Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2018

ORICA RICHMOND VALE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET AREA MONITORING REPORT – 2018

FINAL

August 2018

ORICA RICHMOND VALE BIODIVERSITY OFFSET AREA MONITORING REPORT – 2018

FINAL

Prepared by Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited on behalf of Orica Mining Services

Project Director: Shaun Corry Project Manager: Brooke Weber Report No. 3614/R04/Final Date: August 2018

Newcastle

75 York Street Teralba NSW 2284

Ph. 02 4950 5322 www.umwelt.com.au

This report was prepared using Umwelt’s ISO 9001 certified Quality Management System.

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Background 1 2.0 Methods 4 2.1 Flora Methods 6 2.1.1 Floristic Surveys 6 2.1.2 Plant Identification and Taxonomic Review 7 2.1.3 Condition Assessment 7 2.1.4 Photo Monitoring 7 2.2 Fauna Methods 7 2.2.1 Diurnal Herpetofauna Survey 7 2.2.2 Diurnal Avifauna Survey 8 2.2.3 Call Playback 8 2.2.4 Nocturnal Survey 8 2.2.5 Micro-bat Echolocation Survey 9 2.3 Ecosystem Function Assessment 9 3.0 Monitoring Results 10 3.1 Flora 10 3.1.1 MP1 10 3.1.2 MP2 12 3.1.3 MP3 14 3.1.4 MP4 16 3.2 Fauna 18 3.2.1 MP1 18 3.2.2 MP4 22 3.3 Ecosystem Function Assessment 23 3.3.1 Native Vegetation Condition Assessment 23 3.3.2 Water Bodies Condition Assessment 24 4.0 Management Issues 25 4.1 Weeds 25 4.2 Pest Species 27 4.3 Unauthorised Access 27 4.4 Erosion 28 4.4.1 Waterways 28 4.4.2 Access Tracks 29

ORICA RICHMOND VALEBIODIVERSITY OFFSET AREA MONITORING REPORT – 2018 3614_R04_Biodiversity Offset Area_Final

5.0 Summary 30 5.1 Flora 30 5.2 Fauna 30 6.0 Conclusions and Recommendations 32 7.0 References 34

Figures

Figure 1.1 Locality Plan 2 Figure 2.1 Monitoring Point Locations 5 Figure 3.1 Threatened Fauna Records 21 Figure 4.1 Biodiversity Management Issues 26

Plates

Plate 3.1 MP1 Photo North 10 Plate 3.2 MP1 Photo East 10 Plate 3.3 MP1 Photo South 10 Plate 3.4 MP1 Photo West 10 Plate 3.5 MP2 Photo North 12 Plate 3.6 MP2 Photo East 12 Plate 3.7 MP2 Photo South 12 Plate 3.8 MP2 Photo West 12 Plate 3.9 MP3 Photo North 14 Plate 3.10 MP3 Photo East 14 Plate 3.11 MP3 Photo South 14 Plate 3.12 MP3 Photo West 14 Plate 3.13 MP4 Photo North 16 Plate 3.14 MP4 Photo East 16 Plate 3.15 MP4 Photo South 16 Plate 3.16 MP4 Photo West 16 Plate 4.1 Feral pig track identified in Surveyors Creek during the 2018 monitoring survey 27

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Tables

Table 2.1 CoordiCoordinatesnates of Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Points 4 Table 3.1 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP1 11 Table 3.2 Summary of Flora Data Collected during MonitorinMonitoringg Surveys at Site MP2 13 Table 3.3 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP3 15 Table 3.4 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP4 17 Table 3.5 Summary of Fauna Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP1 19 Table 3.6 Summary of Fauna Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP4 23

Appendices

Appendix 1 Flora List Appendix 2 Fauna List Appendix 3 OEH Data Sheets

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1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background

The Orica Technology Centre (the site) is situated on the southern side of George Booth Drive, Richmond Vale, NSW (Figure 1.1). The Technology Centre commenced operation in 1991 as an explosives research and production facility. It comprises 292 hectares of predominantly open forest vegetation, of which 8 hectares is currently occupied by the existing Technology Centre operations.

On 26 July 2010, development approval under Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) was granted for the continuation of the existing operations at the Technology Centre as well as the construction and operation of a proposed Ammonium Nitrate Emulsion (ANE) Production Facility.

As a result of the potential impacts associated with the Project, a Biodiversity Offset Area has been developed to offset the impacts of the project on threatened species, endangered ecological communities (EECs) and their habitats. The Biodiversity Offset Area was increased from approximately 17 hectares to 31.7 hectares following consultation with the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) as part of the Response to Submissions process.

A Vegetation Management Plan (Umwelt 2012a) was developed in consultation with the OEH – Conservation Partnerships Delivery Unit which outlined the need to undertake annual ecological monitoring of the Biodiversity Offset Area. The Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) was revised in 2015 (Umwelt 2015) and outlined the need to incorporate the annual ecological monitoring with the required annual reporting for the OEH Conservation Agreement to streamline the process and negate the need for multiple surveys.

This combined annual ecological monitoring report and OEH Conservation Agreement report will satisfy the regulatory requirements of both the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) and OEH. In 2012, four permanent ecological monitoring points were set up within the Biodiversity Offset Area. All four points were assessed for their flora characteristics and ecosystem function and two of the monitoring points were also assessed for their fauna characteristics. The data collected in 2012 provided baseline data for future monitoring to be compared against and enables targeted and adaptive management procedures to be implemented to ensure the biological integrity of the Biodiversity Offset Area is maintained or improved and conserved into the future.

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Based on the results of the 2018 ecological surveys and the Biodiversity Offset Area Land Management Action Plan (LMAP) 2018-2019 (Hunter Land Management 2018), a number of management issues were identified that, if left un-managed would likely represent a threat to the biodiversity values of the Biodiversity Offset Area. These issues included:

 low to moderate density of weed species along the creek lines and vehicle tracks

 vertebrate pests

 unauthorised access and

 severe creek bank erosion.

This biodiversity monitoring report presents the methods and results of the 2018 biodiversity monitoring program at the Orica Biodiversity Offset Area, including a discussion of the findings and comparisons with the results of the baseline data and subsequent monitoring surveys conducted between 2013 and 2017. Management recommendations that relate to the current monitoring phases are documented in Section 4.0.

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2.0 Methods

The following sections detail the methods employed for the 2018 biodiversity offset area monitoring program. The methods employed as part of this monitoring program are consistent with those outlined in the Vegetation Management Plan (Umwelt 2015) as well as those employed in the 2013 to 2017 biodiversity offset area monitoring programs.

The locations of the monitoring points (MP) surveyed as part of the 2018 monitoring are provided in Figure 2.1, and the coordinates for each MP are provided in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Coordinates of Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Points

Monitoring Point Name Coordinates (MGA)

Easting Northing

MP1 362234.0 6362341.9

MP2 362087.5 6362271.3

MP3 361928.5 6362306.8

MP4 361936.4 6362395.8

The flora and fauna survey for the 2018 ecological monitoring of the Orica Biodiversity Offset Area was undertaken on the 24 and 25 July, 2018. The temperature during this period ranged from approximately 2°C to 23.5°C, there was no rainfall or wind over the two days (BOM, 2018).

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2.1 Flora Methods

2.1.1 Floristic Surveys

Flora surveys were undertaken at all four monitoring points. The methods used were in accordance with the BioMetric field methodologies for measuring condition variables for site value and at reference sites documented in Appendix 4 of the Operational Manual for BioMetric 3.1 (DECCW 2011). A 20 metre by 50 metre permanent quadrat was established at each of the four monitoring points.

