PO Box 5385 Brendale Q 4500 Ref: 17014_Ltr01a P 0448 899 649 E [email protected]

3 May 2017

Ashley Sizeland Senior HSEC Advisor Aquila Resources Pty Ltd Level 4, 10 Eagle St GPO Box 2591 Brisbane QLD 4001

Dear Ashley

RE: Walton Coal Project - Preliminary findings of post-wet season baseline terrestrial flora and fauna surveys This letter provides a preliminary outline of the results of the post-wet season terrestrial flora and fauna surveys conducted for the Walton Coal Project in April 2017. Outcomes of the post-wet season surveys included: . verification of Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) remnant regional ecosystem (RE) mapping (Version 10) for the study area . confirmation fo the presence/absence of Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) threatened ecological communities (TECs) . preparation of likelihood of occurrence tables (LOOTs) based on habitats identified in the study area . targeted searches and habitat mapping for conservation significant flora and fauna species protected under the Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act) or Commonwealth EPBC Act, i.e. endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, specialist least concern or migratory species . development of preliminary flora and fauna species inventories for the study area . scoping and survey planning for the dry season flora and fauna surveys. The study area spans two properties, the largest being Lot 5 on HT551 in the west and Lot 100 on RP882349 in the east. The study area is 1,324.8 ha in size and is bordered in the south by the Capricorn Highway and Central Railway Line and in the north by Taunton National Park (Scientific).

Survey effort The post-wet season field surveys were undertaken over the following survey periods: . Flora field survey – 6 days conducted between and including 4 – 9 April 2017 . Fauna field survey – 7 days conducted between and including 4 – 10 April 2017.

Flora A combination of secondary, tertiary and quaternary vegetation assessment techniques were used as part of the flora survey to field validate the RE mapping for the study area. Field survey methods followed the Methodology for Survey and Mapping of Regional Ecosystems and Vegetation Communities in Queensland, Version 3.2 (Neldner et al. 2012). In total, 16 secondary, 36 tertiary, 65 quaternary and 33 quaternary photo assessment sites were conducted in the study area (Figure 1).

Fauna Three fauna trapping sites were installed within the study area, each comprising 25 type A Elliot traps, a set of 4 pitfall and 3 pairs of funnel traps and an infra-red camera. A total of 17 supplementary sites were also conducted. Survey techniques conducted at supplementary sites comprised spotlighting, active searches and/or bird surveys. A total of 5 harp trap sites and 9 Anabat sites were used to target microbats in the study area. Figure 2 illustrates the location of each fauna survey site.

Regional ecosystems Remnant vegetation comprising six REs was mapped for the study area (Figure 3). Two of these have an of concern vegetation management and biodiversity status. The remainder are listed as least concern. Table 2 lists the REs that were field-validated as occurring in the study area. The distribution of remnant vegetation was found to be similar to Queensland Government mapping (Attachment A). However, the field survey identified several discrepancies, which included: . reduced distribution of RE 11.3.2 . the presence of RE 11.3.4 (of concern) in lieu of RE 11.3.2 (of concern) in some areas . the presence of RE 11.7.2 (least concern) in lieu of RE 11.5.2 (least concern) in several areas . the spatial extent of the broad patch of the Government mapped RE 11.7.4 (least concern) in the north-west of the study area was found to be more representative of RE 11.5.2 . the absence of RE 11.5.9 (least concern) within the study area . increased distribution of remnant RE 11.7.2 in lieu of non-remnant areas in the south-western portion of the study area. There are no vegetation management wetlands within or adjacent to the study area. A number of 1st and 2nd order streams are present within remnant and non-remnant areas of the study area (Figure 3).

2 Table 2: Field-validated regional ecosystems in the study area

RE Short Descriptions VM Act Biodiversity EPBC Act BVG Other Code (Queensland Herbarium Status Status Status 2015)

11.3.2 Eucalyptus populnea Of concern Of concern Endangered 17a Contains woodland on alluvial (although palustrine plains not within wetland in the study swales area)

11.3.4 Eucalyptus tereticornis Of concern Of concern Not listed 16c Floodplain and/or Eucalyptus spp. (other woodland on alluvial than plains floodplain wetlands)

11.5.2 Eucalyptus crebra, Least concern No concern Not listed 18b - Corymbia spp., with E. at present moluccana woodland on lower slopes of Cainozoic sand plains and/or remnant surfaces

11.5.3 Eucalyptus populnea Least concern No concern Not listed 17a - +/- E. melanophloia at present +/- Corymbia clarksoniana woodland on Cainozoic sand plains and/or remnant surfaces

11.7.2 Acacia spp. woodland Least concern No concern Not listed 24a - on Cainozoic lateritic at present duricrust. Scarp retreat zone.

11.7.4 Eucalyptus decorticans Least concern No concern Not listed 12a - and/or Eucalyptus spp., at present Corymbia spp., Acacia spp., Lysicarpus angustifolius woodland on Cainozoic lateritic duricrust

3 Threatened ecological communities The EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Report indicated the potential for five endangered threatened ecological communities (TECs) to occur in the study area as follows: . Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla dominant and co-dominant) . Coolibah - Black Box Woodlands of the Darling Riverine Plains and the Brigalow Belt South Bioregions . Natural Grasslands of the Queensland Central Highlands and northern Fitzroy Basin . Semi-evergreen vine thickets of the Brigalow Belt (North and South) and Nandewar Bioregions . Weeping Myall Woodlands. Regrowth Brigalow vegetation was identified during the field surveys in the central southern portion of the study area on a broad area of clay soils. This vegetation comprised only low regrowth; to a maximum height of approximately 1.5 m. None of this vegetation was of a height, cover, structure or quality that would meet the required condition thresholds for the Brigalow TEC listed above. Patchily distributed regrowth Brigalow was also identified in the north-eastern portion of the study area, where it was found to subsist on lateritic soils. Although also failing the required condition thresholds, this community would have historically been representative of RE 11.7.1, which is not considered a component of the Brigalow TEC. Particular patches of RE 11.3.2, which was identified in the northern portion of the study area, are considered to potentially contribute to the Weeping Myall Woodlands TEC listed above. However, according the listing advice for the TEC, Weeping Myall (Acacia pendula) is required to be a dominant canopy species in order to meet the TEC condition class (TSSC 2008). Weeping Myall was not identified in any communities within the study area. Therefore, RE 11.3.2 in the study area is not considered to represent the Weeping Myall Woodlands TEC. No other vegetation communities in the study area comprise the species or structure that represent a TEC under the EPBC Act.

Presence of conservation significant species in the study area The likelihood of conservation significant flora and fauna to occur in the study area is presented in the likelihood of occurrence tables (LOOTs) in Attachments B and C. Habitat mapping was conducted for conservation significant species identified or considered likely to use habitats in the study area. This mapping is based on field-validated RE mapping, literature about habitat preferences and distribution, field observations from the study area, previous experience, where applicable, and state and Commonwealth guidelines for relevant species. This mapping will require refinement once the dry season surveys are conducted, for example the permanency of water sources used in habitat mapping for Squatter Pigeon (southern) (Geophaps scripta scripta) could not be determined during the wet conditions experienced during the April surveys, post Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

4 Flora Initial database searches indicated the potential for 25 threatened or near threatened flora species to occur within the search area (i.e. a 25 km radial area surrounding the boundary of the study area). It is considered that this particularly high number of species is likely a result of the close proximity of Taunton National Park, immediately north of the study area, and Blackdown Table Land National Park, approximately 20 km south of the study area. A number of the species records would have been drawn into the search results from those protected areas. Therefore, some of the database search results are not a useful indication of the potential presence of the species within the study area. Comment about the likelihood of each species to occur in the study area is provided in the LOOT in Attachment B. One conservation significant flora species, Cerbera dumicola (no common name), was identified in the study area. An additional species, Bertya pedicellata (no common name), is considered to potentially occur in the study area. Both of these species are listed as near threatened under the NC Act and not listed under the EPBC Act. They are discussed below. Non-remnant brigalow regrowth in the southern portion of the study area provides marginal habitat potential for two other threatened species, Solanum adenophorum (no common name) and Solanum elachophyllum (no common name), which are both listed as endangered under the NC Act. However, the condition of this Brigalow is such that the likelihood of these species occurring is very low. Nonetheless additional survey effort will be applied to these species during the dry season survey to more comprehensively discount their presence in the study area. Cerbera dumicola Two populations of approximately 1.4 and 40.4 hectares in area were identified within broad patches of remnant and non-remnant RE 11.7.2 in the south-western portion of the study area (Figure 4). It is estimated that several thousand, if not tens of thousands of specimens occur within the study area and the study area supports approximately 322.3 ha of additional potential habitat for this species (Figure 4). This is a distinctive species and it is unlikely that any other large populations occur within the study area, however, further searches for this species will be undertaken during the dry season survey to map all potential populations present. Bertya pedicellata Bertya pedicellata was returned from the Queensland Government’s Wildlife Online database. Woodland habitat on rocky outcrops associated with RE 11.7.2 forms habitat for this species in the study area. Targeted searches for this species were undertaken during the post-wet season survey however further survey effort is required to discount this species from being present. Figure 5 shows potential habitat mapping for this species and this comprises 35.4 ha. No other conservation significant flora species are considered likely to occur in the study area due to the vegetation and underlying geology being unsuitable.

5 Fauna Database searches indicates the potential for 24 conservation significant fauna species to occur in the search area, (i.e. a 25 km radial area surrounding the boundary of the study area), including 1 amphibian, 10 birds, 8 mammals and 5 reptiles. Of these, three were identified in the study area during the post-wet season survey and another one is considered to potentially use habits in the study area. These species are discussed in the following sections. Attachment C provides an assessment of all the fauna species returned from database searches for the search area. Habitat mapping has been undertaken and described for each of the fauna species identified or considered likely to occur in the study area and this is based on habitat features and RE mapping undertaken during the post-wet season field surveys. Habitat criteria for the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) and Squatter Pigeon has been taken from the approval conditions of the Red Hill Mining Project (EPBC 2013/6865). These criteria were considered relevant to the study area as this approval was relatively recent (August 2015). Potential habitat mapping for the Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby (Onychogalea fraenata), Yakka Skink (Egernia rugosa) and Short-beaked Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) were derived from information contained in the conservation advice, SPRAT profiles, relevant Government guidelines or other published literature available for those species. Koala The Koala is listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act and NC Act. The scats of this species were identified at one location in the far north-west corner of the study area at the base of several Narrow-leaved Red Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra) in RE 11.5.2 (Figure 6). Habitat for the Koala in the study area is considered to comprise any forest or woodland containing species that are Koala food trees, or any shrubland with emergent Koala food trees. At least eight potential Koala food trees were recorded within the study area and were present throughout all remnant and some non- remnant areas. Habitat mapping for the Koala is presented in Figure 6 and comprises 955.8 ha. The EPBC Act Referral guidelines for the vulnerable Koala recommend assessment of the site against the EPBC Act habitat assessment tool to determine if the habitat is considered critical to the survival of the Koala (DotE 2014). A preliminary assessment of this tool indicates that the habitat within the study area would likely be considered critical habitat because: . Koalas are known to use the study area, based on scat evidence within the study area . there are more than two known Koala food tree species within the study area . the study area is contiguous with >1,000 ha of remnant vegetation in the landscape.

