Bush Regeneration Report

Appendix G – Bush Regeneration Report

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix G Dixon Sands Bush Regeneration Annual Report - Bush-it Contents 1) Executive Summary ...... 2 2) Haerses Road, Vegetation Offset Area ...... 2 a. List of current works ...... 2 b. Total Hours: 261.5 ...... 4 c. Follow up on the “Focus on Crofton weed” ...... 4 d. Possible future works ...... 4 3) Dixon Sands mine Site ...... 5 a. List of current works ...... 5 b. Total hours: 138 ...... 6 c. Photos ...... 6 d. Soil translocation site ...... 7 e. Conclusions ...... 8 f. Possible future works ...... 8 4) Weeds treated ...... 9 5) Herbicide usage ...... 10 6) Natives planted ...... 10 7) Appendix ...... 11

1) Executive Summary Bush-It has been undertaking environmental works for Dixon Sands for 9 years ensuring the mining company can achieve the highest conservational outcomes. These works have been primarily focused on two main areas: Haerses Road offset area; and areas surrounding the Dixon Sands Mine Site. This report will focus on these two areas and will outline; both current and possible future works, Total hours spent, any photos taken as well as the focus on crofton weed (haerses road) and the new soil translocation site (the mine site).

Many ecological restoration strategies are currently in use by Bush-it at Dixon Sands. They include, endangered plant preservation, herbicide spraying, brush-cutting, revegetation, sandstone capping, ecological community and soil translocation, sedimentation and erosion control, weed surveying, assisted natural regeneration, brush-matting, direct seeding, and target weeding.

These current works have resulted in outstanding rehabilitation, ecological restoration and excellent environmental performance. Additionally, as Bush-It recognises the importance of community involvement and contribution, stakeholders have been kept well informed through means of the bi annual CCC meetings hosted by Dixon Sands.

2) Haerses Road, Vegetation Offset Area a. List of current works

Zone Date Work type name Work description Hours Hearses Rd Offset 5/07/2016 Maintenance Made a tree hollow habitat 2 (translocation) for small birds/mammals Hearses Rd Offset 5/07/2016 Maintenance Hand weeded exotic 8.5 (translocation) grasses and moved habitat logs into offset area. Hearses Rd Offset 5/07/2016 Maintenance Cut and painting Lantana 9 (translocation) Hearses Rd Offset 19/07/2016 Maintenance Treated exotic grasses in 5.5 (translocation) offset translocation area Hearses Rd Offset 31/08/2016 Maintenance Hand weeding Exotic 14 (translocation) grasses in Offset area Hearses Rd Offset 19/09/2016 Maintenance Removal of exotic grasses 15 (translocation) from Offset area Hearses Rd Offset 12/10/2016 Maintenance Targeted exotic grasses in 15 (translocation) offset area Hearses Rd Offset 15/11/2016 Planting Finished plant guards 6 (translocation) Hearses Rd Offset 15/11/2016 Spraying Spot spraying Rubus 2 (translocation) fructicosus Hearses Rd Offset 15/11/2016 Maintenance Handweeding exotic 19.75 (translocation) grasses Hearses Rd Offset 30/11/2016 Maintenance Handweeding Exotic 7.5 (translocation) grasses and Ageratina in offset area Hearses Rd Offset 30/11/2016 Spraying Spraying Lantana and 7.5 (translocation) Ageratina

Hearses Rd Offset 26/10/2016 Planting Planting 300 plants with 24 (translocation) guards. Hearses Rd Offset 14/12/2016 Maintenance Handweeding of exotic 30 (translocation) grasses in offset area Hearses Rd Offset 30/01/2017 Miscellaneous Installed 50 meters of 16 (translocation) sediment fence across drainage line, along existing boundary of offset area. Hearses Rd Offset 30/01/2017 Maintenance Maintenence is 6.5 (translocation) translocation area. Removed unneeded guards and stakes from sufficiently large trees. Hearses Rd Offset 28/02/2017 Maintenance Scout edge of soil 15 (translocation) translocation site and original offset area removing Love Grass, Whiskey Grass and Crofton Weed. Hearses Rd Offset 5/04/2017 Maintenance Mechanical removal of 10 (translocation) Croften weed Hearses Rd Offset 15/03/2017 Maintenance Brushcut Fleabane at plant 4.5 (translocation) screen area at olive farm. Scout area below Haerses Rd. for Crofton Weed. Some Lantana treated bellow yellow cord fence. Bidens also encroaching from escavated area to bushland. To be treated next visit. Hearses Rd Offset 26/04/2017 Maintenance >Spray 1:100 Glyphysate 10 (translocation) Bidens Pilosa >Brush cut weedy scrub >Brush cut Whisky grass >Scout good bush for Croften weed, Whisky grass and Paspalum

Hearses Rd Offset 9/05/2017 Maintenance Scouted good bush and 7.5 (translocation) edges for croften weed Hearses Rd Offset 9/05/2017 Maintenance Sprayed african love grass 6 (translocation) and paspalum with 1:100 glyphosate at haerses road soil translocation. Also short scan of good bush behind fenced section.

Hearses Rd Offset 28/06/2017 Maintenance Remove Lantana, Crofton, 20.25 (translocation) Bidens and other annual weeds in extended offset area. A small patch of Bridal Creeper also removed. Scout edges of soil translocation site.

Total Hours: 261.5 b. Follow up on the “Focus on Crofton weed”

In previous years, there has been a focus on Ageratina adenophora (Crofton weed) in the Hakea forest located in the Haerses Road offset area. The forest and surrounding areas had been swept for all Crofton weed individuals to limit a seed bank accumulating and thus, had been reduced in numbers. Bush-It have continued this work in the 2016-17 work year and can report that native growth and regeneration is progressing well. Furthermore, the Crofton weed has been successfully controlled as, to date, there has been zero seeding individuals observed in the offset area. Continued works such as these will result in a reduction of the seed bank in the area and reduce total numbers of individuals. c. Possible future works

During the months of May to September, focus should be placed on scouting for Crofton weed in the whole offset area. This will reduce seeding individuals. Also, further scouting of the surrounding creek lines will reduce seed production and seed runoff which would promote infestation to the offset area.

As new sections have been added to the works of the offset area, regular scouting should be upheld as Bidens pilosa (Bidens), Lantana camara (Lantana) and Crofton weed have been sighted in the good bush areas. These visits should occur no less frequently than monthly in order to accurately reduce the numbers of individuals penetrating the good bush. To reduce seed infestation of Bidens and Crofton, sediment fencing extension could be utilised adjacent to the drain line on the Haerses Road edge of the offset area.

The continued success of the offset area can be attributed to expert ecological restoration and regeneration techniques by Bush-It. As such, techniques including; soil and leaf litter translocation, brush matting and large rock and log placement is recommended to continue as part of future works.

3) Dixon Sands mine Site a. List of current works

Zone Date Work type name Work description Hours Dixon Sands mine site 19/07/2016 Spraying Targeted Ricinis 1 communis and Ageratina adenophora Dixon Sands mine site 19/07/2016 Maintenance Scouted for and treated 8.5 weeds as necessary, targeting Ageratina adenophora and Lantana Dixon Sands mine site 31/08/2016 Maintenance Cut and Paint Lantana 15 Dixon Sands mine site 31/08/2016 Spraying Spraying Castor Oil 1 Dixon Sands mine site 19/09/2016 Maintenance Treating Lantana 7.5 Dixon Sands mine site 12/10/2016 Spraying 2 Dixon Sands mine site 12/10/2016 Maintenance Targeted Lantana 13 Dixon Sands mine site 30/11/2016 Spraying Spraying Lantana camara 7.5 Dixon Sands mine site 28/02/2017 Maintenance Spray Castor Oil Plant and 7.5 Turkey Rhubarb in clearing north of zone 3. Scout for Lantana in adjoining bush. Dixon Sands mine site 15/03/2017 Primary Remove scattered 15 Lantana in undisturbed bush land. Define inner edge of Lantana buffer on weedy edges.

Dixon Sands mine site 15/03/2017 Maintenance Follow up on Caster Oil 3 Plant treating larger plants that were unaffected by spray. Dixon Sands mine site 5/04/2017 Spraying Spray 100:1 Glyphosate 8 on Turkey Rhubarb and Caster Oil Dixon Sands mine site 5/04/2017 Primary Cut and paint of Lantana 12 camara. Chainsaw and hand tools used. Dixon Sands mine site 26/04/2017 Maintenance >Cut and paint Caster oil 20 >Scout good bush around Melaleuca deanii section >Cut and paint Pampas grass Dixon Sands mine site 9/05/2017 Planting Planted Melaleuca deanei 9 and Darwinia fascicularis into the soil translocation area in lot 29

Dixon Sands mine site 28/06/2017 Maintenance Install plant guards to 8 plantings in new offset area. Water plantings. Remove exotic grasses in and around poffset area in mine site. Total hours: 138 b. Photos

Lantana removal from Lot 2

c. Soil translocation site

Soil translocation. Lot 29 April 2017

Soil translocation and plantings. Lot 29 April 2017

Planting of Melaleuca deanei. Lot 29 April 2017 d. Conclusions

Over the 2016-17 year, work has increased in the main mine site in comparison to previous years. This has been due to recommended works by Dixon Sands to reduce Lantana patches, scout good bush areas for target weeds, and assist in rehabilitation of revegetation areas on the mine site. These responsibilities are progressing positively in collaboration with Dixon Sands and its stakeholders with works continuing into the new financial year. e. Possible future works

Further scouting of the good bush areas of the entire mine site will be continually required to reduce weed penetration by target weeds, such as; Ricinus communis (Caster oil plant), Acetosa sagittata (Turkey Rhubarb), Lantana and Crofton weed. Reduction in numbers of mature individuals in the cleared section above the mine in Lot 1 will help to reduce seed influx to good bush areas. An integrated approach of mechanical removal of seeding plants and spraying would be recommended.

Continued rehabilitation of the soil translocation site in Lot 29 is recommended as it is adjacent to an area dense with Andropogon virginicus (Whisky grass). Regular scouting should be undertaken in the area to ensure target weed species are controlled.

Removal of Lantana patches from Lot 2 (or any others discovered) should be continued as previous efforts have been successful. There is good resilience in areas where Lantana has already been mechanically removed and should be monitored in future. Furthermore, the splatter gun technique could be utilised to reduce large patches of Lantana where there is little mid story to damage from off target spray.