Schematic 1 illustrates the manner in which each 20 metre by 50 metre plot was established. 20 m

20x20 m plot

50 m line transect 20 m

20 m

Schematic 1 Vegetation Monitoring Plot Design

The flora surveys, using the methods as outlined in the BioMetric field methodologies, (DECCW 2011) provide information on:

 floristic composition (including cover and abundance of species) and structure

 general health of vegetation (including weed density and dieback)

 evidence of natural recruitment

 presence of important habitat features such as tree hollows and nests

 evidence of feral animal usage

 signs of disturbance

 erosion and need for repair

 fire management

 success of any management programs implemented and

 other management issues.

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2.1.2 Plant Identification and Taxonomic Review

The flora specimens that were recorded or collected on-site were identified using the nomenclature and keys as described in Harden (1992, 1993, 2000 and 2002) and Wheeler et al. (2002). New changes to classification as identified from PlantNET (Botanic Gardens Trust 2018) were incorporated into floristic results.

The common names used in floristic results follow those used in Harden (1992, 1993, 2000 and 2002). The common names used for this report are also a reflection of local names in cases where reference documents could not provide common names.

2.1.3 Condition Assessment

For the purpose of this monitoring project, information was gathered on the condition of the vegetation at each of the monitoring points. Details on the general health of the vegetation, evidence of natural regeneration, identification of terrestrial and arboreal nesting and roosting sites, food and water resources, habitat structure and habitat deficiencies, occurrence and abundance of weeds and evidence of disturbance by feral animals were recorded.

2.1.4 Photo Monitoring

The metal star-pickets established in each corner of the vegetation plots were used as the permanent photo monitoring points at each monitoring point. Four photographs were taken at each monitoring point from the NE corner in MP2, and MP3, while photographs at MP1 were taken from the SE corner and for MP4 were taken from the NW corner. Photographs were oriented towards the north, east, south and west. These photos will form the baseline images in which future surveys will be compared against. Whilst the photo will aid in the broad comparisons over time, they are best used in combination with floristic data as they are unlikely to show fine scale changes on their own. 2.2 Fauna Methods

Fauna surveys were conducted at MP1 and MP4 during the monitoring survey (refer to Figure 2.1).

2.2.1 Diurnal Herpetofauna Survey

Diurnal herpetofauna searches were undertaken by two ecologists for 30 minutes at both MP1 and MP4, totalling one person hour per monitoring point. These searches were undertaken during the middle of the day when the activity level for most diurnal ectotherms should be at its highest. Likely microhabitats were examined, such as under rocks and logs, in bark at the base of trees, ground litter, around water sources and in man-made features. Reptiles were identified based on visual observation.

Opportunistic records of herpetofauna and threatened species were recorded during other aspects of the field survey.

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2.2.2 Diurnal Avifauna Survey

Diurnal avifauna searches were undertaken by two ecologists for 30 minutes at both MP1 and MP4 totalling one person hour per monitoring point. Bird surveys were undertaken during peak activity times mainly during the early morning and late afternoons. Birds were identified by direct sightings or by recognition of their characteristic calls. Observations were also recorded during all other aspects of the field survey.

The current monitoring surveys were conducted in winter 2018 which is a typical flowering period for many eucalypt feed trees for several threatened bird species, namely swift parrot (Lathamus discolor), regent honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia) and little lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla). Feed trees within the monitoring points were carefully investigated during the diurnal avifauna survey for flowering.

2.2.3 Call Playback

Call playback was undertaken on one occasion during the nocturnal surveys at MP1 and MP4. Calls were broadcast using a 10 watt directional loud hailer. Call playback sessions commenced and ended with a quiet listening period of approximately 2 minutes. Each species’ call was played for a minimum of four minutes followed by a listening period of 2 minutes before the beginning of the next species’ call. Mammal calls were played before bird calls to prevent the calls of predators (such as owls) decreasing the likelihood of prey species (such as gliders) responding to call playback. Call playback sessions included the calls of:

 yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis)

 koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

 squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis)

 powerful owl (Ninox strenua)

 sooty owl (Tyto tenebricosa) and

 masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae).

2.2.4 Nocturnal Survey

Specific nocturnal surveys were undertaken on one night at MP1 and MP4 targeting nocturnal herpetofauna, mammals and birds. Spotlighting was conducted by two ecologists for 30 minutes totalling one person hour at each monitoring point. Surveys were undertaken on foot using 30 watt Lightforce hand- held spotlights. Likely microhabitats were examined, such as under rocks and logs, in bark at the base of trees, ground litter, around water sources and in man-made features. Amphibian species were identified based on visual observation and vocal calls. Reptiles were identified based on visual observation.

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2.2.5 Micro-bat Echolocation Survey

Micro-bat echolocation surveys were undertaken at MP1 and MP4 using an Anabat Express Unit. The Express Unit was placed stationary in a likely flyway at the monitoring point. One hour of continuous recording was undertaken at each monitoring point.

All recorded calls were analysed by Dr Anna McConville from Echo Ecology Pty Ltd (a recognised expert in the identification of micro-bat calls). The echolocation calls of species were identified to one of three levels of confidence:

 confident

 probable and

 possible.

For the purposes of this monitoring, all three levels of confidence were treated as positive identifications. 2.3 Ecosystem Function Assessment

An ecosystem function assessment (EFA) was undertaken at each of the four monitoring points using the OEH Biometric methodology for conservation agreements. This assessment focused on:

 management works and actions undertaken in the last 12 months

 condition assessment of native vegetation and water bodies

 fire history

 visitation

 conservation values

 feral animals

 weeds

 impacts of human use

 vehicle use and

 other permitted use.

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3.0 Monitoring Results

3.1 Flora

The floristic composition and structure of each monitoring point is outlined in the following sections, including condition assessment results. A full list of flora species recorded is provided in Appendix 1.

No threatened flora species were recorded at the monitoring points.

3.1.1 MP1

Plate 3.1 MP1 Photo North Plate 3.2 MP1 Photo East

Plate 3.3 MP1 Photo South Plate 3.4 MP1 Photo West

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MP1 is located in an area of Coastal Plains Smooth-barked Apple Woodland (Umwelt 2009) in the north-eastern portion of the Biodiversity Offset Area (refer to Figure 2.1). This monitoring point is dominated by smooth-barked apple (Angophora costata), grey gum (Eucalyptus punctata) and red ironbark (Eucalyptus fibrosa) in the canopy with a sub-canopy layer of prickly-leaved paperbark (Melaleuca nodosa). A sparse shrub layer (20 per cent foliage cover) is present and contains hairpin banksia (Banksia spinulosa) and tantoon (Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium). Groundcover is dense (up to 50 per cent foliage cover) and contains a range of native grasses including kangaroo grass (Themeda australis), blady grass (Imperata cylindrica var major), silver-top wallaby grass (Rhytidosperma pallidum) and hedgehog grass (Echinopogon caespitosus).

A total of 37 species were recorded within this monitoring point.

Table 3.1 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP1

Year of Monitoring Number of native flora Number of introduced flora Total number of species (per cent of total) species (per cent of total) flora species

2018 36 (97) 1 (3) 37

2017 37 (97) 1 (3) 38

2016 44 (98) 1 (2) 45

2015 47 (96) 2 (4) 49

2014 38 (97) 1 (3) 39

2013 35(97) 1 (3) 36

2012 35 (100) 0 35

Total Number of Flora Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 75

Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 73

Average Number of Species Recorded 40

Lowest Number of 35 (2012) Highest Number of Species 49 (2015) Species Recorded Recorded

Average Number of Introduced Species Recorded 1

Average Number of Native Species Recorded 39

General Condition

The overall condition of MP1 was healthy with high native species diversity and natural recruitment of canopy species recorded. One weed species, flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata) was recorded within this monitoring point during the 2018 survey, comprising less than five per cent cover within the ground layer. Evidence of significant insect attack, dieback and mistletoe infestation was similarly not recorded.

There was a slight decrease in the flora species diversity between the 2017 and 2018 monitoring surveys by one species. This is not considered to be a direct measure of the condition of vegetation in this monitoring point and it is likely to be a result of timing of the monitoring surveys and natural fluctuations of flora diversity.

