AT-1. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Landscape Master Plan by Applicant
Vision The scenic South coast of Phillip Island is a tourist destination of State significance. T he Site at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven has been significantly modified as a result of farming, and currently presents as a relatively featureless grassy paddock abutting coastal dunes. The dune system will be rehabilitated and managed as a Conservation Area (in co-operation with and under guidance of PINP). The balance of the Site is proposed to be developed as a camp ground and caravan park, providing an alternative accommodation option on the south coast of the Island for travellers and holiday-makers. The landscape treatment aims to create a native bush / coastal setting, responding to the site conditions. It features a meandering site layout, extensive revegetation, earth mounding and an on-site stormwater treatment system. A palette of locally indigenous and suitable Australian native plants is nominated which will thrive in these conditions, creating an attractive and contextual landscape setting.
Landscape Principles
Theme & vision • Respond to site conditions: topography, vegetation & microclimate 01 • Preserve the environmental integrity of the dunal system • Create South-coast landscape that fits comfortably in context • Create sites nestled within the landscape • Develop a safe, attractive pedestrian environment • Locate communal facilities in visually prominent, central areas Philli p Islan d road
Plant selection & placement • Indigenous plant palette to coastal interface • Locally Indigenous & Australian plants native elsewhere 02 • Wetland species in accordance with Melbourne Water & Westernport Water Guidelines
Road layout • Indicative alignment of entry road to be refined by traffic engineers • Meandering, predominantly one-way internal roads, minimum road widths 03 • Views along all internal roads to terminate in planted areas
Conservation area
Functional Layout • 204 sites indicated on this plan 04 • Southern third of site can be closed during the off season • Larger sites located closer to Phillip Island Rd • Smaller sites located closer to conservation area
Adjoining Land interface • SOUTH: Boundary to Conservation areas to have visually permeable fence, restricting pedestrian access to the dunes and a planted boundary 05 • NORTH: Phillip Island Road interface to be densely planted & earth bunding • EAST: Interface with private land, densely planted boundary & earth bunding • WEST: Philip Island Nature Parks land, public access to Forest caves beach, densely planted boundary & earth bunding
Key Plan - Not to scale
The Surf Park Landscape Masterplan 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 05 DRWN AC CHKDMC APPROV HW DATE 20.02.2017 Philip island road P roPOSED LOCATION & road treatment of entry road to be confirmed by traffic engineer
Sewerage pumping +2.0 station 100sqm 30sqm bio- sediment basin +1.5 retention basin +2.0
+1.0 C arparking indicative layout Mounded landscape & channel abutting eastern boundary Playground & to intercept Amenities picnic area overland storm block water
+1.0 Office & managers residence Depot
+1.0
+2.0 300mm deep, min 1.5m wide storm water open channel at +1.0 base of mounding continuous along boundary
rec room G roUP SITES Park & communal amenities Camp kitchen
+1.0
Public access to Forrest Amenities caves Carpark block
+1.0
+1.0
CANOPY TREES e.g Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Banksia marginata+2.0 Silver Banksia Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea' Yellow Gum SCREENS TREES e.g Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak +2.0 Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree VseC on Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla r SHRUBS e.g ation Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle Ar Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia ea Bursaria+2.0 spinosa Sweet Bursaria Correa alba White Correa GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach Legend CANOPY TREES e.g CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Earth Mounding Boundary Fencing I nternal Building Lighting Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Dune Grassland EVC 879 For noise attenuation, visual screening, Visually permeable fencing Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea' Yellow Gum Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle sightlines & topographical interest preventing pedestrian access to dunes A. Internal lighting to be as low wattage as possible to ensure personal safety SCREENS TREES e.g Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush B. Sideways spill should be shielded especially near Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla windows P nrimary e try road Cmi a p s tes Allocasuarina verticillata Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass C. Windows to have black out features to block Drooping She-oak Two-way sealed road for vehicular traffic. Total of 204 sites including: light spill after sunset during peak Short-tailed Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush - Nominally 8m width -15 sites at 9 x 18m Fledging period 15th April to 10th May. Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla D. Dimmed emergency lights (as safety permits e.g. STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS -50 sites at 10 x 12m exit signs) SHRUBS e.g Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Secondary internal avenues -92 sites at 9 x 10m Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle Water Guidelines for Constructed Wetlands One-way sealed road for vehicular traffic -46 sites at 7.5 x 7.5m E xternal lighting Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses to minimise road surface area. -1 larger groups site Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria Carex appressa Tall Sedge - Nominally 4m width A. External lighting to be as low wattage as Correa alba White Correa possible to ensure personal safety Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree S ediemnt basin & bio B. Upward and sideways spill shielded on outdoor GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark retention basin lights, especially any internal road lighting Pedestrian Paths Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass Juncus sp Juncus Gravel paths throughout sites and to WSUD elements to be designed C. Blue, green, yellow or red filters on outside lights Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush connect to Forrest Caves and to Phillip in accordance with Stormwater D. All external lighting to be turned off all night Management Report by Brosnan (not used) between 15th April and 10th May (peak Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Island Road SUP Short-tailed Shearwater fledging period). Engineering Solutions Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach -Nominally 2m width CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Dune Grassland EVC 879 Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae SCALE 1:500 (A1) Coast Wattle The Surf Park Landscape Masterplan Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla Poa poiformis var poiformis 0 10 20 PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 05 DRWNCoast ACTussock-grassCHKDMC APPROV HW DATE 20.02.2017 Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Water Guidelines for Constructed Wetlands Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses Carex appressa Tall Sedge Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Juncus sp Juncus AT-2. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Planning Report by Applicant
PLANNING REPORT
Application for: Use of the land for a caravan and camping park and associated development, removal of vegetation from the road reserve, and creation of access to Phillip Island Road.