4) Weeds treated Common name Scientific name Control method Bridal Creeper Asparagus asparagoides Manual treatment Turkey Rhubarb Acetosa sagittata Spraying Lantana Lantana camara Cut and Paint Lantana Lantana camara Manual treatment Lantana Lantana camara Spraying Blackberry Rubus fruticosus Spraying Crofton weed Ageratina adenophora Manual treatment Crofton weed Ageratina adenophora Spraying Bidens - Cobblers Peg Bidens pilosa Manual treatment Bidens - Cobblers Peg Bidens pilosa Spraying Fleabane Conyza spp. Slashing Fireweed Senecio madagascariensis Manual treatment Paddy's Lucerne Sida rhombifolia Manual treatment Paspalum Paspalum dilatatum Spraying Couch common Cynodon dactylon Manual treatment African Lovegrass Eragrostis curvula Manual treatment African Lovegrass Eragrostis curvula Spraying Whisky grass Andropogon virginicus Manual treatment Whisky grass Andropogon virginicus Slashing Castor Oil Ricinus communis Cut and Paint Castor Oil Ricinus communis Spraying Pigeon Grass Setaria spp. Manual treatment Pampas Grass (Cl.3 Noxious weed) Cortaderia selloana Cut and Paint Paspalum, large Paspalum urvillei Manual treatment

5) Herbicide usage Date Operator name Herbicide name Wind description Qty (mL) Volume sprayed Round-up, 19/07/2016 Patrick Gregson Glyphosate 0 - Calm 100 10 Round-up, 31/08/2016 Patrick Gregson Glyphosate 0 - Calm 70 7 Round-up, 12/10/2016 Patrick Gregson Glyphosate 1 - Light Air 200 20 15/11/2016 Patrick Gregson Garlon, Triclopyr 0 - Calm 60 30 Round-up, 30/11/2016 Patrick Gregson Glyphosate 0 - Calm 500 50 Round-up, 28/02/2017 Mark Fellows Glyphosate 0 - Calm 200 20 Round-up, 28/02/2017 Jesse Luscombe Glyphosate 0 - Calm 200 20 Round-up, 5/04/2017 Paul Kucera Glyphosate 0 - Calm 150 15 Round-up, 26/04/2017 Jesse Luscombe Glyphosate 2 - Light Breeze 50 5 Round-up, 9/05/2017 Paul Kucera Glyphosate 1 - Light Air 120 12

6) Natives planted Common name Scientific name Qty Date Native shrubs and trees N/A 50 9/05/2017 Old Man Banksia Banksia serrata 70 26/10/2016 Swamp She-Oak Casuarina glauca 70 26/10/2016 Tick Bush Kunzea ambigua 80 26/10/2016 Melaleuca Melaleuca spp. 80 26/10/2016 Deane's Paperbark Melaleuca deanei 5 9/05/2017

7) Appendix Total works by method (hours)

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Total Admin 15 0.5 0.5 5 4 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 1 4.5 0.5 33 Brush Matting 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Direct Seeding 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maintenance 33.5 29 22.5 28 27.25 30 6.5 22.5 7.5 40 13.5 28.25 288.5 Miscellaneous 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 16 Mulching 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Planting 0 0 0 24 6 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 39 Primary 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 12 0 0 27 Secondary 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Spraying 1 1 0 2 17 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 29 TOTAL 49.5 30.5 23 59 54.25 30.5 23 23 23 61 27 28.75 432.5

Total works by zone (hours)

Zone Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Total Admin 15 0.5 0.5 5 1 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 1 4.5 0.5 30 Hearses Rd Offset (translocation) 25 14 15 39 42.75 30 22.5 15 4.5 20 13.5 20.25 261.5 ONR Mine Site 9.5 16 7.5 15 7.5 0 0 7.5 18 40 9 8 138

Appendix H - Rehabilitation and Threatened Species Reports

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix H Dixon Sand Quarry Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report

089_TS2016

October 2016 Dixon Sand Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

Document Control

File name 089_TS2016

Report name Dixon Sand Quarry Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

Document 0.1 Version Prepared by: David Bone & Callan Douchkov Date: 1/5/17

Authorised by: David Bone Date: 2/5/17

Disclaimer This report has been prepared by Onsite Environmental Management Pty Ltd, with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the Contract with the client. We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the agreed scope of work. This report is confidential to the client and we accept no responsibility whatsoever for third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at their own risk.

i Dixon Sand Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

Table of Contents

1. Introduction...... 19 2. Background Information...... 19 3. Methodology...... 20 3.1 Study Team ...... 20 3.2 Kunzea rupestris Survey...... 20 3.3 Other Threatened Species Survey...... 20 4. Results 21 4.1 Kunzea rupestris Survey...... 21 4.1.1 Eastern Rock Platform ...... 21 4.1.2 Western Rock Platform ...... 28 4.2 Other Threatened Species...... 35 5. Conclusion...... 36

089_TS_2016 Page 1 Dixon Sand Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

1. Introduction

Dixon Sand Quarry is required to undertake threatened flora monitoring in accordance with Conditions of Consent DA 250-09-01 Modification 4 (Condition 4.9), and the Flora and Fauna Monitoring Program. The program requires a survey of revegetation works and quarry operations effects on Kunzea rupestris, T. glandulosa, and D. fascicularis subsp. oligantha by a qualified ecologist. The survey is required to assess the health of the existing communities and any threats or degradation from quarry operations. The survey is conducted over 2 main areas, Area 1 contains the Eastern and Western population of threatened species Kunzea rupestris, and a small population of Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha. Area 2 contains the active quarry area in the former Shale Sandstone Transition Forest EEC area. This location contains populations of T. glandulosa, and D. fascicularis subsp. oligantha and an individual plant of Melaleuca deanei.

OSEM established formal monitoring of the site during 2011, which involved a full survey of the K.rupestris population within Area 1 and other threatened species in Area 2.

To maximise the recording of cryptic species such as Tetratheca glandulosa survey times have been moved to Spring. This allows for detection of flowering of this species and also assists with positive identification of Darwinia fascicularis subsp. Oligantha as well as flowering assessment of the Kunzea rupestris and Melaleuca deanei populations.

2. Background Information

Kunzea rupestris is classified as vulnerable under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, and restricted to growing on the rock platforms only. The major threats to Kunzea rupestris according to the NSW Scientific Committee are track maintenance, fire suppression activities, sedimentation and subsequent competition, encroachment of weeds, damage to plants for the cut flower industry and destruction of habitat by soil and sand extraction. Kunzea rupestris is located within the quarry site on Lot 29, growing on shallow soil and moss on elevated rock platforms. Tetratheca glandulosa is classified as vulnerable under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. It is associated with shale-sandstone transition habitat including heaths, woodland, and open forest, and occupies ridgetops, upper-slopes and mid-slope sandstone benches where shale-cappings occur over sandstone. The major threats to Tetratheca glandulosa according to the NSW Scientific Committee are habitat loss through vegetation clearing and habitat degradation, in particular fire control activities, such as frequent prescribed burning, mechanical fuel reduction and construction/maintenance of fire access tracks. Tetratheca glandulosa is located within the quarry site on Lot 2, growing on exposed sandy soil in heath and forest associated with the SSTF EEC. The Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha Endangered Population is restricted to the Maroota area of Baulkham Hills and Hornsby Local Government Areas within the Sydney Basin Bioregion. This population is known from three remnant sites with an estimated total population of 500 in 1999. It occurs around rock platforms and in rocky heath associated with friable sandstone shallow soils. It is also located within Lot 29 growing in vegetation on rock platforms, and alongside Kunzea rupestris and common species such as Banksia ericifolia and Caustis flexuosa.

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Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Melaleuca) is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and EPBC Act. This species was recorded is known from one location within the site within Angophora costata – Corymbia gummifera Woodland. Due to the suckering nature of this species, obtaining counts of plants is difficult, so clumps of stems considered to represent one individual were recorded. A total of 18 clumps were recorded within the site by Cumberland Ecology (Cumberland Ecology, 2013). Due to this species producing flowers and seed at infrequent intervals of up to several years, identification of the plant is not restricted to seasonal variation and as such can be surveyed throughout the year. Identification of this species should be based on its habitat, alternate position of leaves and the shape of the leaves (DECCW, 2010). The location of the survey sites is shown in Figure 1.

3. Methodology

3.1 Study Team

OSEM Principal David Bone and OSEM Environmental Scientist Callan Douchkov undertook the threatened species survey on the 27th of October 2016. 3.2 Kunzea rupestris Survey

The survey area is broken into two sections; the eastern and western rock platforms. The extent of Kunzea rupestris has been defined into separate patches within each rock platform, as indicated in Figures 2 and 3. The perimeter of each patch was measured and recorded due to difficulty in plant clumps counting between survey personnel. The perimeter method will allow repetition of the survey more accurately than the plant clump method.. The method has removed the difficulty of determining individual plants, as a result of multiple stems arising from the plant base, and lateral connectivity below the soil surface. This method also causes less disturbance to the plants. A general assessment was also carried out on other species inhabiting the “patches” on these rock platforms and their peripheries. Photos of each patch were taken, with comparisons made to vegetation condition from photos taken in the previous survey. Marked photo points were also taken from different viewpoints on each rock platform to give an accurate indication of overall vegetation condition on each rock platform over time. Opportunistic survey for Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha was also undertaken during the monitoring of Kunzea rupestris on rock platforms. 3.3 Other Threatened Species Survey

The former EEC area shown as Area 2 on Figure 1 has been cleared for quarry activities approved under Modification 4. All of the Tetratheca glandulosa and most of the Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha locations have been cleared and therefore no survey was undertaken of these areas. The Melaleuca deanei was unaffected by quarry operations, and survey of this location was undertaken.

089_TS_2016 Page 20 Quarry operations & processing

Area 1 Kunzea rupestris & Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha conservation area

Area 2 Tetratheca glandulosa, Darwinia fascicularissubsp oligantha, Melaleuca deanei area

Source: Six Maps 2014 Threatened Flora Monitoring Locations N

089-2017 Dixon Sand Quarry Figure 1 Source: Nearmaps 2015 Eastern Rock Platform – N Kunzea rupestris populations

089-2017 Dixon Sand Quarry Figure 2 Source: Nearmaps 2015 Western Rock Platform – N Kunzea rupestris populations

089-2017 Dixon Sand Quarry Figure 3 Dixon Sand Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

4. Results

4.1 Kunzea rupestris Survey

4.1.1 Eastern Rock Platform Patch 1 The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 26 K. rupestris within Patch 1. All 26 clumps were again identified during the 2016 survey, with the condition of Kunzea clumps observed to generally be healthy, with no signs of die back or disease. Numerous new growths were observed from roots and older dead plants. Seeding was also observed in this patch. Animal diggings were recorded amongst lichen and moss at the base of the patch. Moss coverage was thick and had high levels of moisture. No weeds were observed within this patch. The perimeter of patch 1 was measured to be 21.8m in circumference. Other species observed growing within Patch 1 include: - Calytrix tetragona - Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha - Moss - Lichen

It can be seen from photos 1.1a & 1.1b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 1.

Photo 1.1a – ERP Patch 1, 2015 Photo 1.1b – ERP Patch 1, 2016

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Patch 2

The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 3 K. rupestris within Patch 2. All 3 clumps were again identified during the 2016 survey, with the condition of Kunzea clumps observed to be generally healthy, with no signs of die back or disease. No evidence of recruitment from the seed bank was observed. All plants within this patch were observed to have flowered. Moss coverage was thick, however appeared to be dry and had been subject to animal diggings. The perimeter of Patch 2 was recorded to be 7.3m in circumference. Other species observed growing within Patch 2 include: - Calytrix tetragona- Moss - Lichen

It can be seen from photos 1.2a & 1.2b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 2.