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3.1.2 MP2

Plate 3.5 MP2 Photo North Plate 3.6 MP2 Photo East

Plate 3.7 MP2 Photo South Plate 3.8 MP2 Photo West

MP2 is located alongside the upper reaches of Surveyors Creek in the central portion of the Biodiversity Offset Area. This monitoring point is located within Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest (Umwelt 2009). The canopy is moderately dense (40 per cent foliage cover) and is dominated by spotted gum (Corymbia maculata) and rough-barked apple (Angophora floribunda). The sub-canopy layer is moderately dense (30 per cent foliage cover) and is dominated by cheese tree (Glochidion ferdinandi var. ferdinandi), forest oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and young canopy trees along the creek line. The understorey is moderately dense (25 per cent foliage cover) and is dominated by coffee bush (Breynia oblongifolia) flax- leaved paperbark (Melaleuca linariifolia) and prickly-leaved paperbark (Melaleuca nodosa).

The ground cover is moderately dense (30 per cent foliage cover) and dominated by basket grass (Oplismenus aemulus), bracken fern (Pteridium esculentum) and spiny-headed mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia) close to the creek and weeping grass (Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides), blady grass (Imperata cylindrica var major), blue flax-lily (Dianella caerulea var. producta) and kangaroo grass (Themeda australis) away from the creek.

A total of 44 flora species were recorded within this monitoring point.

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Table 3.2 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP2

Year of Monitoring Number of native flora Number of introduced flora Total number of species (per cent of total) species (per cent of total) flora species

2018 43 (97) 1 (3) 44

2017 42 (93) 3 (7) 45

2016 43 (91) 5 (9) 48

2015 42 (95) 2 (5) 44

2014 45 (96) 2 (4) 47

2013 42 (98) 1 (2) 43

2012 47 (96) 2 (4) 49

Total Number of Flora Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 76

Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 71

Average Number of Species Recorded 46

Lowest Number of 43 (2013) Highest Number of Species 49 (2012) Species Recorded Recorded

Average Number of Introduced Species Recorded 2

Average Number of Native Species Recorded 43

General Condition

The overall condition of MP2 was healthy with high native species diversity and natural recruitment recorded. Evidence of significant insect attack, dieback and mistletoe infestation was not recorded at this monitoring point. One weed species was recorded within the monitoring point, being flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata). This species were recorded in low density (<5 per cent cover) and occurred along the creek line and did not appear to have dispersed far into the surrounding vegetation.

Similar to the 2017 results, the creek itself is still actively widening with stream side vegetation being undercut in high flow events. Actions should be taken to lessen the flow rate in this area, as discussed further in Section 4.2.

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3.1.3 MP3

Plate 3.9 MP3 Photo North Plate 3.10 MP3 Photo East

Plate 3.11 MP3 Photo South Plate 3.12 MP3 Photo West

MP3 is located in an area of Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest (Umwelt 2009) alongside a vehicle track running east to west through the Biodiversity Offset Area. The canopy is moderately dense (40 per cent foliage cover) and dominated by a mixture of regrowth and mature red ironbark (Eucalyptus fibrosa) with scattered grey gum (Eucalyptus punctata). Although not recorded within the monitoring point, spotted gum (Corymbia maculata) did occur in the area. The sub-canopy layer is dense (to 50 per cent foliage cover); dominated by prickly-leaved paperbark (Melaleuca nodosa). The understorey is sparse (30 per cent canopy cover), dominated by coffee bush (Breynia oblongifolia) and narrow-leaved geebung (Persoonia linearis). The ground cover is dense (to 50 per cent canopy cover), dominated by blady grass (Imperata cylindrica var major), panic grass (Entolasia stricta), blue flax-lily (Dianella caerulea var. producta), and bracken (Pteridium esculentum).

A total of 45 flora species were recorded within this monitoring point.

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Table 3.3 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP3

Year of Monitoring Number of native flora Number of introduced flora Total number of species (per cent of total) species (per cent of total) flora species

2018 42 (93) 3 (7) 45

2017 43 (98) 1 (2) 44

2016 44 (98) 1 (2) 45

2015 50 (96) 2 (4) 52

2014 34 (97) 1 (3) 35

2013 42 (98) 1 (2) 43

2012 37 (97) 1 (3) 38

Total Number of Flora Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 80

Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 78

Average Number of Species Recorded 43

Lowest Number of 35 (2014) Highest Number of Species 52 (2015) Species Recorded Recorded

Average Number of Introduced Species Recorded 1

Average Number of Native Species Recorded 41

General Condition

The overall condition of MP3 was healthy with high native species diversity and natural recruitment recorded. The mixed age range of trees within the monitoring point suggests that this monitoring point has been logged at some stage in the past but natural regeneration is progressing well with signs of successional thinning starting to occur in the vicinity of the monitoring point. Evidence of significant insect attack, dieback and mistletoe infestation was not recorded at this monitoring point.

Three weed species were recorded in MP3 and included lantana (Lantana camara), flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata) and fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis) but occurred at low densities (less than 5 per cent cover) in areas closest to the vehicle track. Lantana was the most abundant of these species and has been actively managed in this area since the baseline monitoring in 2012 and now exists as scattered small plants.

There was a slight increase in the flora species diversity between the 2017 and 2018 monitoring surveys by one species. This fluctuation is consistent across all sites in 2018 and is not considered to be a direct measure of the condition of vegetation in this monitoring point and it is likely to be a result of timing of the monitoring surveys and natural fluctuation in species diversity.

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3.1.4 MP4

Plate 3.13 MP4 Photo North Plate 3.14 MP4 Photo East

Plate 3.15 MP4 Photo South Plate 3.16 MP4 Photo West

MP4 is located adjacent to Surveyors Creek in a low lying area in the north-western portion of the Biodiversity Offset Area (refer to Figure 2.1). This monitoring point is situated in River-flat Eucalypt Forest (Umwelt 2009).

The canopy is open (35 per cent foliage cover) and is dominated by forest red gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis). The shrub layer is moderate (20 per cent foliage cover) and dominated by green wattle (Acacia irrorata), black thorn (Bursaria spinosa) and coffee bush (Breynia oblongifolia). The ground cover is very dense (to 85 per cent foliage cover), dominated by kidney weed (Dichondra repens), basket grass (Oplismenus aemulus) and weeping grass (Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides).

A total of 39 flora species were recorded within this monitoring point.

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Table 3.4 Summary of Flora Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP4

Year of Monitoring Number of native flora Number of introduced flora Total number of species (per cent of total) species (per cent of total) flora species

2018 35 (88) 4 (12) 39

2017 35 (92) 3 (8) 38

2016 40 (98) 1 (2) 41

2015 38 (93) 3 (7) 41

2014 31 (82) 7 (18) 38

2013 33 (90) 4 (10) 37

2012 33 (90) 4 (10) 37

Total Number of Flora Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 69

Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 62

Average Number of Species Recorded 39

Lowest Number of 37 (2012/13) Highest Number of Species 37 (2012/13) Species Recorded Recorded

Average Number of Introduced Species Recorded 4

Average Number of Native Species Recorded 34

General Condition

The overall condition of MP4 was good with high native species diversity and good succession of sub- canopy and understory species. Evidence of significant insect attack and mistletoe infestation was not recorded at this site. However slight dieback of canopy species was observed. Consistent with previous years monitoring surveys, MP4 contains the highest diversity and density of weed species of the four monitoring points which is likely to be the result of its topographic position in the depositional zone during times of high flow in Surveyors Creek. Management efforts have been directed to this monitoring point and the results of the 2018 monitoring survey indicate that these works have been largely successful. In particular, dieback of lantana (Lantana camara) was observed on site. Refer to Section 4.1 for a detailed assessment of the management of weeds within the Biodiversity Offset Area.

