounds in Tasmania to the Australian mainland in winter. Preferred over-winter habitat is woodlands and riparian vegetation where there are winter flowering eucalypts such as the Swamp Moderate Low (impact Critically Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot Listed Endangered 2 2000 Mahogany in coastal areas. Moderate Moderate assessment provided Endangered/Marine Species considered to have a moderate likelihood of in Appendix H) occurrence within Study Area as could utilise Red Gums at western end for foraging, although there is a scarcity of the preferred Yellow Gums.

South-eastern mainland Australia and Tasmania. Coastal saltwater areas, also freshwater wetlands and Lewinia pectoralis Lewin's Rail Listed Vulnerable 1 1991 swamps. Low Low Low Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Inhabits emergent vegetation within or fringing still or slow-flowing waterbodies, including lagoons, ponds, swamps and dams. Basks on rocks or vegetation in summer and shelters in soil cracks, fallen timber, dense vegetation. Requires permanent, freshwater shallow lagoons for breeding. Surveys for this species were undertaken by Hamer in 20172018. This included habitat assessments of dams Growling Litoria raniformis Vulnerable Listed Endangered 121 2017 along Mickleham Road and Craigieburn Road. These Low Low Low Grass Frog dams were not deemed suitable habitat for the species and it was therefore not expected to occur there. It is deemed likely to occur further south of the Study Area around Yuroke Creek; there is potential that the species could move northward over time as development occurs further south. Unlikely to occur within Study Area at present however, but bridge over Aitken Creek will be established using suitable culverts to allow for potential crossing of this and other fauna species.

The Murray Cod lives in a wide variety of habitats from silty slow-moving rivers to clear rivers with pools and Maccullochella peelii Murray Cod Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable NA NA Low Low Low riffles. This fish prefers instream habitat of rocks and logs with over-hanging vegetation.

Widespread throughout much of inland NSW, with the exception of the extreme north-west of the state. Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Near Listed 1 1990 Typically inhabits structurally diverse open eucalypt Low Low Low cucullata Robin threatened woodland, acacia scrub and Mallee, often in or near clearings or open areas where it hunts for insects.

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

The species occurs in many types of habitat including woodland, shrubland, semi-cleared land and farmland, Rainbow Merops ornatus Marine NA NA however it mainly occurs where eucalyptus species are Low Low Low Bee-eater dominant. It is almost entirely insectivorous and mostly occurs near to permanent water.

Caves are the primary roosting habitat, but also use Common derelict mines, storm-water tunnels, buildings and other Miniopterus schreibersii Bent-wing man-made structures. Hunts in forested areas. N/A Listed Vulnerable 3 2013 Low Low Low oceanensis Bat (eastern Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area ssp.) areas, catching moths and other flying insects above the tree tops.

Species mainly occurs in rainforest ecosystems and can occur in selectively logged and 20—30 years old regrowth rainforest. It is also sometimes found in nearby Black-faced open eucalypt forests (mainly wet sclerophyll forests), Monarcha melanopsis Migratory / Marine NA NA Low Low Low Monarch especially in gullies with a dense, shrubby understorey as well as in dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands, often with a patchy understorey. Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Distributed widely across Australia. This insectivorous Yellow bird inhabits open country near water, such as wet Motacilla flava Migratory / Marine NA NA Low Low Low Wagtail meadows. Species has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist.

Occurs along east coast of Australia, migrates north to Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea in winter. Satin Inhabits tall, wet eucalypts forests in gullies where it Myiagra cyanoleuca Migratory / Marine NA NA Low Low Low Flycatcher forages for insects. Nests in tree 3-25m above ground. Has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist within Study Area.

Occurs in dry woodlands, wooded farmlands and dry forests in the 500-800mm annual rainfall zone and Ninox connivens Barking Owl N/A Listed Endangered 1 1986 Low Low Low extend into semi-arid areas in River Red Gum forests along the Murray River. Hollow dependent species.

Most commonly associated with sheltered coasts, especially estuaries, bays, harbours, inlets and coastal lagoons, with large intertidal mudflats or sandflats, often with beds of seagrass. Occasionally, the species occurs Critically Numenius Eastern on ocean beaches (often near estuaries), and coral Endangered / Listed Vulnerable NA NA Low Low Low madagascariensis Curlew reefs, rock platforms, or rocky islets. According to EPBC Migratory / Marine PMST species may occur within the Local Government Area, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site. Has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist.

The Nankeen Night Heron has a widespread distribution Low: impacts to Aitken in wetlands throughout Australia, particularly in the Creek associated with Nankeen Near Nycticorax caledonicus 12 2016 north, south, and southwest. This species inhabits Moderate Low bridge crossing will be Night Heron Threatened shorelines of lakes, rivers, estuaries, terrestrial wetlands minimal in context of and grasslands, particularly those sheltered by tall that available within ground vegetation and/or trees, with shallow, slow- creekline for this

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km moving water. May occur within 5 km but no riparian species. Appropriate vegetation will be impacted. Species could potentially mitigation measures occur within Aitken Creek. will also be applied to Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in ameliorate impacts on area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken habitat. Creek bridge upgrade.

Species is widespread in NSW, but most common in the southern Murray-Darling Basin area. Birds disperse Low: impacts to Aitken during the breeding season to deep swamps up to 300 Creek associated with km away. It prefers deep water in large permanent bridge crossing will be wetlands and swamps with dense aquatic vegetation. It minimal in context of that available within Blue-billed is completely aquatic, swimming low in the water along Oxyura australis Listed Endangered 16 2008 Moderate Low creekline for this Duck the edge of dense cover. species. Appropriate May occur in wetlands within 5km of the Study Area and mitigation measures it could potentially utilise habitat within the Study Area. will also be applied to Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in ameliorate impacts on area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken habitat. Creek bridge upgrade.

Low: impacts to Aitken Littoral and coastal habitats and terrestrial Creek associated with wetlands including inshore waters, reefs, bays, bridge crossing will be coastal cliffs, beaches, mangrove swamps. minimal in context of that available within Eastern May occur in wetlands within 5km of the Study Area and Pandion haliaetus Migratory / Marine NA NA Moderate Low creekline for this Osprey it could potentially utilise habitat within the Study Area. species. Appropriate Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in mitigation measures area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken will also be applied to Creek bridge upgrade. ameliorate impacts on habitat.

Sparse grasslands that have 50% bare ground, widely spaced plants up to 10 cm high and remaining standing vegetation less than 5cm in height. Occasionally uses cereal stubble but cannot persist in agricultural landscape. Suitable habitat tends to be restricted to Plains- Critically Critically Pedionomus torquatus Listed 4 1991 small (50-300 ha) patches that do not support dense Low Low Low wanderer Endangered endangered pasture growth under any seasonal conditions. Suitable habitat may have occurred prior to suburban development when adjacent land was dominated by indigenous pasture. Preferred habitat no longer exists within the Study Area.

Small, nocturnal marsupial. The mainland subspecies of Eastern Barred Bandicoot is listed as extinct in the wild. Eastern Perameles gunnii Barred Extinct in The Eastern Barred Bandicoot was previously released Endangered Listed 2 2002 N/A N/A No impact Victorian subspecies Bandicoot the Wild into Woodland Historic Park as part of a reintroduction (Mainland) of this species into the local area. The records for this species are from the northern end of Woodlands Historic Park.

The Greater Glider is restricted to eastern Australia, Greater occurring from the Windsor Tableland in north Petauroides volans Vulnerable Vulnerable NA NA Low Low Low Glider Queensland through to central Victoria (Wombat State Forest), with an elevational range from sea level to 1200 m above sea level. It is largely restricted to eucalypt

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km forests and woodlands. Typically found in highest abundance in taller, montane, moist eucalypt forests with relatively old trees and abundant hollow. Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Restricted to the coast; seen around, and on, offshore islands or rocky reefs, as well as on nearby artificial structures such as piles, jetties, platforms or buoys. Will Phalacrocorax Black-faced Near 1 2004 catch their food while swimming beneath the surface. Low Low Low fuscescens Cormorant Threatened Nests on rocky sites on offshore islands. Roost on islands, offshore rocks, sandbanks, navigation beacons and jetties.

Mostly marine habitats, including estuaries, harbours Pied Near and bays. Also inhabits mangroves and large inland Phalacrocorax varius 5 1986 Low Low Low Cormorant Threatened wetlands.

Inhabits shallow freshwater and saltwater wetlands, Royal Near intertidal mud flats and wet grasslands. Known to use Platalea regia 7 1991 Low Low Low Spoonbill Threatened artificial wetlands including sewage lagoons, saltfields, dams and reservoirs.