6 Squatter Pigeon The Squatter Pigeon is listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act and NC Act. This species was recorded on numerous occasions throughout the study area (Figure 7). Habitat for this species in the study area is considered to be grassy woodland habitat, which is included within any RE on land zones 3, 5 or 7, which is either: . within 1 km of a permanent water body; or . within 1 km of a wetlands or a ≥3rd order stream (as mapped by the Queensland Government). There are no wetlands or streams within the study area greater than 2nd order. However, a third order stream is present within 1 km to the north-west of the study area. A number of permanent water bodies, in the form of farm dams were mapped during the post-wet season field surveys and these are shown on Figure 7. Using this Queensland Government watercourse and field water source mapping 410.2 ha of Squatter Pigeon habitat has been mapped in the study area at this stage (Figure 7). This habitat mapping will need to be refined and possibly expanded during the dry season survey as the permanency and location of water sources could not be fully undertaken given the extent of standing water in the study area. The study area experienced rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Debbie in the week prior to the field survey. Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby The Bridled Nail-Tail Wallaby is listed as endangered under the EPBC Act and NC Act. This wallaby was not recorded in the study area during the post-wet season survey. The last naturally occurring population of this species is known from Taunton National Par, which borders the study area,and it has been recorded occasionally in nearby locations (i.e. within 10 km) (DotEE 2017). In Taunton National Park this wallaby uses: . open grassy woodland dominated by Poplar Box (Eucalyptus populnea) . dense acacia forest dominant by Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) . transitional vegetation between woodland and forest areas of very dense Brigalow regrowth (TSSC 2016). DotEE literature indicates that core feeding areas centre on the ecotone between pasture and Brigalow regrowth and resting areas are within hollow logs or dense tussocks or shrubs in sheltered areas and often reasonably close to foraging area. They graze on grasses, forbs and browse and some preferred foraging species are known and listed in the literature (TSSC 2016). They tend to prefer habitats on more fertile soils (DotEE 2017). It is considered highly likely that this species will move into the study area periodically as part of larger home ranges, concentrated in Taunton National Park. Therefore, ecotonal vegetation between more open grazing areas (up to 100 m) and denser acacia communities and communities on fertile soils have been mapped as potential habitat for this species in Figure 8. Foraging opportunities adjacent to denser Acacia communities are limited in the study area. Approximately 147.5 ha of potential resting and adjacent foraging habitat is mapped in the study area. Infra-red cameras with lucerne hay will be deployed during the dry season survey to target this species.

7 Short-beaked Echidna The Short-beaked Echidna is listed as special least concern under the NC Act. It is not listed under the EPBC Act. This species, or evidence of this species, was identified at six locations in the study area, including at Trap Site 1 and Supplementary sites 14, 8, 7 and 6 (Figure 2). This species will occur in all remnant and non-remnant areas. However, all remnant communities are considered to provide habitat for this species as these treed areas provide foraging and shelter resources such as hollow logs and leaf litter. Approximately 721.5 ha of remnant habitat is present in the study area.

The regrowth Brigalow areas in the south of the study area contain some areas of gilgai formations that are the preferred habitat of the Ornamental Snake. This species is known to persist in heavily modified environments where gilgais remain. The gilgai were holding water at the time of the survey and therefore spotlighting surveys were conducted to search for the Ornamental Snake. During the spotlighting session very low numbers of frogs (the main prey item for the Ornamental Snake) were observed and no snakes were observed despite conditions being ideal for both frogs and the snake. Therefore, the Ornamental Snake has been assessed as having a low likelihood of occurring in the study area. Nonetheless, the gilgai areas will be surveyed again in the dry season to provide further information on the potential for this species to occur in the study area.

Limitations The study area experienced particularly wet conditions prior to the April surveys due to rainfall received in the region in association with Tropical Cyclone Debbie in late March. This above average rainfall for the region immediately preceding the survey has resulted in atypical environmental conditions for this time of year, which is likely to affect animal activities and habitat characteristics, such as the extent of standing water within the study area. However, the late wet-season rainfall resulted in more optimal conditions for the detection of many flora species, e.g. grasses and herbs that may otherwise have been starting to senesce.

Dry-season Surveys Dry season surveys are best undertaken between September and mid-November according to the Queensland Terrestrial Fauna Survey Guidelines (Eyre et al. 2014). Timing of the dry season surveys will be confirmed at a later date once seasonal conditions are known, although they are likely to take place between October and November. The dry season surveys will be used to further refine habitat mapping for the species that are known or considered likely to occur in the study area, e.g. Bertya pedicellata, and discount the potential presence of other species with greater certainty and scientific rigor, e.g. two threatened Solanum spp. and Ornamental Snake. Additional fauna trapping sites, supplementary sites and micro-bat survey techniques will be implemented to achieve sufficient site and habitat coverage over 7 days (incl. travel) during the dry season survey. The dry season flora survey will involve 4.5 days (incl. travel) and will involve additional targeted surveys of Bertya pedicellata, Solanum adenophorum and Solanum elachophyllum and additional secondary, tertiary and quaternary survey sites to demonstrate adequate seasonal coverage of the study area. An adequate number of randomly placed belt transects (100 x 10 m plots) will be used to the estimate the potential specimen number of Cerbera dumicola within the study area.

8 Shapefiles for relevant vegetation mapping accompanies this letter. If you would like to discuss these preliminary findings please contact me on 0448 899 649.

Kind regards,

Steve Marston Principal Ecologist Ecological Survey & Management

Encl.

Figure 1: Post-wet season flora survey sites for the study area Figure 2: Post-wet season fauna survey sites for the study area Figure 3: Field-validated regional ecosystem mapping for the study area Figure 4: Cerbera dumicola records and potential habitat mapping in the study area Figure 5: Potential habitat mapping for Bertya pedicellata in the study area Figure 6: Koala records and habitat mapping in the study area Figure 7: Squatter Pigeon records and habitat mapping in the study a rea Figure 8: Potential habitat mapping for Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby in the study area

Attachment A - Queensland Government Regulated Vegetation Management and Supporting Maps Attachment B - Flora likelihood of occurrence table Attachment C - Fauna likelihood of occurrence table

9 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

Q 6 Q 5 Q 4 T 4 Q 7

TAUNTON T 5 T 3 NATIONAL PARK Q 3

1 T 2 S 3 Q 21 9 S 6 T 14 Q 2 S 2 T 15 SPECTACLE CREEK S 5 Q 22 10 T 1 S 9 T 6 Q 57 S 13 Q 20 2 Q 19 T 36 T 18 Q 23 3 8 Q 15 Q 18 Q 55 Q 16 30 Q 17 S 14 T 16 S 7 T 12 Q 56

T 17 Q 54 4 T 13 T 7 Q 8 Q 58

T 8 Q 53 7,390,000 7,390,000 Q 14 Q 59 29 Q 13 5 Q 11 Q 12 Q 61 S 15 7 Q 60 S 16 6 S 4 Q 63 T 35 T 10 T 11 Q 62 S 8 T 9 Q 9 Q 10 Q 64 T 19 24 T 32 Q 65 Q 50 Q 34 S 10 Q 24 T 33 13 12 S 1 T 27 23 Q 26 Q 25 25 Q 35 11 Q 1 Q 44 Q 43 S 11 T 31 T 20 T 21 Q 42 Q 27 Q 41 T 30 T 22 Q 49 22 T 26 Q 40 Q 30 T 23 T 29 Q 47 Q 39 T 28 15 T 24 26 Q 33 Q 48 Q 31 20 Q 29 19 16 14 Q 38 Q 45 18 17 Q 37 T 25 Q 32 S 12

7,388,000 Q 28 7,388,000

21 Q 46 Q 36 Q 52 Capricorn Highway Q 51 T 34 27

28

31

32 33

EK CRE STANLEY CREEK EY ANL ST

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Study Area Figure 1 : Post-wet season flora survey Highway sites for the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_01_C Date: 27 April 2017 Vegetation Assessment Sites Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Secondary Assessment Site Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Tertiary Assessment Site 0 .5 1

Quarternary Assessment Site Kilometres Quarternary Assessment Site (Photo Point) ± 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

S11

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

H1 T3

T2 A2 SPECTACLE CREEK

S1 H2 S12

A1

S2 H4 S5

S13 7,390,000 7,390,000

T1 S3 H3 A5 S4 C2 A4

S10 S16 A8

C1

A6 A3

H5 S8

S7

S17 A9 S15 7,388,000 7,388,000

S9 A7 S6

Capricorn Highway S14

K REE Y C STANLEY CREEK NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Study Area Figure 2 : Post-wet season fauna survey Highway sites for the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_02_C Date: 27 April 2017 Fauna Survey Sites Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Anabat Site Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Camera Trap 0 .5 1

Harp Trap Kilometres Supplementary Site Trap Site ± 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

11.7.2

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK 11.7.2

SPECT ACLE CR 11.7.2 EEK 11.3.4 11.3.4

11.3.4 11.3.4 11.3.2

11.7.2 11.5.3 11.5.2 11.7.2

11.7.2 7,390,000 11.7.4 7,390,000 11.7.2 11.5.2 11.3.4 11.5.2

11.7.2 11.5.2

11.7.2

11.7.2 11.5.2

11.5.2 11.7.2 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

REEK EK LEY C RE STAN Y C NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Study Area Figure 3 : Field-validated regional ecosystem Highway mapping for the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_03_D Date: 27 April 2017 Vegetation Managment Act Class Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Of concern Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Least concern 0 .5 1 ± Kilometres 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

SPECTACL E CR EEK 7,390,000 7,390,000 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

REEK EK LEY C RE STAN Y C NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Figure 4 : Cerbera dumicola records and Study Area potential habitat mapping Highway in the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_04_D Date: 03 May 2017 Recorded Locations Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Cerbera dumicola (no common name) - Near threatened (NC Act) Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Potential Habitat Mapping 0 .5 1 Cerbera dumicola (no common name) - Near threatened (NC Act) ± Kilometres 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

SPECTACL E CR EEK 7,390,000 7,390,000 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

REEK EK LEY C RE STAN Y C NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Figure 5 : Potential habitat mapping for StudyArea Bertya pedicellata Highw ay in the study area LocalRoad Railw ay WaltonCoal Project VegetationManagem entWatercourseAct CadastralBoun dary NationalPark MapNum ber:17014_PRE_05_D Date:02 May 2017 Potential Habiat Mapping MapProjection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery:Digital Globe Bertya pedicellata(no com m onnam – e) Near threatened (NCNotlisted Act), (EPBC Act) Data:Roads, Waterways, DCDB DNRM (c) - 2017 0 .5 1 ± Kilom etres 724,000 726,000

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

PECTACL S E CR EEK 7,390,000 7,390,000 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

ANLEY ST C RE EK

724,000 726,000

Legend Study Area Figure 6 : Koala records and habitat Highway mapping in the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_06_D Date: 02 May 2017 Recorded Scat Locations Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) - Vulnerable (EPBC Act and NC Act) Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Habitat Mapping 0 .5 1 Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) - Vulnerable (EPBC Act and NC Act) ± Kilometres 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

SPECTACL E CR EEK 7,390,000 7,390,000 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

REEK EK LEY C RE STAN Y C NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Study Area Figure 7 : Squatter Pigeon records and habitat Highway mapping in the study area Local Road Railway Walton Coal Project Vegetation Management Act Watercourse Cadastral Boundary National Park Map Number: 17014_PRE_07_D Date: 02 May 2017 Confirmed Permanent Water Sources Map Projection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery: Digital Globe Recorded Locations Data: Roads, Waterways, DCDB - (c) DNRM 2017 Squatter Pigeon (Geophaps scripta scripta) Vulnerable (EPBC Act and NC Act) 0 .5 1

Habitat Mapping Kilometres Squatter Pigeon (Geophaps scripta scripta) Vulnerable (EPBC Act and NC Act) ± 722,000 724,000 726,000 7,392,000 7,392,000

TAUNTON NATIONAL PARK

SPECTACL E CR EEK 7,390,000 7,390,000 7,388,000 7,388,000

Capricorn Highway

REEK EK LEY C RE STAN Y C NLE STA

722,000 724,000 726,000

Legend Figure 8 : Potential habitat mapping for StudyArea Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby High way in the study area LocalRoad Railway W altonCoal Project VegetationManagem entAct Watercourse CadastralBoundary NationalPark MapNum ber:17014_PRE_08_C Date:02 May 2017 Habitat Mapping MapProjection: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Imagery:Digital Globe BridledNail-tail Wallaby ( Onychogalea fraenata– Endangered) (EPBC Act and NC Act) Data:Roads, Waterways, DCDB DNRM (c) - 2017 0 .5 1 ± Kilom etres 13/04/2017 12:27:29 Lot: 5 Plan: HT551

Page 1 13/04/2017 12:27:29 Lot: 5 Plan: HT551

Page 2 13/04/2017 12:27:29 Lot: 5 Plan: HT551

Vegetation Management Act 1999 - Extract from the essential habitat database

Essential habitat is required for assessment under the: • State Development Assessment Provisions - Module 8: Native vegetation clearing which sets out the matters of interest to the state for development assessment under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009; and • Self-assessable vegetation clearing codes made under the Vegetation Management Act 1999

Essential habitat for one or more of the following species is found on and within 1.1 km of the identified subject lot/s or on and within 2.2 km of an identified coordinate on the accompanying essential habitat map. This report identifies essential habitat in Category A, B and Category C areas. The numeric labels on the essential habitat map can be cross referenced with the database below to determine which essential habitat factors might exist for a particular species. Essential habitat is compiled from a combination of species habitat models and buffered species records. The Department of Natural Resources and Mines website (http://www.dnrm.qld.gov.au) has more information on how the layer is applied under the State Development Assessment Provisions - Module 8: Native vegetation clearing and the Vegetation Management Act 1999. Regional ecosystem is a mandatory essential habitat factor, unless otherwise stated. Essential habitat, for protected wildlife, means a category A area, a category B area or category C area shown on the regulated vegetation management map- 1) (a) that has at least 3 essential habitat factors for the protected wildlife that must include any essential habitat factors that are stated as mandatory for the protected wildlife in the essential habitat database; or 2) (b) in which the protected wildlife, at any stage of its life cycle, is located.