Photo 1.2a – ERP Patch 2, 2015 Photo 1.2b – ERP Patch 2, 2016

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Patch 3

The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 2 K. rupestris clumps within Patch 3. Both clumps were identified during the 2016 survey, with the condition of Kunzea clumps observed to be moderately healthy. Some orange leaves were observed on the plant, indicating some stress from dry weather conditions. No evidence of recruitment from the seed bank was observed, and no significant new growth was observed. The plant was observed to have flowered. Moss coverage was dry. No weeds were observed within this patch.

The perimeter of Patch 3 was recorded to be 6.4m in circumference.

Other species observed growing within Patch 3 include: - Moss - Lichen

It can be seen from photos 1.3a & 1.3b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 3.

Photo 1.3a – ERP Patch 3, 2015 Photo 1.3b – ERP Patch 3, 2016

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Patch 4

The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 5 K. rupestris within Patch 4. All 5 clumps were identified to be healthy, with no signs of die back or disease. No evidence of recruitment from the seed bank were observed, and no significant new growth was observed. The plant was observed to be flowering well. Moss coverage was thick. No weeds were observed within this patch.

The perimeter of Patch 4 was recorded to be 7m in circumference.

Other species observed growing within Patch 4 include: - Calytrix tetragona - Entolasia stricta - Lichen

It can be seen from photos 1.4a & 1.4b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 4.

Photo 1.4a – ERP Patch 4, 2015 Photo 1.4b – ERP Patch 4, 2016

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Eastern Rock Platform Photo Points

It can be seen from Photo Points 1 and 2 (Photos 1.5 to 1.8 below) that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris on the eastern rock platform.

Photo 1.5 - ERP Photo Point 1, 2015

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Photo 1.6 - ERP Photo Point 1, 2016

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Photo 1.7 - ERP Photo Point 2, 2015

Photo 1.8 - ERP Photo Point 2 2016

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4.1.2 Western Rock Platform

Patch 1

The initial 2011 survey identified approximately 6 K. rupestris clumps within Patch 1. All 6 clumps were identified during the 2016 survey. The condition of Kunzea clumps observed to be fair, however one clump had died. A small amount of flowers were observed on some plants. No evidence of recruitment from the seed bank was observed. Moss coverage was moderate yet dry.

The perimeter of Patch 1 was recorded to be 15.7m in circumference.

It can be seen from photos 11 & 12 that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 1. Other species observed growing within Patch 1 include: - Calytrix tetragona - Banksia ericifolia Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha - Moss

It can be seen from photos 2.1a & 2.1b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 1.

Photo 2.1a – WRP Patch 1, 2015 Photo 2.1b – WRP Patch 1, 2016

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Patch 2

The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 14 K. rupestris within Patch 2. All 14 clumps were identified during the 2016 survey. The condition of Kunzea clumps was observed to be healthy. No new growth was observed from the seed bank. No flowering was observed within this patch. Moss coverage was poor and dry, and patches of bare sand were present. No weeds were observed within this patch.

The perimeter of Patch 2 was recorded to be 20.2 meters in circumference.

Other species observed growing within Patch 1 include: - Calytrix tetragona - Grevillia buxifolia Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha - Caustis flexuosa - Moss - Lichen

It can be seen from photos 2.2a & 2.2b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 2, however moss and lichen growth has reduced with bare soil visible.

Photo 2.2a – ERP Patch 1, 2015 Photo 2.2b – ERP Patch 1, 2016

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Patch 3

The initial survey conducted in 2011 did not identify any K. rupestris within Patch 3. This patch contains evidence of previous K. rupestris growth. However this area still represents suitable habitat for recolonization. Moss coverage was poor and observed to be browning off due to dry conditions. Patches of sand were observed within the patch.

The perimeter of Patch 3 was recorded to be 5.9m in circumference.

Other species observed to be in the area were: - Leucopogon parviflorus - Moss

Photo 2.3a – ERP Patch 1, 2015 Photo 2.3b – ERP Patch 1, 2016

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Patch 4

The initial survey conducted in 2011 identified approximately 16 K. rupestris within Patch 4. All 16 clumps were identified during the 2016 survey growing along the edge of the road. The condition of Kunzea clumps was observed to be healthy, with no dieback or disease. Plant was observed to be flowering well. Moss coverage was moderate to poor with a dry crust, and patches of bare sand present. No weeds were observed within this patch.

The perimeter of Patch 4 was recorded to be 15.6m in circumference.

Other species observed growing within Patch 4 include: - Calytrix tetragona - Grevillia buxifolia - Caustis flexuosa - Banksia ericifolia - Isopogon anethifolius - Bossiaea scolopendria - Petrophile pulchella Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha

It can be seen from photos 2.4a & 2.4b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 4.

Photo 2.4a – ERP Patch 1 2015 Photo 2.4b – ERP Patch 1 2016

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Patch 5

The 2011 survey identified approximately 17 K. rupestris clumps within Patch 5. All 17 clumps were identified during the 1016 survey, with the condition of Kunzea clumps observed to be healthy with no signs of die back or disease. New plants were observed to be growing off roots. Most plants had flowered, with some plants still flowering. Moss coverage was moderate with a dry crust. No weeds were observed within this patch.

The perimeter of Patch 5 was recorded to be 43.4m in circumference.

Other species observed growing within Patch 5 include: - Acacia ulicifolia - Corymbia eximia - Dianella revoluta - Grevillea speciosa - Leucopogon parviflorus - Melaleuca sp. - Zieria cystisodes - Angophora hispida - Banksia ericifolia - Calytrix tetragona - Caustis flexuosa - Grevillia buxifolia - Isopogon anethifolius - Persoonia levis - Petrophile pulchella

It can be seen from photos 2.5a & 2.5b that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris in Patch 2.

Photo 2.5a – ERP Patch 1, 2015 Photo 2.5b – ERP Patch 1, 2016

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Western Rock Platform Photo Points It can be seen from Photo Points 1 and 2 (refer to photos 2.6 to 2.9 below) that there has been no observable change in condition of K.rupestris on the eastern rock platform. A number of Darwinia fascicularis subsp oligantha were also observed in flower on the western rock platform, within and surrounding Patches 1 and 2.

Photo 2.6 - WRP Photo Point 1, 2015

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Photo 2.7 - WRP Photo Point 1, 2016

Photo 2.8 - WRP Photo Point 2, 2015

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Photo 2.9 - WRP Photo Point 2, 2016 4.2 Other Threatened Species

A survey of the former Shale Transition Forest EEC was not undertaken due to active quarry operations occurring in this area. The areas of known threatened species, Tetratheca glandulosa and Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha were largely cleared with some specimens translocated to the biodiversity offset corridor rehabilitation which had recently commenced. The survey of these areas will be incorporated into the 2017 monitoring program in accordance with the approved Flora and Fauna Monitoring program.

Survey of the Melaleuca deanei location was undertaken and no changes from the 2013 survey of this location by Cumberland Ecology was noted. 18 plant clumps were still present and no flowering was observed. No fruits were observed on the plants and no new plants areas were identified in suitable habitat areas surveyed.

Cuttings of this plant have been taken by Dixon Sands for propagation and replanting. The progress on this program will be updated during the 2017 reporting period.

Minimal weeds were observed within the area, with the initial 20-30m from the northern edge of the active quarry area containing weed species with other areas dominated by thicker vegetation such as B. ericifolia, Calytrix tetragona, Kunzea ambigua and Leptospermum trinervium.

089_TS_2016 Page 35 Dixon Sand Annual Threatened Species Monitoring Report 2016

5. Conclusion

Kunzea rupestris Survey No observable change was observed in the Kunzea rupestris populations compared to previous monitoring periods. No evidence was observed that quarry operations are impacting this species or surrounding vegetation. No new locations of Kunzea were identified.

Other Threatened Species Survey Since the last survey in 2015, this area has been approved for quarrying and most of the survey locations have now been cleared under modification 4. Remaining locations of threatened species will be removed during the 2017-2018 period as quarrying progresses through the former buffer area. The translocation and propagation of threatened species will be monitored in the 2017 program with translocation areas within the rehabilitation biodiversity corridor to be setup for ongoing monitoring.

089_TS_2016 Page 36

Appendix I – Haerses Road Biodiversity Offset Area Baseline Survey Report

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix I Dixon Sand (Penrith) Pty Ltd

Ecological Monitoring Report Haerses Road Quarry, Maroota

J089_Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1

September 2016 Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

Document Control

Report name Ecological Monitoring Report Haerses Road Quarry, Maroota

Document 1 Version

Prepared by: Callan Douchkov, David Bone Date: 1/5/17

Authorised by: David Bone Date: 10/9/17

i Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

Table of Contents 1. Introduction ...... 1

1.1 Introduction...... 1

1.2 Site Visit...... 2

2. Background Information ...... 2

2.1 Existing Site Description ...... 2

2.2 Threatened Flora Species...... 3

2.3 Fauna Habitat ...... 3

3. Survey Methodology ...... 5

3.1 Survey Techniques ...... 5

3.2 Key Performance Indicators...... 7

4. Results10

4.1 Native Vegetation ...... 10

4.3 Threatened Species...... 19

4.4 Feral animals ...... 19

4.5 Erosion, Bushfire and Access ...... 19

5. Discussion ...... 20

6. Recommendations...... 24

Figures

Figure 1 Project Site ………………………………………………………………. 3

Figure 2 Survey Site Locations …………………………………………………………………………… 3

Appendices

Appendix A Survey Species List

Appendix B Declared Weeds of Greater Sydney

J089_Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1 Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

1. Introduction 1.1 Introduction

The objective of this assessment is to ensure compliance with the approved Biodiversity Management Plan (BMP) prepared to address condition of consent (3.49B). The objectives of the BMP are:

 Maintain existing areas of high quality forest and woodland vegetation;

 Implement assisted natural regeneration methods to increase the ecological integrity of the Haerses Road Offset Area and to enhance the native vegetation it contains;

 Introduce additional fauna habitat features, where required, to improve the availability of fauna habitat;

 Secure land to create and improve wildlife corridors and link to existing conservation reserves;

 Reduce weed species and feral animal distribution and abundance;

 Reduce areas of erosion;

 Minimise the risk of bushfires; and

 Create a substantial area of high quality habitat for native fauna that will be protected for conservation in the long-term.

This report has been prepared to address the requirements of Chapter six (6) of the approved BMP. The requirements of the monitoring program are:

 Collection of baseline data within the vegetation communities;

 Monitoring of native vegetation communities within the site to monitor the condition of native vegetation and to ensure vegetation communities are being maintained by reference to baseline data;

 Monitoring of fauna habitat;

 Monitoring of weed species; and

 Monitoring of feral animals.

The results of this monitoring program will form the baseline dataset for the site and will be used to evaluate the management actions undertaken at the site.

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1.2 Site Visit

Ecological surveys were conducted by David Bone, and Callan Douchkov over a two day period on the 27th of November 2016 and the 1st of December 2016. Weather conditions during the survey were fine with afternoon thunderstorms on 27th of November.

2. Background Information 2.1 Existing Site Description

The Haerses Road Offset Area is comprised of parts of Lots 176 and 177 DP752039, on the eastern side of Haerses Road, Maroota and is 8.70 hectares (ha) in size. It forms the south- eastern portion of the Haerses Property (see Figure 1). The Haerses Road Offset Area is located approximately 1.5 km south west of the township of Maroota and approximately 2.3 km south of the Project within the Hills Shire Council Local Government Area (LGA).