The Bearded Dragon has a wide distribution in woodland, and Dense Scrubby Forest habitat throughout eastern and south-eastern Australia (from Bearded Pogona barbata Vulnerable 2 1990 Cairns to Eyre Peninsula). With conspicuous perching Low Low Low Dragon behaviour upon trees, fence posts, and stumps, it is regularly observed in more populated areas. Suitable good quality habitat is not present within Study Area.

This species returns to northern Victoria in spring, but there are few details on migration. It inhabits freshwater wetlands and floodwaters usually containing floating Baillon's plants or tall emergent vegetation. The Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla Listed Vulnerable 3 2006 Low Low Low Crake feeds in shallow water, mud and emergent aquatic plants. It has been found to nest in clumps or tussocks of vegetation surrounded by water. Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Found in freshwater streams and rivers to the east of the Great Dividing Range, extending from Sydney Australian southwards. Prefers habitats with moderate flow over Prototroctes maraena Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable NA NA Low Low Low Grayling clear gravelly substrates in coastal streams, and estuarine areas. Preferred habitat does not occur within the Study Area

Tussock Skinks favour tussock grasslands with few/no trees, with a disjunct distribution within the NSW highlands, and throughout the NSW-VIC high country to Pseudemoia Tussock Listed Vulnerable 8 2015 VIC low altitude basalt plains, and parts of SE SA, and Low Low Low pagenstecheri Skink Tas. There are recent records for this species within 5km, but they have been found to the east of the Study Area in Craigieburn Grassland.

Brown Usually found singly under rocks and logs on slopes in Pseudophryne bibronii Listed Endangered 17 1990 Low Low Low Toadlet grasslands or beside ditches. Found both in wet and dry sclerophyll forest. Breeding congregations usually occur

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km in inundated grassy areas beside gutters, small creeks etc. At southern edge of preferred habitat range- unlikely to occur due to habitat degradation and chytrid fungus.

Found within 200km of the east coast of Australia. Roosting camps commonly found in gullies, close to water, in vegetation with a dense canopy. Camps Grey- typically located within 20km of a regular food source; Pteropus poliocephalus headed Vulnerable Listed Vulnerable 2 2016 nectar and pollen of native trees and fruits of rainforest Moderate Moderate Low Flying-fox trees and vines. Also forage in cultivated gardens and fruit crops. Species that is known to forage among large eucalypts and fruit trees across Greater Melbourne.

In east and south-east Australia, the Rufous Fantail mainly inhabits wet sclerophyll forests, often in gullies dominated by eucalypts; usually with a dense shrubby understorey often including ferns. They occasionally occur in secondary regrowth, following logging or disturbance in forests or rainforests. When on passage, Rufous Rhipidura rufifrons Migratory / Marine NA NA they are sometimes recorded in drier sclerophyll forests Low Low Low Fantail and woodlands, often with a shrubby or heath understorey. They are also recorded from parks and gardens when on passage. According to EPBC PMST species may occur within the Local Government Area, but not necessarily within a 5km radius of a site.

Generally uncommon in Australia and scattered records in Victoria. Uses terrestrial shallow freshwater (occasionally brackish) wetlands, ephemeral and permanent lakes, swamps, claypans, inundated or waterlogged grassland or saltmarsh, dams, rice crops, Australian Endangered / Critically sewage farms and bore drains. Rostratula australis Painted Listed NA NA Low Low Low Marine endangered According to EPBC PMST species may occur within the Snipe LGA, but not necessarily there are no records within a 5km radius of a site. Has not been recorded in the area previously and habitat features do not exist. Marginal habitat occurs in the Study Area

The Fat-tailed Dunnart is found in a wide range of habitats throughout southern and central Australia. Sminthopsis Fat-tailed Near 6 1991 Habitats include open grasslands, gibber plains, low Low Low Low crassicaudata Dunnart Threatened shrublands, claypans, and also rough farmland and stubble field margins.

The Australasian Shoveler occurs mainly on large well vegetated wetlands and lakes, occasionally including areas with saline waters. Populations are found in Australasian Spatula rhynchotis 3 2000 higher numbers on permanent, well-vegetated Low Low Low Shoveler freshwater swamps with areas of open water. This species nests in grass nests on the ground, usually in dense cover and near water. This specie may occasionally use parts of Aiken Creek, but the project is

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km encroaching only minimally on this area. but likelihood is low.

Found mainly in grassy eucalypt woodlands, occasionally open forest and riparian areas. Forages on the ground for seeds and insects. Roost and nest amongst shrubby understorey. Diamond Near Stagonopleura guttata Listed 6 1991 Low Low Low Firetail threatened Arcadis (2017) identified marginal modified habitat at western end of site in remnant Plains Grassy Woodland patch that could potentially support this species. The removal of a very small amount of this habitat is unlikely to significantly impact this species.

Found in association with large temporary swamps Low: impacts to Aitken created by floods in the Bulloo and Lake Eyre basins Creek associated with and the Murray-Darling system, particularly along the bridge crossing will be Paroo and Lachlan Rivers. Disperses during extensive minimal in context of inland droughts when it may be found along the east that available within Freckled Stictonetta naevosa Listed Endangered 4 2013 coast. Moderate Low creekline for this Duck May occur in wetlands within 5km of the Study Area and species. Appropriate it could potentially utilise habitat within the Study Area. mitigation measures Disturbance and some habitat modification will occur in will also be applied to area of preferred habitat in conjunction with Aitken ameliorate impacts on Creek bridge upgrade. habitat.

Suitable habitat for the Golden Sun Moth includes native temperate grassland and open grassy woodlands dominated by wallaby grass Species observed on GSM recorded in targeted surveys in adjacent Potentially Significant either side of Craigieburn R2 precinct in 2007/8 flying season. The (see Appendix G) but Golden Sun Critically Critically Mickleham Road to Synemon plana Listed 579 2017 majority of these sites have since been developed for Low low likelihood within Moth Endangered Endangered both the north and residential housing. There is sparse marginal habitat mitigation measures south of Craigieburn remaining within the project area. Surveys were adopted conducted in potential habitat locations as per the Road. guidelines (Department of Environment Water Heritage and the Arts 2009). No individuals were recorded within or near to the project area in the 2016/17 flying season.

It is widespread west of the Great Dividing Range, Low: impacts to Aitken especially between the Lachlan and Murray Rivers and Creek associated with the Darling River drainage basin, including the bridge crossing will be Macquarie Marshes, and north-west regions (Higgins & minimal in context of Davies 1996). Widely distributed throughout a range of that available within Common Tringa nebularia Migratory / Marine Vulnerable NA NA inland wetlands and sheltered coastal habitats. Occurs Moderate Low creekline for this Greenshank in habitats with varying salinity. May occasionally utilise species. Appropriate habitat within 5km of the Study Area. mitigation measures No preferred habitat will be impacted. Disturbance and will also be applied to some habitat modification will occur in area of preferred ameliorate impacts on habitat in conjunction with Aitken Creek bridge upgrade. habitat.

Found in a variety of habitats usually with a grassy Red- understorey

Turnix pyrrhothorax chested Listed Vulnerable 6 2010 Remnant Plains Grassy Woodland patch unlikely to Low Low Low Button-quail contain habitat, as ground dwelling bird and patch has been modified in the groundstorey layer

No. of Likelihood of Likelihood of Victorian sites Date of Common Status under Status under Occurrence within Occurrence within Likely Impact on Scientific Name Advisory recorded Last Preferred Habitat / Comments Name EPBC Act FFG Act Study Area Study Area Species Listing within Record (Craigieburn Road) (Mickleham Road) 5km

Widely but patchily distributed through grasslands and woodlands of temperate and tropical Australia, particularly arid and semi-arid regions. Recorded mostly from inland plains, dunefields, tablelands and escarpments: rare at higher altitudes or in coastal ranges. In winter common in spinifex Triodia grasslands Little Near Turnix velox 4 2010 on inland escarpments; spinifex and tussock grasslands Low Low Low Button-quail Threatened on sandplains; Mulga woodlands with shrubby chenopod cover; dunefields with Mulga, chenopods and tussock-grasses; floodplains with cover of chenopods and tussock grasses; and undulating downs of low shrublands and tussock grasslands. Suitable undisturbed habitat not present in Study Area

