Review of Environmental Factors Volume 2: Appendices

Review of

Environmental Factors PERISHER SERVICES PRECINCT DEVELOPMENT STAGE 2

AUGUST 2010

Volume 2: Appendices

Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A FLORA SPECIES LIST AND THREATENED SPECIES EVALUATIONS...... A-1 A.1 FLORA SPECIES LIST ...... A-2 A.2 EPBC PROTECTED MATTERS REPORT ...... A-4 A.3 THREATENED ENTITIES EVALUATION ...... A-11

APPENDIX B GEOTECHNICAL INFORMATION ...... B-1 GEOTECHNICAL INFORMATION ...... B-2

APPENDIX C ASSESSMENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE ...... C-1 INTRODUCTION ...... C-2 C.1 NSW LISTED ENTITIES ...... C-2 C.2 COMMONWEALTH LISTED ENTITIES ...... C-7 C.3 CONCLUSION OF STAGE 2 ASSESSMENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE ...... C-10

APPENDIX D ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT ...... D-1

APPENDIX E NATIONAL HERITAGE LIST ASSESSMENT ...... E-1

APPENDIX F STAKEHOLDER AND COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ...... F-1

APPENDIX G BUSHFIRE PROTECTION ASSESSMENT ...... G-1

APPENDIX H DESIGN DRAWINGS...... H-1 DESIGN DRAWINGS ...... H-2

Final 2010 i Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Appendix A Flora Species list and Threatened Species Evaluations

Final 2010 A -1 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

A.1 FLORA SPECIES LIST COMPOSITE SPECIES LIST FOR THE SITE Relative abundance is given by a cover abundance scale (modified Braun-Blanquet): 1 1 to a few individuals present, less than 5% cover 2 many individuals present, but still less than 5% cover 3 5 - < 20% cover 4 20 - < 50% cover 5 50 - < 75% cover

6 75 - 100% cover Cover/abundance scores relate to general abundance over the entire site, not to representative quadrats. *Introduced species are preceded by an asterisk. Location as at 12 March 2009: Road = 2m either side of pegs marking centre line of proposed road route WS = pegged area of workshop building and buffer zone c. 2m wide around it TS = pegged area of transfer station and buffer zone c. 2m wide around it

Scientific name Common name Family Abundance Road WS TS SHRUBS Epacris glacialis Epacris gunnii swamp heath Epacridaceae 1 1 1 Epacris paludosa swamp heath Epacridaceae 2 Epacris petrophila Epacridaceae 0-4 3 3 Grevillea australis Proteaceae 1-3 Olearia algida Asteraceae 1 1 Pentachondra pumila carpet heath Epacridaceae 0-2 Pimelea alpina Thymeleaceae 1 1 Richea continentis candle heath Epacridaceae 1 2 0-4 FORBS *Achillea millefolium yarrow Asteraceae 2 1 1 Asperula gunnii Rubiaceae 1 Astelia psychrocharis Asteliaceae 1 Brachyscome scapigera Asteraceae 2 2 Celmisia pugioniformis snow daisy Asteraceae 2 2 Cotula alpina Apiaceae Craspedia aurantia billy buttons Asteraceae 2 1 2 Epilobium gunnianum willow herb Onagraceae 1 1

Final 2010 A -2 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Scientific name Common name Family Abundance Road WS TS Erigeron nitidus Asteraceae 1 Euchiton ?argentifolius Asteraceae 1 Euphrasia collina ssp glacialis eyebright Scrophulariaceae 1 Geranium antrorsum native geranium Geraniaceae 1 Gonocarpus micranthus swamp raspwort Haloragaceae 1 Hypericum japonicum Clusiaceae 1 *Hypochaeris radicata cat’s ear, flatweed Asteraceae 1 Leptorhynchos squamatus ssp B alpine scaly buttons Asteraceae 0-4 0-3 Myriophyllum pedunculatum ssp Haloragaceae 1 pedunculatum Oreomyrrhis argentea Apiaceae Plantago euryphylla Plantaginaceae 1-2 Plantago muelleri Plantaginaceae 0-2 Ranunculus graniticola Ranunculaceae 1 1 Ranunculus gunnianus Gunn’s alpine buttercup Ranunculaceae 2 0-2 Ranunculus millanii dwarf buttercup Ranunculaceae 1 Scleranthus biflorus knawel Caryophyllaceae 1 1 Stackhousia pulvinaris Stackhousiaceae 1 *Taraxacum officinale dandelion Asteraceae 1 *Trifolium repens white clover Fabaceae 1 GRASSES *Agrostis capillaris browntop bent Poaceae 3-6 Australopyrum velutinum 1 Deyeuxia carinata Poaceae 1 1 2 Festuca muelleri Poaceae 1 *Festuca rubra ssp rubra red fescue Poaceae 2-5 Poa costiniana snow grass Poaceae 4 0-4 Poa fawcettiae smooth blue snowgrass Poaceae 0-4 1 0-4 Rytidosperma nivicolum snow wallaby grass Poaceae 2 1 2 Rytidosperma vickeryae Poaceae 1 GRAMINOIDS Carex ?blakei Cyperaceae 0-2 Carex gaudichaudiana tufted sedge Cyperaceae 2 0-2 Carpha nivicola Cyperaceae 1 Empodisma minus spreading rope-r u s h Restionaceae 3 0-3 ?Isolepis sp. Cyperaceae 1 Juncus falcatus Juncaceae 2 Luzula sp. Juncaceae 1 1 Oreobolus sp. Cyperaceae 1