Essential habitat identifies endangered or vulnerable native wildlife prescribed under the Nature Conservation Act 1994.

Essential habitat in Category A and B (Remnant vegetation species record) areas:1100m Species Information

Label Scientific Name Common Name NCA Status Vegetation Community Altitude Soils Position in Landscape

1785 Geophaps scripta Squatter Pigeon V Dry eucalypt woodland (including poplar box, spotted gum, yellow box, acacia and None no soil information Gravelly ridges, traprock scripta (southern subsp.) callitris), with sparse short grass, often on sandy areas near to permanent water; and river flats. grassy eucalypt woodlands. Nest on ground near or under grass tussock, log or low bush.

Essential habitat in Category A and B (Remnant vegetation species record) areas:1100m Regional Ecosystems Information

Label Regional Ecosystem (this is a mandatory essential habitat factor, unless otherwise stated)

1785 8.1.5, 8.2.1, 8.2.7, 8.2.8, 8.2.12, 8.3.2, 8.3.3, 8.3.5, 8.3.6, 8.3.13, 8.5.2, 8.5.3, 8.5.5, 8.5.6, 8.9.1, 8.11.1, 8.11.3, 8.11.4, 8.11.5, 8.11.6, 8.11.8, 8.12.6, 8.12.7, 8.12.9, 8.12.12, 8.12.14, 8.12.20, 8.12.22, 8.12.23, 8.12.25, 9.3.1, 9.3.2, 9.3.3, 9.3.4, 9.3.5, 9.3.6, 9.3.7, 9.3.8, 9.3.9, 9.3.11, 9.3.13, 9.3.14, 9.3.15, 9.3.16, 9.3.17, 9.3.18, 9.3.19, 9.3.20, 9.3.21, 9.3.22, 9.3.23, 9.5.3, 9.5.4, 9.5.5, 9.5.6, 9.5.7, 9.5.8, 9.5.9, 9.5.10, 9.5.11, 9.5.12, 9.7.2, 9.7.3, 9.7.5, 9.7.6, 9.8.1, 9.8.2, 9.8.4, 9.8.5, 9.8.6, 9.8.9, 9.8.10, 9.8.11, 9.10.1, 9.10.3, 9.10.6, 9.10.7, 9.10.8, 9.11.1, 9.11.2, 9.11.3, 9.11.4, 9.11.5, 9.11.7, 9.11.10, 9.11.11, 9.11.12, 9.11.13, 9.11.15, 9.11.16, 9.11.17, 9.11.18, 9.11.19, 9.11.23, 9.11.26, 9.11.28, 9.11.29, 9.11.31, 9.11.32, 9.12.1, 9.12.3, 9.12.4, 9.12.5, 9.12.6, 9.12.7, 9.12.10, 9.12.11, 9.12.12, 9.12.13, 9.12.16, 9.12.17, 9.12.18, 9.12.19, 9.12.20, 9.12.21, 9.12.22, 9.12.23, 9.12.24, 9.12.26, 9.12.28, 9.12.30, 9.12.31, 9.12.33, 9.12.35, 9.12.37, 9.12.39, 10.3.1, 10.3.2, 10.3.3, 10.3.4, 10.3.5, 10.3.6, 10.3.9, 10.3.10, 10.3.11, 10.3.12, 10.3.13, 10.3.14, 10.3.15, 10.3.19, 10.3.20, 10.3.27, 10.3.28, 10.3.30, 10.3.31, 10.4.3, 10.5.1, 10.5.2, 10.5.4, 10.5.5, 10.5.7, 10.5.9, 10.5.10, 10.5.11, 10.5.12, 10.7.2, 10.7.3, 10.7.5, 10.7.11, 10.7.12, 10.9.1, 10.9.2, 10.9.3, 10.9.5, 10.10.1, 10.10.3, 10.10.4, 10.10.5, 10.10.7, 11.2.1, 11.2.5, 11.3.1, 11.3.2, 11.3.3, 11.3.4, 11.3.6, 11.3.7, 11.3.8, 11.3.9, 11.3.10, 11.3.12, 11.3.13, 11.3.14, 11.3.15, 11.3.16, 11.3.17, 11.3.18, 11.3.19, 11.3.23, 11.3.25, 11.3.27, 11.3.28, 11.3.29, 11.3.30, 11.3.35, 11.3.36, 11.3.37, 11.3.38, 11.3.39, 11.4.2, 11.4.3, 11.4.5, 11.4.8, 11.4.10, 11.4.12, 11.4.13, 11.5.1, 11.5.2, 11.5.3, 11.5.4, 11.5.5, 11.5.8, 11.5.9, 11.5.12, 11.5.13, 11.5.14, 11.5.17, 11.5.20, 11.5.21, 11.7.1, 11.7.2, 11.7.4, 11.7.6, 11.8.2, 11.8.4, 11.8.5, 11.8.8, 11.8.9, 11.8.11, 11.8.12, 11.8.14, 11.8.15, 11.9.2, 11.9.3, 11.9.7, 11.9.9, 11.9.14, 11.10.1, 11.10.4, 11.10.6, 11.10.7, 11.10.11, 11.10.12, 11.10.13, 11.11.1, 11.11.3, 11.11.4, 11.11.6, 11.11.7, 11.11.8, 11.11.9, 11.11.10, 11.11.11, 11.11.15, 11.11.16, 11.11.19, 11.11.20, 11.12.1, 11.12.2, 11.12.3, 11.12.5, 11.12.6, 11.12.7, 11.12.8, 11.12.9, 11.12.10, 11.12.11, 11.12.12, 11.12.13, 11.12.14, 11.12.17, 11.12.20, 12.2.5, 12.2.6, 12.2.7, 12.2.10, 12.2.11, 12.3.3, 12.3.6, 12.3.10, 12.3.12, 12.3.14, 12.5.2, 12.5.4, 12.5.5, 12.5.7, 12.5.8, 12.5.11, 12.5.12, 12.7.1, 12.7.2, 12.8.14, 12.8.16, 12.8.17, 12.8.19, 12.9-10.7, 12.9-10.8, 12.9-10.12, 12.9-10.13, 12.11.5, 12.11.7, 12.11.8, 12.11.14, 12.11.15, 12.11.20, 12.11.21, 12.11.22, 12.12.7, 12.12.8, 12.12.9, 12.12.12, 12.12.14, 12.12.21, 12.12.22, 12.12.23, 12.12.24, 12.12.25, 12.12.27, 13.3.1, 13.3.4, 13.3.7, 13.11.1, 13.11.3, 13.11.4, 13.11.8, 13.12.2, 13.12.3, 13.12.5, 13.12.8, 13.12.9, 13.12.10

Essential habitat in Category A and B (Remnant vegetation) areas:1100m Species Information

(no results)

Essential habitat in Category A and B (Remnant vegetation) areas:1100m Regional Ecosystems Information

(no results)

Essential habitat in Category C (High value regrowth vegetation) areas:1100m Species Information

(no results)

Essential habitat in Category C (High value regrowth vegetation) areas:1100m Regional Ecosystems Information

(no results)

Page 3 Attachment B - Flora likelihood of occurrence table

Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Acacia grandifolia V LC PMST, AVH Distribution: This species is endemic to south-east Low: Although this species was (no common Queensland being restricted to a small area around recorded in the Dawson Range, name) Gayndah, Mundubbera, Coulston Lakes and Proston in approximately 38 km south of the the Burnett District (DotEE 2017a). study area, the study area is Habitat preferences: This wattle grows on hilly terrain outside the known distribution of of varying aspects and slope, on hillcrests and in gullies this species. on plains. It grows on sands among large sandstone boulders and has also been recorded on shallow stony soils derived from basalt. Vegetation assemblages present include ironbox gum and spotted gum forests and woodland, including in particular Narrow-leaved Red Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra), Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia trachyphloia) and Queensland Peppermint (Eucalyptus exserta) (DotEE 2017a). Notable features: It appears the species reacts well to disturbance (DotEE 2017a). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Invertebrate dispersed, particularly ants – arillate seed. Nearest record: Although this species is generally only known from the Gayndah region, there is a record within the Blackdown Tablelands approximately 38 km south of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Acacia storyi (no NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is restricted to the western Low: This species is restricted to common name) ALA, AVH side of Blackdown Tableland on skeletal sands over Blackdown Tableland. There is sandstone. potential for this species to be Habitat preferences: This species grows in open transported off the Blackdown eucalypt open forest with a shrub or wattle dominated Tableland plateau. However, this understorey (Fletcher 2001; Maslin 2001). is unlikely as seeds are unlikely to be dispersed considerable Notable features: Shrub or small tree with compound, distances by invertebrates. bluish leaves growing to 6 m tall. Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Invertebrate dispersed, particularly ants – arillate seed.

13 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Nearest record: This species is known to occur throughout Blackdown Tableland National Park, with the nearest record being approximately 20 km south of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Baeckea trapeza NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is confined to Blackdown Low: This species known only from (no common ALA, AVH Tableland, near Blackwater in central Queensland. It is Blackdown Tableland and has name) only known from two banks of creeks in Blackdown specific habitat requirements (e.g. Tableland. grows at an altitude of 700- Habitat preferences: It grows at altitudes around 700- 800 m) that are not present within 800 m on sandy soils in open eucalypt forest. Some the study area. associated species include Leptospermum polygalifolium, Triplarina paludosa, Casuarina torulosa and Melastoma affine. Notable features: Flowers has been recorded in January and fruiting in September and November (CSIRO 2015a). Dispersal mode: Wind, mammal – awned seeds assist with wind movement and attachment to mammals Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 15 km to the south-west of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Bertya opponens V LC Wildlife Online Distribution: This species occurs in Queensland and Low: The study area is at the (no common New South Wales. In Queensland it is known from an north-eastern extent of this name) area bounded by Emerald in the north and Charleville in species distributional range and the west, with an outlier near Charters Towers. preferred eucalypt woodlands and Habitat preferences: The species has been recorded in wattle scrubs on course-grained mixed shrubland, Lancewood woodland, Mallee sedimentary soils are not present woodland, Eucalypt/Acacia open forest with shrubby in the study area. understorey, Eucalypt/Callitris open woodland and semi- evergreen vine-thicket on shallow sandy loams or red earths associated mostly with sandstone, but also with rhyolite, shale and metasediments (DotE 2017). Notable features: Flowering has been recorded from June to August. It is thought this is a long-lived species,

14 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 i.e. surviving for more than 26 years (DotE 2017). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Water and invertebrates may assist dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 48 km to south-west of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Bertya pedicellata NL NT Wildlife Online Distribution: This species is confined to central and Moderate: This species was not (no common south-east Queensland, from near Aramac to identified in the study area during name) Rockhampton and south to near Biggenden. There is an the post-wet season survey. isolated record from the Warwick district (CSIRO 2015b). However, suitable shrubland and Habitat preferences: This species typically grows on woodland habitats on rocky rocky hillsides in eucalypt forests or woodlands, Acacia outcrops are present within the woodland or shrubland and open heathland or vine study area. These rocky outcrops thicket communities (CSIRO 2015b; EHP 2014). It is are associated with REs 11.7.2 known to occur in skeletal to shallow sandy, sandy clay and 11.5.2 and are shown on or clay loams overlaying rhyolite, trachyte or sandstone Figure 5. Additional targeted substrates. Associated species include Corymbia searches of potentially suitable trachyphloia, Dodonaea filifolia, Acacia catenulata, A. habitat is required during the curvinervia, A. shirleyi, A. rhodoxylon, A. sparsiflora, post-wet season survey. Eucalyptus crebra, A. harpophylla and E. decorticans (CSIRO 2015b). Notable features: An extensively branched shrub growing to 6 m tall (EHP 2014). Dispersal mode: Unknown – seeds have never been seen (Bean, 1997). Nearest record: The nearest Atlas of Living Australia record is approximately 78 km south-west of the study area in the Dawson Range (CSIRO 2017). However, the Wildlife Online database search results indicate there is a record within 20 km of the study area (DSITI 2017). Cerbera dumicola NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: Coastal and sub-coastal central Present: This species was (no common AVH, ALA Queensland (Society for Growing Australia Plants 2007). identified within the study area as name) Habitat preferences: This species grows mostly in a very large patch in the south- Lancewood scrubs but has been recorded in eucalypt western portion of the study area woodland and open forest (EHP, 2015b). This species with another smaller patch to the