‘Grassy Eucalypt Woodland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain’ Diagnostic Criteria Analysis of Diagnostic Criteria for PGW Habitat Zones HZ19 / HZ 20 Criteria HZ1 HZ4 HZ6 HZ7 HZ8 (a & b) HZ9 (d, e, f, g, h, I HZ22 HZ23 HZ 24 and j) Distribution is limited to the Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion Patch meets this Patch meets this Patch meets this Patch meets this Patches meet Patch meets this Patches meets Patch meets this Patch meets this Patch meets this Occurrences are limited to Quaternary basalt criterion. criterion. criterion. criterion. this criterion. criterion. this criterion criterion criterion criterion soils on low elevation plains and stony rises on the basalt flows. No River Red Gum present, only Drooping Not required Sheoak, Black where community Wattle, is represented by Blackwood and Dominated by Dominated by Dominated by Dominated by derived grassland Dominated by Dominated by Dominated by Dominated by Lightwood. These River Red Gum River Red Gum River Red Gum River Red Gum state if the River Red Gum River Red Gum River Red Gum River Red Gum The tree canopy is typically dominated by 3 species are Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) characteristics of mentioned in the ground layer but may be dominated by other species in TSSC (2009) as also met. response to variations in rainfall and/or species that may localised landscape features. be present in the canopy layer. Not required Habitat Zone Habitat Zone Habitat Zone Habitat Zone where Habitat Habitat Zones Habitat Zone Habitat Zone Habitat Zone Habitat Zone meets this meets this meets this meets this Zone meets meets this meets this meets this meets this meets this criterion. criterion. criterion. criterion. characteristics criterion. criterion. criterion criterion criterion of ground layer. Native grass Native grass None to very little cover is present, cover is present, Key Diagnostic Characteristics Key understorey Understorey Understorey Understorey Understorey but is not but is not Understorey Understorey Understorey ground cover The understorey is dominated by a native dominated by dominated by dominated by dominated by considered considered dominated by dominated by dominated by present; what is ground layer with these features: exotic grasses exotic grasses exotic grasses exotic grasses greater than 50% greater than 50% exotic grasses exotic grasses exotic grasses present is >50% • one or more of the following native grass of the ground of the ground exotic. genera typically dominates the perennial layer layer ground layer: Themeda, Austrodanthonia, Austrostipa, Poa and/or Microlaena; and Habitat Zone 1 Habitat Zones 19 • one or more of the following native herb Habitat Zone 4, Habitat Zone 6 Habitat Zone 7 Habitat Zones 8a Habitat Zones 9 Habitat Zone 22 Habitat Zone 23 Habitat Zone 23 does not meet and Habitat genera are typically present: Acaena, this criterion. No does not meet does not meet does not meet and 8b do not does not meet Zones 20d does not meet does not meet does not meet Arthropodium, Calocephalus, further this criterion. No this criterion. No this criterion. No meet criterion. criterion. No through 20i do this criterion. No this criterion. No this criterion. No Chrysocephalum, Dianella, Dichondra, consideration further further further No further further not meet further further further Geranium, Leptorhynchos or Solenogyne required. consideration consideration consideration consideration consideration criterion. No consideration consideration consideration required. required. required. required. required. further required. required. required. consideration.

All three key diagnostic criteria not met for Habitat Zones 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, (a, b), 9, 19, 20 ( d, e, f, g, h, i and j), 22, 23 and 24. No further consideration of condition thresholds is therefore required as these Habitat Zones are not representative of this national ecological community. Summary Note that all above HZs are below the minimum size threshold for this community that forms part of the Condition Thresholds and would not be considered part of this community regardless had the above Key Diagnostic Criteria been met.

Analysis of Diagnostic Criteria for Habitat Zones 7 to 12 Criteria HZ11 HZ12 HZ13 HZ14 HZ16 HZ17 Distribution is limited to the Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion Occurrences are limited to Quaternary basalt soils on low Habitat Zones meet this criterion elevation plains and stony rises on the basalt flows.

The tree canopy is typically dominated by Eucalyptus Dominated by River Red Gum camaldulensis (River Red Gum) but may be dominated by other species in response to variations in rainfall and/or Patches meet this criterion localised landscape features. Understorey cover is patchy, ranging from 25% cover to up The understorey is dominated by a native ground layer with Patch dominated by Patch dominated by Patch dominated by Wallaby Patch dominated by Patch dominated by exotic to 60% native grass cover in these features: Wallaby Grasses Wallaby Grasses Grasses Wallaby Grasses grasses some areas of this Habitat • one or more of the following native grass genera typically Zone dominates the perennial ground layer: Themeda, Habitat Zone 17 does not Diagnostic Characteristics Austrodanthonia, Austrostipa, Poa and/or Microlaena; and Habitat Zone 11 is meet this criterion. No • one or more of the following native herb genera are

Key considered to meet this further consideration typically present: Acaena, Arthropodium, Calocephalus, Habitat Zone 12 meets Habitat Zone 13 meets Habitat Zone 14 meets this Habitat Zone 16 meets criterion in most areas of its required regarding Chrysocephalum, Dianella, Dichondra, Geranium, this criterion. this criterion. criterion. this criterion extent. condition thresholds as all Leptorhynchos or Solenogyne three key diagnostic characteristics not met. Patch size for the listed ecological community is at least 0.5 Patch size = 0.32 Patch size = 0.32 Patch size = 0.19 Patch size = 0.18 Patch size = 0.16 N/A hectares AND Habitat Zone 16 is less than the minimum patch size for this national ecological community. N/A One or more of the following native grass genera accounts for N/A: See above. at least 50% of the perennial ground layer cover: Themeda, Austrodanthonia, Austrostipa, Poa and/or Microlaena N/A: See above or If native grasses account for less than 50% of the perennial ground layer cover, then the patch is either: • a valuable wildflower site where at least 50% of the ground layer vegetative cover is represented by native dryland forbs OR • not heavily invaded by perennial weeds such that perennial N/A: See above Condition Thresholds Condition weeds comprise less than 70% of the ground layer vegetative cover; OR • if perennial weeds comprise more than 70% of the ground layer vegetative cover, then the patch must have more than ten native perennial species per 100 m2 AND a density of at least 3 big trees per hectare. All three key diagnostic criteria not met for Habitat Zone 17. Summary All three key diagnostic criteria met for Habitat Zone 16 however this is below minimum patch size. * Contra-indicative species in Grassy Eucalypt Woodland Contra-indicative species are defined as species that may be present in a locality, but their dominant occurrence clearly indicates that the Grassy Eucalypt Woodland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain ecological community is NOT present. Dominance means a species that comprises the major component of its vegetation layer, 50% or more of the projective foliage cover. Contra-indicative species are Allocasuarina luehmannii (Buloke); Chenopod shrub layer; Eragrostis infecunda (Cane Grass); Eucalyptus leucoxylon (Yellow Gum); or Muehlenbeckia florulenta (Lignum). The presence of these species indicates affinities with either wetland or semi-arid vegetation communities rather than with temperate grassy woodlands.

Tree Census Data Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Small Scattered 1 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 45 5.4 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Large Scattered 2 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 122 14.6 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered 3 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 38 4.6 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered 4 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.2 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Tree is located close to Project Area but just outside it; it is not located within the Project Area for the Upgrade but could be impacted through Large Scattered encroachment of its Tree Protection Zone. Homewood Consulting (2019) 5 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 122 14.6 X BCS MSA Avoid if possible Tree indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone; it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. Large Scattered 6 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 125 15.0 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered 8 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 15 1.8 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered 9 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 32 3.8 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered 10 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum <10 2.0 X BCS MSA Lost Tree Small Scattered Impacts appear outside TPZ of tree; Homewood Consulting (2019) did not 11 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 62 7.4 X BCS MSA Retained Tree assess this tree therefore impacts to tree not likely. Small Scattered Impacts appear outside TPZ of tree; Homewood Consulting (2019) 12 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 28 3.4 X BCS MSA Retained Tree indicates that tree is retainable. Small Scattered Impacts appear outside of TPZ of tree; Homewood Consulting (2019) 13 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 65 7.8 X BCS MSA Retained Tree indicates tree is retainable. Tree is located along Study Area Boundary, therefore 20m outside of Large Scattered 14 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X BCS MSA Retained Project Area; beyond assessment area covered by Homewood Consulting Tree (2019) therefore indicates impacts are unlikely and it can be retained. Tree is located close to Study Area boundary at least 15m away from 15 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 7 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Retained proposed works; 15m is maximum TPZ required for a tree therefore considered Retained. Tree is located close to Study Area boundary at least 15m away from 16 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 7 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Retained proposed works; 15m is maximum TPZ required for a tree therefore considered Retained. Small Scattered 17 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 38 4.6 X BCS MSA Lost Tree will be directly impacted by works within Project Area Tree Small Scattered 18 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum ~50 6.0 X BCS MSA Lost Tree will be directly impacted by works within Project Area Tree Large Scattered Tree is a stump located within the Study Area close to the Project Area. It 19 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Stump BCS MSA Retained Tree is located within the adjacent Private Property.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Small Scattered 20 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 32 3.8 X BCS MSA Lost Tree will be directly impacted by works within Project Area Tree Tree is currently directly impacted by the proposed Shared Use Path. There Large Scattered appears some scope to realign the Shared Use Path to the south of this 21 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 122 14.6 X BCS MSA Lost Tree tree however this may result in alterations to the path that may impact additional trees further east in particular. Large Scattered 22 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 102 12.2 2 X BCS MSA Lost Tree will be directly impacted by works within Project Area Tree Tree is located close to the proposed Shared Use Path within the Project Area. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the 24 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 82 9.8 2 X Habitat Zone 1 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is located close to the proposed Shared Use Path within the Project Area. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the 25 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 90 10.8 X Habitat Zone 1 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is located along Study Area Boundary, therefore 20m outside of 26 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 107 12.8 X Habitat Zone 1 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Retained Project Area; based on location and size of TPZ there will be no impact on this tree Tree is located close to Project Area but outside it. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but 27 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 100 12.0 X Habitat Zone 1 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible.