Site address: 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (Lot 1, LP89850)
October 2016 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN
Contents Page
1. Introduction 3 2. Site Analysis 3 3. Surrounding Area 4 4. Proposal 4 5. Planning Controls 7 5.1. Zoning 7 5.2. Farming Zone Assessment 7 5.3. Particular Provisions 10 5.4. Overlays 10 6. Planning Policy 11 6.1. State Planning Policy Framework 11 6.2. Local Planning Policy Framework 16 6.3. State and Local Policy Assessment 20 6.4. ESO1 Assessment 21 6.5. SLO2 Assessment 22 7. Conclusion 24 Attachment 1 – Title documents
The subject site, looking from Phillip Island Road.
© Jardine Johnstone 2016 The information contained in this document is confidential and intended solely for the use of the client identified in the report for the purpose for which it has been prepared and no representation is made or is to be implied as being made to any third party. Use or copying of this document in whole or part without the written permission of Jardine Johnstone constitutes an infringement of copyright. The intellectual property contained in this document remains the property of Jardine Johnstone.
2 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN
1 INTRODUCTION This report has been prepared to accompany a planning permit application to Bass Coast Shire for the operation of a caravan and camping park, associated development, removal of vegetation from the road reserve, and creation of access to a category 1 road zone (Phillip Island Road), on land formally known as 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven. This report is prepared in response to the relevant provisions of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. The report is to be read in conjunction with the Landscape Masterplan prepared by Tract, and Proposed Caravan Park building drawings by Beaumont Concepts dated 12/10/2016. The proposed caravan and camping park use will provide a key tourist accommodation use in a location which provides convenient access to a wide range of natural features, excellent access for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists, and will provide short term accommodation options for visitors seeking to experience the southern coastline of Phillip Island. The proposal will comprise a suitable, sensitive and respectful development and use of a site located in a semi-rural and coastal landscape setting and will have a negligible impact upon the operation of the surrounding public land uses, farms and accommodation uses, and will limit any impacts upon the coastal landscape and associated adjoining habitat areas. Furthermore, the proposed use and works accord with the relevant objectives and provisions of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme and in particular the Council’s local planning policies. The caravan and camping park use of the land is specifically supported by recent strategic planning documents prepared by Bass Coast Shire, in particular the Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 . This is discussed in more detail later in this report. The proposal achieves the desired balance between the policies of sensitive development within the rural and coastal landscape and use of a strategically-located parcels of land in the Farming Zone for appropriate tourist accommodation purposes, and therefore should be supported.
2 SITE ANALYSIS The site comprises a single parcel with a frontage to Phillip Island Road of 311.1 metres, and maximum depth of 628.22 metres. It has an area of 8.1ha, is currently developed with a single-storey dwelling, and supports some indigenous vegetation in the south of the site, where the land rises to sand dunes adjacent to the waters of Bass Strait. The land is distinguished by two separate land forms. In the north, comprising approximately 5.6ha is a relatively flat expanse of open paddocks, featuring the dwelling and dwelling surrounds. In the south of the site is an area of vegetated sand dunes approximately 2.5ha in area. The dunes are fenced off from the paddocks and rise steeply from the dividing fence. The flat section of the land features a network of open spoon drains which are designed to collect stormwater runoff. The drains empty into pipes which flow under Phillip Island Road into the land to the north. These pipes have recently been cleared of debris, allowing more efficient flow of stormwater from the site towards the waters of Westernport to the north. The land north of the sand dunes slopes slightly, falling to the north. Fencing on all boundaries is post and wire to approximately 1.2m. The site has existing access from Phillip Island Road, adjacent to the east boundary. The site is located in the Farming Zone but is not currently farmed. It features pasture grasses and weeds, and a small patch of indigenous plant species (Melaleuca ericifolia) abutting the north boundary.