Final 2010 A -3 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

A.2 EPBC PROTECTED MATTERS REPORT

Final 2010 A -4 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -5 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -6 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -7 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -8 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -9 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Final 2010 A -10 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

A.3 THREATENED ENTITIES EVALUATION Threatened flora species and endangered ecological community habitat evaluation

The table below evaluates the likelihood of impact on threatened flora and Endangered Ecological Species (EEC) recorded from EPBC database of Matters of National Significance, which fall within a 10km buffer of the Perisher Valley site. Threatened flora and EEC from the DECC database for the New South Wales Alps sub-region of the Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA) region and the New South Wales Alps (Part B) sub-region of the Murrumbidgee CMA region, known or with the potential to occur at the proposed work site is also included in this evaluation. Recorded sightings of threatened species and EEC were determined through the Atlas of NSW Wildlife7, within the 1:100 000 Kosciuszko (8525) map sheets. For each species, the table assesses whether habitat is present, if there are any recorded sightings near the proposed project area, and based on this, the likelihood of the species or EEC occurring at the site and being adversely affected by the proposal. The categories are defined below.

Presence of Habitat:

Present: Potential or known habitat is present within the study area

Absent: No potential or known habitat is present within the study area

Likelihood of Occurrence:

None: Species has a very low, or no probability of occurrence

Vagrant: Species could occur on occasion as a vagrant or passing over/across the study area (usually applies to more mobile species)

Possible: Species could occur and utilise resources in the study area

Present: Species was recorded during the field investigations

Possible Impact:

No: The proposal would not impact this species or its habitats. No Seven-Part Test is necessary for this species

Yes: The proposal could impact this species or its habitats. A Seven-Part Test for NSW threatened species or an EPBC Assessment of Significance for Commonwealth Migratory of Threatened Species has been applied to these entities.

7 The Atlas of NSW Wildlife is the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) online database of fauna and flora records and contains over four million recorded sightings.

Final 2010 A-11 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species Habitat description & ecology Presence of Habitat Nearest Records Likelihood of Occurrence Possible Impact? TREES

Suggan Buggan Mallee Grows in rocky sites or cliffs in shallow soils adjacent to dry rainshadow Absent Lower Snowy area None No woodland near the Victorian border, with six populations known from the Eucalyptus saxatilis Lower Snowy area of KNP, and four populations in adjacent parts of Victoria E TSC (DECCW 2009). Found at elevations of 700-1000 metres. SHRUBS

Leafy Anchor Plant “In rocky situations, usually along streams in sand or gravel, in the Snowy Present nearby Sawpit Creek area None. Conspicuous species, not No Mountains above 1000m” (Harden 1990). This species also occupies non- seen. Discaria nitida rocky areas of stream bank in sub-alpine areas and in frost-hollow grasslands V TSC along streams, where factors other than the presence of rock (such as islands in the stream bed) provide long-term protection from fires (J. Miles, pers. obs.). Occurs only within Kosciuszko National Park and on Snowy Plain to the east in NSW, with some populations from adjoining areas in Victoria. FORBS

Monaro Golden Daisy This perennial mat-forming forb grows in scattered populations in natural Absent, elevation is Long Plain area None No temperate grassland on the Monaro and in subalpine grassland in Kosciuszko too high at 1740m Rutidosis leiolepis National Park. V TSC V EPBC Max Mueller’s Burr- This species is known from a single population on Nungar Plain, with one old Present Nungar Plain Low in grassland, due to No daisy (1956) record from the Snowy Plain area, which has not been able to be apparently restricted relocated (McDougall and Walsh, 2007). A brief search of Gulf, Long and distribution. Should have been Calotis pubescens Boggy Plains has also located no additional occurrences (McDougall and detectable if present. E TSC Walsh 2002). It grows in subalpine frost-hollow grassland.