Proposed works close to Tree 40 will include the establishment of Likely consistent Small Scattered Non-BCS additional lanes and associated works. This Tree and trees adjacent will be 40 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 72 8.6 X with Tree 199 or Retained Tree MSA located however outside of the Project Area. It is considered retained in Tree 120 in NVPP Homewood Consulting (2019).

Small Scattered Works proposed as part of the Upgrade will be well outside the TPZ of this 68 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree tree. Small Scattered This tree is located approximately 10m from the Project Area boundary. 69 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 56 6.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree This is beyond the TPZ of this tree and it is therefore considered retained. Small Scattered This tree is located approximately 19m from the Project Area boundary. 70 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree This is beyond the TPZ of this tree and it is therefore considered retained. While this tree is located relatively close to the Project Area, it is a relatively small tree with a relatively small TPZ. Homewood Consulting Small Scattered 71 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 20 2.4 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone; it is a Tree 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree within its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of Small Scattered appropriate construction methods that would need to be directed by an 75 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 56 6.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree within its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of Small Scattered appropriate construction methods that would need to be directed by an 76 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 50 6.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree within its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of Small Scattered appropriate construction methods that would need to be directed by an 80 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 56 6.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree within its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of Small Scattered appropriate construction methods that would need to be directed by an 81 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 75 9.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree within its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of Small Scattered appropriate construction methods that would need to be directed by an 82 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 42 5.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. While this tree is located relatively close to the Project Area boundary, it is Small Scattered a relatively small tree with a relatively small TPZ. It is considered 83 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22 2.6 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree sufficiently distant from the proposed Project Area that there will be no impacts to this tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) states No Impact. Tree occurs very close to Project Area boundary. The shared use path will be located adjacent to this tree and within or very close to its TPZ; there may be scope to ensure the tree is retained long-term through the application of appropriate construction methods that would need to be Small Scattered 84 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 64 7.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible directed by an arborist. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Tree encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. While this tree is located relatively close to the Project Area boundary, it is a relatively small tree with a relatively small TPZ. It is considered Small Scattered sufficiently distant from the proposed Project Area that there will be no 85 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 11 2.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree impacts to this tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree that must be retained and protected from construction impact. While this tree is located relatively close to the Project Area boundary, it is Small Scattered a relatively small tree with a relatively small TPZ. It is considered 86 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 10 2.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Tree sufficiently distant from the proposed Project Area that there will be no impacts to this tree.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design While this tree is located relatively close to the Project Area boundary, it is a relatively small tree with a relatively small TPZ. It is considered Small Scattered 87 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 12 2.0 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained sufficiently distant from the proposed Project Area that there will be no Tree impacts to this tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) states No Impact to this tree. Tree is on boundary of Project Area however proposed Shared Use Path is positioned further north of tree. Tree is relatively small and so is TPZ so likely retainable in context of works within vicinity. Homewood Consulting Small Scattered 89 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 20 2.0 3 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible (2019) indicates a major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but Tree notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area however proposed Shared Use Path is positioned further north of tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates Small Scattered 90 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible that there will be no impact on this tree from the reference design and Tree notes that it is a third-party tree. For the purposes of offset accounting, this tree has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area however proposed Shared Use Path is positioned further north of tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a Small Scattered major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party 91 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 24 2.9 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area however proposed Shared Use Path is positioned further north of tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a Small Scattered major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party 92 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 26 3.1 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree appears to be located in area where shared use path will be installed. Small Scattered 93 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 28 3.4 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Lost Homewood Consulting (2019) have indicated a major encroachment. For Tree the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered lost. Tree is on boundary of Project Area however proposed Shared Use Path is positioned further north of tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a Small Scattered major encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party 94 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 12 2.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree appears to be located in area where shared use path will be installed. Small Scattered 95 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22.5 2.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Lost Homewood Consulting (2019) have indicated a major encroachment. For Tree the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered lost. Tree appears to be located in area where shared use path will be installed. Small Scattered 96 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22.5 2.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Lost Homewood Consulting (2019) have indicated a major encroachment. For Tree the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered lost. Tree appears to be located in area where shared use path will be installed. Small Scattered 97 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22.5 2.7 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Lost Homewood Consulting (2019) have indicated a major encroachment. For Tree the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered lost. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of Small Scattered 98 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 18 2.2 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree however and must Tree be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Small Scattered encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree 99 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 20 2.4 3 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Small Scattered encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree 100 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Small Scattered encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree 101 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 12 2.0 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Small Scattered encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree 102 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22 2.6 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Small Scattered encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone but notes it is a 3rd party tree 103 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment, it has been considered Avoid if Possible. Tree is relatively close to Project Area but given its location and TPZ it is deemed likely that the tree will not be affected in the long-term. Small Scattered 104 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 35 4.2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major impact however this is a Tree 3rd party tree and must be retained and protected from construction impact. Tree is on boundary of Project Area and located within current location of Small Scattered shared use path. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major impact; it 105 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 28 3.4 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree should be avoided if possible, during construction but is lost for offset accounting purposes. Tree is relatively close to Project Area but given its location and TPZ it is deemed likely that the tree will not be affected in the long-term. Small Scattered 106 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.2 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Retained Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major impact (although noted Tree report states 7% encroachment) however this is a 3rd party tree and must be retained and protected from construction impact. Tree is relatively small and will be located very close to area for proposed Small Scattered 107 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum <10 2.0 X Planted- Golf Course Non-MSA Lost shared use path and new entrance into golf club. Note that the new Tree entrance to the Golf Club is being undertaken by Hume City Council. Tree is located approximately 2.7m away from Project Area. Works Small Scattered associated with the Upgrade will therefore be beyond the TPZ of this Tree. 113 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 18 2.2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Note that works including establishment of shared use path within vicinity of this tree under reference design are approximately 7m away.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Previously a large tree that has now Tree is located approximately 6.4m away from nearest point of Project been removed; Small Scattered 114 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 20 2.4 2 X Non-MSA Retained Area. Given the land use to the south and west of this tree and its distance stump and Tree from the Construction Footprint, impacts on this tree are not expected. secondary growth remains Tree occurs very close to the Project Area where a new entranceway into the Bowling Club will be established. Works within this location could well be in the TPZ of this tree. It is therefore categorised as Avoid if Possible and an arborist will need to be engaged at the detailed design phase to Small Scattered 115 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 68 8.2 X remnant Non-MSA Avoid if possible identify appropriate construction methods that may ensure retention of Tree this tree in the long-term. It was not assessed as part of Homewood Consulting (2019). For the purposes of determining offsets, this tree has been deemed lost. Retaining this tree will reduce overall offset obligations associated with the Upgrade. Tree may be sufficiently distant enough from current Project Area boundary to be considered retained. Consideration of the tie in at this location is likely to also mean this tree is deemed retained in the long Small Scattered term. Further analysis will be required in consultation with an arborist to 116 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 65 7.8 X remnant Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree determine the fate of this tree which is likely to be retainable. It was not assessed as part of Homewood Consulting (2019). For the purpose of the impact analysis, this tree has been deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Located between existing service road and proposed shared user path Older, taller street Small Scattered under reference design. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major 122 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 56 6.7 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible tree- habitat values Tree encroachment of this tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. Located between existing service road and proposed shared user path under reference design; possible scope to retain under detailed design. Older, taller street Small Scattered 125 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 41 4.9 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree tree- habitat values Tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. Located between existing service road and proposed shared user path under reference design; possible scope to retain under detailed design. Older, taller street Small Scattered 131 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 22 2.6 2 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree tree- habitat values Tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. Located between existing service road and proposed shared user path under reference design; possible scope to retain under detailed design. Older, taller street Small Scattered 137 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 35 4.2 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree tree- habitat values Tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. Located between existing service road and proposed shared user path Older, taller street under reference design; possible scope to retain under detailed design. tree- included in Small Scattered 138 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 34 4.1 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree mapping due to Tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed habitat values design phase. Appears that changes to existing side road and kerb works may occur within the TPZ of this tree. It is located however beyond the existing Small Scattered 151 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 73 8.8 X Non-MSA Retained footpath at this location, therefore long-term impacts are Unlikely. Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates that impacts on this tree will be minor. Small Scattered 152 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 53 6.4 3 X Non-MSA Retained Appears that changes to existing side roads may occur within the TPZ of Tree this tree. It is located however beyond the existing footpath at this