An extensive area of vegetated land adjoins the Haerses Road Offset Area to the east and south, with Marramarra National Park located further to the east (see Figure 1.). In the west, the Haerses Road Offset Area is bounded by sand extraction activities and agricultural lands. Maroota Ridge State Conservation Area is located approximately four (4) km to the south-west of the Haerses Road Offset Area, creating a significant vegetated corridor from Marrramarra National Park. The northern boundary of the Haerses Road Offset Area is bounded by a fire trail, with another fire trail crossing through the southern portion of the site.

The Haerses Road Offset Area is situated on the eastern edge of a ridgeline, with the topography of the site comprised of undulating hills, gently sloping towards Little Cattai Creek in the east.

Four vegetation communities have been identified within the Haerses Road Offset Area. They include:

 Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland;

 Sydney Hinterland Transition Woodland;

 Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest; and

 Sydney Sandstone Heath (Heath/Woodland Complex).

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2.2 Threatened Flora Species

One threatened flora species, Darwinia biflora, has been recorded within the Haerses Road Offset Area (see Figure 1) and is listed as Vulnerable under both the TSC Act and the EPBC Act.

Suitable habitat exists within the Haerses Road Offset Area for Tetratheca glandulosa and Melaleuca deanei. Previous surveys (Greenloaning Biostudies, 2002) adjacent to the Haerses Road Offset Area have identified individuals of Tetratheca glandulosa within the Sydney Sandstone Heath community. Habitat for this species within the Haerses Road Offset Area includes the Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland and Sydney Sandstone Heath communities

Melaleuca deanei occurs within ridgetop woodland, with only 5% of known sites recorded in heath on sandstone (OEH, 2013a). Habitat for this species exists within the Haerses Road Offset Area in the Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland, Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest and Sydney Sandstone Heath vegetation communities (Tindall, 2004), although it has never been recorded at the Haerses Road site.

2.3 Fauna Habitat

Fauna habitats including logs and rock cover as well as parameters such as standing water, leaf litter and cover are measured as part of the transect surveys undertaken. This report establishes the baseline for these parameters as an indicator of fauna habitat health.

J089 Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1 Page 3 Source: Cumberland Ecology 2014 Hearses Road Biodiversity

N Offset Area Location Hearses Road Biodiversity Offset Figure 1 Source: Google Earth 2017 Location of Tetratheca Location of Darwinia Biodiversity Offset Area glandulosa biflora N Transect Locations

089-2004 Hearses Road – Biodiversity Offset Area Figure 2 Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

3. Survey Methodology 3.1 Survey Techniques

Each monitoring site will contain a 20 x 50 m ecosystem monitoring plot and transect that will be permanently marked by GPS points at the eastern and western ends of the midline of each plot. The coordinates of each monitoring plot will be recorded using a hand held GPS unit. Within each 20 x 50 plot a subplot will be established, measuring 20 m x 20 m.

During monitoring, the following measurements will be collected and recorded at each monitoring site (20 x 50 m) to measure the quality and condition of the vegetation and habitat for flora and fauna species:

 Regeneration of canopy species;

 Evidence of disturbance by feral animals;

 Standing dead timber and cumulative length of fallen logs;

 Presence of water;

 A waypoint to mark the location of the quadrat, using a handheld GPS unit;

 Photographs of the area; and

 General comments especially on seasonal conditions, past management, etc.

Within the subplot (20 x 20m), biometric measurements will be collected and recorded for:

 All vascular flora species present;

 The stratum in which each species occurred;

 Weeds present; and

 The relative abundance and cover of each plant species in each stratum.

Along the transect line, biometric measurements will be collected and recorded at 5 m intervals including the following:

 Native overstorey (NOS): height, health and projected foliage cover;

 Native mid-storey (NMS): height, health and projected foliage cover; and

 Native groundcover (NGC): height, health and projected foliage cover, including:

 Grass cover;

 Litter;

J089 Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1 Page 5 Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

 Bare ground;

 Mosses and lichens; and

 Weeds.

The relative abundance and cover of each species within the quadrat will be approximated using a scoring system modified from the Braun-Blanquet scoring system (Braun-Blanquet, 1927). The classes used are provided in Table 1.

Table 1 Modified Braun-Blanquet Classes used in Quadrat Surveys

Class Cover-abundance Notes 1 Less than 5% cover - rare Herbs, sedges and grasses: less than 3 individuals. Shrubs and small trees: less than 3 individuals. Medium - large overhanging tree. 2 Less than 5% cover - occasional Herbs, sedges and grasses: up to 10 individuals Shrubs and small trees: 3-5 individuals. 3 5% - 25% cover – common - 4 25% - 50% cover - 5 50% - 75 % cover - 6 >75% cover -

Table 2 Vegetation health

Class Cover-abundance Notes 0 Very poor Dieback evident, burnt areas, no growth observed. Moos dead and no water present or very limited wet areas.

1 Poor As with 0 however some signs of growth after fires or on tree trunks and branches, seedlings emerging. Wet areas evident but no ponding of water

2 Fair Strong signs of growth however some dead branches or patches evident. Water ponding in drainage line areas in some locations 3 Good Strong signs of growth, evidence of flowering or seed set, numerous seedlings of different species growing, water flowing or numerous ponds evident, moss lush and damp.

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3.2 Key Performance Indicators

All results from monitoring will be compared to the following key performance indicators (KPI’s). This report establishes the baseline data for these indicators, with subsequent reports providing an assessment of management actions undertaken against these KPI’s. Table 2 shows the KPI’s approved in the BMP.

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Table 2 – Haerses Road Offset Area KPI’s

Item Description Current Risks Management Measurable Key Performance Completion Criteria of Works Overall Objective Indicator Condition Native Management To be Decrease in Aim to maintain or % Native overstorey cover Maintain or Increase above Vegetation and collected in quality of increase vegetation (NOS) benchmark condition. monitoring of baseline vegetation and condition from % Native mid-storey cover retained surveys (i.e. fauna habitat. baseline condition (NMS) vegetation. first year of identified during % Native groundcover (NGC) monitoring). surveys. Mosses/lichen cover (%) Organic litter cover (%) Rock/bare ground cover (%) Total native species richness (NPS) Native species richness (canopy) Native species richness (mid- storey) Native species richness (groundcover) % Canopy recruitment (REG) Total length (m) of fallen logs (FL)

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Item Description Current Risks Management Measurable Key Performance Completion Criteria of Works Overall Objective Indicator Condition Weeds Control and Species and Increase in Decrease and Decline in weed diversity, Low levels or no presence of monitoring of extent of weed control weed density and abundance. weeds, No new weed species. weed species weed infestation, the diversity, density Limited recruitment of weed and their infestations density and and abundance. species. diversity and identified distribution, abundance during and diversity of baseline weed species. surveys (i.e. first year of monitoring). Feral Animals Control and To be Increase in Decrease and Decline in signs of feral Low levels or no indication of monitoring of collected in feral animal control feral animal animal activity. feral animal activity. No new feral animal baseline activity, activity and impacts feral animal activity. activity surveys (i.e. degradation of on vegetation and first year of vegetation. fauna habitat. monitoring). General Management To be Development Monitor and control Degradation of vegetation, Maintenance of vegetation Maintenance and collected in of erosion of erosion; signs of erosion, visible signs and fauna habitat; for Erosion, monitoring of baseline spots, Maintenance of of uncontrolled activities and No occurrences of erosion; Site Access erosion, surveys (i.e. deterioration of fences; unauthorized site access and Intact fences; and Bushfire fences, first year of fences, illegal Monitor and control increased risk of bushfire. controlled monitoring). rubbish of unauthorized site No signs of unauthorized site activities and dumping, access; access or uncontrolled bushfire risk. unauthorized Reduce the risk of activities; site access bushfires. and Low risk of bushfires. occurrence of bushfire.

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4. Results 4.1 Native Vegetation

There are three distinct vegetation communities present in the offset area:  Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland;  Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest; and  Sydney Sandstone Heath (Heath/Woodland Complex).

Results for the baseline assessment of native vegetation are presented in Graphs 1 to 6.

70.0 Sydney Sandstone Ridegtop Woodland -

60.0 Projective Foliage Cover Baseline Data 2016

50.0

40.0

30.0

20.0

10.0

0.0 Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Native Overstorey (NOS) Native Mid Storey Native Ground Cover

Graph 1 – Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland Baseline Data – Projective Foliage Cover 2016

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70.0 Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest -

60.0 Projective Foliage Cover Baseline Data 2016

50.0

40.0

30.0

20.0

10.0

0.0 Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Native Overstorey (NOS) Native Mid Storey Native Ground Cover

Graph 2 – Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest Baseline Data – Projective Foliage Cover 2016

70.0 Sydney Sandstone Heath/Woodland

60.0 Complex - Projective Foliage Cover Baseline Data 2016

50.0

40.0

30.0

20.0

10.0

0.0 Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Height (m) Cover % Native Overstorey Native Mid Storey Native Ground Cover

Graph 3 – Sydney Sandstone Heath/Woodland Complex Baseline Data – Projective Foliage Cover 2016

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7.0 Sydney Sandstone Ridegtop Woodland - Habitat Parameters 6.0 Baseline Data 2016

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0 Grass Litter Bare Moss Weeds Logs (m)

Graph 4 – Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland Baseline Data – Habitat Parameters 2016

7.0 Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest - Habitat Parameters 6.0 Baseline Data 2016

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0 Grass Litter Bare Moss Weeds Logs (m)

Graph 5 – Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest Baseline Data – Habitat Parameters 2016

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7.0 Sydney Sandstone Heath/Woodland Complex - Habitat Parameters 6.0 Baseline Data 2016

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0.0 Grass Leaf Litter Bare Ground Moss Weeds Logs (m)

Graph 6 – Sydney Sandstone Heath/Woodland Complex Baseline Data – Habitat Parameters 2016

The monitoring results, show that the communities which form the Biodiversity Offset area at the Haerses Road Site are generally in good condition with relatively few weeds present. The ridgetop woodland site shows some weeds present and this area has the most open frontage to the disturbed areas on the lease as well as walking tracks traversing the area. The average score for the two transects in this community equates to approximately 5% cover of weed species.

Logs length has been assessed as the average length of logs over the total number of transects for each community. The transect length is 50m and the assessment area is 1m either side of the transect. This provides a total assessment area of 100m2. Log length average data will be used as the completion criteria for the rehabilitation areas in the Haerses Road lease area, see Table 3. Log length ranged from 3m/100m2 in the Heath Woodland Complex to 6.5m/100m2 in the Gully Forest Community. The Ridge Woodland community contained an average of 4m/100m2.

All communities were scored as a 3 for vegetation health, with all areas of the offset area exhibiting signs of new growth, flowering and seeding, The Gully Forest area also contained standing water in pools in the rocky drainage lines.

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The communities showed similar species richness with all communities recording over 40 species per 20 x 20m quadrat. Results for species richness are shown in Graph 7.