Final 2010 A-12 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species Habitat description & ecology Presence of Habitat Nearest Records Likelihood of Occurrence Possible Impact? Mauve Burr-daisy Mauve Burr-daisy grows in montane or subalpine grassland or grassy Absent, elevation is Tantangara area, None No woodland on the tablelands and western slopes, including disturbed areas. too high at 1740m Long Plain, Berridale Calotis glandulosa In KNP it is locally abundant in the Tantangara area (McDougall and Walsh, area V TSC 2007). V EPBC Bog Everlasting In Victoria and Tasmania this species is mostly found in low to mid elevation Present Tantangara-Kiandra Low, conspicuous species, not No wetlands. In NSW it is locally common in bogs on the top of the coastal area seen. Xerochrysum palustre escarpment at elevations of around 1000-1100m (J. Miles, pers, obs.). It was V EPBC found in the Tantangara-Kiandra area by McDougall and Walsh (2007). It grows in and around the margins of bogs, often protruding from sphagnum hummocks (J. Miles, pers. obs.). Shining Cudweed A mat-forming, silver-leaved alpine species, growing in Tall Alpine Herbfield Absent, site is Mt Kosciuszko area Very low, as site is not in the No or open heathland, above or close to the treeline (DECC, 2009). There may subalpine. alpine zone. Species is Argyrotegium be as few as 7 NSW records of this species, all located in the Kosciuszko Main conspicuous and was not nitidulum, syn. Range area in the Upper Snowy River catchment (NSW NPWS 2001). It also detected. Euchiton nitidulus occurs in Victoria and New Zealand. It appears to be a good coloniser of bare V TSC ground, and its establishment may be disturbance-dependent (NSW NPWS, 2001). V EPBC Austral Toadflax This species is found in small populations across eastern NSW, on the coast Absent, no kangaroo Caves Creek, None No and from the Northern to Southern Tablelands. It occurs in grassland or grass Yarrangobilly, Thesium australe grassy woodland (DECCW 2009), sometimes in damp sites, and almost Cabramurra to V TSC invariably associated with kangaroo grass (Themeda australis). Populations Khancoban Road appear to fluctuate widely from year to year (McDougall and Walsh 2007) V EPBC Rough Eyebright An annual semi-parasitic forb to 50cm high, flowering in autumn. There are Marginal Yarrangobilly Caves, Very low, as site is at a higher No Euphrasia scabra old records from the Jindabyne area, Yarrangobilly and Tumbarumba (DECC, Jindabyne areas elevation than is typical for this 2008b), but the only modern records are from the coastal escarpment area. species. E TSC It grows on grassy edges of montane wetlands, usually localised in wetter patches where small streams or seepage areas enter the larger swamp (J. Miles, pers. obs.).

Final 2010 A-13 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species Habitat description & ecology Presence of Habitat Nearest Records Likelihood of Occurrence Possible Impact? Anemone Buttercup A perennial forb of the alpine and upper subalpine zones, mostly above Marginal Widespread south None. Conspicuous species, not No 1900m, occasionally to as low as 1600m (NSW NPWS 2001), where it tends to from Mt Jagungal seen. Ranunculus occur in areas where snow persists late into the warm season. Although anemoneus nearly eliminated by grazing, it has recovered well and is now locally V TSC common in a range of communities on the Main Range between Mt Kosciuszko and Mt Jagungal (McDougall and Walsh, 2007) V EPBC ORCHIDS

Bago Leek Orchid Known from a single location at McPhersons Plain, in a leasehold area of Absent, elevation is McPhersons Plain, None No Bago State Forest near Tumbarumba, where it grows in subalpine grassy too high at 1740m Bago SF, west of Prasophyllum plain or wetland at an elevation of 1100m, in association with Eucalyptus Talbingo bagoensis pauciflora, Epacris species and Poa clivicola (DECCW 2009) E TSC

Kiandra Leek Orchid Found mostly in grassland in the Kiandra, Long Plain and Tantangara area and Marginal, elevation Long Plain, Low, due to lack of records from No on the Nunniong Plateau in Victoria, at elevations of 1200-1400m (Jones, may be too high at Tantangara, Kiandra the area Prasophyllum 2006). “Favours gently undulating ground, often near creeks” (Bishop 1996). 1740m areas retroflexum Also recorded from a powerline easement which was formerly snow gum V TSC woodland (K. McDougall, pers. comm.). Flowering period is recorded as Oct- Dec, so the survey timing was not suitable for detecting this species. V EPBC Small Snake Orchid This species grows on the NSW Northern and Southern Tablelands, (DECC Marginal, elevation Snowy Plain Low, due to lack of records from No 2008b). It is abundant at Snowy Plain (J. Miles, pers, obs) flowering in may be too high at the area Diuris pedunculata November. At Snowy Plain the habitat is grassland around the margins of 1740m E TSC wet areas, to upper slopes, at around 1400m elevation. E EPBC GRASSES AND GRAMINOIDS

Archer’s Carex Grows in alpine heath, tall alpine herbfield and sod tussock grassland of the Present Club Lake, 4km NW Low to moderate, and the Yes, if present. NSW and Victorian alps, and in Tasmania. In NSW it is known only from the of Charlottes Pass species would be easily 7 part test Carex archeri Club Lake and upper Thredbo River areas in KNP. overlooked completed. E TSC

Final 2010 A-14 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species Habitat description & ecology Presence of Habitat Nearest Records Likelihood of Occurrence Possible Impact? Raleigh’s Carex Grows in sphagnum bogs and high elevation wetlands above 1200 metres in Present Spencer’s Creek Low to moderate, and the Yes, if present. KNP, with a record from private property at Snowy Plain (J. Miles, pers. obs.). below Charlotte species would be easily 7 part test Carex raleighii Records from KNP include the Tantangara area and upper Tooma and Tumut Pass, c. 6-7km WSW overlooked completed. E TSC valleys. There are confirmed records (1997-98) from Spencers Creek below of the site Charlotte Pass (NSW NPWS, 2001).