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design location, therefore long-term impacts are unlikely. While Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a 17% TPZ encroachment and associated major impact based on the current reference design, the location of this tree is indicative that it is retainable. The tree is also located within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation and is proposed for retention. Appears that changes to existing side road in oval may occur within the TPZ of this tree. It is located however to the north of an already existing dirt road along oval and provided any works are above grade is unlikely to Small Scattered 153 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 45 5.4 4 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible be impacted long term. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major Tree encroachment of the Tree Protection Zone; it is a 3rd party tree however and must be retained and protected from construction impact. For the purposes of this assessment it has been considered lost. Small Scattered 154 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 4 X Non-MSA Lost Directly within Project Area. Tree Small Scattered 155 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 43 5.2 2 X Non-MSA Lost Directly within Project Area. Tree Appears that changes to existing side road in oval may occur within the TPZ of this tree. It is located however to the north of an already existing Small Scattered dirt road along oval and provided any works are above grade is unlikely to 156 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 54 6.5 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree be impacted long term. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree however further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. Large Scattered Tree is a stump. Retainable and should be kept as habitat; located outside 157 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >100 12.0 X Stump - dead tree Non-MSA Retained Tree of Project Area. Sulphur-crested Large Scattered Tree is located approximately 20m away from Project Area. Considered 158 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >100 >12 X Cockatoos nesting in Non-MSA Retained Tree retained under current design. hollow Tree appears located at least 7m from proposed tie ins to service road Small Scattered coming off Craigieburn Road. It is located behind a large chain mesh fence 159 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 64 7.7 X Non-MSA Retained Tree within kindergarten complex. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates that impacts on this tree will be minor. Tree is located close to proposed tie ins to service road coming off Craigieburn Road. It is located behind a large chain mesh fence within Small Scattered 160 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 17 2.0 X Non-MSA Retained kindergarten complex and has a relatively small TPZ on account of its small Tree DBH. Not assessed in Homewood Consulting (2019) therefore assumed beyond area of potential impacts. Remnant- stem not Small Scattered Outside of Project Area. Works in vicinity under reference design likely to 161 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 60 7.2 X visible as behind Non-MSA Retained Tree be associated with line marking only. fence Tree is located outside of Project Area. Given its size and associated TPZ, Small Scattered 162 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 20 2.4 X Non-MSA Retained plus location and proposed works impacts deemed unlikely and it has been Tree considered retained as part of this report. Tree is located close to the proposed Shared Use Path within the Project Area. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates that there will be no impact to this tree based on the current reference design; this tree has been 165 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible considered ‘avoid if possible’ in previous interactions of this report and given discrepancy between Homewood Consulting (2019) and Arcadis DBH and TPZ has been retained as Avoid if Possible as part of the offset assessment in this report. Tree is located close to the proposed Shared Use Path within the Project 166 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible Area. There is likely to be scope to use an alternative construction method such as a boardwalk in the interest of retaining this tree. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment of this tree however

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design further consideration for retention should be made at detailed design phase. For the purposes of determining offsets, this tree has been deemed lost. Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 167 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Lost removal for it to proceed. Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 168 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Lost removal for it to proceed. Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 169 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Lost removal for it to proceed. Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 170 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum >80 >9.6 X Habitat Zone 6 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Lost removal for it to proceed. Shared use path has been located as far as practicable from this tree. 172 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 99 11.9 X Habitat Zone 7 Large Tree in HZ BCS MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates that impacts on this tree will be minor. For offset accounting purposes however, it has been deemed lost. Small Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 177 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 >2 X BCS MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Small Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 178 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 48 5.8 X BCS MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Large Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 179 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 117 14.0 X BCS MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Over the fence assessment; Small Scattered Located within private property with the Project Area/Construction 180 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 X Non-MSA Retained potentially River Red Tree Footprint boundary located beyond the TPZ of tree. Gums Over the fence assessment; Small Scattered Located within private property with the Project Area/Construction 181 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 30 3.6 X Non-MSA Retained potentially River Red Tree Footprint boundary located beyond the TPZ of tree. Gums Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is Large Scattered however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 182 Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box 86 10.3 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is Large Scattered however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 183 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 90 10.8 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is Small Scattered however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 184 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 77 9.2 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Small Scattered There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 185 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 25 3.0 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Small Scattered There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 186 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 67 8.0 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Small Scattered 187 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 70 8.4 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Tree There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Small Scattered There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 188 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 57 6.8 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Small Scattered There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 189 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 45 5.4 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will likely occur within the TPZ of this tree. Small Scattered There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. 190 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 74 8.9 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Occurs beyond limit of works proposed by current reference design within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation. No Impact in Homewood Consulting Large Scattered (2019) however tree has been deemed Avoid is Possible as there is 191 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 91 10.9 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree potential it could be removed to facilitate the Upgrade through additional works required along Mickleham Road. Tree is located within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation. Small Scattered Occurs beyond limit of works proposed by current reference design within 207 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 60 7.2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Study Area and not Project Area. Proposed works within vicinity of tree are in association with tie ins to Mickleham Road. No Impact in Homewood Consulting (2019) however tree Small Scattered 208 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 55 6.6 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible has been deemed Avoid is Possible as there is potential it could be Tree removed to facilitate the Upgrade through additional works required along Mickleham Road. Tree is located within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation. Proposed works within vicinity of tree are in association with tie ins to Mickleham Road. No Impact in Homewood Consulting (2019) however tree Small Scattered 209 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 20 2.4 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible has been deemed Avoid is Possible as there is potential it could be Tree removed to facilitate the Upgrade through additional works required along Mickleham Road. Tree is located within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation. Proposed works within vicinity of tree are in association with tie ins to Mickleham Road. No Impact in Homewood Consulting (2019) however tree Small Scattered 210 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 70 8.4 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible has been deemed Avoid is Possible as there is potential it could be Tree removed to facilitate the Upgrade through additional works required along Mickleham Road. Tree is located within an Area of Sensitive Vegetation. Small Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 211 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 57 6.8 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Tree is located between works associated with Mickleham Road lanes is proposed and the shared use path. There may be scope to retain tree as Large Scattered 212 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 93 11.2 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible part of detailed design process. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates a Tree major encroachment and it is therefore deemed lost for offset accounting purposes. Small Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 213 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 70 8.4 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Large Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 214 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 89 10.7 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Large Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 215 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 89 10.7 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed.