Hearses Road - Vegetation Community Species Richness 60.5

59.5

58.5

57.5 No. of Species

56.5

55.5 Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland Sandstone Gully Forest Sandstone Heath

Graph 7 – Species Richness

4.2 Weeds

Listed weeds in the Greater Sydney Region are closely monitored across the lease area. With the enacting of the Biosecurity Act 2015 from the 1st of July 2017, the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 has been repealed. Plants listed on the DPI NSW Weedwise web site for the Greater Sydney Region have been assessed during the surveys and the results are provided in Table 3. Within the Offset area weed species were observed within the transect areas in all communities.

Weed species numbers were generally considered to be low and were noted to be generally more common on the disturbed edges. This is likely due to the area being accessible from the active quarry areas in the past and the edge effects of active quarry areas against the offset area. This is particularly evident given that weed species were only observed in areas which have a boundary with the active disturbed and weedy areas of the mining area or former rehabilitation areas where exotic species such as Couch and White Clover were utilised. This is displayed in Table 3 below, which shows at which sites each weed species was recorded, and provides an abundance rating for the species.

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Table 3 – Weed Species Abundance

Species Biosecurity Sandstone Sandstone Sandstone Management Ridgetop Gully Heath Priority and Woodland Forest Duty

Whisky Grass (Andropogon viginicus) Not listed 1 1

Flatweed (Hypochaeris radicata) Not listed 2

Lantana (Lantana camara) Priority: 1 Manage Sites Duty: Must not be imported into the State or sold Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum) Not listed 1

Ribwort (Plantago lanceolata) Not listed 1

White Clover (Trifolium repens) Not listed 1

Note: % cover details in Table 1.

From Table 3 it is clear that the offset area transects contain very few weeds and also that weeds are a low percentage of the overall cover in the offset area. Lantana is the only weed present which has a priority ranking under the Biosecurity Act 2016. Whisky Grass was found in two of the three communities in low numbers (<5%) and Flatweed was noted to be the most abundant (although still less than 5% cover) in the moister and more protected Gully Forest.

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The ridge forest community is the most open community in the offset area with an open canopy, sparse mid storey and open groundcover. This community has a high percentage cover of leaf litter, moderate cover of grasses, a moderate amount of bare ground and at least 4m of logs per 100m2.

Photo 1 – Sydney Sandstone Ridge Woodland Community

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The gully forest community shows much taller canopy heights, moister species composition, a denser mid storey and a lower degree of bare ground. The community has a moderate coverage of leaf litter, grasses, mosses and a low degree of bare ground. Habitat areas such as logs were assessed to occur at a density of approximately 6.5m per 100m2.

Photo 2 – Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest Community

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The heath community contains a low open canopy and understorey with a dense groundcover layer (<1m). The community has a moderate coverage of leaf litter and a higher than average bare percentage compared to the other communities. This is due to partially to the rock outcropping at the top of the ridgeline where this community is located and is also supported by the higher than average presence of mosses and lichens across the rocky areas. A moderate percentage of logs was also observed with the community having a density of logs of approximately 3m per 100m2.

Photo 3 – Sydney Sandstone Heath Woodland Community

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4.3 Threatened Species

The biodiversity offset area is known to contain individuals of the two known threatened flora species on the lease. These species are:

 Tetratheca glandulosa  Darwinia biflora

These species are known from the Heath/Woodland and Ridgetop Woodland Communities on the lease.

The results from the 2016 survey note that both species were recorded in the biodiversity offset area. Darwinia biflora was recorded in the Heath Community transects at <5% cover and Tetratheca glandulosa was recorded in the Heath Community and Ridgetop Woodland transects at <5% cover.

4.4 Feral animals

The survey of the area was conducted over a two day period, no direct or indirect evidence of feral animal presence was noted during transect surveys. Anecdotal reports of wild dogs in this area were provided to the team, however no evidence of these animals presence in the area was observed.

4.5 Erosion, Bushfire and Access

Erosion was noted to be contributing to more open areas on the western edges of the heath community and the upper parts of the Gully Forest. Erosion controls were observed to be in place and will require continued maintenance following rainfall to ensure that materials do not wash further into the offset area. No erosion issues were noted outside of this upper edge of disturbance and the general areas further away from the western edge of the offset area showed no signs of erosion.

Bushfire signs were evident from hot burns as a result of wildfire several years ago. No recent fire activity was noted in any communities. Litter cover was noted to be between 50 to >75% across the transects with most litter noted in the Ridgetop Woodland Community.

Access to the site has been restricted to pedestrian access only and few tracks exist in the area. Tracks appear to be actively used by walkers with footprints noted on all tracks utilised to gain access to transect locations. No impacts such as camping, rubbish or vegetation damage were noted in the areas inspected across the offset area.

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5. Discussion

This baseline information for the offset area is summarised in Table 4, which contains the percentage cover and habitat information for the area.

The results how that the area is in good health, has relatively few weeds and contains specimens of the threatened flora species to be impacted within the lease area under approved extraction boundaries.

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Table 4 – Baseline KPI’s

Item Management Objective Measurable Key Performance Indicator Background Completion Criteria Data Native Aim to maintain or increase vegetation % Native overstorey cover (NOS) 23.9% Maintain or Increase Vegetation condition from baseline condition identified % Native mid-storey cover (NMS) 12.5% above benchmark during surveys. condition. Ridgetop % Native groundcover (NGC) 28.4% Woodland Mosses/lichen cover (%) <5% Organic litter cover (%) >75% Rock/bare ground cover (%) <25% Total native species richness (NPS) 60 Native species richness (canopy) 8 Native species richness (mid-storey) 12 Native species richness (groundcover) 40 % Canopy recruitment (REG) 5-25% (3) Total length (m) of fallen logs (FL) 4m/100m2 Native Aim to maintain or increase vegetation % Native overstorey cover (NOS) 32.7% Maintain or Increase Vegetation condition from baseline condition identified % Native mid-storey cover (NMS) 40.5% above benchmark during surveys. condition. Gully % Native groundcover (NGC) 45.5% Forest Mosses/lichen cover (%) <5% Organic litter cover (%) <75% Rock/bare ground cover (%) 5% Total native species richness (NPS) 58 Native species richness (canopy) 6 Native species richness (mid-storey) 15

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Item Management Objective Measurable Key Performance Indicator Background Completion Criteria Data Native species richness (groundcover) 37 % Canopy recruitment (REG) <5% (2) Total length (m) of fallen logs (FL) 6.5m/100m2 Native Aim to maintain or increase vegetation % Native overstorey cover (NOS) 34.1% Maintain or Increase Vegetation condition from baseline condition identified % Native mid-storey cover (NMS) 34.1% above benchmark during surveys. condition. Heath % Native groundcover (NGC) 68.2% Woodland Mosses/lichen cover (%) 5% Organic litter cover (%) >75% Rock/bare ground cover (%) <25% Total native species richness (NPS) 56 Native species richness (canopy) 3 Native species richness (mid-storey) 14 Native species richness (groundcover) 39 % Canopy recruitment (REG) <5% (2) Total length (m) of fallen logs (FL) 3m/100m2 Weeds Decrease and control weed diversity, density Decline in weed diversity, density and Low levels or no and abundance. abundance. Limited recruitment of weed presence of weeds, No species. new weed species.

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Item Management Objective Measurable Key Performance Indicator Background Completion Criteria Data Feral Decrease and control feral animal activity and Decline in signs of feral animal activity. <5% across all Low levels or no Animals impacts on vegetation and fauna habitat. transects indication of feral animal activity. No new feral animal activity.

General Monitor and control of erosion; Degradation of vegetation, signs of Vegetation Maintenance of Maintenan Maintenance of fences; erosion, visible signs of uncontrolled health = Good vegetation and fauna ce for Monitor and control of unauthorized site activities and unauthorized site access habitat; Erosion, access; and increased risk of bushfire. Fencing in place Reduce the risk of bushfires. No occurrences of Site and no Access erosion; uncontrolled and Intact fences; Bushfire access No signs of unauthorized evidence site access or Recent bushfire uncontrolled activities; not noted. Fuel Low risk of bushfires. levels high, litter >75% cover.

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6. Recommendations

The current management tasks at the quarry should continue as they appear to be effective in controlling impacts to adjacent areas and show continued good environmental management of the adjacent environment:

The following tasks are recommended for the 2017 period:

 Ongoing management of erosion control and fencing of access tracks

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Appendix A – Survey Species List

J089 Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1 Stratum Canopy Hearses Road - Vegetation Mid storey 60 58 57 Groundcover SRW SGF SH

Sandstone Sandstone Sandstone Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name Ridgetop Gully Forest Heath Woodland

M Mimosaceae Acacia fimbriata Fringed Wattle 4 G Mimosaceae Acacia linifolia Flax Wattle 2 G Mimosaceae Acacia myrtifolia Red-stemmed Wattle 2 M Mimosaceae Acacia parramattensis Sydney Green Wattle 3 M Mimosaceae Acacia rubida 1 G Mimosaceae Acacia suaveolens Sweet Scented Wattle 2 2 G Mimosaceae Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses 1 3 2 G Orchidaceae Acianthus extertus Pixie Cap Orchid 1 G Asteraceae Actinotus helianthus Flannel Flower 1 G Asteraceae Actinotus minor Lesser Flannel Flower 4 4 4 G Adiantaceae Adiantum aethiopicum Common Maidenhair 1 M Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak 3 4 M Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina torulosa Forest Oak 4 2 G Poaceae Andropogon virginicus* Whisky Grass 1 1 C Myrtaceae Angophora costata Smooth-barked Apple 4 4 C Myrtaceae Angophora hispida Dwarf Apple 2 4 G Poaceae Anisopogon avenaceus Oat Speargrass 1 4 G Restionaceae Baloskion tetraphyllum Plume Rush 4 4 Banksia ericifolia var. M Proteaceae Heath-leaved Banksia ericifolia 4 4 M Proteaceae Banksia oblongifolia 3 M Proteaceae Banksia serrata Old Man Banksia 3 2 1 M Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia 3.5 2 Billardiera scandens var. G Pittosporaceae Apple Dumplings scandens 2 2 G Blechnaceae Blechnum indicum Swamp Fern 1 G Rutaceae Boronia floribunda 2 3 2 G Rutaceae Boronia ledifolia Sydney Boronia 3.5 G Fabaceae Bossiaea obcordata Spiny Bossiaea 4 5 3 G Fabaceae Bossiaea ensata Sword Bossiaea 3.5 2 G Colchicaceae Burchardia umbellata Milkmaids 1 G Orchidaceae Caladenia catenata White Caladenia 1 M Cunoniaceae Callicoma serratifolia Black Wattle 2 M Myrtaceae Calytrix tetragona - 2 4

G Lauraceae Cassytha pubescens Common Devil’s Twine 3 1 2 G Cyperaceae Caustis recurvata 1 4 1

M Cunoniaceae Ceratopetalum gummiferum Christmas Bush 5 G Pteridaceae Cheilanthes sieberi Poison Rock Fern 4.5 Clematis glycinoides var. G Ranunculaceae Clematis glycinoides 2 C Myrtaceae Corymbia eximia Yellow Bloodwood 4 C Myrtaceae Corymbia gummifera Red Bloodwood 4 5 2 G Orchidaceae Cryptostylis subulata Large Tongue Orchid 1 G Goodeneiaceae Dampiera stricta 3 3 G Myrtaceae Darwinia biflora 2 Dianella caerulea var. G Phormiaceae Blue Flax Lily producta 1 2 1 G Fabaceae Dillwynia retorta sp Eggs and Bacon 2 2 G Blechnaceae Doodia aspera Prickly Rasp Fern 1 M Sapindaceae Dodonaea triquetra Hop Bush 2 Sandstone Sandstone Sandstone Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name Ridgetop Gully Forest Heath Woodland