Feldmark Grass Known in NSW only from a small area on the Kosciuszko Main Range Absent Main Range c. 4km None No between Mt Northcote and Mt Lee, and near Lake Albina (DECCW 2009), WNW of Charlottes Rytidosperma pumilum where it grows in feldmark on bare upper slopes and ridges. There are Pass V TSC unconfirmed and possibly erroneous records from Charlottes Pass and Seamans Hut near Mt Kosciuszko (NSW NPWS 2001). The known location is V EPBC bisected by a well-used walking track and may be threatened by tourism impacts. Searches of all areas mapped as feldmark have failed to locate any additional populations. The species also occurs in New Zealand (NSW NPWS 2001). A Grass This perennial grass grows in subalpine streamside vegetation in KNP, where Present Perisher, Betts and Detected close to site Yes. 7 part test it has been recorded at altitudes of 1500-1900m, from Perisher Creek, Betts Spencer Creeks and completed. Rytidosperma Creek, Spencers Creek and tributaries, and on Happy Jacks Plain. It grows in tributaries vickeryae syn. and around bogs and creeks, often in sphagnum mounds (NSW Scientific Danthonia sp. A Committee, 2008, McDougall and Walsh 2007). Early records from Happy E TSC Jacks Plain have not been relocated recently (K. McDougall, pers. comm.).

EECs

Natural Temperate Natural Temperate Grassland is a naturally treeless or sparsely-treed Potentially present Monaro plateau Limited Low Grassland of the community, characterised by the dominance of native grasses including Southern Tablelands kangaroo grass (Themeda australis), Poa tussock (Poa sieberiana), river of NSW and the ACT tussock (P. labillardieri), spear grasses and wallaby grasses, with a diversity of native forbs (DECCW 2009). It refers to grassy communities of tablelands to EC EPBC montane elevations, not alpine or subalpine communities.

Final 2010 A-15 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species Habitat description & ecology Presence of Habitat Nearest Records Likelihood of Occurrence Possible Impact? Montane Peatlands Variable community which may be dominated by herbaceous species Present Common throughout Present on site Yes, 7 part test and Swamps (sedges, grasses, forbs) or shrubs, occurring in drainage depressions and the subalpine zone in completed. seepage areas of the NSW tablelands to alps. In the Alps the EEC definition KNP EC TSC includes associations dominated by shrubs such as Epacris species, Richea continentis, Baeckea and Callistemon species, fen dominated by sedges, wet grassland dominated by Poa costiniana and Sphagnum bogs (NSW Scientific Committee, 2004). Alpine Sphagnum Bogs Variable community which may be dominated by herbaceous species Present Common throughout Present on site Yes, test of and Associated Fens (sedges, grasses, forbs) or shrubs, occurring in drainage depressions and the subalpine zone in significance seepage areas of the NSW, Victoria and Tasmanian alps, and less commonly KNP completed. EC EPBC at lower elevations. In the Alps the EEC definition includes associations KNP POM dominated by shrubs such as Epacris species, Richea continentis, Baeckea and Callistemon species, fen dominated by sedges, wet grassland dominated by Poa costiniana and Sphagnum bogs (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2008).

E TSC= listed as Endangered under Schedule 1 of the NSW TSC Act 1995 V EPBC = listed as Vulnerable under the Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999 E EPBC = listed as Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999 CE = Critically endangered V TSC = listed as Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act 1995. KNP POM = Significant under the KNP Plan of Management schedule of significant features

Final 2010 A-16 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Threatened fauna species habitat evaluation

The table below evaluates the likelihood and extent of impact on threatened fauna listed in the EPBC database Matters of National Significance, which fall within a 10 kilometre buffer of the Perisher Valley site. Threatened fauna species from the New South Wales Alps sub-region of the Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA) region and the New South Wales Alps sub-region of the Murray CMA region are also included in this evaluation. Recorded sightings of threatened species were determined through the Atlas of NSW Wildlife8, within the 1:100 000 Kosciuszko (8525) map sheets. For each species, the table assesses whether habitat is present, if there are any recorded sightings near the proposed project area, and based on this, the likelihood of the species utilising the site and being adversely affected by the proposal. The categories are defined below.

Presence of Habitat:

Present: Potential or known foraging, roosting, nesting, refuge, movement corridor (including movement of genetic material) or other habitat is present within the study area

Absent: No potential foraging, roosting, nesting or other habitat is present within the study area

Likelihood of Occurrence:

None: Species has a very low, or no probability of occurrence

Vagrant: Species could occur on occasion as a vagrant or passing over/across the study area (usually applies to more mobile species)

Possible: Species could occur and utilise resources in the study area

Present: Species was recorded during the field investigations

Possible Impact

No: The proposal would not impact this species or its habitats. No Seven-Part Test is necessary for this species

8 The Atlas of NSW Wildlife is the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) online database of fauna and flora records and contains over four million recorded sightings.