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design Large Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 216 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 109 13.1 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. Small Scattered Tree is located within Project Area for the Upgrade and will require 217 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 66 7.9 X Non-MSA Lost Tree removal for it to proceed. This tree is located to the west of the shared use path but works within its vicinity will occur within a large portion of its TPZ. Considered lost for Large Scattered 218 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 114 13.7 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible offset accounting purposes; Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees Tree within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. Small Scattered 219 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 55 6.6 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are Tree subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. Large Scattered 220 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 84 10.1 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are Tree subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. Small Scattered 221 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 68 8.2 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are Tree subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. Under current design, works will occur within the TPZ of this tree. There is however scope to retain tree as part of detailed design process. Large Scattered 222 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 86 10.3 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are Tree subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting Small Scattered purposes. There may be scope however to retain this tree through the 238 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 44 5.3 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree detailed design process by realigning the shared use path and associated batter further east closer to the powerlines along the eastern boundary of the Project Area/Construction Footprint. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting Small Scattered purposes. There may be scope however to retain this tree through the 239 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 47 5.6 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree detailed design process by realigning the shared use path and associated batter further east closer to the powerlines along the eastern boundary of the Project Area/Construction Footprint. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting Small Scattered purposes. There may be scope however to retain this tree through the 240 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 36 4.3 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree detailed design process by realigning the shared use path and associated batter further east closer to the powerlines along the eastern boundary of the Project Area/Construction Footprint. Located beyond Project Area at a distance deemed stuffiest enough to not Small Scattered 241 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 64 7.7 2 X Non-MSA Retained result in long term impacts. Homewood Consulting (2019) does not Tree consider this tree lost based on the Project Area boundary. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are 242 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 83 10.0 X Habitat Zone 16 Large Tree in HZ Non-MSA Avoid if possible subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. There may be scope however to retain this tree through the

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design detailed design process by realigning the shared use path and associated batter further east closer to the powerlines along the eastern boundary of the Project Area/Construction Footprint. Homewood Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. There may be scope however to retain this tree through the 243 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 80 9.6 X Habitat Zone 17 Large Tree in HZ Non-MSA Avoid if possible detailed design process by realigning the shared use path and associated batter further east closer to the powerlines along the eastern boundary of the Project Area/Construction Footprint. Small Scattered Tree occurs close to proposed lane on Mickleham Road. Deemed lost as 244 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 17 2.0 2 X Non-MSA Lost Tree part of offset calculations. Small Scattered Tree occurs close to proposed lane on Mickleham Road. Deemed lost as 245 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 27 3.2 X Non-MSA Lost Tree part of offset calculations. Small Scattered Tree occurs close to proposed lane on Mickleham Road. Deemed lost as 246 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 23 2.8 3 X Non-MSA Lost Tree part of offset calculations. Small Scattered Tree occurs close to proposed lane on Mickleham Road. Deemed lost as 247 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 31 3.7 X Non-MSA Lost Tree part of offset calculations. Small Scattered Tree occurs close to proposed lane on Mickleham Road. Deemed lost as 248 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 44 5.3 X Non-MSA Lost Tree part of offset calculations. 249 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 90 10.8 X Habitat Zone 23 Large Tree in HZ Non-MSA Retained Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 250 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 66 7.9 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 251 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 69 8.3 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 252 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 55 6.6 3 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 253 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 15.5 2.0 2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 254 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 28.5 3.4 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Large Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 255 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 85 10.2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 256 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 71 8.5 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 257 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 33 4.0 3 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Large Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 258 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 94 11.3 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 259 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 17 2.0 2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 260 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 21 2.5 4 X Non-MSA Retained Tree Small Scattered Located within proposed Areas of Sensitive Vegetation. 261 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 56 6.7 2 X Non-MSA Retained Tree

Small Scattered Located within Project Area and close to added turning lane. Homewood 262 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River Red Gum 40 4.8 X Non-MSA Avoid if possible Tree Consulting (2019) indicates trees within this location are subject to major TPZ encroachment. Considered lost for offset accounting purposes. There

Large Small Fate Under Tree Botanical DBH TPZ (12X No of Large Tree Common Name Scattered Scattered Comments Tree Type Location Current Reference Comments Regarding Lost/Retained Status Number Name (cm) DBH; m) Stems in HZ Tree Tree Design may be scope however to retain this tree through the detailed design process.

Fauna Species Lists The following is a list of fauna species opportunistically recorded during the site and habitat assessment focussed along Craigieburn Road between October and November 2017 (* indicates non-indigenous species)

Origin Common Name Scientific name Comments

Birds Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen Brown Falcon Falco berigora * Common Myna Acridotheres tristis * Common Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur Galah Eolophus roseicapilla * House Sparrow Passer domesticus Little Raven Corvus corax Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata Silver Gull Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae Pair nesting in hollow (Tree Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita 158) Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena Amphibians Common Froglet Crinia signifera Mammals Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus Only scats found * Fox Vulpes vulpes Only scats found Carcass and scats observed * Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus during site assessments Insects * White Cabbage Moth Pieris brassicae

Growling Grass Frog Targeted Survey

Amethyst Hairstreak Butterfly Habitat Assessment

Golden Sun Moth Habitat Assessment

Golden Sun Moth Targeted Survey

Growling Grass Frog Targeted Survey

Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis Targeted Surveys: Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

March 2018

Prepared for Arcadis Australia Pacific Pty Ltd

Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

March 2018

Report and fieldwork by Dr Andrew Hamer and Alice Ewing

Cover photo: Potential Growling Grass Frog habitat, Yuroke Creek, Somerton Road

PRACTICAL ECOLOGY Pty Ltd ACN: 082 911 377 ABN: 88 082 911 377 PO Box 228 Preston VIC 3072 (2B Stott Street Preston Vic 3072) P: 9484 1555F: 9484 9133 www.practicalecology.com.au

Acknowledgments: Ben Schneider, Darcy Wall WSP Alastair Smith, Katherine Smedley, Selina Mok Arcadis Karen McGregor GIS Mapping, Practical Ecology Various landowners Mickleham Road City of Hume

Prepared for: Arcadis Australia Pacific Pty PE project ARC 2563 Ltd number: Contact: Alastair Smith PE file location: R:\AAAA Major Clients - Project Manager Projects\ARCADIS\GGF Surveys Andrew DEC Phone: (03) 8623 4118 17\GGF habitat assessment\Targeted GGF E: [email protected] Survey_GGF_Arcadis_28022018.docx

Version Date Reviewer: Version notes

0.0 8/03/2018 Andrea Canzano Pre-draft internal review 0.1 9/03/2018 Alastair Smith Draft for client review 1.0 09/03/2018 - Final for submission

Copyright ©

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, this report is the intellectual property of Practical Ecology Pty Ltd. It is designed to be used exclusively by the person or organisation that commissioned it. Permission must be sought prior to reproduction of any portion of his document, and every effort made to ensure proper referencing of this document.

Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 2. INTRODUCTION 2 2.1 Study area 3 2.2 Project Scope 3 3. METHODS 4 3.1 Growling Grass Frog 4 3.2 and Permits 7 3.3 Limitations 7 4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 8 4.1 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys 8 4.2 Implications 8 5. REFERENCES 11 APPENDIX 1. MAPS 12 APPENDIX 2. SURVEY DETAILS, TARGETED GGF SURVEYS, SOMERTON ROAD AND MICKLEHAM ROAD 18 APPENDIX 3. SURVEY RESULTS, TARGETED GGF SURVEYS, SOMERTON ROAD AND MICKLEHAM ROAD 19

Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

PLATES

Plate 1. Site 20.2 (south) 4 Plate 2. Site 20.2 (north) 4 Plate 3. Site 20.3 4 Plate 4. Site 20.4 4 Plate 5. Site 20.5 5 Plate 6. Site 20.7 5 Plate 7. Site 20.6 5 Plate 8. Site 20.8 5 Plate 9. Site 18.6a 5 Plate 10. Site 18.8 5 Plate 11. Site 18.9 6

MAPS

Map 1. Sites where targeted surveys were undertaken for the Growling Grass Frog: Somerton Road 13 Map 2. Sites where targeted surveys were undertaken for the Growling Grass Frog: Mickleham Road 15

ii Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Practical Ecology Pty Ltd was commissioned by Arcadis Australia Pacific Pty Ltd to undertake targeted surveys for the Growling Grass Frog (GGF) Litoria raniformis as part of the Outer Suburban Arterial Roads (OSAR) Project. These surveys comprised Stage Two of the project. Based on habitat assessments undertaken by Practical Ecology at 42 waterbody sites in December 2017 (Stage One), it was determined that potential habitat for the GGF was present at 11 waterbodies: 8 waterbodies along Somerton Road, and 3 waterbodies along Mickleham Road. This determination was based on the presence of high-quality wetland habitat for the GGF, and landscape connectivity between the waterbody sites and areas where the GGF has been previously recorded. The remaining 31 waterbodies were not considered habitat for the GGF primarily because they were not within 1 km of recent GGF records, were not in the vicinity of potential habitat corridors such as Yuroke Creek, or because the water quality was poor due to high turbidity.

The objective of the targeted GGF surveys was to determine whether the species is present at the 11 waterbody sites. Accordingly, targeted surveys were undertaken that are designed to comply with standard protocols recommended by DELWP and the Commonwealth Department of Environment (DoE) and detailed in the Biodiversity Planning Kit (DSE 2010; as supported by Heard et al 2010) and the Commonwealth’s Survey Guidelines for the Growling Grass Frog contained within the Significant impact guidelines for the vulnerable growling grass frog (Litoria raniformis) (DSEWPC 2009). To maximise detection of the GGF, surveys were conducted during appropriate weather conditions within the active calling season (late February 2018), with two nocturnal surveys undertaken at each of the 11 waterbody sites by two zoologists. Surveys comprised a quiet listening period, to detect calling frogs, followed by active searches of the waterbodies using headlights. All frog species detected were recorded.