15 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 tends to be associated with lateritic jump-up features in south of the larger one. There are the landscape but has also been observed locally possibly in excess of 5,000 growing at the ecotone of Lancewood open forest and individuals of this species in the Micromyrtus capricornia shrubland (C. Hansen personal study area occurring in RE 11.7.2 observations of numerous populations in central (Figure 4). Queensland). Notable features: This is a latex producing shrub to 4 m (Fletcher 2001). Flowering has been recorded from March to November and fruiting from August to November (EHP, 2015b). Dispersal mode: Vertebrate dispersed – fleshy fruited drupe. Water dispersed – woody endocarp assists floatation. Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is 8 km north of the study area in Taunton National Park (CSIRO 2017). Commersonia NL E Wildlife Online Habitat preferences: This species occurs in open forest Low: The study area does not pearnii (no and woodland, with a range of canopy species on support the preferred underlying common name) sandstone escarpments and tablelands with shallow, geology and landforms for this medium- to coarse-grained soils (Guymer 2005). species. Notable features: Known to flower in March, September and October (EHP 2015a). Dispersal mode: Unknown – capsules and seeds have never been seen (Guymer 2005). Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 21 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Daviesia discolor V V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is known from three disjunct Low: The distribution of this (no common PMST, ALA, populations on Blackdown Tableland, in the Mt Walsh species is highly restricted and name) AVH area near Biggenden and north of Mount Playfair in the specific habitat requirements are Carnarvon National Park. not present within the study area, Habitat preferences: On Blackdown tableland the e.g. altitudes of 700-800 m. species occurs on sandy soil derived from sandstone overlying lateritic clay in Blackdown Stringybark

16 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 (Eucalyptus sphaerocarpa) and Black Stringybark (E. nigra) open forest. It is known from altitudes of 600 to 900 m (TSSC 2008a). Notable features: This is a woody shrub to 1.5 m tall and unlike most other members of this genus, not possessing stiffly and sharply pointed leaves. Flowering occurs from August to October (Hacker 1990; TSSC 2008a). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Invertebrate dispersed, particularly ants – hard-coated seed with aril. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 22 km south-south-west of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Daviesia NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is endemic to Blackdown Low: This species is only known quoquoversus (no ALA, AVH Tableland (Pearson et al. 1989). from specific vegetation types on common name) Habitat preferences: The species occurs in open forest the Blackdown Tableland. The on sandy soil derived from sandstone. Associated study area does not support species that have been recorded include Corymbia similar habitats. peltata, C. polycarpa, Eucalyptus baileyana and sclerophyllous shrubs and grasses (Banksia, Ricinocarpos and spinifex grasses) (CSIRO 2015c). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Invertebrate dispersed, particularly ants – hard-coated seed with aril. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 22 km south-south-west of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Dichanthium V LC PMST Distribution: This grass species is known from inland Low: The study area does not setosum (no New South Wales and Queensland. In Queensland the support natural grasslands or common name) species has been recorded in the Leichardt, Morton, grassy woodlands on heavy black North Kennedy and Port Curtis regions. soils. Habitat preferences: It grows on heavy basaltic black soils and red-brown loams with clay subsoil. It is often found in moderately disturbed areas such as cleared woodland, grassy roadside remnant and highly disturbed

17 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 pasture (DotEE 2017b). Notable features: This is a perennial grass that commences growing in spring, flowers in summer and becomes dormant in late autumn (DotEE 2017b). Dispersal mode: Wind and mammal dispersed – awned seeds assist with wind movement and attachment to mammals. Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 125 km south-west of the study area at Springsure (CSIRO 2017). Gastrodia NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: The distribution of this species has not Low: The study area does not crebriflora (no ALA, AVH been publically released (CSIRO 2015d). However, there support tall open forest habitat on common name) is a record within the Atlas of Living Australia Database protected slopes. within Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Habitat preferences: This species grows in loose colonies on protected slopes in tall open forest, often close to fallen trees. Soils are sands derived from decomposed sandstone. Notable features: Flowers only last 1-2 days before closing. This species flowers between September and October (CSIRO 2015d). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 22 km south-south-west of the of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (Queensland Herbarium 2015). Genoplesium NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is restricted to Blackdown Low: The study area does not pedersonii (no ALA, AVH Tableland. support moist habitats similar to common name) Habitat preferences: It is highly localised and grows those this species has been amongst sedges and mosses in seepage areas on recorded within on Blackdown sandstone ledges in coarse sandy soil (Jones 2006). Tableland. Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind

18 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 13 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Genoplesium NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This orchid appears to be known from five Low: The study area does not validum (no ALA, AVH records (in 1971 and 1989) in Blackdown Tableland, support the moist, swampy common name) including at Spring Creek. environments this species has Habitat preferences: It has been recorded on coarse been recorded within on decomposed sandstone in sparse woodland dominated Blackdown Tableland. by Banksia and in somewhat swampy heath in open Eucalyptus forest. Notable features: This is a deciduous orchid. The petals and dorsal sepal are boldly striped (CSIRO 2015e). There is very little information publically available for this orchid species. Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 28 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Grove’s Paperbark NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: Fragmented distribution from Port Low: Suitable underlying geology, (Melaleuca ALA, AVH Stephens (New South Wales) to Blackdown Tableland in landform and vegetation is not groveana) central Queensland. present within the study area. Habitat preferences: This species grows on exposed rocky ridges, high mountain slopes and the summits of mountains between 340-600 m above sea level. It occurs in heaths and eucalypt woodlands with heath understoreys, and has also been recorded in tall open forest and microphyll vine forest. It is known to grow on red sandy loams, brown loams, skeletal rocky soils and sandy soils over sandstone (CSIRO 2015f). Notable features: This is a shrub to small tree

19 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 generally 2 to 5 m rarely to 10 m tall (DNR 1998). Flowers are short lived in late winter to early spring (CSIRO 2015f). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: This species is known to occur on the Blackdown Tablelands approximately 15 km south and south-west of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Homoranthus E V PMST Distribution: This species is known from the Barakula Low: Suitable vegetation and decumbens (no Forestry area near Chinchilla and from the Blackdown preferred underlying geology and common name) Tableland. Its extent of occurrence is approximately landform is not present within the 3 km2 and area of occupancy less than 1 Km2. study area. Habitat preferences: It grows in shallow sandy soils containing lateritic pebbles and on sandstone cliff edges. It occurs in tall shrubland or heath up to 800 m in altitude and is often associated with Goodenia racemosa, Petrophile spp. (Cone Bush), Xanthorrhoea spp. (Grasstree) and Banksia oblongifolia (Dwarf Banksia) (TSSC 2013a). Notable features: A shrub with stems growing horizontally and then growing upwards to 15 cm high and 2 m across. Adventitious roots are produced on prostrate branches. It has purplish foliage and flowers between September and December (TSSC 2013b). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record in Atlas of Living Australia database is some hundreds of kilometres south of the study area near Barakula National Park (CSIRO 2017). However, it is thought to occur in Blackdown Tablelands. Livistona fulva (no NL V Wildlife Online, Distribution: Endemic to Blackdown Tableland where it Low: Moist habitats in rocky

20 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 common name) ALA, AVH generally occurs between 300 and 600 m above sea gullies and streams, gorges and level. plateaus are not present within Habitat preferences: It occurs in large populations and the study area. Additionally, this is small groups in moist situations in open forest and a vegetatively distinct species and woodland, most commonly in shallow rocky gullies, in was not detected in the study area gorges near streams and waterfalls and along rocky during the post-wet season foot-slopes at the base of cliffs. It also occurs around the survey. edge of the plateau. It grows in moderately tall eucalypt forest, dominated by stringybark, Eucalyptus sphaerocarpa and other species such as Allocasuarina torulosa and Angophora leiocarpa; E. cloeziana, E. tereticornis, Corymbia citriodora and Lophostemon suaveolens. Notable features: This is a distinct palm growing to 13 m in height (EHP 2015b). Dispersal mode: Vertebrate dispersed, particularly birds and flying foxes (Corlett, 2005). Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 13 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Logania diffusa V V Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is known from the plateau Low: Suitable habitat of sufficient (no common PMST, ALA, escarpment of Blackdown Tableland quality is not present within the name) AVH Habitat preferences: It occurs in Fern-leaved Banksia study area. (Banksia oblongifolia) and tea-tree (Leptospermum spp.) heathland and in open eucalypt forest with Forest She- oak (Allocasuarina torulosa). It grows in shallow, sandy, often stony soil overlaying sandstone. Notable features: Flowering generally occurs between March and September, with fruiting in January (TSSC 2008b). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately

21 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 16 km south of the study area in Blackdown Tablelands National Park (CSIRO 2017). Macrozamia E E Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is restricted to the Blackdown Low: Suitable habitat of sufficient platyrhachis (no PMST, ALA, Tablelands and Planet Downs area of the Dawson Range. quality is not present within the common name) AVH The total area of occupancy is thought to be less than study area. 400 ha. All populations occur within a latitudinal range of This is a distinctive species and 40.40 km. was not recorded within the study Habitat preferences: It occurs in eucalypt to open area during the post-wet season forest on deep sandy soils derived from sandstone. flora survey. Common eucalypt associates included Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora leiocarpa), Blackdown Yellowjacket (Corymbia bunites), Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora ssp. citriodora), Gympie Messmate (Eucalyptus cloeziana), Swamp Box (Lophostemon suaveolens), Narrow-leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra) and Silver- leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus melanophloia) Critical habitat: Habitat where the remaining viable populations occur is considered to be critical to survival of the species. Important populations: Important populations are those considered to be viable it he long-term. Even small populations may represent significant genetic variation across the range of the species. Therefore, all populations should be considered worth preserving, or possibly translocating.(Queensland Herbarium 2007) Notable features: This is a small cycad with a subterranean trunk and 2 to 8 leaves in the crown. Leaves are to 40 cm long and erect or reclining with ends ascending and it is distinguished from other Macrozamia species by its broad leaflets (10--20 mm wide) and short, broad leaf stalks. This species (Queensland Herbarium, 2007). Dispersal mode: Gravity dispersed; some evidence of dispersal by vertebrates, but seeds are toxic (Queensland Herbarium, 2007).

22 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Nearest record: This species is known approximately 23 km south fo the study area in Blackdown National Park (CSIRO 2017). Melaleuca NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is endemic to the Blackdown Low: Suitable habitat of sufficient pearsonii (no AVH Tableland. quality is not present within the common name) Habitat preferences: This species grows in heathland study area. (Pearson et al. 1989). Dispersal mode: Explosive release; Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 16 km south of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Ooline (Cadellia V PMST Distribution: This species occurs on the western edge Low: The dry open eucalypt and pentastylis) of the New South Wales north-west slopes, from Mt Acacia woodlands and generally Black Jack near Gunnedah to west of Tenterfield, and low fertility soils in the study area extends into Queensland to Carnarvon Range and Callide do not provide suitable habitat for Valley, south-west of Rockhampton. this species. Habitat preferences: This species occurs in dry rainforest, semi-evergreen vine thicket, sclerophyll forest, Brigalow-Belah, Poplar Box and Bendee communities on moderately fertile soils. Notable features: This is a tree growing to between 10 m and 25 m with hard scaly bark. It is often locally dominant or is present as an emergent (TSSC 2008c). Dispersal mode: Gravity and/or bird dispersed. Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 42 km south-west of the study area (CSIRO 2017)at.