Final 2010 A-17 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted AMPHIBIA

Spotted Tree Frog Occur among boulders or debris along naturally vegetated, rocky Absent None No fast flowing upland streams and rivers. Litoria spenceri E TSC Southern Corroboree Frog The summer breeding habitat for this species is pools and seepages Present Unlikely No in sphagnum bogs, wet tussock grasslands and wet heath (DECCW Pseudophryne corroboree However species is likely to be 2009). It feeds primarily on small black ants and other invertebrates. The proposal would locally extinct. E TSC Males move into the breeding sites in summer and call during avoid impacts to January and February from covered depressions or mossy chambers potential habitat. E EPBC at the edges of pools. Outside the breeding season adults move away from the bogs into the surrounding heath and snow gum woodland to overwinter under litter, logs and dense groundcover (DECCW 2009). Alpine Tree Frog This species is found in a wide variety of habitats including Present Possible, but unlikely No woodland, heath, grassland and herb fields at high elevation Litoria verreauxii alpina (DECCW 2009). It breeds in natural and artificial wetlands including Impacts to the stream E TSC ponds, bogs, fens, streamside pools, stock dams and drainage This species has been recorded would be avoided channels that are still or slow flowing. Males call from the water at approximately 5km north-west of V EPBC the edges of the pools, and eggs are attached to submerged the site near Blue Cow. vegetation. Non-breeding habitat and overwintering refuges are poorly known but are likely to include flat rocks, fallen logs, leaf litter and other ground debris. AVES

Cattle egret The Cattle Egret is found in grasslands, woodlands and wetlands. It Present Unlikely No also utilises pasture lands where drainage is poor, often in Ardea ibis/ Bubulcus ibis association with cattle and other stock. Originally found in Africa, M EPBC Europe and Asia, the Cattle Egret is now found on nearly every continent, with birds in Australia originating from Asia

Final 2010 A-18 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Great Egret Great Egrets occur throughout most of the world. They are common Absent Unlikely No throughout Australia, with the exception of the most arid areas. Ardea alba This species has been recorded Great Egrets prefer shallow water, particularly when flowing, but approximately 30km north-west of M EPBC may be seen on any watered area, including damp grasslands. the site. White-bellied Sea-Eagle This species occurs around coastal areas, islands and estuaries, but Absent Unlikely No is also found in inland areas where there are from large rivers, Haliaeetus leucogaster wetlands and reservoirs. M EPBC Australian Painted Snipe In NSW, this species has been recorded at the Paroo wetlands, Lake Absent Unlikely No Cowell, Macquarie Marshes and Hexham Swamp. It is most common Rostratula australis, in the Murray-Darling Basin. A small freshwater wader that prefers V EPBC the fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas. M EPBC Gang-gang Cockatoo In summer, this species is generally found in tall mountain forests Absent Species occurs locally. No and woodlands, particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet Callocephalon fimbriatum No trees (forage and sclerophyll forests. In winter, it may occur at lower altitudes in drier, sites for potential V TSC more open eucalypt forests and woodlands, particularly box- nest hollows) would ironbark assemblages (Shields and Crome 1992). This species be impacted as part requires large hollows in which to breed (Gibbons 1999, Gibbons of the proposal. and Lindenmayer 2000). Glossy Black-cockatoo This species inhabits open forest and woodlands of the coast and Absent, does not occur locally. None No the Great Dividing Range up to 1000 m which include stands of she- Calyptorhynchus lathami oak species, particularly Black She-oak (DECCW 2009). V TSC Swift Parrot Breeds in Tasmania, migrating to south and eastern NSW in Absent None No autumn/winter where it inhabits eucalypt forests and woodlands Lathamus discolor There are no records for this (Blakers et al. 1984). Mostly occurs on the south-west slopes. It species. E EPBC feeds on flowers of eucalypts, and eats psyllids and exotic fruits (Blakers et al. 1984). In eastern NSW swift parrots favour habitat containing Eucalyptus robusta (swamp mahogany) and E. maculata (spotted gum) (Brereton 1996).

Final 2010 A-19 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Hooded Robin (south- This species occupies a wide range of Eucalypt woodlands, Acacia Absent None No eastern form) scrublands and open forests (Blakers et al. 1984). It is widespread, This species has been recorded occurring in pairs or solitary in lightly timbered country (Schodde & Melanodryas cucullata approximately 20km west of the Tidemann 1995) and spends much of its time on the ground foraging cucullata site near the Alpine Way. for insects. It frequents places with dead trees and fallen timber V TSC (Schodde and Tidemann 1995). This species nests in strong bark cusps of trees. Barking Owl This species is found throughout Australia except for the central arid Absent None No regions and Tasmania. It is quite common in parts of northern Ninox connivens There are no records for this Australia, but is generally considered uncommon in southern species. V TSC Australia. It is most frequently recorded on the western slopes and plains. It inhabits eucalypt woodland, open forest, swamp woodlands and, especially in inland areas, timber along watercourses. Denser vegetation is used occasionally for roosting, (DECCW 2009). Powerful Owl This species is endemic to eastern and south-eastern Australia, Absent None No mainly on the coastal side of the Great Dividing Range from Mackay Ninox strenua This species has been recorded to south-western Victoria. In NSW, it is widely distributed approximately 4km south-east of V TSC throughout the eastern forests from the coast inland to the the site near Bullocks Flat. tablelands, with scattered, mostly historical records on the western slopes and plains. The Powerful Owl inhabits a range of vegetation types, from woodland and open sclerophyll forest to tall open wet forest and rainforest. The Powerful Owl requires large tracts of forest or woodland habitat but can occur in fragmented landscapes as well, (DECCW 2009). Masked Owl This species lives in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands from sea Absent None No level to 1100m. A forest owl, but often hunts along the edges of Tyto novaehollandiae There are no records for this forests, including roadsides. The typical diet consists of tree-dwelling species. V TSC and ground mammals, especially rats. Pairs have a large home-r a n g e of 500 to 1000 hectares. It roosts and breeds in moist eucalypt forested gullies, using large tree hollows or sometimes caves for nesting (DECCW 2009).