The native flora species diversity between the 2017 and 2018 monitoring remained the same, however the exotic species diversity increased by one species. This fluctuation is consistent across all sites in 2018 and is not considered to be a direct measure of the condition of vegetation in this monitoring point and it is likely to be a result of timing of the monitoring surveys and natural fluctuation in species diversity.

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3.2 Fauna

The sections below document the results from the targeted diurnal and nocturnal surveys and opportunistic observations. Six threatened fauna species was recorded within the Biodiversity Offset Area during the 2018 surveys, being:

 little bent-winged bat (Miniopterus australis)

 eastern freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis)

 eastern cave bat (Vespadelus troughtoni)

 yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis)

 powerful owl (Ninox strenua) and

 little lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla).

These are shown on Figure 3.1.

In addition, two threatened species were observed in proximity to the Biodiversity Conservation Area, being:

 swift parrot (Lathamus discolor) and

 dusky woodswallow (Artamus cyanopterus).

The swift parrot is listed as endangered under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act) and critically endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ((EPBC Act) was heard calling on the access track approximately 120 meters from the access gate on George Booth Drive and at least ten swift parrots were observed feeding in the canopy of red ironbark (Eucalyptus fibrosa) adjacent to the Orica Site Compound approximately 1.1 kilometres north from the Biodiversity Offset Area. As the Biodiversity Conservation Area contains important feed trees for this species, it is highly likely that the Biodiversity Conservation Area provides important foraging habitat for this species. This is a significant finding as this species has not been recorded as part of the annual monitoring of the Biodiversity Offset Area. This record was provided to Mick Roderick, Project Coordinator of BirdLife Australia via email on 31 July 2018.

3.2.1 MP1

A total of 17 bird species and six mammal species were recorded at MP1 during the 2018 fauna monitoring surveys.

In total, six mammal species were recorded during the 2018 field survey including the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis), sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) and red-necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) (refer to Appendix 2). The yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis) is listed as vulnerable under the BC Act.

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Three bats were detected on the Anabat Express Unit in MP1 and included the little bent-winged bat (Miniopterus australis), eastern freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) and eastern cave bat (Vespadelus troughtoni). Both the eastern freetail-bat and eastern cave bat have not been recorded within MP1 during past surveys. All three of these species are listed as vulnerable under the BC Act. It is likely these species occurred in the area during previous monitoring but were not detected on Anabat due to these species being largely inactive during winter. The 2018 monitoring period had more favourable weather conditions to detect these species, with the temperature reaching a maximum of 23.5°C.

No amphibians or reptiles were recorded at this site. The common froglet (Crinia signifera) has been recorded at MP1 annually from 2013 to 2017. It was likely not recorded due to unfavourable weather conditions pre and during the surveys, being the absence of rain during the survey. This species was heard calling in the wider offset area during opportunistic surveys.

The location of threatened fauna species identified during the surveys is shown in Figure 3.1. A complete list of all fauna species recorded at MP1 is provided in Appendix 2. Table 3.5 below summarises the results of the past and current fauna monitoring results at MP1.

Table 3.5 Summary of Fauna Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP1

Year of Number of Number of Number of Number of Total Number Monitoring Bird Species Reptile Amphibian Mammal of Fauna (Number of Species Species Species species Threatened (Number of (Number of (Number of (Number of Species) Threatened Threatened Threatened Threatened Species) Species) Species) Species) 2018 17 (0) 0 0 6 (4) 23 (4) 2017 11 (0) 0 1 (0) 2 (1) 14 (1) 2016 15 (1) 2 (0) 1 (0) 4 (1) 22 (2) 2015 17 (0) 1 (0) 1 (0) 5 (1) 24 (1) 2014 15 (0) 0 1 (0) 4 (1) 20 (1) 2013 21 (0) 1 (0) 1 (0) 5 (2) 28 (2) 2012 16 (0) 1 (0) 0 5 (0) 22 (0) Total Number of Pest Species Identified 0 Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 56 Total number of Threatened Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 6 Average Number of Species Recorded 22 Lowest 14 (2017) Highest Number of Species 28 (2013) Number of Recorded Species Recorded

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The 2018 monitoring surveys identified eight more fauna species compared to the 2017 monitoring period. This is likely attributable to the more favourable weather conditions for detecting fauna compared to the weather conditions of 2017. In 2017, the temperature during the survey period ranged from approximately 7 °C to 18.7 °C with 6.5mm of rainfall and light winds. However in 2018, the temperature ranged from approximately 2 °C to 23.5°C and there was no rainfall or wind.

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3.2.2 MP4

A total of 27 bird species, one amphibian species and four mammal species were recorded at MP4 during the 2018 fauna monitoring surveys. No reptile species were recorded. Two threatened bats were detected on the Anabat Express Unit in MP4 and included the little bent-winged bat (Miniopterus australis) and eastern cave bat (Vespadelus troughtoni). Both are listed as vulnerable under the BC Act. The eastern cave bat has not been recorded within MP1 during past surveys. As with MP1, it is likely this species occurred in the area during previous monitoring but was not detected due to this species being largely inactive during winter. The 2018 monitoring period had more favourable weather conditions for detecting this species, with the temperature reaching a maximum of 23.5°C.

Two threatened bird species were recorded at MP4 in the 2018 monitoring surveys being the powerful owl Ninox strenua) and little lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla). Both the powerful owl and little lorikeet are listed as vulnerable under the BC Act.

The powerful owl record is an important record for the Biodiversity Conservation Area as this species has not been recorded since monitoring of the site began in 2012. Furthermore, both a female and male powerful owl was heard calling during call playback with a confirmed sighting of the female. Nesting for this species occurs mid-late winter (OEH, 2017) therefore it is probable that a nesting site may occur within, or in proximity to, the Biodiversity Conservation Area.

The location of threatened fauna species identified during the surveys is shown in Figure 3.1. A complete list of all fauna species recorded at MP4 is provided in Appendix 2. Table 3.6 below summarises the results of the past and current fauna monitoring results at MP4.

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Table 3.6 Summary of Fauna Data Collected during Monitoring Surveys at Site MP4

Year of Number of Number of Number of Number of Total Number Monitoring Bird Species Reptile Amphibian Mammal of Fauna (Number of Species Species Species species Threatened (Number of (Number of (Number of (Number of Species) Threatened Threatened Threatened Threatened Species) Species) Species) Species 2018 27 (2) 0 1 (0) 4 (3) 32 (5) 2017 22 (1) 2 (0) 1 (0) 2 (0) 27 (1) 2016 15 (0) 1 (0) 2 (0) 4 (1) 22 (1) 2015 22 (0) 1 (0) 3 (0) 7 (2) 33 (2) 2014 18 (0) 0 2 (0) 8 (1) 28 (1) 2013 17 (0) 1 (0) 5 (0) 8 (5) 31 (5) 2012 26 (2) 2 (0) 4 (0) 9 (0) 41 (2) Total Number of Pest Species Identified 3 Total Number of Native Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 67 Total number of Threatened Species Recorded Since Monitoring Commencement 10

Average Number of Species Recorded 31

Lowest 22 (2016) Highest Number of Species 41 (2012) Number of Recorded Species Recorded

The diversity of fauna species recorded in 2018 was comparable to that recorded during the 2012 baseline surveys and subsequent monitoring surveys from 2013 to 2017. 3.3 Ecosystem Function Assessment

An EFA was undertaken at each of the four monitoring points and documented using the OEH Monitoring Report Form (Appendix 3). The outcomes of these condition assessments have been used to recommend management opportunities in Section 4.0.

3.3.1 Native Vegetation Condition Assessment

All monitoring points assessed as part of the monitoring program are considered to be in healthy condition and do not require additional management at this stage, in accordance with the condition rating provided in the OEH Condition Assessment Native Vegetation (refer to Appendix 3).