Plectranthus blakei NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: This small shrub is endemic to Blackdown Low: This species is only known (no common ALA, AH Tableland. from Blackdown Tableland and this name) combined with the preferred Habitat preferences: It grows on rock outcrops and ledges in eucalypt forest at altitudes between 800 and altitudinal range of this species

23 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 900 m (Fletcher 2001). makes the study area unlikely to Dispersal mode: Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed be suitable for this species – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 18 km south-west of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Pseudanthus NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is restricted to the Blackdown Low: Vegetation assemblages, pauciflorus subsp. ALA, AVH Tableland National Park and Robinson Gorge (Expedition underlying geology and landform arenicola (no National Park). is not suitable within the study common name) Habitat preferences: It is associated with sandstone area. plateaux, cliff lines and scree slopes. This species grows in eucalypt woodland with a heathy understorey dominated by Leptospermum, Banksia, Petrophile and Hibbertia species. The overstorey is generally dominated by Eucalyptus cloeziana, Corymbia citriodora ssp. variegata, Eucalyptus bunites and/or Eucalyptus sphaerocarpa (Halford and Henderson 2003). Dispersal mode: Gravity, wind and/or water dispersed – no specific morphological features that aid secondary dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record of this species Blackdown Tableland National Park is approximately 16 km to the south of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Rutidosis NL NT Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is known from approximately Low: Suitable vegetation glandulosa (no ALA, AVH 15 populations across six distinct localities. Five of these assemblages and underlying common name) populations are recorded in Blackdown Tableland geology is not present in the study National Park. Another is Planet Downs Pastoral Holding area. and other locations include Carnarvon Gorge National Park, just south of Carnarvon Range, Gwambagwine, Barakula State Forest (near Chinchilla) and Thulimbah (near Stanhope). Habitat preferences: This species generally occurs on sandy or gravelly well drained soils in grassy open

24 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Eucalypt woodland. In Blackdown Tableland National Park it was observed growing in Eucalyptus interstans, E. sphaerocarpa and Angophora leiocarpa. It has also been recorded in very dense woodland associated with Corymbia clarksoniana, woodland associated Corymbia clarksoniana, Eucalyptus crebra, Callitris glaucophylla with dense Petalostigma pubescens, Cassinia laevis, Acacia pustula, A. leiocalyx and Vittadinia sp., Corymbia bunites, Allocasuarina inophloia, Lysicarpus and Xylomelum overlying sandstone, skeletal soils, Corymbia citriodora, Allocasuarina luehmannii and a herb understorey on fine sandy-silty loam over clay. Notable features: It has been known to colonise disturbed areas, such as roadsides. This species has been recorded flowering and fruiting in February, March, May-June, September, November and December (CSIRO 2015g). Dispersal mode: Wind dispersed – pappus on seed aids wind dispersal. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 24 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Solanum NL E Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is known from the Dingo- Low: This species is known to adenophorum (no ALA, AVH Nebo-Clermont area in Queensland (CSIRO 2015h). occur in close proximity to the common name) Habitat preferences: It occurs in deep cracking clay study area, and Brigalow regrowth soils in Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) and Gidgee (Acacia is present in the study area. cambagei) communities (CSIRO, 2015c; EHP, 2015c). However, this regrowth Brigalow is of very poor quality, given the Notable features: It flowers in October and fruits in history of disturbance and May, September and October. dominance of exotic grasses. Dispersal mode: Vertebrate dispersed, particularly birds – multi-seeded fleshy fruit. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 3 km north of the study area in Taunton National Park (CSIRO 2017).

25 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 study area EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Solanum NL E Wildlife Online, Distribution: This species is known only from limited Low: This species is known to elachophyllum (no ALA, AVH collections in the Leichhardt pastoral district of occur in close proximity to the common name) Queensland between Middlemount and Theodore. study area, and Brigalow regrowth Habitat preferences: Occurs on cracking clay soils is present in the study area. associated with Brigalow, Belah, and Macropteranthes However, this regrowth Brigalow is dominated vine thickets or Eucalyptus cambageana of very poor quality, given the woodlands. history of disturbance and dominance of exotic grasses. Notable features: Prostrate or sprawling sub-shrub to 30 cm in height with numerous prickles on branchlets. (Bean 2013). Dispersal mode: Vertebrate dispersed, particularly birds – multi-seeded fleshy fruit. Nearest record: There is a record of this species on the northern boundary of the study area, within Taunton National Park (CSIRO 2017).

26 Attachment C - Fauna likelihood of occurrence table

Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Amphibians Tusked Frog NL V Wildlife Distribution: This species’ distribution is disjunct, occurring in Low: Aquatic habitats in (Adelotus brevis) Online, ALA, the Clarke Range (Mideast Queensland), then from Shoalwater rainforest and wet sclerophyll Qld Museum Bay (mid-east Queensland), south to near Moss Vale (mid-east forests are not present in the New South Wales). In Queensland, inland populations are also study area. present at Blackdown Tableland and Carnarvon Gorge, and in Barakula State Forest (Rowland 2013). General habitat preferences: Usually associated with water in rainforest, wet sclerophyll forest or grassland which is sometimes inundated (Robinson 1995). Breeding habitat: Ponds and slow-moving sections of streams (Rowland 2013). Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 18 km south-west of the study area in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Birds Australian Painted E V PMST Distribution: The Australian Painted Snipe has been recorded Low: There are no areas of Snipe (Rostratula at wetlands in all states of Australia. It is most common in suitable wetland habitat australis) eastern Australia, where it has been recorded at scattered within the study area. locations throughout much of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and south-eastern South Australia. This population is considered to occur as a single, contiguous breeding population (DotEE 2017a). General habitat preferences: This secretive, cryptic, crepuscular (active at dawn, dusk and during the night) species occurs in terrestrial shallow wetlands, both ephemeral and permanent, usually freshwater but occasionally brackish. They also use inundated grasslands, salt-marsh, dams, rice crops, sewage farms and bore drains with rank emergent tussocks of grass, sedges, rushes or reeds or samphire, and often with scattered clumps of Lignum (Muehlenbeckia florulenta), canegrass or sometimes tea trees. It has been known to use areas lined with trees, or that have some scattered fallen or

27 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 washed-up timber (DotEE 2017a). Foraging habitat: The species feeds on vegetation, seeds, and invertebrates including crustaceans and molluscs as well as insects, worms and other invertebrates (DotE 2016; Marchant and Higgins 1994). Foraging habitats are not well understood (DotEE 2017a). Breeding habitat: Requirements are specific and include shallow wetlands with areas of bare wet mud and both upper and canopy cover nearby. Almost all records of nests occur on or near small islands in freshwater wetlands characterised by a combination of very shallow ater, exposed mud, dense low cover and sometimes some tall dense cover. Although this species uses modified habitat, it doesn’t necessarily breed in these habitats. It most likely breeds in response to wetland conditions rather than during a particular season (DotEE 2017a). Notable features: This is a distinctive species. Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 30 km north-east of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Black-breasted V V PMST Distribution: Endemic to eastern Australia, this species is Low: The study area does not Button-quail restricted to coastal and near-coastal regions of south-eastern contain suitable vine thicket (Turnix Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales (DotEE or rainforest habitat for this melanogaster) 2017b). The main populations occur within south-east species. Queensland, where the current known distribution extends from near Byfield in the north, south to the New South Wales border and westwards to Palm Grove National Park and Barakula State Forest (DotEE 2017b). The most significant populations appear to be in the Yarraman-Nanango, Jimna-Conondale and Great Sandy regions. General habitat preferences: This species is most commonly associated with vine thicket rainforest with greater than 800 mm rainfall, deep leaf litter and a closed canopy but also occur in softwood scrubs in the Brigalow Belt, vine scrub regrowth and mature Hoop Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii)

28 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 particularly with a Common Lantana (*Lantana camara) understorey. They also occur in dry sclerophyll forest adjacent to rainforest and Acacia and Austromyrtus scrubs on sandy coastal sols (Inskip Point) (Garnett et al. 2011). Foraging habitat: An extensive dense leaf-litter layer is required for foraging. As such, optimum habitat is often associated with highly fertile soils. It is believed that the highly fertile soils promote rapid leaf growth on plants, which dropped to the ground during dry periods thus maintaining the deep leaf litter layer which is crucial to the foraging requirements of the species. In Googa State Forest, south-eastern Queensland, birds are most commonly associated with remnant microphyll vine forest with no lantana in the understorey, but lantana is often used for diurnal foraging and nocturnal roosting (DotEE 2017b). Breeding habitat: Nests consist of a scrape in the ground, lined with leaves, grass or moss. Fallen logs and a dense, heterogeneously distributed shrub layers are also considered to be important habitat characteristics for shelter and breeding. Nests are often in areas where the common understorey plants include species such as Bracken (Pteridium esculentum), Rasp Fern (Doodia aspera) and Lantana (Lantana camara) and are often placed in the buttress root of a tree or sapling, the base of a fern or under a low bush or grass tussock (DotEE 2017b). Notable features: Black-breasted Button quail are commonly seen in pairs or occasionally in small groups. Being territorial, females are occasionally seen singly (Marchant & Higgins 1993). This species is cryptic in nature and direct observation can be difficult. One of the key methods of detecting the presence of birds in an area is the presence of feeding traces (platelets) (DotEE 2017b). Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 45 km south-east of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Curlew Sandpiper CE LC PMST Distribution: This species occurs along the coasts but is also Low: Substantial and (Calidris widespread inland. In Queensland there are scattered records in permanent wetland habitats

29 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 ferruginea) the Gulf of Carpentaria, widespread records along the coast, are not present in the study south of Cairns, and sparsely scattered records inland. area or in close proximity to General habitat preferences: Near the coast it inhabits the study area. This species is intertidal mudflats in sheltered areas, such as estuaries, bays not known from the region. inlets and lagoons and non-tidal swamps, lakes, lagoons, ponds in saltworks and sewage farms. Inland they are occasionally recorded around ephemeral and permanent lakes, dams, waterholes and bore drains, usually with bare edges of mud or sand. The will use fresh and brackish habitats and floodwaters. The usually wade and forage in waters 15-30 mm deep, but up to 60 mm deep at the edge of saltmarsh, emergent vegetation and inundated saltflats. It feeds on invertebrates, including worms, molluscs, crustaceans, and insects as well as seeds. The species usually roosts on bare dry shingle, shell or sand beaches, sandspits and islets and sometimes in dunes. Notable features: This species does not breed in Australia (DotEE 2017c). Nearest Record: There are no records within 100 km of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Eastern Curlew CE V PMST Distribution: Within Australia, the eastern curlew has a Low: Substantial and (Numenius primarily coastal distribution. The species is found in all states, permanent wetland habitats madagascariensis) particularly the north, east, and south-east regions including are not present in the study Tasmania. Eastern curlews are rarely recorded inland (TSSC area or in close proximity to 2015a). They have a continuous distribution from Barrow Island the study area. This species is and Dampier Archipelago, Western Australia, through the not known from the region. Kimberley and along the Northern Territory, Queensland, and NSW coasts and the islands of Torres Strait. They are patchily distributed elsewhere (TSSC 2015a). General habitat preferences: During the non-breeding season in Australia, the Eastern Curlew is 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 (TSSC 2015a). Occasionally, the species occurs on ocean beaches (often near estuaries), and coral reefs, rock platforms, or rocky

30 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 islets. The birds are often recorded among saltmarsh and on mudflats fringed by mangroves, and sometimes within the mangroves. The birds are also found in coastal saltworks and sewage farms (TSSC 2015a). The eastern curlew mainly forages during the non-breeding season on soft sheltered intertidal sandflats or mudflats, open and without vegetation or covered with seagrass, often near mangroves, on saltflats and in saltmarsh, rockpools and among rubble on coral reefs, and on ocean beaches near the tideline (TSSC 2015a). The birds are rarely seen on near-coastal lakes or in grassy areas (TSSC 2015a). Notable features: The Eastern Curlew does not breed while in Australia. Nearest Record: There are no records within 100 km of the study area (CSIRO 2017).