Final 2010 A-20 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Olive Whistler This species inhabits the wet forests on the ranges of the east coast. Absent Possible No It has a disjunct distribution in NSW chiefly occupying the beech Pachycephala olivacea This species has been recorded forests around Barrington Tops and the MacPherson Ranges in the within 1km of the site. The site V TSC north and wet forests from Illawarra south to Victoria. In the south does not contain suitable (dense it is found inland to the Snowy Mountains and the Brindabella heath habitat Range. Mostly inhabit wet forests above about 500m. During the winter months they may move to lower altitudes. It forages in trees and shrubs and on the ground, feeding on berries and insects, (DECCW 2009). Pink Robin This species is found in Tasmania and the uplands of eastern Victoria Absent None No and far south-eastern NSW, almost as far north as Bombala. On the Petroica rodinogaster This species has been recorded mainland, the species disperses north and west and into more open approximately 6km north of the V TSC habitats in winter, regularly as far north as the ACT area, and site, however habitat not present sometimes being found as far north as the central coast of NSW. at the site. Inhabits rainforest and tall, open eucalypt forest, particularly in densely vegetated gullies. Speckled Warbler This species frequents woodlands and dry forests, of inland Absent None No Australia. These areas usually have a grassy understorey, often on Pyrrholaemus saggitatus There are no records for this ridges or gullies. It is sedentary, living in pairs or trios and nests on species. V TSC the ground in grass tussocks, dense litter and fallen branches. Foraging takes place on the ground and in the understorey for arthropods and seeds (Ford et al. 1986). It is distributed from south- eastern Queensland, through central and eastern NSW to Victoria. Painted Snipe In NSW, this species has been recorded at the Paroo wetlands, Lake Absent None No Cowell, Macquarie Marshes and Hexham Swamp. It is most common Rostratula benghalensis There are no records for this in the Murray-Darling Basin. A small freshwater wader that prefers species E TSC the fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas.

White-throated Needletail Noted as one of the world’s fastest birds, this species has been Present Possible No recorded in the airspace above woodlands, forests and farmlands. It Hirundapus caudacutus This species has been recorded is often seen ‘patrolling’ favoured feeding grounds above ridges and within 1km of the site. M EPBC hilltops. It feeds on flying insects. This species migrates to Australia from mid-October and is a regular summer migrant until April when it returns to the northern hemisphere to breed.

Final 2010 A-21 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Rainbow Bee-eater This species inhabits open woodlands with sandy, loamy soil. It Present Unlikely No builds a burrow in sandy ground or bank cuttings such as roads or Merops ornatus This species has been recorded creeks. The species is a summer breeding migrant (Sept-Apr) to approximately 3km north-east of M EPBC south-eastern Australia, but winters in northern Australia, Solomon the site. Islands, PNG and Indonesia. Satin Flycatcher This species is normally found in heavily vegetated gullies in tall Present Present No forests, woodlands wherever a shrub layer is present. During Myiagra cyanoleuca This species has been recorded migration it is often found in coastal forests, woodlands and trees in approximately 4km south of the M EPBC open country. It breeds mostly in south-east Australia, nesting on a site. dead branch 5-25m high under live foliage, regularly returning to the same locality to breed. Rufous Fantail This species generally prefers wetter habitats than the common grey Present Possible No fantail. It is found in the undergrowth of rainforests, and wet Rhipidura rufifrons This species has been recorded eucalypt forests and gullies (Pizzey and Knight, 2003). From October approximately 20km north-west of M EPBC to February it migrates to south east Australia, when it can be found the site near Tumbarumba. in more open habitats and will nest in a horizontal fork of a tree up to 12m from the ground. Breeds in southern Australia, but is known to migrate to inland Australia, PNG, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and Indonesia. Diamond Firetail This species is found in grassy eucalypt woodlands, including Box- Absent None No Gum Woodlands and Snow Gum Woodlands, concentrated on the Stagonopleura guttata This species has been recorded tablelands and western slopes of NSW. It also occurs in open forest, approximately 4km south-east of V TSC mallee, Natural Temperate Grassland, and in secondary grassland the site. derived from other communities. Often found in riparian areas (rivers and creeks), and sometimes in lightly wooded farmland, it feeds exclusively on the ground, on ripe and partly-ripe grass and herb seeds and green leaves, and on insects (especially in the breeding season). Nests are globular structures built either in the shrubby understorey, or higher up, especially under hawk's or raven's nests. Birds roost in dense shrubs or in smaller nests built especially for roosting (DECCW 2009).