No GGF were detected at the 11 waterbody sites. Given that surveys were designed and conducted to increase the chance of detecting the GGF, it is therefore highly unlikely that the species is currently present at any of the waterbody sites surveyed. Nonetheless, given the presence of high-quality GGF habitat and connectivity of waterbody sites with known GGF habitat downstream of Yuroke Creek, it is recommended that a referral to the Minister of Energy and the Environment is made concerning potential impacts to the GGF along Somerton Road. There is also likely to be a range of impacts to GGF habitat within 200m of Somerton Road and Mickleham Road, during construction of any road upgrades (loss of GGF habitat), increasing the road width (fragmentation of GGF habitat), and potentially increased traffic volumes (mortality of GGF on the roads).

Yuroke Creek comprises potential aquatic and riparian habitat for the GGF and other fauna. The creek is likely to be facilitating the movement of instream fauna both downstream and upstream of the Somerton Road crossing. It is recommended to replace the existing two-pipe culvert under Somerton Road with an open bridge supported on concrete pylons. This mitigation measure would likely result in a net improvement in aquatic connectivity along Yuroke Creek. It is also recommended that street lighting along Somerton Road in the vicinity of the creek crossing is designed to reduce light spill onto Yuroke Creek. Other mitigation measures are recommended during the construction phase to avoid or minimise potential impacts to GGF habitat.

1 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

2. INTRODUCTION

Practical Ecology Pty Ltd was commissioned by Arcadis Australia Pacific Pty Ltd to undertake targeted surveys for the Growling Grass Frog (GGF) Litoria raniformis as part of the Outer Suburban Arterial Roads (OSAR) Project. The OSAR Project is a VicRoads initiative that aims to improve safety, traffic flow and provide better access to employment centres, freight hubs and recreation spaces. Strategic arterials have been flagged for duplication, intersection and safety upgrades to service the rapid growth and development occurring in Melbourne’s outer suburbs.

Appropriate ecological assessments were undertaken for the OSAR Northern Package. Outcomes of these assessments and subsequent reports will be used to inform State and Commonwealth permit and referral requirements. Based on ecological assessments undertaken by Arcadis, amphibian surveys for the Growling Grass Frog (GGF) were required as there are numerous database records and waterbodies, which may provide potential habitat in the vicinity of two road upgrade areas: Mickleham Road and Somerton Road.

This report represents Stage Two of the GGF surveys; targeted surveys for the GGF at waterbody sites identified in Stage One of the project as containing potential habitat for the GGF. Habitat assessments were completed at a total of 42 waterbody sites in December 2017 (Stage One) (Hamer 2018); these waterbodies were initially selected as they are within the road-effect zone of the two road alignment sites; i.e., within 200m of the roads. Based on the habitat assessments, it was determined that potential habitat for the GGF was present at 11 waterbodies: 8 waterbodies along Somerton Road, and 3 waterbodies along Mickleham Road. This determination was based on the presence of high-quality wetland habitat for the GGF, and landscape connectivity between the waterbody sites and areas within 2 km of sites where the GGF has been previously recorded (Victorian Biodiversity Atlas). The 11 waterbody sites were located along or near Yuroke Creek and its headwaters; there are multiple records of the GGF further downstream of Yuroke Creek. The waterbody sites targeted for surveys therefore contained suitable wetland habitat that could be accessed by the GGF dispersing along this creek corridor. The remaining 31 waterbodies were discounted as habitat for the GGF primarily because they were not within 1 km of recent GGF records, were not in the vicinity of potential habitat corridors such as Yuroke Creek, or because the water quality was poor due to high turbidity resulting from livestock using the waterbodies. Targeted surveys were therefore not undertaken at these other 31 waterbody sites.

Stage Two includes the results of targeted surveys undertaken for the GGF. Determining whether the GGF is present at sites in Stage Two will assist in identifying those areas where significant impacts from the road upgrades may occur, and where mitigation measures may be necessary. The GGF targeted surveys were commissioned to determine whether this species is present along either of the two road corridors, and if so, the distribution of occupied habitat. In order to meet the requirements of the Commonwealth Environment and Biodiversity Protection and Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), it was essential to determine whether the proposed road upgrades will have a significant impact on the GGF, which is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ under the EPBC Act. This information will inform a decision as to whether a referral under the EPBC Act is required and what mitigation measures may be appropriate. Under the Act an action must be referred to the Australian Government Department of Environment and

2 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

Energy (DoEE) if it ‘has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact’ on a listed threatened species.

2.1 Study area

The study area includes two road upgrade areas where targeted surveys for the GGF were conducted (Map 1 and Map 2):

Site reference Northern Project Length No. waterbodies surveyed

18 Mickleham Road (Somerton Road to 5.1 km 3 Craigieburn Road)

20 Somerton Road (David Munroe Drive to 4.0 km 8 Mickleham Road)

2.2 Project Scope

The scope of work included:

• Growling Grass Frog targeted surveys at night to determine whether the GGF is present at each site.

• Production of a report including:

o details of survey methods used, including any limitations;

o results of the GGF targeted surveys;

o determination of potential impacts to GGF populations from the proposed road upgrades;

o implications with regard to relevant legislation (EPBC Act, FFG Act, and Wildlife Act), and any recommendations for mitigation measures;

o maps showing the location of the sites surveyed; and

o an appendix containing the survey data and results.

The report would include any recommendations for further studies that may be required, with due regard to fauna values identified on site, and take relevant policy and legislation into account, including the potential need for the preparation of an EPBC referral for the proposed road upgrades in relation to the GGF.

3 Growling Grass Frog Habitat Assessment, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

3. METHODS

3.1 Growling Grass Frog

Targeted surveys for the GGF were undertaken at a total of 11 waterbodies, including 8 waterbodies within 200m of Somerton Road (see Plates 1 to 8), and 3 waterbodies within 200ms of Mickleham Road (see Plates 9 to 11 below). Surveys were conducted over six nights in February 2018. The survey methods employed are consistent with recommendations by the Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Energy (DOEE/formerly known as DSEWPC) and the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning (DELWP), formerly known as the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE):

• DSEWPC (2009) Significant impact guidelines for the vulnerable growling grass frog (Litoria raniformis). Commonwealth of Australia (DSEWPC 2009).

• DSE (2010) Biodiversity Precinct Structure Planning Kit. Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne (DSE 2010).

Somerton Road waterbody sites where targeted GGF surveys were conducted

Plate 1. Site 20.2 (south) Plate 2. Site 20.2 (north)

Plate 3. Site 20.3 Plate 4. Site 20.4

4 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

Plate 5. Site 20.5 Plate 6. Site 20.7

Plate 7. Site 20.6 Plate 8. Site 20.8

Mickleham Road waterbody sites where targeted GGF surveys were conducted

Plate 9. Site 18.6a Plate 10. Site 18.8

5 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

Plate 11. Site 18.9

3.1.1 Targeted Surveys

To maximise detection of the GGF, surveys were undertaken during the active calling season in late February 2018, which corresponds to a period of increased activity and calling (November to February) (Heard, Robertson and Scroggie 2006). Survey methodology employed at each of the 11 waterbody sites identified as potential habitat assumed the following prescriptions:

• Targeted GGF surveying occurred 30 minutes after sunset in February. Nocturnal surveys are detailed in the DELWP’s Biodiversity Precinct Structure Planning Kit (DSE 2010) and involved:

• nocturnal surveys were undertaken only on nights when ground air temperatures were 14°C or above, with nil or light moderate wind;

• weather conditions were recorded at the commencement of each survey, including dry bulb temperature, water temperature, relative humidity, wind direction and speed, cloud cover, moon phase and occurrence of rain in the previous 24-hour period;

• upon arrival at a waterbody site, there was a five-minute quiet listening period, to detect calling frogs;

• call-playback of male GGF advertisement call was imitated for two minutes, followed by 3 minutes of quiet listening for elicited responses;

• systematic searches for GGF adults, juveniles and metamorphs were undertaken using head lights. Waterbody banks and floating, emergent and fringing vegetation were searched for frogs;

• searches for GGF tadpoles were done by directing a headlight through the water column at a waterbody, as tadpoles are often actively swimming at night;

• surrounding terrestrial habitat within 10 metres of all waterbodies was searched;

• a total of two visits per site (each waterbody) were undertaken to ensure a 90% probability of detecting GGF (Heard, Robertson and Scroggie 2006);

6 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

• all frog species detected during the surveys were recorded including a broad estimate of the number of individuals encountered or calling; and

• incidental observations of other fauna were recorded. Accordingly, the surveys were designed to maximise the chance of detecting the GGF and to account for uncertainty and error. The search effort for frogs at each waterbody also conformed to (DSEWPC 2009) guidelines; small waterbodies (<50m at greatest length) were searched using spotlights in a period of approximately 30 minutes; whereas larger waterbodies (>50m) were searched in a period of approximately 60 minutes.