Glossy Black- NL V Wildlife Distribution: This subspecies occurs in the north and central Low: This species is known cockatoo Online, ALA, east coast of Queensland. Its distribution ranges from the from Blackdown Tableland. (northern) Birdlife Dawson-Mackenzie-Isaac Rivers basin, north to the Connors- However, the study area lacks (Calyptorhynchus Australia Clarke Ranges, south to Dawes and Many Peaks Ranges, and areas of she-oaks to provide lathami erebus) Atlas inland to the Expedition, Peak and Denham Ranges, including habitat for this species. the Blackdown Tableland (DSITIA, 2012). Foraging habitat: This species occurs in eucalypt woodlands with an understorey or sub-canopy of She-oaks (Casuarina or Allocasuarina spp.) on the seeds of which its diet is based (Garnett et al. 2011). Breeding habitat: An obligate hollow nester, glossy black- cockatoos require large old trees (living or dead), usually eucalypts, for breeding (Garnett et al. 2011). Notable features: Glossy black-cockatoo presence can be reliably indicated from foraging signs. Discarded, chewed she- oak seed cones have a characteristic appearance and litter the ground beneath Casuarina or Allocasuarina trees (Glossy Black Conservancy 2010). Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 16 km south-west of the study area in the Blackdown Tableland

31 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 National Park (CSIRO 2017). Painted V V Wildlife Distribution: This species is sparsely distributed from south- Low: While the habitats are Honeyeater Online, eastern Australia to north-western Queensland and eastern potentially suitable, the study (Grantiella picta) PMST Northern Territory. Greatest concentrations, including all area is at the north-eastern breeding records, come from south of 26o, on inland slopes of edge of its known distribution the Great Dividing Range between the Grampians in Victoria and the record in Blackdown and Roma in Queensland. After breeding, many birds move to Tableland National Park is an semi-arid regions such as north-eastern South Australia, central outlying record of this species. and western Queensland and central Northern Territory. This Furthermore, the vegetation species is considered to have a single population. communities within the study General habitat preferences: This species occurs in area do not support a high mistletoes in eucalypt forests, woodlands, riparian woodlands of abundance of mistletoe. black box and river red gum, box-ironbark-yellow gum woodlands, acacia-dominated woodlands, paperbarks, casuarinas, Callitris, and trees on farmland or gardens. Prefers woodlands with a higher number of mature trees, as these generally support more mistletoes. More common in larger remnant tracts, rather than narrow remnant strips. Breeding preferences: Breeding season is closely aligned with fruiting of mistletoe, therefore north-south movements have been observed (TSSC 2015b). It has been known to breed in narrow roadside strips if ample mistletoe fruit is present. The species appears to prefer mistletoe as a nest substrate and is likely to be attracted to habitats where mistletoe is prevalent and parasitism rates are high (TSSC 2015b). Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 27 km south-west of the study area on the south-western side of Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Red Goshawk V E Wildlife Distribution: This species is sparsely dispersed across coastal Low: The study area lacks (Erythrotriorchis Online, and sub-coastal Australia from western Kimberly Division to large tracts of riverine radiatus) PMST, ALA north-eastern New South Wales and occasionally on continental vegetation and permanent islands. water, which is preferred by General habitat preferences: This species occurs in this species. woodlands and forests, ideally with a mosaic of vegetation types

32 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 and permanent water, particularly riverine forests. The species avoids both very dense and very open habitats. They are solitary and secretive birds and hunt mainly from ambush. Their prey is mostly birds, but also mammals, reptiles and insects (Marchant and Higgins 1994). Breeding habitat: Nests are restricted to trees taller than 20 m and within 1 km of a watercourse or wetland. It is thought to rarely breed in areas with fragmented native vegetation (Garnett et al. 2011). Home ranges of 120 km2 and 200 km2 for females and males, respectively have been recorded (Marchant and Higgins 1994). Nearest record: A generalised record of this species is located approximately 30 km north-east of the study area and another further south in Blackdown Tableland National Park (CSIRO 2017). Southern Black- E E PMST Distribution: The Black-throated Finch (southern) occurs at Low: This species is not throated Finch two general locations: in the Townsville region, where it is known from the region and its (Poephila cincta considered to be locally common at a few sites around distribution has contracted to cincta) Townsville and Charters Towers (Garnett & Crowley 2000). It central and northern has also been recorded at scattered sites in central-eastern Queensland. Queensland (between Aramac and Great Basalt Wall National Park) (DotEE 2017d). DotEE considers birds recorded since 1998, at the following locations to be part of the southern: . Townsville and its surrounds (Giru, Serpentine Lagoon, Toonpan, and near Ross River Dam) . Ingham, and sites nearby (near Mutarnee [at Ollera Creek], and near Mount Fox) . scattered sites in central-eastern Queensland (Great Basalt Wall, Yarrowmere Station, Moonoomoo Station, Doongmabulla Station, Fortuna Station and Aramac) (DotEE 2017d). General habitat preferences: This species is known from dry, open grassy woodlands and forests and grasslands of the sub- tropics and tropics with seeding grasses and ready access to water (Higgins et al. 2006). Also thought to probably require a mosaic of different habitat in the wet season to find seed

33 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 (Garnett et al. 2011). Black-throated Finch mainly inhabit dry open to very open eucalypt woodlands with dense grassy ground cover and often along watercourses or in the vicinity of water (DotEE 2017d; Higgins et al. 2006). Almost all recent records of this species, south of the tropics, have been from riparian habitat (DotEE 2017d). It is thought that permanent sources of water and surrounding habitat provides refuge for this species during the dry season and particularly during drought conditions (DotEE 2017d). This species has been recorded in degraded habitats such as heavily grazed paddocks (DotEE 2017d). This species has undergone a significant range contraction from the southern parts of its former distribution. It has not been recorded in south-east Queensland since the early 80s and is now thought to be extinct in NSW. It is noted as being mostly absent from the coastal plain but occasionally recorded from the area around Townsville and Ingham (Higgins et al. 2006). Foraging habitat: This subspecies is thought to require a mosaic of different habitats in which it can find seed during the wet season (DotEE 2017d). Breeding habitat: Nests are often built in a hollow branch of a tree, or in a fork of a tree, shrub or sapling. It is not uncommon for nests to be placed in other sites, such as in tall grass, amongst mistletoe, beneath active raptor nests, or in an old nest of a Babbler (Pomatostomus spp.) or Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata) (DotEE 2017d). Nest sites tend to be located in close proximity to water. Nearest record: A generalised record of this species is located approximately 30 km north-east of the study area Squatter Pigeon V V Wildlife Distribution: The southern sub-species for the Squatter Pigeon Present: This species was (southern Online, (southern subspecies) is described as occurring south of the recorded in the study area subspecies) PMST, ALA , Burdekin River-Lynd divide in the southern region of Cape York during the post-wet season (Geophaps scripta Birdlife Peninsula to the Border Rivers region of northern New South field survey at a number of scripta) Australia Wales, and from the east coast to Hughenden, Longreach and locations. Habitat for this Atlas Charleville (Higgins and Davies 1996). The known distribution of species has been mapped on the southern sub-species overlaps with the known distribution Figure 7.

34 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 of the northern subspecies (DotEE 2017e). General habitat preferences: This species is known from tropical dry, open sclerophyll woodlands and sometimes savannah with Eucalyptus, Corymbia, Acacia or Callitris species in the overstorey. The groundcover layer is patchy consisting of native, perennial tussock grasses or a mix of grasses and low shrubs or forbs. However, the groundcover layer rarely exceeds 33% of the ground area. It appears to favour sandy soil dissected with low gravely ridges and is less common on heavier soils with dense grass cover. It is nearly always found in close association i.e. within 3 km, with permanent water. While the species is unlikely to move far from woodland trees, where scattered trees still occur and the distance of cleared land between remnant trees or patches of habitat does not exceed 100 m, individuals may be found foraging in, or moving across modified or degraded environments (DotEE 2017e). Foraging habitat: This occurs in any remnant or regrowth open-forest to sparse, open woodland or scrub dominated by Eucalyptus, Corymbia, Acacia or Callitris species, on sandy or gravelly soils. It feeds primarily on seeds of grasses, herbs and shrubs. Breeding habitat: This occurs on well-draining, stony rises occurring on sandy or gravelly soils or on low ‘jump-ups’ and escarpments (i.e. land zones 5 and 7), within 1 km of a suitable, permanent waterbody. Dispersal habitat: This can be any forest or woodland occurring between patches of foraging or breeding habitat, and suitable waterbodies and may include denser patches of vegetation not suitable for foraging or breeding. Notable features: This species can breed throughout most of the year, however, peak breeding is generally April to October when the primary source of food, grass seed, is most abundant (DotEE 2017e). Nearest record: This species was recorded in the study area. Star Finch E E PMST Distribution: In Queensland this species’ range has largely Low: The range of this species

35 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 (Neochmia contracted to southern Cape York. There have not been any is believed to have contracted ruficauda confirmed records from the Cairns to Townsville region for some into southern Cape York. It is ruficauda) time and none were recorded during the Birds Australia Atlas not known from the region project. Recent records around Rockhampton are thought likely and there are no damp to be aviary escapees (Higgins et al. 2006). grassland and waterway General habitat preferences: This species usually inhabits woodland habitats within the low dense damp grasslands bordering wetlands and waterways study area. and also open savannah woodlands near water or subject to inundation but is absent from expanses of open country and uplands usually occurring in valleys (Higgins et. al. 2006). Woodland communities in which it occurs include Eucalyptus coolabah, E. tereticornis, E. tessellaris, Melaleuca leucadendra, E. camaldulensis and Casuarina cunninghamii. Foraging habitat: It feeds on grass and shrub seeds, most likely from Arundinella, Brachyachne, Chloris, Chrysopogon, Digitaria, Echinochloa, Heterachne, Iselema, Oryza, Panicum, Setaria, Sorghum, Themeda, Urochloa, Casuarina, Fimbristylis and Tridax species. It also feeds on insects. It has been recorded foraging, in the shade of eucalypt species, on the ground (DotEE 2017f). Breeding habitat: Nests are thought to be bottle-shaped and placed in trees, amongst grass, sedges or reeds, at heights of approximately 3-9 m above the ground. Notable features: Nesting occurs in November, with eggs recorded from February to May and in September. Nearest record: There are no records within 100 km of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Mammals Bridled Nail-tail E E Wildlife Distribution: The only naturally occurring population of this High: The last naturally Wallaby Online, species occurs in Taunton National Park (Scientific) (an area of occurring population of this (Onychogalea PMST, ALA, 11,000 ha) near the town of Dingo with some sightings within species is known from the fraenata) Qld Museum 10 km of the park. Another three reintroduced populations adjacent Taunton National occur at Avocet Nature Refuge near Emerald and Idalia National Park and surrounds. It is park in Queensland and in Scotia Sanctuary near Broken Hill in considered likely that this species uses portions of the

36 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 southern Australia (DotEE 2017g). study area at times, General habitat preferences: In Taunton National Park Bridle particularly shrubby Nail-tail Wallabies use open grassy woodland dominated by communities on land zone 3 in Poplar Box (Eucalyptus populnea), dense forest dominated by the north of the study area Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) and transitional vegetation (Figure 8). between woodland and forest areas of very dense Brigalow regrowth (TSSC 2016a). The species prefers areas with the most fertile soil. During the day (when they are resting), Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies prefer habitat that consists of young Brigalow regrowth or contains fallen logs or dense tussocky grasses or shrubs in which to shelter. They generally choose shelter sites with the densest cover of foliage and stems at Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby height (25—50 cm), and this type of shelter is concentrated at the edges of wooded areas such as Brigalow regrowth (DotEE 2017g; TSSC 2016a). Foraging habitat: Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies forage at night and prefer the ecotone habitat containing both pasture and young Brigalow regrowth. When feeding in open pasture, they prefer to stay close to the edge of shelter habitat but will venture further into open areas if food is scarce (DotEE 2017g; TSSC 2016a). They feed on grasses, forbs and browse and a range of species are known to be preferred by this species, including for example Portulacas (pigweeds), Daisies, Monocots such as Sporobolus caroli, Chloris divaricata, Button Grass (Dactyloctenium radulans), Bothriochloa bladhii, and False Sandalwood (Eremophila mitchelli) during dry periods (TSSC 2016a). Breeding habitat: Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies breed all year round. They require areas of low, dense ground cover that is close to pasture to breed successfully. After young leave the pouch permanently at around 17 weeks old, juvenile Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies do not follow their mothers, instead they spend the day concealed in dense cover, generally at the edge of a feeding area, no more than 200 m away from their mothers' daytime shelter. In Taunton National Park juveniles are known to shelter under low foliage of Yellowwood