Final 2010 A-22 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted FISH

Murray Cod It is a long lived predator species that is highly territorial and Absent None No aggressive. It occurs naturally in the waterways of the Murray– Maccullochella peelii peelii Darling Basin in a wide range of warm water habitats that range V EPBC from clear, rocky streams to slow flowing turbid rivers and billabongs. The upper reaches of the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers are considered too cold to contain suitable habitat. Macquarie Perch The Macquarie Perch is a riverine, schooling species. It prefers deep, Absent None No rocky holes with lots of cover. Macquaria australasica E EPBC Australian Grayling On mainland Australia, this species has been recorded from rivers Absent None No flowing E and S of the main dividing ranges. It also occasionally Prototroctes maraena occurred high upstream in the Snowy River, (Environment 2009) V EPBC

MAMMALIA

Eastern False Pipistrelle This species prefers moist habitats, with trees taller than 20 m Absent Possible No (DECC 2008). Generally roosts in eucalypt hollows, but has also been Falsistrellus tasmaniensis This species has been recorded found under loose bark on trees or in buildings. It forages for approximately 7km south-west of V TSC beetles, moths, weevils and other flying insects above or just below the site, near Charlottes Pass. the tree canopy and hibernates in winter. Greater Broad-nosed Bat The Greater Broad-nosed Bat is found mainly in the gullies and river Absent None No systems that drain the Great Dividing Range, from north-eastern Scoteanax rueppellii Victoria to the Atherton Tableland. n NSW it is widespread on the V TSC New England Tablelands, however does not occur at altitudes above 500 m (DECCW 2009).

Final 2010 A-23 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Eastern Bentwing-bat This species primarily roosts in caves, but also uses derelict mines, Absent Possible No storm-water tunnels, buildings and other man-made structures Miniopterus schreibersii This species has been recorded (DECCW 2009). It forms discrete populations centred on a maternity oceanensis approximately 15km north-west of cave that is used annually in spring and summer. At other times of the site near Geehi Dam. V TSC the year, populations disperse within about 300 km range of maternity caves. Breeding or roosting colonies can number from 100 to 150,000 individuals. It forages in forested areas, catching moths and other flying insects above the tree tops. Large-footed Myotis This species roosts in groups of 10 - 15 close to water in caves, mine Absent Unlikely No shafts, hollow-bearing trees, storm water channels, buildings, under Myotis macropus There are no records for this bridges and in dense foliage (DECCW 2009). It forages over streams species. V TSC and pools catching insects and small fish by raking their feet across the water surface. Mountain Pygmy-possum Lives on the ground in rocky areas where boulders have Present (marginal) Unlikely No accumulated below mountain peaks; frequently associated with Burramys parvus alpine heath land shrubs dominated by the Mountain Plum-pine. E TSC Survives winter by fattening in late summer and autumn and This species has been recorded hibernating for up to seven months, from autumn until the snow 5km north of the site near Guthega E EPBC melts in spring. The only Australian mammal to be entirely restricted Power station. The site is unlikely to the alpine zone in areas above the winter snowline; it is to be utilised by this species. dependant on the insulation provided by snow for its survival.

Eastern Pygmy-possum This species is found in a broad range of habitats from rainforest Present (marginal) Unlikely No through sclerophyll (including Box-Ironbark) forest and woodland to Cercartetus nanus This species has been recorded heath, but in most areas woodlands and heath appear to be approximately 9km north-east of V TSC preferred, except in north-eastern NSW where they are most the site, near Island end. frequently encountered in rainforest (DECCW 2009). It feeds largely on nectar and pollen collected from banksias, eucalypts and bottlebrushes, soft fruits are eaten when flowers are unavailable. It also feeds on insects; this feed source may be more important in habitats where flowers are less abundant (DECCW 2009). This species uses a variety of shelters, such as tree hollows, rotten stumps, and holes in the ground, abandoned bird-nests, Ringtail Possum drays or thickets of vegetation, (e.g. grass-tree skirts).