There is an existing Land Management Action Plan (LMAP) being applied to the Biodiversity Offset Area. The LMAP 2018-19 report describes the number of weed control practices being undertaken within the site (HLM 2018). The methods include physical removal of weeds as well as the use of herbicide. The current plan sees the weed control practices to continue through till the end of June 2019 (HLM 2018).

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3.3.2 Water Bodies Condition Assessment

The stream present within MP2 and MP4 requires a water body condition assessment and was undertaken in accordance with the EFA methodology. Both monitoring locations were rated as healthy despite a considerable amount of bank erosion at both. A condition rating of ‘Healthy’ means that the water bodies at MP2 and MP4 do not require additional management. Both MP1 and 3 did not support a water body; therefore a ‘Water Bodies Condition Assessment’ was not conducted at either of these two sites.

There has been no change in condition of the water bodies at the MP2 and MP4 monitoring points between 2012 when the baseline data was collected and in 2018 when the current field surveys were conducted. Despite both MP2 and 4 scoring the highest condition classification possible, ongoing management of bank erosion is necessary and will lead to an increased quality of the Biodiversity Offset Area. This issue is discussed in more detail in Section 4.2.

The LMAP 2018-19 report described above includes a stream remediation plan which will continue until continue through till the end of June 2019 (HLM 2018).

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4.0 Management Issues

Several biodiversity management issues were identified during monitoring. These include the presence of invasive and noxious weeds, signs of feral fauna, unauthorised access and extensive erosion of creeks within the Biodiversity Offset Area. 4.1 Weeds

Five weed species were recorded within monitoring points of the Biodiversity Offset Area in 2018 compared to the seven recorded when baseline data was collected in 2012. Those species recorded in 2018 were:

 lantana (Lantana camara)

 Paddy’s lucerne (Sida rhombifolia)

 cobblers pegs (Bidens pilosa)

 flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata) and

 fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis).

The dominant weed species recorded within the Biodiversity Offset Area was lantana (Lantana camara) which is highly invasive if left unmanaged. The current distribution of lantana within the Biodiversity Offset Area is confined to the creek lines or areas adjoining access and recreational tracks, where disturbance has occurred.

Consistent with observations made during previous monitoring surveys, the lantana has been subject to herbicide control (especially within the monitoring points) as observed in the dieback of this weed species. The density of lantana across the Biodiversity Offset Area has greatly reduced since management started in 2013, however ongoing monitoring is needed as this species is continuing to persist.

Ongoing control of lantana, as well as a number of other weed species that have been recorded within the Biodiversity Offset Area is planned to continue until the end of June 2019 within the current LMAP (HLM 2018). This will prevent further infestations of these species occurring as well as aiming to reduce their current extent.

The remainder of weed species were unevenly distributed across the remainder of the Biodiversity Offset Area with areas in the north-east containing low to moderate densities of weeds (refer to Figure 4.1). The vehicle tracks continue to be associated with higher densities of weeds with cobblers pegs (Bidens pilosa) and flatweed (Hypochoeris radicata) commonly found adjacent to the tracks, however the densities of these species have reduced considerably since weed management began in 2013.

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4.2 Pest Species

The Biodiversity Offset Area is considered to contain a low density of pest fauna species and includes predominately wild dogs. This is based on the observations of tracks and scats along the tracks during annual monitoring since 2012. During the 2018 monitoring period, signs indicating that wild dog and fox baiting was currently being undertaken using 1080 baiting were observed a along the access track.

Pig (Sus scrofa) footprints were also recorded at Surveyors Creek during the 2018 monitoring survey (refer to Plate 4.1). Pigs have previously been recorded on site during the 2012, 2013 and 2014 (Umwelt, 2015).

Plate 4.1 Feral pig track identified in Surveyors Creek during the 2018 monitoring survey

4.3 Unauthorised Access

Since the baseline monitoring data was collected in 2012, the occurrence of unauthorised vehicles and related disturbance within the Biodiversity Offset Area has generally decreased. In 2017 no sign of disturbance from unauthorised vehicles was recorded during the monitoring surveys. However, while unauthorised vehicle access continues to be prohibited, the 2018 monitoring surveys identified a number of areas that displayed evidence of unauthorised access by members of the public (refer to Plate 4.2). Furthermore, dumped rubbish was observed in proximity to the Biodiversity Conservation Area.

Access appears to have been obtained through damage at a portion of the boundary fence next to the locked gate at the entry point along George Booth Drive. As noted in the VMP, additional measures may have to be implemented in consultation with the OEH to deter unauthorised access.

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Plate 4.2 Motorbike tracks (left) and cut timber (right) observed during the 2018 monitoring survey

4.4 Erosion

4.4.1 Waterways

Significant erosion of stream banks was identified within the Biodiversity Offset Area during the baseline surveys in 2012, and was observed to lower the watercourse by more than 2 metres in some locations (refer to Plate 4.3). Gully erosion was recorded was a key management issue in 2014 -2017 and remains a key management issue in 2018.

Plate 4.3 severe stream bank erosion near along Surveyors Creek

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The current LMAP has incorporated some of the recommendations provided in previous biodiversity monitoring reports (Umwelt 2013 to 2017) and the current LMAP (HLM 2018) includes a plan to remediate the impacts of creek erosion through continuation of the stream remediation plan through to the end of June 2019. Management actions could include the construction of appropriate stream structures and bank stabilisation measures and provisions for ongoing monitoring. In addition to this, Orica will be working with NPWS to remediate the head cut which is located upstream of the monitoring site within the Sugarloaf SCA.

4.4.2 Access Tracks

Since the baseline monitoring data was collected in 2012, the conditions of access tracks within the Biodiversity Offset Area have been improving in sections. However some sections have deteriorated which is likely to be a result of disturbance by unauthorised vehicular access (primarily motorbikes as shown in Plate 4.4) and scoured by water runoff.

Tracks may require remediation to prevent excess sediment loading of the nearby ephemeral drainage line. Preventing unauthorised access will also aide in reducing erosion to access tracks.

Plate 4.4 severe track erosion near MP3 from vehicles

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5.0 Summary

The ecological surveys undertaken within the Biodiversity Offset Area during 2018 provides the sixth round of annual monitoring data that can be directly compared with the baseline data collected in 2012. The ecological monitoring surveys also included the annual reporting required for the conservation agreement with OEH. 5.1 Flora

No threatened flora species have been recorded at any of the monitoring points or at any other locations within the Biodiversity Offset Area by Umwelt during the baseline surveys or subsequent monitoring surveys in from 2013 to 2018.

The general condition of the vegetation within the Biodiversity Offset Area was generally of good quality with a moderate diversity of species across the four monitoring points. Weed invasion by lantana (Lantana camara) is of most concern due to the highly invasive nature of the species. Lantana typically becomes a dominant species in riparian areas, along tracks and previously disturbed areas, and generally requires management and control to prevent modification of the environment in which it occurs.

Since the 2012 baseline field surveys of the Biodiversity Offset Area, the majority of the lantana has reduced in extent following active control (refer to Section 4.1).This control action occurred as recommended following the 2012 monitoring field survey and is described within the current LMAP (HLM 2018). The Biodiversity Offset Area no longer has ‘high density weed’s however ‘low density weeds’ and ‘medium density weed’s still persist on site. Weed management activities within the Biodiversity Offset Area will occur until the end of June 2019 (HLM 2018). 5.2 Fauna

A total of twelve threatened species have been recorded in the Biodiversity Offset Area. The threatened species recorded, including the year, are provided below:

 east coast freetail bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) – 2013 and 2018

 eastern bent-wing bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceansis) – 2013

 large-eared pied bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) – 2012 and 2013

 little bent-wing bat (Miniopterus australis) – 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018

 eastern cave bat (Vespadelus troughtoni) - 2018

 little lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla) – 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 2017 and 2017

 masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae) – 2012 and 2016

 squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) – 2013

 yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis) – 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2018

 yellow-bellied sheathtail bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris) – 2012 and

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 powerful owl (Ninox strenua) –2018.