37 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 (Terminalia oblongata), Brigalow, and particularly Currant Bush (Carissa ovata) (DotEE 2017g). Notable features: Bridled Nail-tail Wallabies have a distinctive 'bridle' of white around the shoulder blades, which begins as a white stripe bordered by black at the back of the neck. The end of the tail is black and has a small crest of hair covering the claw-like nail. The tail is held stiff in an inverted 'U' shape with the tip pointing up while hopping. This species hops with its head held low and its arms held outwards and juveniles often freeze and lie flat on the ground when approached, and are then very difficult to see. The droppings of the Bridled Nail-tail Wallaby are more cylindrical than those of the Black-striped Wallaby (Macropus dorsalis), which is common in the same habitat within Taunton National Park (DotEE 2017g). Nearest record: A population of this species is known to occupy the adjacent Taunton National Park, north of the study area. The closest known record of this species is immediately north of the study area on the southern boundary of the National Park (CSIRO 2017). Corben’s Long- V V PMST Distribution: In Queensland, this species is mainly recorded in Low: Many of the vegetation eared Bat the Brigalow Belt South Bioregion, extending eastwards to the communities in the study area (Nyctophilus Bunya Mountains National Park, as far north as the Expedition do not provide the distinct corbeni) Range and Dawson River areas and west into the Mulga Lands canopy and dense shrub layer Bioregion and west of Bollon. that is preferred by this General habitat preferences: The South-eastern Long-eared species. The study area is Bat occurs in a range of inland woodland vegetation types, beyond the northern including box, ironbark and cypress pine woodlands as well as distribution and the nearest Buloke woodland, Brigalow woodland, Belah woodland, Smooth- record of this species is barked Apple (Angophora leiocarpa) woodland, River Red Gum approximately 185 km to the (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) woodland and dry sclerophyll forest. south in Expedition National It is known from habitat dominated by various eucalypt and Park. bloodwood species and various types of tree mallee, being most abundant in vegetation with a distinct canopy and a dense cluttered shrub layer (DotEE 2017h). Foraging habitat: This insectivorous bat feeds in flight, by gleaning vegetation and during ground foraging. It feeds on

38 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 beetles, bugs, moths, grasshoppers, crickets, ants, spiders and mosquitoes. Foraging tends to be concentrated around patches of trees and is important for managing foliage feeding insects on eucalypt trees (DotEE 2017h). Roosting habitat: Occurs solitarily under exfoliated bark an in the crevices on trees (DotEE 2017h). Breeding habitat: Maternity roosts are likely to occur in colonies in larger tree cavities. Breeding is thought to occur around November, although there is little information about this (DotEE 2017h). Nearest record: The nearest record of this species approximately 185 km south in Expedition National Park (CSIRO 2017). Ghost Bat V V PMST Distribution: It is predicted, based on analysis of historic Low: Suitable vegetation and (Macroderma climatic data, fossils, and modelling that the Ghost Bat is a cave habitat is unlikely to gigas) geographically relictual species in southern, arid landscapes, exist within 2 km of the study present only because caves provide suitable roost microclimates area. Potentially suitable (TSSC 2016b). Although this species is thought to once occupy habitat occurs approximately much of Australia, its current range is discontinuous across 15 km south within Blackdown northern Australia, with colonies known in the Pilbara, Kimberly, Tableland National Park northern Northern Territory, the Gulf of Carpentaria, coastal and although it hasn’t been near coastal eastern Queensland from Cape York to near recorded within 90 km of the Rockhampton and the Riversleigh and Camooweal districts in study area. If the species did western Queensland and occupying both arid and lush rainforest occur in Blackdown Tableland habitats (TSSC 2016b; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). National Park, it is more likely General habitat preferences: Habitat is comprised of thicket, to forage in habitats open woodland, and spinifex and black soil grasslands (van associated with and in close Dyck et al. 2013; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Monsoon proximity to this mountainous forests, open savannah woodland, tall open forest, deciduous habitat. vine forest and tropical rainforest is also used (Churchill 2009). Cave habitat is important for roosting and breeding (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Ghost bats usually require a number caves to move between seasonally (TSSC 2016b). Foraging habitat: This is Australia’s only true carnivorous bat, feeding on frogs, lizards, birds, small mammals and sometimes

39 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 other bats (TSSC 2016b; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). It captures prey on the ground and then returns to an established feeding site, e.g. rock overhang or small cave, to feed (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). It is known to forage up to 2 km from the roost cave and will use the same foraging area each night. Foraging areas are approximately 60 ha in size (Churchill 2009; TSSC 2016b). Roosting habitat: Caves provide suitable roost microclimates and it is known to rest during the day in large sandstone or limestone caves, boulder piles, shallow escarpments or deep rock fissures and mines (Churchill 2009; TSSC 2016b; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). This species appears to require caves with specific temperature and humidity ranges (DSITIA 2012; TSSC 2016b). Groups of greater than 100 individuals is unusual (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Breeding habitat: Breeding is likely to occur in July or August with young being born between September and November. Nursery colonies are formed separately to males (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Only 14 breeding sites are currently known (TSSC 2016b). Young are fully weaned by about March each year but may be left in nurseries or forage with the mother up until this age (Churchill 2009). There is a tendency for breeding caves to have multiple entrances (TSSC 2016b). Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 90 km east of the study area towards Rockhampton (CSIRO 2017). Greater Glider V LC Wildlife Distribution: This species is restricted to eastern Australia, Low: The nearby record in (southern) Online, between Windsor Tableland in north Queensland and Wombat Taunton National Park is in a (Petauroides PMST, ALA, State Forest in central Victoria. It occurs from sea level up to highly vegetated location and volans volans) Qld Museum 1,200 m above sea level. Two isolated subpopulations exist in in close proximity to Queensland, one in the Gregory Range west of Townsville and vegetated watercourses. This another in the Einasleigh Uplands (TSSC 2016c). species is mostly recorded General habitat preferences: The Greater Glider occurs in a from riparian vegetation with range of eucalypt-dominated habitats, including low open hollow bearing trees in forests on the coast to tall forests in the ranges and low Central Queensland. The woodland westwards of the Dividing Range. It does not use riparian vegetation along

40 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 rainforest habitats (van Dyck et al. 2013; van Dyck and Strahan Spectacle Creek within the 2008). This species favours taller, montane, moist eucalypt study area tends to lack forests with relatively old trees and abundant hollows and a hollow-bearing trees. diversity of eucalypt species (TSSC 2016c). Foraging habitat: The Greater Glider has an almost exclusive diet of eucalypt leaves and occasionally flowers or buds (TSSC 2016c; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Although the species is known to feed on a range of eucalypt species, in any particular area it is likely to only forage on one or two species (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Breeding habitat: Breeding occurs between March and June and a single young is born each year (TSSC 2016c; van Dyck and Strahan 2008). The young stays with the mother or is left in the nest and becomes independent at about 9 months (Menkhorst and Knight 2011). Notable features: This species appears to have low dispersal ability and typically small home ranges of 1-4 ha. In lower productivity forests, home ranges may be as large as 16 ha for males. Male home ranges generally do not overlap (TSSC 2016c). It may glide over distances of up to 100 m. It is a nocturnal species and uses tree hollows during the day to rest (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). Nearest record: The nearest record for this species is approximately 3 km north of the study area within Taunton National Park. Koala V V Wildlife Distribution: This species is widespread in sclerophyll forest Present: The scats of this (Phascolarctos Online, and woodlands on foothills and plains on both sides of the Great species were recorded at one cinereus) PMST, ALA Dividing Range from about Chillagoe, Queensland to Mt Lofty location in the north-western Ranges in South Australia (Menkhorst and Knight 2011). corner of the study area in RE General habitat preferences: Koalas use a range of habitats, 11.5.2, during the post-wet including temperate, sub-tropical and tropical forest, woodland season survey. No individuals and semi-arid communities dominated by Eucalyptus species. of this species were identified Essentially any forest or woodland containing species that are during the survey. known Koala food trees, or shrubland with emergent food trees All remnant communities provides potential Koala habitat. Koala are known to occur in provide potential habitat for

41 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 modified or regenerating native vegetation communities (DotEE this species in the study area, 2017i). as they support potential food Foraging habitat: The EPBC Act referral guidelines for the trees and shade trees. Some vulnerable koala define Koala food trees as species of the non-remnant areas also Corymbia, Melaleuca, Lophostemon or Eucalyptus genera support potential food trees (DotEE 2017i). therefore these areas are also potential habitat for the Koala Refuge habitat: Habitat that allows for the persistence of the (Figure 6). Koala during droughts and periods of extreme heat, especially in riparian environments and other areas with reliable soil moisture and fertility. Such habitats occur on permanent aquifers, in riparian zones, on upper or mid-slopes, on fertile alluvial plains or where soil moisture/rainfall is reliable (DotEE 2017i). Nearest record: Koala scats were identified in the study area during the post-wet season field survey. Large-eared Pied V V Wildlife Distribution: The species' current distribution is poorly known. Low: This species is primarily Bat (Chalinolobus Online, Records exist from Shoalwater Bay, north of Rockhampton, a cave roosting species. The dwyeri) PMST Queensland, through to the vicinity of Ulladulla, NSW in the combination of suitable south. Despite the large range, it has been suggested that the sandstone escarpments and species is far more restricted within the species' range than fertile foraging habitat is not previously understood. In Queensland, records are known from located within or adjacent to sandstone escarpments in the Carnarvon, Expedition Ranges the study area. Suitable cave and Blackdown Tablelands. Additional records exist in the Scenic habitat is not located within Rim near the NSW/Queensland border (DotEE 2017j). the study area. Although the General habitat preferences: This species is uncommon in species is known from dry and wet eucalypt forests from Blackdown Tableland to near Blackdown Tableland, the Wollongong NSW (Menkhorst and Knight 2011). It is primarily a study area is unlikely to cave roosting species that inhabits sclerophyll forests and provide preferred foraging woodland throughout much of its range (Churchill 2009). habitat as the study area lacks eucalyptus woodlands Foraging habitat: Higher fertility sites, particularly box gum on higher fertility soils. woodlands or river/rainforest corridors are used for foraging (DotEE 2017j). Roosting habitat: Sandstone cliffs (for roosting) and fertile woodland valley habitat (for foraging) within close proximity of each other is important for this species. Records from south-

42 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 east Queensland suggest that rainforest and moist eucalypt forest habitats on other geological substrates (rhyolite, trachyte and basalt) at high elevation are of similar importance to the species are also of importance (DotEE 2017j). Breeding habitat: The structure of primary nursery roosts appears to be very specific, i.e. arch caves with dome roofs (that need to be deep enough to allow juvenile bats to learn to fly safely inside) and with indentations in the roof, presumably to allow the capture of heat (DotEE 2017j). These physical characteristics are not very common in the landscape and therefore a limiting factor. No maternity roost sites are known in Queensland (TSSC, 2010). Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 140 km north-east of the study area north of Yeppoon (CSIRO 2017). The species is also known from Blackdown Tableland National Park, the edge of which is approximately 14km south of the study area. Northern Quoll E LC PMST Distribution: The Northern Quoll was once widespread in Low: There are no nearby (Dasyurus Queensland but has undergone a severe range contraction and records of this species. It hallucatus) is now absent from much of its former range. potentially occupies General habitat preferences: This species is usually Blackdown Tablelands, associated with dissected rocky escarpments but also known however, the study area does from Eucalypt forest and woodlands, around human settlement not provide suitable rocky and occasionally rainforest. In the Northern Territory Northern escarpment habitat for this Quoll populations are becoming extinct within one year of the species. arrival of the Cane Toad (*Rhinella marina), although in Queensland some remnant quoll populations persist in areas where Cane Toads have long been present (van Dyck and Strahan 2008). The areas where the quoll persists in Queensland tend to be steep, rocky areas, close to water that have not been recently burnt. They appear to have become extinct in many lowland habitats formerly occupied (Woinarski et al. 2008). Breeding habitat: Dens are made in rock crevices, tree holes or occasionally termite mounds (TSSC, 2005). Breeding success