Final 2010 A-24 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Spotted-tailed Quoll This species is found in a variety of forest types, although generally Present (marginal) Unlikely No it prefers moister environments such as rainforest and wet Dasyurus maculatus There are no records for this sclerophyll forest breeding and sleeping in nests in rock caves or species. V TSC hollow logs or trees (Edgar 1983). Prime habitat would therefore be adjacent moist gully communities, although it is likely to prey on E EPBC ground mammals and other species over a large range. Yellow-bellied Glider This species is found along the eastern coast to the western slopes Absent None No of the Great Dividing Range, from southern Queensland to Victoria. Petaurus australis This species has been recorded Occur in tall mature eucalypt forest generally in areas with high approximately 15km north-west of V TSC rainfall and nutrient rich soils. Forest type preferences vary with the site near Geehi Dam. Potential latitude and elevation; mixed coastal forests to dry escarpment habitat is not present. forests in the north; moist coastal gullies and creek flats to tall montane forests in the south. Feed primarily on plant and insect exudates, including nectar, sap, honeydew and manna with pollen and insects providing protein, (DECCW 2009). Brush-tailed Phascogale This species prefers dry sclerophyll open forest with sparse Absent None No groundcover of herbs, grasses, shrubs or leaf litter. It also inhabits Phascogale tapoatafa This species has been recorded heath, swamps, rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest. It forages approximately 25km north-west of V TSC mostly on arthropods but will eat other invertebrates, nectar and the site. Potential habitat is not small vertebrates. Nest and shelter is found in tree hollows with present. entrances 2.5 - 4 cm wide and uses many different hollows over a short time span (DECCW 2009). Koala This species inhabits eucalypt woodlands and forests over a broad Absent None No but fragmented distribution throughout eastern Australia from Phascolarctos cinereus This species has been recorded north-east Queensland to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. In approximately 10km south-west of V TSC NSW it mainly occurs on the central and north coasts, they are also the site, along the Alpine Way. know from several sites on the southern tablelands (DECC 2008). This species feeds on the foliage of more than 70 eucalypt species and 30 non-eucalypt species but in any one area it will selectively browse on preferred species. For the Southern Tablelands, the primary feed tree species are identified as Ribbon Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis) and River Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) along with a number of secondary food tree species including Candle Bark, Yellow Box and Brittle Gum (NSW NPWS Recovery Plan for the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), 2003).

Final 2010 A-25 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Broad-toothed Rat This species lives in a complex of runways through the dense Marginal habitat present Possible Yes vegetation of wet grass, sedge or heath environment, and under the Mastacomys fuscus This species has been recorded snow in winter. This relatively warm under-snow space enables it to within 1km of the site. V TSC be active throughout winter (DECCW 2009). Nests of grass are built in the understorey or under logs. The diet consists almost solely of grass and sedge stems, supplemented by seeds and moss spore cases (DECCW 2009). Smoky Mouse The Smoky Mouse appears to prefer heath habitat on ridge tops and Absent Unlikely No slopes in sclerophyll forest, heath land and open-forest from the Pseudomys fumeus coast (in Victoria) to sub-alpine regions of up to 1800 metres, but E TSC sometimes occurs in ferny gullies. Seeds and fruits from leguminous There are no local records for this shrubs form the main summer and autumn diet, with some species. E EPBC invertebrates, e.g., Bogong Moths in the high country. Hypogeal (truffle-like) fungi predominate in winter and spring, with some flowers, seeds and soil invertebrates. Nesting burrows have been found in rocky localities among tree roots and under the skirts of Grass Trees Xanthorrhoea spp. Green and Osborne (1994) state that this species occurs marginally in the subalpine zone in Victoria and the A.C.T. Long-nosed Potoroo (SE This species inhabits coastal heaths and dry and wet sclerophyll Absent None No mainland) forests. Dense understorey with occasional open areas is an There are no records for this essential part of habitat, and may consist of grass-trees, sedges, Potorous tridactylus species. ferns or heath, or of low shrubs of tea-trees or melaleucas. A sandy tridactylus loam soil is also a common feature (DECCW 2009). V EPBC

REPTILIA

Rosenberg's Goanna Found in heath, open forest and woodland. Associated with Absent None No termites, the mounds of which this species nests in; termite mounds Varanus rosenbergi This species has been recorded are a critical habitat component. Individuals require large areas of approximately 25km north-west of V TSC habitat. Feeds on carrion, birds, eggs, reptiles and small mammals. the site. Shelters in hollow logs, rock crevices and in burrows, which they may dig for themselves, or they may use other species' burrows, such as rabbit warrens.

Final 2010 A-26 Perisher Services Precinct Development Stage 2

Species and Status Ecology and habitat requirements Presence of habitat and nearest Likelihood of Potential to be records occurrence impacted Alpine Water Skink The species has a very specific habitat, being restricted to wet heath Species recorded locally. Possible Yes and bog areas (Green and Osborne 1994). Eulamprus kosciuszkoi KNP POM Alpine She-oak Skink Rare, cryptic and little known, thought to shelter in grass tussocks Absent Possible Yes Cyclodomorphus praealtus and recorded from 1600-2000m elevation (Green and Osborne This species has been recorded at 1994). E EPBC Smiggin Holes. KNP POM ENDANGERED POPULATION

Bogo Plateau yellow The endangered population of the Yellow-bellied Glider occurs on Absent None No bellied glider endangered the Bago Plateau; a westward extension of the Kosciuszko highlands population in southern New South Wales. The population is disjunct owing to the steep valleys and unsuitable habitat surrounding the Bago E TSC Plateau and, in addition, because of cleared agricultural land to the west and the Tumut River and Talbingo Reservoir to the east. The area of the population includes a large portion of Bago and Maragle State Forests, a small area of Kosciuszko National Park and some freehold land (DECCW 2009).

E TSC= listed as Endangered under Schedule 1 of the NSW TSC Act 1995 M EPBC = Listed as Migratory under Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999CAMBA = Chinese-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement E EPBC = listed as Endangered under the Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999 JAMBA = Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement V TSC = listed as Vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the TSC Act 1995. KNP POM = Significant under the KNP Plan of Management Schedule of significant features V EPBC = listed as Vulnerable under the Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999

CE = Critically endangered

Final 2010 A-27