G Poaceae Echinopogon ovatus Forest Hedgehog Grass 2 M Elaeocarpaceae Elaeocarpus reticulatus Blueberry Ash 2 G Poaceae Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic 1 5 G Epacridaceae Epacris pulchella NSW Coral Heath 2 3 C Myrtaceae Eucalyptus acmenoides White Mahogany 2 1 C Myrtaceae Eucalyptus haemastoma Scribbly Gum 2.5 4 C Myrtaceae Eucalyptus pilularis Blackbutt 4 Eucalyptus piperita subsp. C Myrtaceae Sydney Peppermint piperita 3 1 C Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata Grey Gum 2.5 2 M Cyperaceae Gahnia clarkei Tall Saw Sedge 2 G Goodeneiaceae Goodenia hederacea Forest Goodenia 2 G Halagoraceae Gonocarpus teucriodies Raspwort 2 2

G Fabaceae Gompholobium latifolium Golden Glory Pea 2 3 M Proteaceae Grevillea buxifolia Grey Spider Flower 2.5 4 M Proteaceae Grevillea sericea Red Spider Flower 2 4 M Proteaceae Hakea dactyloides Finger Hakea 2 4 G Fabaceae Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsparilla 2 2 2 G Dilleniaceae Hibbertia aspera 4 5 G Dilleniaceae Hibbertia obtusifolia Hoary Guinea Flower 3 G Fabaceae Hovea linearis 1 G Violaceae Hybanthus monopetalus 2 G Asteraceae Hypochaeris radicata* Flatweed 2 Imperata cylindrica var. G Poaceae Blady Grass major 1

G Proteaceae Isopogon anemonifolius Flat-leaved Drumsticks 1 G Proteaceae Lambertia formosa Mountain Devil 3 2 6 M Verbenaceae Lantana camara* Lantana 1

M Malvaceae Lasiopetalum parviflorum 1 G Cyperaceae Lepidosperma laterale 5 2 Leptospermum G Myrtaceae Lemon Scented Tea-tree polygalifolium 4

M Myrtaceae Leptospermum trinervium Flaky-barked Tea-tree 4.5 5 6 Small-leaved G Epacridaceae Leucopogon lanceolatus Whitebeard 2 G Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea linearis Screw Fern 6 Lomandra glauca subsp. G Lomandraceae - glauca 2 G Lomandraceae Lomandra gracilis 4

G Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiky-headed Mat-rush 4

G Lomandraceae Lomandra multiflora Many-flowered Mat-rush 3 G Lomandraceae Lomandra obliqua Twisted Mat-rush 4 2 M Proteaceae Lomatia silaifolia Crinkle Bush 1 Microlaena stipoides var. G Poaceae Weeping Rice Grass stipoides 2 2

G Poaceae Oplismenus aemulus Australian Basket Grass 2 G Apocynaceae Parsonsia straminea Common Silkpod 1 G Poaceae Paspalum dilatatum* Paspalum 1

M Proteaceae Persoonia levis Broad-leaved Geebung 2 3 Sandstone Sandstone Sandstone Stratum Family Scientific Name Common Name Ridgetop Gully Forest Heath Woodland

M Proteaceae Persoonia linearis Narrow-leaved Geebung 2 M Proteaceae Persoonia pinifolia Mambara 4 4 4 G Proteaceae Petrophile pulchella Conesticks 6 3 4 G Faboideae Phyllota phylicoides Heath Phyllota 4 G Thymelaeaceae Pimelea linifolia Rice Flower 2 G Plantaginaceae Plantago lanceolata* Ribwort 1

G Apiaceae Platysace linearifolia Narrow-leaved Platysace 2 2 G Poaceae Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass 2 2 G Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax 2 G Rutaceae Pomax umbellata 1 2 G Lobeliaceae Pratia purpurascens Whiteroot 1 G Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken 5 G Orchidaceae Pterostylis sp. Greenhood 1 G Goodeneiaceae Scaevola aemula Fairy Fanflower 2 G Cyperaceae Schoenus brevifolius 6 G Stylidiaceae Stylidium graminifolium Trigger Plant 4 G Tetratheca glandulosa 1 1 M Proteaceae Telopea speciosissima Waratah 1 G Poaceae Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass 3 1 G Fabaceae Trifolium repens* White Clover 1 G Xanthorreaceae Xanthorroea resinosa Grass Tree 6 G Xyridaceae Xyris sp. 6 Biodiversity Management Plan Baseline Survey 2016 – V1

Appendix B – Declared weeds of Greater Sydney Region

J089 Haerses Road Quarry BMP Baseline V1

Appendix J – Community Engagement, CCC Advertisements and CCC Meeting Minutes

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix J

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN FOR APPOINTMENT OF A COMMUNITY MEMBER TO THE DIXON SAND COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE.

Want to contribute to your community?

Many State Significant Projects in NSW have Community Consultative Committees.

These committees provide a forum for open dialogue between the proponent and representatives of the local community, stakeholder groups and local councils on issues directly relating to the project.

We are looking for an additional person who lives locally or is a member of a stakeholder group (community, environment, Aboriginal or industry) to join our existing Dixon Sand Community Consultative Committee.

Your role as a committee member is voluntary.

Selection criteria: You will be expected to contribute constructively to committee discussions, attend around two meetings a year, and communicate information about Dixon Sand between the committee and the broader community.

If you would like to apply, please contact the Independent Chairperson of the Dixon Sand Community Consultative Committee, Lisa Andrews, ph: 0401 609 693 or [email protected] to receive a copy of the relevant nomination form and further information.

Applications must be lodged by Tuesday 2nd May 2017 and be sent to the Independent Chairperson at the above email address or via post to: PO Box 6017, Lake Munmorah NSW 2259.

MINUTES OF THE BI-ANNUAL

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION COMMITTEE MEETING

4610 Old Northern Rd

1.00 – 3:15 pm, 15th November 2016.

1 INTRODUCTION AND APOLOGIES: The meeting opened at 1.00pm.

1.1 ATTENDEES David Dixon (DD) (Dixon Sand – Director) Hunny Churcher (HC) (Dixon Sand-Environmental Officer, PES) Kristine McKenzie (KM) (THSC / Acting Chairperson) Robert Buckham (RB) (THSC) Patrick Gregson (PG) (Bush-It) Lisa Aylward (LA) (Maroota Public School Representative) Patricia Schwartz (PS) (Community Representative)

1.2 APOLOGIES Farley Roberts (FR) (Community Representative) Jemma Roberts (JR) (Observer)

1.3 INTRODUCTION KM opened the meeting with and acted as Chairperson for the meeting. The Department of Planning and Environment approved the appointment for KM to act as the Chairperson for this CCC Meeting.

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 1

2 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES KM went through business arising from previous minutes including action items:

Advertisement for the Expression of Interest for new community members  An EOI was placed in two separate local publications by HC in September and November 2016.

Select the new site for dust gauge at the front gate and update in the management plan  HC explained that 3 dust gauges have been relocated to ensure compliance with relevant Australian Standards and safe access for the dust consultant. The new dust gauge locations will be included in the revised management plan.

Purchasing up-to-date aeriel photographs from Council  HC contacted the Council Officer responsible for spatial data who indicated that the flyover for the photos have been pushed back towards late 2016. HC contacted the Department of Land and Property and was informed that no new photos are available. HC will follow up with Council again in 2017.

Investigate the use of the Industrial Noise Policy (EPA, 2000) instead of the Interim Construction Noise Guidelines (DECC, 2001)  HC made an enquiry with Jeff Parnell who is the noise specialist in the Department of Planning and Environment. Jeff indicated that he sees no issue in the adopted methodology for noise monitoring and predicting noise impacts. The use of Setback calculation methodology from at-source monitoring of quarry operations to determine the predicted noise impact at the receivers is considered appropriate (ICNG Section 4.5).  INP Section 3.2.1 states that “practical ways of excluding transportation and community noise will depend on the situation”. One possible technique is “measuring at another location where industrial source noise levels are equivalent, but transportation noise is much lower”.  INP Section 11.1.2 states that “when compliance is being measured it may be found that, in many cases, existing noise levels are higher than noise levels from the source, making it difficult to separate out the source of noise level. When this happens, it may not be feasible to measure compliance at the specified location, and other methods will be needed. In these cases, measurements may be taken closer to the source and then calculated back to the specified location.” To determine the noise contribution from a development, several techniques are available including “measuring the noise emissions from each of the premises at reference locations and then calculating the noise-emission levels back to the receiver”.

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 2

Investigate the opportunity to obtain more limit compression breaking signage on public roads.  HC made an enquiry through Downer Mouchel for the right RMS contact but still waiting for confirmation. DD indicated that a sign already exists on the Old Northern Road as trucks approach the school and that a sign also exists on Wisemans Ferry Road although may have been removed during roadwork and may not yet reinstated.

Process of electing a new Independent Chairperson  HC indicated that the nomination for a new Independent Chairperson will be made after this CCC Meeting.

3 WORK ACCOMPLISHED IN THE PERIOD DD informed the CCC: Old Northern Road  The changes in Production Managers positions  Current sales reaching the maximum capacity for the quarry  HC is spending more time on site  Independent Environmental Audit to commence on 16th November 2016  Review of Management Plans still in progress and comments being addressed  Modification application for an extension of time and tidy up consent wording has been lodged with the Department of Planning. Haerses Road  Fencing and signage for the Biodiversity Offset Area have been erected.  Fencing and signage for extraction areas have been erected.  Rowan Russell is the new Safety Officer who is undertaking a systems review to comply with the new Mines Safety Act.  A modification for quarry expansion has been lodged to extract additional material to the south-west of the approved extraction area. Community Flyer handed out to the CCC.  RB indicated that The Hills Shire Council has some biodiversity offset land on Porters Road, Kenthurst.

4 MONITORING RESULTS HC recapped the locations of TEOM, static dust gauges, groundwater bores, sensitive receivers and noise monitoring. Two new GW bores have been installed as a requirement for ONR Mod 4. HC explained that 3 depositional dust gauges have been relocated to ensure compliance with Australian Standards and ensure safety for dust consultants, and that the changes will be reflected in the management plan.

4.1 TEOM MONITORING HC explained how the TEOM station works, what is recorded and how the data is interpreted in particular the PM10 criteria.

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 3

HC presented data since July 2016 and explained that the EPL’s 24 hour PM10 average criteria of 42 ug/m3 was exceeded on two occasions; the first exceedance in April and the second exceedance in May. Both exceedances were due to scheduled RFS hazard reduction burns in the surrounding region such as the Blue Mountains, Western Sydney and the Hawkesbury. Air quality was observed to be poor on those recorded days.