In addition, two threatened species were observed in proximity to the Biodiversity offset area, being:

 swift parrot (Lathamus discolor) and

 dusky woodswallow (Artamus cyanopterus).

Fauna habitat resources are relatively abundant within the Biodiversity Offset Area with most areas providing high quality perching, foraging and nesting habitat for forest birds, understorey providing for refuge and foraging habitat for a range of small birds and mammals and fallen timber providing valuable refuge for small animals, amphibians and reptiles. A high proportion of the canopy species are winter flowering eucalypts, including spotted gum and forest red gum. While not recorded in the Biodiversity Offset Area, the swift parrot was heard and observed in proximity to the Biodiversity Offset Area and these canopy species provide a valuable food source for this species and also the regent honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia) which is known to occur in the general area.

A total of 50 threatened species have been recorded within 10 kilometres of the Biodiversity Offset Area (OEH 2018) however this encompasses a large expanse of contiguous forest habitat contained within Sugarloaf State Conservation Area (SSCA). The Biodiversity Offset Area adjoins SSCA and offers similar habitat on a smaller scale. Given the number of threatened species (ten) recorded in a ‘snap-shot’ fauna survey within the Biodiversity Offset Area and the connectivity to SSCA, it is considered that many more threatened fauna species are likely to occur within the Biodiversity Offset Area on at least an intermittent basis.

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6.0 Conclusions and Recommendations

Only minor changes to the diversity of flora species were recorded at MP1 to MP4.The slight changes in flora species diversity recorded within the monitoring points is most likely a result of weather during the 2018 monitoring period and natural fluctuations in the diversity and abundance of species between sampling periods which is expected in such a dynamic biological system. No threatened flora species were recorded in 2012-2018 monitoring surveys. The vegetation condition classification remained the same (healthy category) for all monitoring sites.

A total of twelve threatened fauna species been recorded in the Biodiversity Offset Area. Two additional species was recorded on site during the 2018 monitoring that have not been recorded in since monitoring began in 2012; these species were the powerful owl (Ninox strenua) and eastern cave bat (Vespadelus troughtoni). Two previously recorded threatened fauna species; the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis) and little lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla), were also recorded during this monitoring period.

The critically endangered swift parrot (Lathamus discolor) was heard and observed in proximity to the Biodiversity Conservation Area. As the Biodiversity Conservation Area contains important feed trees for this species, it is highly likely that the Biodiversity Conservation Area provided important habitat for this species. The threatened dusky woodswallow (Artamus cyanopterus cyanopterus) was also recorded in proximity to the Biodiversity Offset Area.

During the ecological surveys, a number of management issues were identified that, if left unmanaged, will likely represent a threat to the biodiversity values of the Biodiversity Offset Area. These issues include:

 low density of weed species along the creek lines and vehicle tracks

 pest species (wild dogs, foxes and pigs)

 unauthorised access and

 severe creek bank erosion.

In order to maintain or improve the biodiversity value of the Biodiversity Offset Area, it is recommended that:

 the weed management works described in the current LMAP (HLM 2018) be undertaken until the end of June 2019. The condition and extent of weed species within the Biodiversity Offset Area should be re-assessed and the ongoing management of weeds should be extended as necessary

 wild dog and fox baiting to continue with additional controls for wild pigs

 improvements in securing the boundary fence and access points to prevent unauthorised access. Installation of cameras to identify and deter the individual/s entering the site

 erosion and sediment control measures continue to be implemented across the Biodiversity Offset Area targeting areas of existing erosion and potential high water flow areas as described within the current 2018-2019 LMAP (HLM 2018)

 further consultation with upstream land owners to implement a creek erosion remediation plan to restrict further creek widening and vegetation loss within the Biodiversity Conservation Area.

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There is sufficient evidence to suggest that the current biological values of the Biodiversity Offset Area are being managed in an appropriate manner. Ongoing management is critical to ensuring that this trend continues and that the diversity of flora and fauna species, quality and condition of the native vegetation and water bodies is maintained or enhanced within the Biodiversity Offset Area. This is likely to continue being achieved through the implementation of the current LMAP (HLM 2018).

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7.0 References

Anstis, M. (2017) (2nd ed) Tadpoles and frogs of Australia. New Holland Publishers, Chatswood.

Barker, J, Grigg, G C & Tyler, M J (1995). Field Guide to Australian Frogs. Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney.

Birdlife International (2017) Taxonomic Checklist, Version 2, December 2017.

Bureau of Meterology (BoM) (2018). Newcastle University, New South Wales, July 2018 Daily Weather Observations.

Botanic Gardens Trust (2017). PlantNET – The Plant Information Network System of Botanic Gardens Trust, Sydney, Australia (version 2.0). accessed October 2015.

Cogger, H. G. (2014) Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. CSIRO Publishing.

Cronquist, A (1981). An Integrated System of Classification of Flowering Plants. Columbia University Press, New York.

Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (DECCW) (2011). Operational Manual for BioMetric 3.1. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, NSW Sydney

Harden, G J editor (1992). Flora of New South Wales. Volume 3. New South Wales University Press and Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney.

Harden, G J editor (1993). Flora of New South Wales. Volume 4. New South Wales University Press and Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney.

Harden, G J editor (2000). Flora of New South Wales. Volume 1. 2nd edition. New South Wales University Press and Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney.

Harden, G J editor (2002). Flora of New South Wales. Volume 2. Revised edition. New South Wales University Press and Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney.

Hunter Land Management Pty Ltd (2016). Biodiversity Offset Area – Land Management Action Plan 2017- 18. Orica Mining Services – Kurri Kurri NSW – September 2016.

Hunter Land Management Pty Ltd (2017). Biodiversity Offset Area – Land Management Action Plan 2017- 18. Orica Mining Services – Kurri Kurri NSW – August 2017.

Hunter Land Management Pty Ltd (2018). Biodiversity Offset Area – Land Management Action Plan 2018- 19. Orica Mining Services – Kurri Kurri NSW – August 2017.

Menkhorst, P. and Knight, F. (2010) A Field Guide to the Mammals of Australia: Third Edition. Oxford University Press, South Melbourne.

Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2017). Powerful Owl – Profile. Accessed July 2018.

Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) (2018). NSW BioNet – the website for the Atlas of NSW Wildlife. Accessed July 2018.

ORICA RICHMOND VALEBIODIVERSITY OFFSET AREA MONITORING REPORT – 2018 References 3614_R04_Biodiversity Offset Area_Final 34

Pizzey, G. and Knight, F. (2013) Field Guide to the Birds of Australia: Ninth Edition. Harper Collins Publishers, Sydney.

Robinson, M (1998). A Field Guide to Frogs of Australia. Australian Museum/Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Swan, G, Shea, G & Sadlier, R (2004). A Field Guide to Reptiles of New South Wales. Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2009). Environmental Assessment – Proposed Ammonium Nitrate Emulsion (ANE) Production Facility, and Continued Operation of Orica Mining Services Technology Centre, Richmond Vale, NSW.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2012a). Biodiversity Offset Area Vegetation Management Plan – 2012. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2012b). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2012. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2013). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2013. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2014). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2014. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2015). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2015. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2016). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2016. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (2017). Orica Richmond Vale Biodiversity Offset Area Monitoring Report – 2017. Report prepared for Orica Mining Services.

Van Dyck, S and Strahan, R (2008). The Mammals of Australia: Third Edition. Australian Museum – Reed New Holland, Sydney.

Wheeler, D J B, Jacobs, S W L and Whalley, R D B (2002). Grasses of New South Wales. 3rd edition. The University of New England, Armidale.

Wilson, S and Swan, G (2017). A Complete Guide to Reptiles of Australia. Reed New Holland, Sydney.