43 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 is higher in animals that have a den near a creek line (Braithwaite & Begg 1995). Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 100 km north-east of the study area (DotEE 2017k). Short-beaked NL SLC Wildlife Distribution: This species occurs throughout mainland Present: This is a relatively Echidna Online, ALA Australia and Tasmania, as well as King, Flinders and Kangaroo commonly occurring species (Tachyglossus Islands (Menkhorst & Knight 2011). that uses a range of habitats, aculeatus) General habitat preferences: This species occurs in almost all including disturbed or cleared terrestrial habitats except intensively managed farmland. It areas. This species was shelters in logs, crevices, burrows or piles of litter and feeds on identified at six locations in ants, termites and other soil invertebrates, particularly beetle the study area. All areas of larvae (Menkhorst and Knight 2011). the study area provide potential habitat for this Nearest record: Evidence of this species was recorded at a species, however, remnant number of locations in the study area during the post-wet areas are considered to be season field surveys. more important for this species. Reptiles Collared Delma V V Wildlife Distribution: The species has been recorded within the Bunya Low: The species is known (Delma torquata) Online, Mountains, Blackdown Tablelands National Park, Expedition from the nearby Blackdown PMST, ALA National Park (Central Queensland), Western Creek, near Tablelands National Park. Millmerran and the Toowoomba Range. A large concentration of However, there is limited records are from the western suburbs of Brisbane (DotEE eucalypt woodland on suitable 2017l). land zones in the study area General habitat preferences: This species is predominantly and there is a general lack of associated with open rocky terrain although it has also been course woody debris and leaf found in eucalypt woodlands and brigalow with little surface litter across the study area. rock (Wilson 2005). It is most likely to inhabit eucalypt- dominated woodland and open forests on landzones 3, 9 and 10. The presence of rocks, logs, bark and other coarse woody debris, and mats of leaf litter typically 30-100 mm thick) appear to be essential characteristics of Collared Delma microhabitat, which may be a limiting factor for recolonising recently burnt areas (DotEE 2017l). This species has been found in only a hand full of small isolated populations in South-east Queensland and

44 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 the Brigalow Belt bioregions (DotEE 2017l). Nearest record: This species is known from Blackdown Tableland National Park where there is a record approximately 23 km south of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Dunmall’s Snake V V PMST Distribution: This snake occurs in the Brigalow Belt South and Low: The study area supports (Furina dunmalli) Nandewar bioregions from near the Queensland border south to minimal areas of suitable Ashford in New South Wales. underlying geology, i.e. General habitat preferences: Dunmall’s Snake has been primarily cracking clays (land found in a broad range of habitats between 200-500 m above zone 4) and sandstone sea level. Habitats including forests and woodlands on clay or derived soils (land zone 10). clay loam soils dominated by Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla), This species is not known other wattles such as A. burrowii, A. deanii, A. leiocalyx, native from the region and shelter Cypress (Callitris spp.) or Bull Oak and various Spotted Gum habitat such as large fallen (Corymbia citriodora ssp. variegata), Ironbark (Eucalyptus timber and leaf litter is limited crebra and E. melanophloia), White Cypress Pine (Callitris in the study area. glaucophylla) and Bull Oak open forest and woodland associations on sandstone derived soils. It has rarely been found on the edge of dry vine scrub and in hard ironstone country. It shelters under fallen timber and ground litter and may use cracks in alluvial clay soils. The Dunmall’s Snake feeds on small skinks and geckos (DotEE 2017m). Notable features: This is a very secretive snake with few known records. The high number of mid-body scales (21) and small yellow flecks over the temporal region and lips will generally distinguish this snake from other similar species. Nearest record: The nearest record is approximately 140 km east of the study area near Rockhampton (CSIRO 2017). Golden-tailed NL NT Wildlife Distribution: The species occurs from the Darling Downs in Low: Ironbark woodland with Gecko (Strophurus Online, ALA, southern Queensland north to coastal central Queensland near Cypress Pine habitat, which is taenicauda) Qld Museum Rockhampton and west to Emerald. Almost all known records of typically where this species is this species are from the Brigalow Belt Bioregion (EHP 2017). known to occur (S. Marston General habitat preferences: The species is associated with personal observations), is not dry sclerophyll forests, featuring a mix of ironbark eucalypts, present in the study area. The Cypress Pine and Brigalow (Wilson 2005). It shelters under communities present have been subject to substantial

45 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 loose bark and in hollows (EHP 2017). historical disturbance in the Nearest record: This species is known from within Taunton form of clearing and thinning. National Park, where there are records approximately 8 km The species assemblages are north of the study area (CSIRO 2017). not ideal for this species and the relatively young stage of growth of eucalypts and Acacias has resulted in limited hollows and decorticating bark, which is shelter habitat for this species. Ornamental Snake V V PMST Distribution: This snake species is known from the Brigalow Low: This species is known (Denisonia Belt North and parts of the Brigalow Belt South Bioregions, with from the region, and there is maculata) the main occurrences in the drainage system of the Fitzroy and potentially suitable gilgai Dawson Rivers. habitat in the study area. General habitat preferences: This snake is found in close However, this species was not association with frogs which form the majority of its prey. It is recorded in this habitat known to prefer woodlands and open forests associated with despite targeted searches moist areas, particularly gilgai (melon-hole) mounds and during optimal conditions. It depressions with clay soils but is also known from lake margins, was noted that frogs (the wetlands and waterways. This species has been recorded mostly snake’s preferred prey) were in Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla), Gidgee (Acacia cambagei), in very low numbers in this Blackwood (Acacia argyrodendron) or Coolabah (Eucalyptus habitat during the survey. coolabah) - dominated vegetation communities or pure Therefore, it is considered grassland associated with gilgais. REs in which it has been unlikely they are present, recorded include; 11.4.3, 11.4.6, 11.4.8 and 11.4.9 and 11.3.3 however, the species will be and 11.5.16. It shelters in logs, under coarse woody debris and targeted again in the dry in ground litter. It appears to prefer a diversity of gilgai size and season survey. depth and with some fringing groundcover vegetation and ground timber and where soils are of a high clay content with deep-cracking characteristics. Habitat patches greater than 10 ha and connected to larger areas of remnant vegetation are preferred (DotEE 2017n). The Draft Referral guidelines for the nationally listed Brigalow Belt reptiles describes gilgai depressions and mounds as being important habitat with habitat connectivity between gilgais and other suitable habitats also being important (SEWPaC 2011).

46 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Foraging habitat: It prefers habitats where there is an abundance of burrowing frog species (DotEE 2017n). Refuge habitat: This species seeks refuge in soil cracks on gilgai mounds within habitat areas. Notable features: This species is generally inactive during the day sheltering under microhabitat features. It is active and forages at night. Nearest record: The nearest record for this species is approximately 48 km east-south-east of the study area near Duaringa (CSIRO 2017). Yakka Skink V V PMST Distribution: The distribution of this species is highly Low: This species is not (Egernia rugosa) fragmented. It extends from the coast to the hinterland of sub- known from the local area. humid to semi-arid eastern Queensland. It has been recorded There is a general lack of between the Queensland/New South Wales border to Mungkan large size fallen timber across Kandju National Park on Cape York Peninsula, and from the majority of the study Bundaberg and the region west of Gympie to Mariala National area. Park west of Charleville (DotEE 2017o). This species was not recorded General habitat preferences: This species occurs in woodland and no signs of burrows or and open forest habitats, wet/dry sclerophyll forest and defecation sites were ecotonal rainforest habitats. This species is commonly found in observed in the study area cavities under and between partly buried rocks, logs or tree despite targeted survey stumps, root cavities and abandoned animal burrows. The during the post-wet season species often takes refuge in large hollow logs and has been survey. known to excavate deep burrow systems, sometimes under dense ground vegetation (Cogger 2000; Wilson 2005). In cleared habitat, this species can persist where there are shelter sites such as raked log piles, deep gullies, tunnel erosion/sinkholes and rabbit warrens. The species has also been found sheltering under sheds and loading ramps. This species is not generally found in trees or rocky habitats (Chapple 2003). Feeding habitat: This species burrows and feeds on soft plant material and fruits as well as a variety of invertebrates that venture into or near the burrow entrance. Notable features: This species defecates in a pile outside burrow entrances.

47 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 Nearest record: The nearest record of this species is approximately 52 km west of the study area (CSIRO 2017). Migratory Black-faced M SLC PMST, ALA Distribution / Habitat Preferences: This migratory species Low: The open woodland Monarch prefers rainforest, eucalypt woodlands and forest (mainly wet habitat throughout the study (Monarcha sclerophyll), coastal scrubs, rainforest gullies (DotEE 2017p). In area is generally not suitable melanopsis) Queensland this species occurs on the eastern slopes of the for this species. Great Divide. Also occasionally occurs further inland (DotEE 2017p). Common M SLC PMST Occurs in a range of coastal wetland habitats, and some inland Low: Preferred coastal Sandpiper (Actitis wetlands with varying levels of salinity. Generally occurs on wetland habitat is not present hypoleucos) muddy margins or rocky shores, which may be narrow or steep, within or immediately and rarely found on mudflats. Forages in shallow water or edges adjacent to the study area. of wetlands. May also use grassy areas adjoining wetlands (DotEE 2017q). Curlew Sandpiper CE SLC Wildlife See above See above (Calidris Online, ferruginea) PMST Eastern Curlew CE V PMST See above See above (Numenius madagascariensis) Fork-tailed Swift M SLC Wildlife Distribution / Habitat Preferences: Aerial migratory species Low: This species will (Apus pacificus) Online, that flies over open habitat sometimes over forests and cities potentially overfly the study PMST, ALA, (Pizzey et al. 2012). Sometimes occurs above rainforests, wet area as it is an almost Birdlife sclerophyll forest or pine plantations (DotEE 2017r). exclusively aerial species. Australia However, it is unlikely to use Atlas the study area. Latham’s Snipe M SLC PMST, ALA Distribution / Habitat Preferences: This migratory species Low: The study area is (Gallinago prefers soft wet ground or shallow water with tussocks, wet unlikely to provide suitable hardwickii) paddocks, seepage below dams, irrigated areas, scrub or open wetland habitat for this woodland (Pizzey et al. 2012). species. Oriental Cuckoo M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: Non-breeding habitat Low: This species is not

48 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 (Cuculus optatus) occurs in Australia and is characterised by monsoonal known from the region and rainforest, vine thickets, wet sclerophyll forest or open suitable habitat is not present Casuarina, Acacia or Eucalyptus woodlands (DotEE 2017s). in the study area. Osprey (Pandion M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: This species occurs in Low: The study area does not haliaetus) littoral and coastal habitats and terrestrial wetlands of tropical support aquatic habitat. and temperate Australia and offshore islands. The Osprey has been occasionally observed further inland along major rivers. This species requires extensive areas of fresh, brackish or saline waters for foraging (DotEE 2017t). Pectoral Sandpiper M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: In Queensland this Low: The study area does not (Calidris species mainly occurs in shallow fresh to saline wetlands around support suitable coastal melanotos) Cairns, although there have been few records near Mt Isa, aquatic habitat. Longreach and Oakley. Wetland habitat includes lakes, swamps, inundated grasslands, saltmarshes, rive pools, creeks, flood plains, estuaries, bays, coastal lagoons and artificial wetlands (DotEE 2017u). Rufous Fantail M SLC PMST, ALA Distribution / Habitat Preferences: This migratory species Low: Suitable rainforest and (Rhipidura prefers rainforest, wet eucalypt forests, monsoon forests, wet eucalypt forest is not rufifrons) paperbarks, sub-inland and coastal scrubs, mangroves, present in the study area. watercourses, parks (Pizzey et al. 2012). Satin Flycatcher M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: Heavily vegetated gullies Low: Suitable rainforest and (Myiagra in forests and taller woodlands and during migration coastal wet eucalypt forest is not cyanoleuca) forests, woodlands, mangroves, gardens and open country present in the study area. (Pizzey et al. 2012). Sharp-tailed M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: The species uses a Low: Preferred coastal Sandpiper (Calidris range of intertidal and inland freshwater saltmarsh, swamps, wetland habitat is not present acuminata) lakes, dams, waterholes, soaks, saltpans, sewage farms, within the study area. flooded paddocks, sedgelands, ephemeral wetlands, creeks, estuaries and mudflats (DotEE 2017v). Spectacled M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat references: Rainforest, thickly wooded Low: Open eucalypt and Monarch gullies, waterside vegetation (Pizzey et al. 2012) acacia communities in the (Monarcha study area are unlikely to trivirgatus) provide preferred habitat for

49 Common Name Status Record Habitat Preferences Likelihood to occur in the (Species Name) Source3 project site EPBC NC Act1 Act2 this species. White-throated M SLC Wildlife Distribution / Habitat Preferences: Aerial over forests, Low: This species will Needletail Online, woodlands, farmlands, plains, lakes and towns (Pizzey et al. potentially overfly the study (Hirundapus PMST, ALA 2012). area as it is an almost caudacutus) exclusively aerial species. However, it is unlikely to use the study area. Yellow Wagtail M SLC PMST Distribution / Habitat Preferences: Non-breeding habitat Low: Suitable wetland habitat (Motacilla flava) occurs in Australia and is characterised by mostly well-watered is not present in the study open grasslands and the fringes of wetlands. Roosts in area. mangrove and other dense vegetation (DotEE 2017w).

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