4.2 STATIC DUST MONITORING HC provided details of the depositional static dust monitoring since July 2016 period which is the start of the annual monitoring period. HC informed that the front gate dust gauge has been relocated and monitoring commenced in September 2016. The depositional dust results are all in compliance

4.3 NOISE MONITORING HC explained that noise monitoring is undertaken on a 6-monthly basis. The upcoming noise monitoring is scheduled to be carried out in December 2016. HC informed that the DPE’s noise specialist Jeff Parnell has been contacted with confirmation provided that the adopted setback calculations from the Interim Construction Noise Guidelines to predict noise levels at receivers from at-source noise monitoring is a suitable method. HC presented the noise data and discussed that the predicted noise levels at sensitive receivers are compliant with the noise criteria. HC explained that monitoring for B. and M. Ramm is undertaken at the dam on Haerses Road site due to the property owner not permitting noise monitoring on their property. DD indicated that the property has since been sold and the new owner may agree to noise monitoring being undertaken at the property.

Action – DD to contact the new property owner regarding noise monitoring at the property.

4.4 GROUNDWATER DEPTH & QUALITY MONITORING HC explained that GW depths are measured monthly with consistent depths. Natural variation particularly the perched aquifer boreholes are responsive to wet and dry weather conditions. A new water depth sensor reel has been purchased and now used to monitor the GW level in BH1 with water level recorded at approximately 58.8 metres below ground level. HC indicated that field pH is reported and laboratory pH is invalid as pH only has a holding time of 6 hours and it is not possible to dispatch the samples to the lab in time. The pH results have been relatively stable apart from H13 at Haerses Road where evidence suggests that groundwater quality was impacted by the application of organic fertiliser in 2015. This was observed as the water was dark in colour and the borehole recharged with dark water straight after the borehole was purged. HC then presented the electrical conductivity results and explained that BH2, which is a voluntary monitoring borehole, was hit by another quarry truck and resulted in unusually high EC readings ever since. EC for H13 was observed to be high during the

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 4

December 2015 monitoring but has reduced back to the normal levels during the June 2016 monitoring.

4.5 REHABILITATION WORKS HC informed that two areas of rehabilitation at the Old Northern Road are in progress. Lot 29 – rehabilitation forming the 6.86 hectares of native vegetation corridor (DA250- 09-01 Mod 4 commitment) commenced in April 2016. The method of direct translocation of topsoil from the newly cleared area from Lot 2 was adopted. Hollow logs, tree branches and rocks have been retained to create fauna habitat corridor. Lot 196 – final landform is near complete. The area is to be planted with cover crop for soil conditioning and structural improvement. Soil testing will then determine the requirement for soil amelioration before planting of native grasses, sedges, low shrubs and where soil condition permits, larger/canopy species may be planted. HC explained that trial cuttings and plant propagation has been carried out for the two endangered species in preparation for the rehabilitation 1) Melaleuca deanei and 2) Darwinia fascicularis ssp. oligantha. Cuttings and specimens were taken by Bunya Native Nursery who is a native plant specialist in Dural. Some of the cuttings of both species have responded well to the treatment with root growth observed. HC indicated that these cuttings and specimens will be used for supplementary planting in the rehabilitation area when condition permits. The Darwinia has been translocated to the rehab area on Lot 29.

4.6 BUSH REGNERATION WORKS PG discussed the number of hours spent at Old Northern Road and at Haerses Road with significantly more hours spent on the latter location.

A total of 186 hours was spent at Haerses and 48 hours at the Mine Site (ONR).

PG informed that the 30 metre buffer screen planting to minimise the visibility of the quarry from Wisemans Ferry Road has been undertaken. Species utilised for screen planting are native to the area and include: Banksia serrata, Kunzea ambigua and Casuarina glauca. PG presented photographs of the current status of the offset area which has been performing well over the years. PG explained that noxious weed management and the species present on site being Blackberry, Lantana and Pampas grass. PG mentioned that the blackberry on the windrow adjacent to the 30m buffer screen planting has been treated during Bush-IT’s November site visit. PG explained that Lantana is easy to treat. Pampas grass is present on PF’s land at the back near the rehabilitation area on Lot 29. DD suggested he could contact PF to seek permission to enter their land for Bush-IT to manage the pampas grass.

Action – DD to contact PF Formations and request permission for Bush-IT to enter their land adjacent to Lot 29 and treat Pampas grass.

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 5

5 GENERAL BUSINESS DD discussed the complaint received by a resident regarding a near miss accident between a truck heading west on Wisemans Ferry Road and the School bus parking outside the resident’s house for school children pickup. DD suggested that the resident contact Council, RMS and the bus company to raise concerns regarding the road safety issue. LA indicated that the bus drop-off location in question is dangerous for school children to be dropped off due to limited vision around the bend and limited area for the bus to safely pull off the road. DD suggested that LA liaise with the school to raise the issue with RMS who have jurisdiction over Wisemans Ferry Road and alert the Bus company of the near miss.

6 SITE INSPECTION A site inspection at the Rehabilitation area on Lot 29 was undertaken. HC showed the CCC where the Darwinia has been translocated.

7 NEXT CCC MEETING The next CCC meeting will be scheduled for Tuesday 9th May 2017.

DIXON SANDS PTY LTD CCC MINUTES/15 NOVEMBER 2016 6

MINUTES OF THE BI-ANNUAL COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE 4610 Old Northern Road 1.00pm – 9th May 2017

NAME ORGANISATION PRESENT Lisa Andrews (LA) Independent Chairperson Kristine McKenzie (KM The Hills Shire Council Representative Jemma Roberts (JR) Community Representative Pat Schwartz (PS) Community Representative Jesse Luscombe (JL) Bush Regeneration Representative Daniel Giffney (DG) The Hills Shire Council Representative David Dixon (DD) General Manager, Dixon Sand Hunny Churcher (HC) Environmental Officer, Dixon Sand APOLOGIES Lisa Aylward Maroota Public School Representative Farley Roberts Community Representative Lauren Evans Department of Planning & Environment

Lunch was provided for CCC members 12.30pm-1pm, where the Chair provided some background of her experience.

The CCC Meeting was opened at 1.04pm

WELCOME The chair welcomed all present and thanked them for their attendance. DECLARATION OF LA declared that she is approved by the Department INTEREST of Planning and Environment to chair the meeting and engaged by Dixon Sand. The attendance sheet was distributed for signing. NEW GUIDELINES The chair advised of the release of the new Forms were returned to FOR COMMUNITY guidelines in November 2016, which required chair. CONSULTATIVE members to side Code of Conduct and Pecuniary/ COMMITEES FOR Non-Pecuniary Interest forms. These forms were Action: Forms to be STATE SIGNIFICANT distributed to all present. forwarded to Lisa Aylward DEVELOPMENTS Chair moved this item to General Business for for completion. 2016 further briefing to members. CONFIRMATION OF The draft minutes of the previous meeting held on Moved: PS Seconded: KM PREVIOUS MINUTES 15th November 2016 were confirmed. LA advised that this process has changed with the release of the new Community Consultative Committee Guidelines for State Significant Developments, which will be covered in the briefing. 1

Dixon Sand CCC Minutes – 9th May 2017

BUSINESS ARISING ITEM ACTION BY WHOM 1 Noise Monitoring (Item 4.3 in DD Item 1: Complete. Owner previous minutes). DD was to has agreed to allow contact the new property owner monitoring at their regarding noise monitoring at property. the property (previously owned

by B & M Ramm) Item 2: Completed – all 2 DD to contact PF Formations and DD request permission for Bush-IT pampas grass removed. to enter their land adjacent to Lot 29 and treat Pampas grass.

CORRESPONDENCE  25/3/17 - Email to DPE recommending Jemma Moved: LA Seconded: JR Roberts as an alternate community representative on the CCC. Action: JR to complete  29/3/17 - Response from DPE to conduct forms. further advertising for CCC members  Emails between HC & LA to work through this issue.  7/4/17 – Email from HC with the meeting notice for this meeting REPORT DD provided an update on the quarry’s progress since the previous CCC meeting:

 Haerses Rd – Mod. 1 lodged to expand the extraction area located to the south of the currently approval. Dixon Sand is currently addressing the Agencies’ submissions. Main issues revolve around groundwater and offsetting strategy  Old Northern Road – Mod. 5 lodged to extend the life of the quarry from 2022 to 2042 (20 years) and to tidy up consent conditions. Dixon Sand is currently addressing the Agencies’ submissions. Main issues revolve around groundwater and rehabilitation plan, which was unresolved from Mod. 4  Mine Safety Inspection undertaken on dust and airborne contaminants. Notification issued. Dixon Sand to implement a health management plan and conduct health screening and workplace dust monitoring. New Safety Officer has recently joined Dixon Sand and currently reviewing the whole safety system.  Business and production is doing well.  Rehab commenced on Lot 196 (front gate area) and Lot 29 (native vegetation corridor). Action: HC to provide a HC presented the environmental monitoring results copy of the presentation for since the previous CCC meeting: distribution to CCC members.  Environmental monitoring locations for both ONR and HR – locations of dust, TEOM, noise and groundwater monitoring. 2  Static Depositional Dust results – high reading at H10 in March 2017, which is unexplainable as the month of March received quite high rainfall. Note: - vegetation clearing, mulching and stockpiling have been undertaken in the neighbouring property adjacent to the dust gauge.

Dixon Sand CCC Minutes – 9th May 2017

 TEOM and weather station – historical high results due to bushfires/ hazard reduction burns and dust storms. Dixon Management staff receive alarms once PM10 dust trigger levels are reached. Management Plan specifies specific actions to be taken if the dust is deemed to be blowing in the direction from the quarry to the TEOM. Recent high reading occurred on a Sunday in December 2016 – the quarry was not operating on this day and the high reading may have been a result of school maintenance activities such as grass mowing.  Groundwater levels and quality – all groundwater levels have been relatively stable with natural fluctuations responsive to the dry/wet spells. The newest groundwater bores installed were BH8 and BH9 at the ONR which was a requirement for DA Mod 4. Groundwater quality indicators tested include pH, Electrical conductivity, Turbidity and TSS. BH2 at ONR returned anomaly results due to the bore being hit by a moving vehicle. BH2 was fixed and the groundwater quality seems to be returning to normal values. H13 at Haerses Rd returned high results in Dec 2015 / June 2016 due to the groundwater being impacted by the application of fertiliser in the immediate area as the borehole is lower than the surrounding land.  On-going rehabilitation work for Lot 196 (near the front gate) still in progress  On-going rehabilitation work for Lot 29 (native vegetation corridor) progressing well. Direct translocation from the cleared area on Lot 2 undertaken for Darwinia fascicularis ssp. Oligantha. Brushmatt material and soil translocation have been used for Lot 29. Propagation progressing well in the local native nursery. A third of the nursery threatened species stock (Darwinia fascicularis ssp oli. and Melaleuca deanei) have been planted today.  DD advised that the OEH is contesting Dixon Sand’s rehab plan and the management strategy for M. deanei. Issues to be resolved in DA Mod. 5

JL from Bush-It introduced himself as the new representative for the company, his qualifications and his experience, replacing Patrick Gregson, who has moved on from the company.

JL advised:

 Change in site supervision.  Work accomplished since the last CCC – work 3 mainly focused on areas at the ONR good bush, targeting Lantana, Castor Oil, Turkey Rhubarb and Pampas Grass.