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APPENDIX 1 Flora List

Flora Species List The following list was developed from surveys of the monitoring plots detailed in Section 2.1 of the main report. It includes the average cover all species of vascular plants observed from Monitoring Points 1 to 4 during the baseline fieldwork in 2012 and all subsequent monitoring surveys in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 and the cover of all species observed in the 2018 monitoring year. Not all species are readily detected at any one time of the year, therefore the list will not necessarily include all plant species likely to occur in the monitoring points. Many species flower only during restricted periods of the year, and some flower only once in several years. In the absence of flowering material, many of these species cannot be identified, or even detected.

Names of classes and families follow a modified Cronquist (1981) System.

The following abbreviations or symbols are used in the list:

sp. specimens that are identified to genus level only;

? specimens for which identification was uncertain;

asterisk (*) denotes species not indigenous to the Biodiversity Offset Area;

subsp. subspecies;

f. forma; and

var. variety.

All vascular plants recorded or collected were identified using keys and nomenclature in Harden (1992, 1993, 2000 & 2002) and Wheeler et al. (2002). Where known, changes to nomenclature and classification have been incorporated into the results, as derived from PlantNET (Botanic Gardens Trust 2017), the on- line plant name database maintained by the National Herbarium of New South Wales.

Common names used follow Harden (1992, 1993, 2000 & 2002) where available, and draw on other sources such as local names where these references do not provide a common.

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Filicopsida (Ferns) Adiantaceae Adiantum aethiopicum common maidenhair 2.3 2.0 0.3 1.0 Adiantaceae Adiantum hispidum Rough maidenhair fern 0.5 1.0 Adiantaceae Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 1.5 1.7 1.0 1.7 2.0 Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum bracken 3.0 2.0 2.2 Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea microphylla lacy wedge fern 0.2 Magnoliopsida (Flowering Plants) - Liliidae (Monocots) Anthericaceae Arthropodium milleflorum vanilla lily 0.3 Commelinaceae Commelina cyanea native wandering Jew 0.3 Cyperaceae Carex appressa tall sedge 0.2 1.8 1.0 Cyperaceae Cyperus sp. 0.2 Cyperaceae Gahnia aspera rough saw-sedge 1 0.5 0.2 1.5 1.0 Cyperaceae Gahnia clarkei tall saw-sedge 1.5 Cyperaceae Gahnia sp. 0.5 Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis hygrometrica var. 0.2 villosisepala Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis pratensis var. pratensis 0.5 Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis sp. 0.3 Juncaceae Juncus sp. 0.3 Lomandraceae Lomandra glauca pale mat-rush 1.7 Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia spiny-headed mat-rush 2.5 2.0 0.5 0.3 2.0 Lomandraceae Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis many-flowered mat-rush 0.5 1.0 0.2 1.0 1.2 3.0 0.2 Lomandraceae Lomandra obliqua 1.2 1.0 0.5

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Lomandraceae lomandra multiflora ssp multiflora 0.3 1.0 0.2 Lomandraceae Lomandra sp. 0.2 0.5 Luzuriagaceae Geitonoplesium cymosum scrambling lily 0.5 1.0 1.2 1.0 2.2 3.0 Orchidaceae Acianthus forniatus pixie caps 0.7 0.5 1.0 Orchidaceae Caladenia catenata lady fingers 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 Orchidaceae Calochilus sp. 0.2 Orchidaceae Chiloglottis formicifera ant orchid 0.2 Orchidaceae Cymbidium suave 0.5 Orchidaceae Prasophyllum brevilabre short-lipped leek orchid 0.2 Orchidaceae Pterostylis longifolia tall greenhood 0.3 Orchidaceae Pterostylis nutans nodding greenhood 0.2 0.5 1.0 Orchidaceae Pterostylis pedunculata 0.2 0.3 0.3 Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. cinerescens blue flax-lily 0.7 1.0 0.3 1.0 Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. producta 0.3 1.0 2.2 2.0 2.7 2.0 0.8 1.0 Phormiaceae Dianella longifolia 0.2 1.7 1.0 0.7 Poaceae *Andropogon virginicus whiskey grass 0.3 Poaceae Aristida sp. 0.3 Poaceae Aristida vagans threeawn speargrass 1.7 3.0 1.2 0 1.0 Poaceae Cymbopogon refractus barbed wire grass 1.0 Poaceae Cynodon dactylon couch 0 1.0 Poaceae Digitaria sp. 0.2 Poaceae Echinopogon caespitosus bushy hedgehog-grass 0.7 2.0 2.0 0.7 0.3

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Poaceae Echinopogon ovatus forest hedgehog grass 1.2 1.5 1.0 Poaceae Echinopogon sp. 0.7 Poaceae Entolasia stricta wiry panic 1.3 2.0 0.7 2.2 2.0 0.2 Poaceae Entolasia marginate 0.2 0.2 Poaceae Eragrostis brownii brown's lovegrass 0.3 Poaceae Eragrostis sp. 2.0 Poaceae Imperata cylindrica 2.2 2.0 2.7 3.0 3.2 3.0 Poaceae Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides 2.8 4.0 2.7 3.0 3.2 3.0 Poaceae Oplismenus aemulus 0.3 2.5 2.0 1.0 1.0 3.0 2.0 Poaceae Oplismenus imbecillis 0.8 1.0 0.3 1.0 2.2 Poaceae Oplismenus sp. 0.3 Poaceae Panicum similie 0.8 0.2 Poaceae Paspalidium distans 0.5 0.2 Poaceae *Paspalum dilatatum paspalum 0.2 Poaceae Paspalum distichum water couch 0.3 Poaceae Rhytidosperma pallidum wallaby grass 3.5 4.0 Poaceae Themeda australis kangaroo grass 3.7 4.0 1.2 2.0 Magnoliopsida (Flowering Plants) - Magnoloodae (Dicots) Acanthaceae Brunoniella australis blue trumpet 0.5 Acanthaceae Pseuderanthemum variabile pastel flower 0.3 0.7 2.0 Apiaceae Centella asiatica pennywort 0.2 0.2 2.8 2.0 Apiaceae Hydrocotyle laxiflora stinking pennywort 0.3

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Apiaceae Hydrocotyle peduncularis 0.3 0.8 Apocynaceae Parsonsia straminea common silkpod 0.2 Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia elderberry panax 0.3 Asteraceae *Ageratina adenophora crofton weed 1.0 Asteraceae *Bidens pilosa cobbler's pegs 1.7 1.0 Asteraceae *Conyza sp. fleabane 0.7 Asteraceae *Circisium vulgare Spear thistle 0.2 Asteraceae Euchiton japonicus cud weed 0.2 Asteraceae *Hypochaeris radicata flatweed 1.5 1.0 1.8 1.0 0 1.0 0 1.0 Asteraceae Lagenophora gracilis slender lagenophora 0.7 0.8 1.0 0.2 Asteraceae Lagenifera stipitata 0.5 0.2 0.2 Asteraceae Ozothamnus diosmifolius white dogwood 1.0 1.0 0.3 Asteraceae Ozothamnus sp. 0.3 Asteraceae *Senecio diaschides 0.3 Asteraceae *Senecio madagascariensis fireweed 0.2 1.0 0.3 0.3 Asteraceae Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. Indian weed 1.3 orientalis Asteraceae Vernonia cinerea 0.7 Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina torulosa forest oak 3.2 3.0 Celastraceae Denhamia silvestris narrow-leaved orangebark 0.8 2.0 0.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 Clusiaceae Hyprericum gramineum small St. John’s wort 0.2 Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens kidney weed 2.7 2.0 3.3 3.0 4.2 4.0 Convolvulaceae Polymeria calycina 0.3