Survey hygiene protocols were followed during the targeted surveys to reduce the risk of infection and spread of amphibian disease, particularly chytrid fungus. All frog surveys followed the standards used by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW 2001). Our hygiene protocols followed the approved standards set out in our application to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries Wildlife and Small Institutions Ethics Committee.

3.2 Taxonomy and Permits

Animal taxonomy is consistent with the DELWP’s Atlas of Victorian Wildlife (DSE 2011b). Targeted surveys for the GGF were conducted under Wildlife and Small Institutions Animal Ethics Committee approval issued November 2015 (number 18.15) and DELWP Permit issued in December 2015 (number 10007825).

3.3 Limitations

The targeted surveys were undertaken late in the calling season of the GGF. Accordingly, any frogs, if present, may have been reluctant to call or respond to call imitation. The optimal breeding and calling season for the GGF is between September and December and is usually triggered by rain events (DSEWPC 2009). Detectability for this species may be somewhat reduced outside this period, particularly in areas where species numbers may be reduced and populations may have retracted over time, as is likely the scenario for the larger population (metapopulation) of the GGF in the study areas. Nonetheless, surveys were conducted within the active period for GGF between November and March and designated survey period for ‘temperate southern regions’ under the EPBC significant impact guidelines (DSEWPC 2009).

The extended period of dry weather throughout January and February 2018 may have also reduced frog activity. Nonetheless, all waterbody sites contained water during the surveys, and the weather conditions during surveys were otherwise sufficient for frog activity; i.e., air temperatures were above 14°C, with nil to light wind.

Dense emergent vegetation may have reduced the visibility for finding GGF during the surveys, especially along Yuroke Creek (sites 20.5 and 20.8). However, search effort at these sites was in accordance with (DSEWPC 2009) guidelines; these sites were searched for up to one hour over areas less than 0.5 ha.

7 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys

The GGF was not detected during the targeted field surveys.

No GGF were detected at any of the 11 waterbody sites over two nights of surveys under optimal conditions using call playback and systematic nocturnal visual searches. Details of the surveys undertaken and results are included in Appendix 2 and Appendix 3. The survey effort complied with the minimum survey guidelines for detecting this species; the GGF would have certainly been detected had it been present at any of the 11 waterbodies surveyed.

Although the GGF was not detected, the presence of potential habitat at the sites surveyed warrants consideration of mitigation measures to avoid or minimise any possible negative impacts to GGF habitat. Because populations of the GGF are highly dynamic, whereby individuals disperse widely to colonise distant wetlands (Heard, Scroggie and Clemann 2010), there is the possibility that waterbody sites currently unoccupied in the study areas may become occupied over time, provided there is suitable habitat connectivity. It is therefore imperative that wetland connectivity is maintained within the study areas to avoid impacting the GGF metapopulation in the northern region of greater Melbourne.

4.2 Implications

The GGF was not detected during targeted surveys undertaken during the optimal survey period for this species. However, the 11 waterbody sites targeted for surveys contain potential habitat for the GGF. In the wider landscape, there are likely to be remnant GGF populations surrounding these waterbody sites, particularly downstream along Yuroke Creek to the south. Although we can be confident that the GGF is not currently present at the sites targeted, it would seem prudent to recommend mitigation measures for the species in the vicinity of these waterbody sites.

The proposed upgrades to Somerton Road and Mickleham Road have the potential to negatively impact populations of the GGF, particularly if frogs are dispersing along Yuroke Creek from downstream populations. These impacts may arise from the direct loss or modification of GGF habitat along the two road alignments, or within the wider areas encompassed by the road-effect zone (i.e. within 200m). Increased road traffic arising from the upgrades has the potential to result in increased mortality rates of frogs attempting to cross the busy roads. The loss of habitat may entail both aquatic habitat if waterbodies are to be destroyed during construction, or the loss of terrestrial habitat (e.g. removal of vegetation/ground cover). Upgrading these two roads from a two to a four-lane road (at a minimum) would also increase the width of the corridor, and potentially, the length of time it would take for a frog to cross the road.

8 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

Given the presence of high-quality GGF habitat and connectivity of waterbody sites with known GGF habitat downstream of Yuroke Creek (Hamer 2018), it is recommended that a referral to the Minister of Energy and the Environment is made concerning potential impacts to the GGF along Somerton Road. There is also likely to be a range of impacts to GGF habitat within 200m of Somerton Road and Mickleham Road, during construction of any road upgrades, increasing the road width, and potentially increased traffic volumes. These impacts have the potential to disrupt the movement of GGF through the landscape, fragmenting an existing population where the roads then act as a barrier to dispersal. There may also be increased deaths of individuals attempting to cross the road.

Because potential GGF habitat is present in areas along specific sections of the two road alignments, mitigation measures may be required to reduce negative impacts to habitat quality and connectivity. Adopting these measures would reduce the risk of harm or mortality to the GGF, and would avoid disrupting the movement ability of the GGF from one side of the road to the other.

It is assumed by the author that both Somerton Road and Mickleham Road will each be upgraded to four-lane roads. As such, the following mitigation measures are recommended:

Somerton Road

• Construction of a pylon-supported open bridge (e.g. large clear span bridge) crossing of Yuroke Creek on Somerton Road to replace the existing two pipe culverts under the road. This action would likely result in a net improvement in aquatic and riparian connectivity along Yuroke Creek.

• Fauna-friendly lighting around this crossing to direct light onto the road and reduce light spill onto Yuroke creek.

• Installation of an amphibian under-road culvert under Somerton Road just south of site 20.2, to facilitate frog movement between this site and wetland habitat around sites 20.3/20.4 and further south towards Yuroke Creek. This culvert should be constructed together with amphibian-specific fencing to direct frogs into the culvert and away from Somerton Road.

Mickleham Road

No specific measures are recommended, other than to avoid impacting potential GGF habitat during the construction phase (e.g. sediment-control measures, exclusion fencing around wetlands and ‘no-go’ areas, etc.). Mitigation measures during the construction phase of any upgrades to Somerton Road would also be required. Construction activities associated with both projects have the potential to spread the amphibian chytrid fungus, that can decimate local GGF populations, and stringent measures need to be implemented during construction to avoid spreading this pathogen into GGF habitat adjacent to the roads.

The loss of any frog habitat during construction of the road upgrades should be compensated. Current mechanisms to offset the loss of native wetland vegetation and terrestrial vegetation

9 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road that comprises aquatic and land habitat for frogs, respectively, is likely to be met through Clause 52.17 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987. However, a permit is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation only on sites greater than 0.4 hectares. Nonetheless, regardless of the size of the waterbody, it is recommended that wetland habitat destroyed during construction of road upgrades is offset by constructing compensatory wetlands in appropriately sited locations; i.e., within potential movement corridors for the GGF such as along Yuroke Creek. The loss of GGF along Mickleham Road may also need to be offset via wetland creation. Adoption of the mitigation measures would likely minimise any negative impacts of the road upgrades, and may avoid the project being determined to be a controlled action under the EPBC Act.

10 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

5. REFERENCES

DSE (2010) Biodiversity Precinct Structure Planning Kit. Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne.

DSEWPC (2009) Significant impact guidelines for the vulnerable growling grass frog (Litoria raniformis). Commonwealth of Australia.

Hamer, A. (2018) Growling Grass Frog Habitat Assessment, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road. Practical Ecology Pty Ltd, Preston, Vic.

Heard, G. W., Robertson, P. & Scroggie, M. P. (2006) Assessing detection probabilities for the endangered growling grass frog (Litoria raniformis) in southern Victoria. Wildlife Research, 33, pp. 557-564.

Heard, G. W., Scroggie, M. P. & Clemann, N. (2010) Guidelines for managing the endangered Growling Grass Frog in urbanising landscapes. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No. 208, Heidelberg, Victoria.

National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW (2001) Hygiene protocol for the control of disease in frogs.

11 Growling Grass Frog Targeted Surveys, Somerton Road and Mickleham Road

APPENDIX 1. Maps

See Maps over page.

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