Dixon Sand CCC Minutes – 9th May 2017

Current Work:  ONR - Targeted Lantana and Castor Oil management in Lots 1 & 2. Turkey Rhubarb and pampas grass has also been managed at the ONR. Whiskey grass is the biggest problem at Haerses Rd at the moment in the old offset area.  HR - Individual Crofton weed plants are located within the offset area which is under control – no large clusters found. Some Paspalum at Haerses Rd offset area but these are not a major issue.

Future Work

 Native vegetation corridor soil translocation has been done well with variations in landscape (not uniform and flat) which would encourage the development of different micro-climate and species diversity. Recommends on-going weed management at this new native vegetation corridor.  HR Biodiversity Offset Area - recommends the silt fence on the north-western boundary to be extended. This would assist in inhibiting weed migration into the offset area. Sediment fences are quite effective in blocking out Farmers Friends seeds. GENERAL BUSINESS  LA provided a briefing on the new Community Consultative Committee Guidelines for State

Significant Developments (November 2016).

 The briefing provided a summary of the more

significant changes: o The guidelines cover all SSD projects (mining, wind farms, solar, extractive industries, infrastructure, etc) o The committees can now be set up

early in the assessment process

o Improved governance; Code of Conduct & Pecuniary/Non-Pecuniary Interest Forms o A pool of Independent Chairs will be recruited by DPE

o Review of the guidelines every 5 years.

o Increase in community membership –

now up to 7. o Chair’s to provide an annual report to DP&E for publishing on the website o Change to draft minutes and finalising of minutes

4 o Observers – chair’s consult with CCC.

o KM enquired with DD about the change in structure of the company. DD advised that two staff are being trained to become production managers and going through relevant paperwork/training with the Mines Dept. Dixon Sand CCC Minutes – 9th May 2017

o JR sought permission to utilise some of the No objection raised. ecology facets in her artwork (no samples to be taken). o PS informed DD that she has located a copy of the EIS in the library. Action: HC to contact PS GENERAL BUSINESS o Site visit postponed till the next CCC meeting. regarding the EIS document (continued) in the Resource Library NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the CCC will take place on Tuesday 21st November 2017 commencing at 1pm (on site). (Luncheon from 12.30pm.)

Meeting closed at 2.53pm with LA thanking all CCC members for their attendance.

ACTION ITEMS

ITEM ISSUE RESPONSIBILITY 1 HC to contact PS regarding the EIS document in the Resource Library HC 2 HC to email a copy of the presentation to LA & KM HC 3 HC to forward Code of Conduct & Pecuniary/Non Pecuniary Interest forms to HC Lisa Aylward for completion 4 JR to complete the application for Community Representative & forward Code JR of Conduct & Pecuniary/Non-Pecuniary Interests forms to FR for completion.

Dixon Sand CCC Minutes – 9th May 2017

Appendix K – Complaint Register and Community Liaison Register

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix K Dixon Sand (Penrith) P/L Complaints Register

Date Contact Dixon Staff Issue Recommended Date Outcome / Future Action Closed Out Received Methodology Contacted Action(s) Actioned Date 05-Jul-10 Phone Call Noel Kenny Excessive speed by truck driver Caution driver and 07-Jul-10 Driver spoken to and 07-Jul-10 reinforce site speed limits as detailed in management plan the site management plan for drivers in reinforced regards to speed limits 21-Jan-15 Phone Call Tom Watson Complainant considered that one of Inform the driver's 22-Jan-15 The company involved 22-Jan-15 the trucks leaving the quarry had been company of the reported that the driver driven in a dangerous manner complaint and denied the incident - the follow up their driver was re-issued the actions company's driving policy.

11-May-16 Phone Call Tom Watson 11am Wednesday 11th May 2016 - Investigate the 11-May-16 Management contacted 11-May-16 received a call from the complainant truck in question the complainant to regarding truck driving in a dangerous and liaise with confirm the issue and manner. Complainant had been told by complainant. truck's number plate. a different correspondent that the Incident occurred Complainant was unable to truck picked up from Dixon Quarry. approx. 20km determine the exact About 3pm on Wednesday the 27th from the quarry of number plate of the truck. April 2016 the complaint was nearly which the quarry It is noted that another run down by a truck (& trailer) as the has no authority truck with similar number truck crossed double lines to overtake to discipline the plate operates in the a vehicle and that this forced the driver. adjacent quarry. No complainant off the road near the Post further action required Office Road at Cattai. The truck was heading towards Maroota.

Page 1

Date Contact Dixon Staff Issue Recommended Date Outcome / Future Action Closed Out Received Methodology Contacted Action(s) Actioned Date 24-Sep-16 Face-to-face Tom Watson Truck Company A reported Truck Contact truck 26-Sep-16 Dixon Sand Management 26-Sep-16 Company B driving in a dangerous company and contacted the truck manner. Incident occurred approx. inform company and informed 6.35am on 23/09/16. Truck Company A management of their management team of was overtaken by Truck Company B the incident. the incident. (southbound) before the bend near Note that Dixon Sand has the Maroota Public School. Truck no jurisdiction over trucks Company A claimed that the Truck outside the quarry Company B (truck and dog) came out premise. from Dixon Sand's quarry and overtook Truck A on double solid lines. 29 May 2017 Phone Call Tom Watson 8:20am – received a call from the Contact truck 30-May-17 Dixon Sand Management 30-May-17 Complainant who asked to speak with company and contacted the truck David Dixon. David was not on site and inform company and informed I asked the Complainant if I could take management of their management team of a message. The Complainant explained the incident. the incident. that they wanted to speak with David Note that Dixon Sand has about a haulage truck which came to no jurisdiction over trucks our Maroota quarry last Saturday outside the quarry (27/5/17) and which the Complainant premise. said was being driven in a dangerous manner. The Complainant said the rego was xxxxxx (which made a pickup from our quarry at 12.02pm). I promised to let David know and explained that we did not in anyway condone dangerous driving of trucks. 8:30am – rang David on his mobile and explained the call from the Complainant - emailed David the mobile number the Complainant had given me and promised to make this diary note and email to David.

Page 2

Dixon Sand - Stakeholder Liaison Register

Method of Stakeholder Name Address Date Correspondence Communication Dixon Staff Action Required Closed Out Emailed the school and Lisa Alyward a 4540 Old Northern Road, copy of the Haerses Rd Modification Maroota Public School Maroota NSW 2756 13/07/2016 Community Flyer Email HC Nil 13/07/2016

Drainage along the southern side of access road needs rework. Dixon provided Phil Accurso Adjoining Property to ONR 31/08/2016 equipment and plant to assist Telephone DD Nil 31/08/2016 Static Dust Gauge D01 was relocated from the front gate of ONR to the access road closer to Old Northern Road. Phil Accurso Phil Accurso Adjoining Property to ONR 5/09/2016 was notified. Telephone DD Nil 5/09/2016

Bi-annual CCC meeting with representatives as follow: Acting Chair Next CCC person, community rep, Maroota Public Refer to the CCC meeting Meeting in May CCC Meeting Dixon ONR office 15/11/2017 School rep, Council reps and Dixon reps Face-to-face DD and HC minutes for actions 2017

Various residents in Letter box drop notification regarding ONR proximity to ONR quarry 28/02/2017 DA250-09-01 Mod 5 Application Letter HC Nil 28/02/2017 Seek permission to undertake noise Next attended noise monitoring at the resident. (David monitoring scheduled for June David Cheng 1643 Wisemans Ferry Rd 9/05/2017 purchased property from B. Ramm) Face-to-face HC 2017 9/05/2017 Bi-annual CCC meeting with representatives as follow: New Chair Next CCC person, community rep, Council reps and Refer to the CCC meeting Meeting in CCC Meeting Dixon ONR office 9/05/2017 Dixon reps Face-to-face DD and HC minutes for actions November 2017

Notified school (Naomi James - Principal) of attended noise monitoring to be Maroota Public School 13/06/2017 undertaken over the next few weeks Email HC Nil 13/06/2017 Noise Mon Notified David Cheng (owner of 1643 WFR) undertaken on of attended noise monitoring to be 15/06/2017 nd David Cheng 1643 Wisemans Ferry Rd 13/06/2017 undertaken over the next few weeks Telephone HC Nil 21/07/2017

Updated: 30/06/2017 Updated by: Hunny Churcher

Appendix L – Waste Register

J16-001_AR_2016-17 Appendix L Old Northern Road Waste Tracking Register 2016 - 2017 Date Waste Type Amount Measurement Contractor Disposal / Recycle Receipt No Sort / Recycle / 18/07/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7410 Sort / Recycle / 18/08/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7439 13/09/2016 Scrap Metal 7.86 tonnes SIMS Metal Management Recycle TI1526 Sort / Recycle / 21/09/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7529 Sort / Recycle / 27/10/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7576 Sort / Recycle / 18/11/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7605 Note: Waste transported offsite 29/11/2016 Contaminated Sand 1.7 tonnes SUEZ by Asquith Mini Skips Treatment 7622 on 11/11/16 Sort / Recycle / 3/12/2016 Non-putrescible 2 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7627 Sort / Recycle / 12/12/2016 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7635 9/01/2017 Waste Oil 1300 litres Southern Oil Treated / Refined 167171 Sort / Recycle / 16/01/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7656 Sort / Recycle / 1/02/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7678 3/02/2017 Waste Oil 2500 litres Southern Oil Treated / Refined 183791 Sort / Recycle / 21/02/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7698 13/03/2017 Scrap Metal 8.49 tonnes John Heine & Son Recycle Sort / Recycle / 29/03/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7736 7/04/2017 Waste Oil 2000 litres Southern Oil Treated / Refined 183972 Sort / Recycle / 5/05/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7775 7/04/2017 Waste Oil 1800 litres Southern Oil Treated / Refined 182359 Sort / Recycle / 20/06/2017 Non-putrescible 8 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7858 Sort / Recycle / 20/06/2017 Non-putrescible 4 cubic metre Asquith Mini Skips Disposal 7859 Genral Solid Waste - 01/07/16 - 30/06/17 putrescible 78 cubic metre Council Waste Contractor Disposal Council Rate General Solid Waste - 01/07/16 - 30/06/17 recyclable 13 cubic metre Council Waste Contractor Recycle Council Rate

01/07/16 - 30/06/17 Printer Ink Catridges <0.5 cubic metre Drop of at Post Office Recycle

Total Scrap Metal 16.35 tonnes Non-Putrescible 58 m3 Waste fluid 7600 litres Council Putrescible 78 m3 Council Recycle 13 m3 Printer Ink Catridge <0.5 m3 Haerses Road Waste Tracking Register 2016 - 2017 Date Waste Type Amount Measurement Contractor Disposal / Recycle Receipt No Genral Solid Waste - 01/07/16 - 30/06/17 putrescible 26 cubic metre Council Waste Contractor Disposal Council Rate General Solid Waste - 01/07/16 - 30/06/17 recyclable 13 cubic metre Council Waste Contractor Recycle Council Rate

Total Scrap Metal 0 tonnes Non-Putrescible 0 m3 Waste fluid 0 litres Council Putrescible 26 m3 Council Recycle 13 m3