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Dilleniaceae Hibbertia aspera rough guinea flower 2.8 2.0 1.0 1.0 0.3 Dilleniaceae Hibbertia pedunculata 0.3 Dilleniaceae Hibbertia scandens climbing guinea flower 0.3 1.0 0.2 Dilleniaceae Hibbertia sp. 0.3 Epacridaceae Lissanthe strigosa peach heath 0.8 0.3 1.0 0.3 1.0 Epacridaceae Leucopogon juniperinus 0.2 0.3 Ericaceae Acrotriche divaricata 0.7 1.0 1.0 0.2 Euphorbiaceae Breynia oblongifolia coffee bush 2.0 2.0 1.5 1.0 2.0 2.0 Euphorbiaceae Glochidion ferdinandi cheese tree 2.8 2.0 Euphorbiaceae Phyllanthus hirtellus 1.7 1.0 Fabaceae Daviesia ulicifolia gorse bitter pea 0.5 1.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Desmodium rhytidophyllum 0.7 2.0 0.2 1.2 1.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Desmodium gunnii slender tick-trefoil 0.3 0.7 1.7 1.0 1.5 1.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Dillwynia retorta 0.3 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Glycine clandestina 0.2 1.0 1.3 1.0 2.2 2.0 2.2 2.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Glycine tabacina 1.5 1.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Hardenbergia violacea false sarsaparilla 0.8 1.5 2.2 1.0 (Faboideae)

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Fabaceae Mirbelia rubiifolia Heathy Mirbelia 0.2 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Pultenaea paleacea chaffy bush pea 1.3 2.0 (Faboideae) Fabaceae Acacia elongata swamp wattle 0.2 (Mimosoideae) Fabaceae Acacia irrorata green wattle 1.8 1.0 0.8 1.0 3.3 2.0 (Mimosoideae) Fabaceae Acacia longifolia 1.0 1.0 2.2 2.0 0.2 1.0 0.2 (Mimosoideae) Fabaceae Acacia parvipinnula 0.3 (Mimosoideae) Geraniaceae Geranium homeanum 0.8 Goodeniaceae Goodenia heterophylla 0.5 1.0 Goodeniaceae Goodenia rotundifolia 1.3 1.0 1.5 1.0 Goodeniaceae Goodenia sp. 0.5 0.5 Haloragaceae Gonocarpus sp. 0.2 Haloragaceae Gonocarpus tetragynus 1.7 1.0 0.7 0.7 Lobeliaceae Pratia purpurascens whiteroot 2.8 2.0 2.5 2.0 2.8 1.0 2.8 2.0 Luzuriagiaceae Eustrephus latifolia wombat berry 0.5 1.0 Malvaceae *Malva sylvestris tall mallow 0.3 1.0 Malvaceae Sida corrugata 0.3 0.8 1.0 0.3 Malvaceae *Sida rhombifolia paddy's lucerne 0 1.0 1.8 1.0 Menispermaceae Stephania japonica snake vine 1.5 1.0 Moraceae Ficus coronate spin Sandpaper fig 0.2

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Myrtaceae Angophora costata Sydney red/rusty gum 3.0 3.0 Myrtaceae Angophora floribunda rough-barked apple 2.0 2.0 Myrtaceae Callistemon rigidus stiff bottlebrush 2.2 2.0 Myrtaceae Corymbia maculata spotted gum 4.0 4.0 Myrtaceae Eucalyptus fibrosa red ironbark 2.0 2.0 1.0 5.0 4.0 Myrtaceae Eucalyptus globoidea white stringybark 1.0 1.0 Myrtaceae Eucalyptus paniculata grey ironbark Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata grey gum 3.0 3.0 2.7 2.0 Myrtaceae Eucalyptus tereticornis forest red gum 4.3 4.0 Myrtaceae Eucalyptus umbra 2.3 2.0 Myrtaceae Leptospermum polygalifolium 2.5 2.0 2.3 0.5 Myrtaceae Leptospermum trinervium 1.0 1.0 2.0 Myrtaceae Melaleuca decora 0.7 0.3 Myrtaceae Melaleuca linariifolia 2.8 3.0 1.0 Myrtaceae Melaleuca nodosa 2.5 2.0 1.8 2.0 4.3 3.0 3.0 Oleaceae Jasminum volubile stiff jasmine 0.2 Oleaceae Notelaea longifolia large mock olive 0.8 1.0 0.3 1.0 1.2 1.0 Oxalidaceae Oxalis exilis 0.7 0.8 Oxalidaceae Oxalis perennans 0.5 1.0 Oxalidaceae Oxalis sp. 0 1.0 0.3 Passifloraceae Passiflora sp. 0.2 Pittosporaceae Billardiera scandens appleberry 0.7 1.0 0.2 1.0 2.0 0 1.0

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Pittosporaceae Bursaria spinosa native blackthorn 0.5 2.0 2.0 2.5 2.0 3.2 1.0 Pittosporaceae Pittosporum multiflorum orange thorn 0.5 Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata lamb’s tongue 0.2 Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa hairpin banksia 1.7 2.0 Proteaceae Persoonia linearis narrow-leaved geebung 0 1.0 1.8 2.3 3.0 Ranunculaceae Clematis aristata old man's beard 2.0 1.0 0.8 1.0 2.0 2.0 Ranunculaceae Clematis glycinoides headache vine 0 1.0 0.2 1.0 Ranunculaceae Clematis sp. 0.3 Rosaceae *Rubus fruiticosus blackberry complex 0.5 1.0 Rosaceae Rubus parviflorus native raspberry 0.5 Rubiaceae Asperula conferta common woodruff 0.3 0.2 Rubiaceae Asperula sp. 0.2 Rubiaceae Galium sp. 0.2 0.2 0.8 1.7 Rubiaceae Opercularia diphylla 0.2 0.7 0 1.0

Rubiaceae Morinda jansminoides sweet morinda 0.3 0.3

Rubiaceae Pomax umbellata 1.3 1.0 Sapindaceae Dodonaea triquetra large-leaf hop-bush 0.8 1.0 Scrophulariaceae Eremophila debilis winter apple 0.5 Scrophulariaceae Veronica plebeia trailing speedwell 0.3 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.2 Solanaceae Duboisia myropoides corkwood 0.3 0.3 0.7 Solanaceae Solanum cinereum Narrawa burr 0.2 0.3 0.3 Solanaceae Solanum prinophyllum. 0.8 1.0 1.8 1.0 1.3 1.0

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Family Scientific Name Common Name Site MP1 Site MP2 Site MP3 Site MP4 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Avg. 2018 Stylidiaceae Stylidium graminifolium trigger plant 0.3 Ulmacaea Trema tomentosa var aspera Native peach 0.3 Verbenaceae *Lantana camara lantana 0.3 0.8 1.0 2.3 2.0 Vitaceae Cayratia clematidea slender grape 0.8 Vitaceae Cissus antarctica water vine 0.8 0.3 Total Number of Species 39.8 37 44.8 44 42.7 45 38.2 39 Total Number of Introduced Species 1.2 1.0 2.7 1.0 1.0 3.0 4.2 4.0

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APPENDIX 2 Fauna List

Fauna Species List

The following list was developed from surveys of the Orica Biodiversity Offset Area detailed in Section 3.2 of the main report. It includes all species of vertebrate fauna observed at the Orica Biodiversity Offset Area during fauna monitoring fieldwork in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016,2017 and 2018.

The following abbreviations or symbols are used in the list: asterisk (*) denotes species not indigenous to the study area; and

V Vulnerable under the Schedules of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016(BCBC Act) or Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

Birds recorded were identified using descriptions in Pizzey & Knight (2013) and the scientific and common name nomenclature of Birdlife Australia (Birdlife International 2017). Reptiles recorded were identified using keys and descriptions in Cogger (2014) and Wilson & Swan (2017) and the scientific and common name nomenclature of Cogger (2014).

Amphibians recorded were identified using keys and descriptions in Cogger (2014), Anstis (2017) and Barker et al. (1995) and the scientific and common name nomenclature of Cogger (2014). Mammals recorded were identified using keys and descriptions in Van Dyck & Strahan (2008), and Menkhorst & Knight (2010) and the scientific and common name nomenclature of Van Dyck & Strahan (2008).

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