3 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN
3 SURROUNDING AREA The site is located on the south coast of Phillip Island, between Cape Woolamai and Surf Beach townships. The site is located approximately 3.8km to the west of the Newhaven township, approximately 4.8km to San Remo township, and approximately 7.2km to Cowes township. The site is closer to the Surf Beach and Cape Woolamai townships, at approximately 220m and 1650m proximity respectively. The Phillip Island Road pedestrian and cycling path passes directly in front of the site, connecting the property to San Remo and all interspersed townships to the east, and Cowes and all interspersed townships to the west and north-west. The area surrounding the site is characterised by a mixture of land uses and development types, including some small scale, actively farmed Farming Zone land to the east, tourism and aquaculture further to the east, coastal dunes to the south, south-east and south-west, and public reserve land to the west. Abutting to the east is a property located in the Farming Zone used for small scale agriculture and dwelling use. It is approximately 8.1ha in area, and features vegetated dunes in the south of the site approximately 2.6ha in area. The site features a dwelling located in the north-east corner of the property, surrounded by dense vegetation. Further to the east are similar sized allotments featuring areas of pasture, vegetation and dwellings. From a farming perspective, these allotments are generally of poor productivity. On the opposite side of Phillip Island Road to the north is the Scenic Estate, which is an inappropriate subdivision undeveloped and featuring mostly dense Swamp Scrub vegetation. It has recently been developed with walking paths and a car park to allow for public passive recreation. This allows for pedestrian access to Westernport in the north of the Scenic Estate. Abutting to the west is public land managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks. It features a car park and vehicle access, and a walkway over the sand dunes to Forrest Caves beach, as well as a public toilet block. The main car park is gravel and abuts the common boundary with the subject site. Further to the west, beyond the public reserve is the Surf Beach township, approximately 370m from the subject site. Abutting to the south of the subject site is the Forrest Caves beach and waters of Bass Strait. 4 PROPOSAL The proposal involves creation of a caravan and camping park on the land, featuring a network of sites to accommodate caravans, motor homes, campervans, trailer-campers and tents on a short-term basis. The sites are organised around an informal grid system of internal roads. There are a total of 208 sites proposed. The sites vary in size from 7.5m x 7.5m, to larger sites of 9m x 18m. A larger site located centrally on the property and adjacent to the southern amenities block and camp kitchen will be set aside for camping groups such as school groups (see The Surf Park Landscape Masterplan by Tract for numbers and sizes of sites). Power will be provided to many of the sites, with a limited proportion of unpowered sites. All sites will have a grass cover. Built form on site will comprise a manager’s residence and office and storage shed located at the north end of the site, adjacent to the main vehicle entry to the site. An amenities block will be located to the west of the main office building, with a playground and picnic area located between the amenities block and main office. Further to the south, located centrally on the property will be a recreation room, camp kitchen, and amenities block. The reception building, manager’s residence, amenities blocks and camp kitchen will be connected to the reticulated sewerage network. There will be no
4 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN disposal of effluent on-site. An on-site pumping station will connect to the reticulated system and will be located in the north-west corner of the site. The proposal includes extensive landscaping of the site. The Landscape Masterplan by Tract demonstrates that the proposed landscaping will transform the site from a mostly barren condition, to a well-vegetated state, with wide buffers of vegetation along west, north and east boundaries. The north boundary landscaping will be 17-35m wide, and approximately 196m in length. It will incorporate stormwater treatment ponds to be planted with suitable species from locally specific Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC53 – Swamp Scrub). West and east boundary landscaping will be at least 5.0m in width. West boundary landscaping will be approximately 230m long, and east boundary landscaping approximately 300m long. Earth mounds are proposed for planting areas along west, north and east boundaries. These mounds will serve a number of purposes, including visual screening, noise attenuation, and topographical interest on this relatively flat site. The mounds will be formed using soil from the site. There will be no imported soil. The additional on-site revegetation proposed will supplement the existing native vegetation located in the sand dunes in the south of the site, the area of which is 2.6ha. This vegetation will connect with the foreshore reserve to the west, managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks, and the existing native vegetation located in the adjacent road reserve to the north. It will increase the extent of native vegetation in the locality, and provide habitat opportunities for local fauna, and will improve the appearance of this currently degraded and denuded site. Landscaping will shield views into the site from the Phillip Island Road, and also from the public reserve and car park to the west of the site. The appearance of vegetated areas rather than open paddocks will complement the natural features of the vegetated dunes to the south, and Forrest Caves car park area to the west. Landscaping within the site includes planting of appropriate tree species within the caravan and camping sites, to provide shade and shelter to guests. Locally indigenous and Australian native tree species are to be used for this purpose. The distribution of plant species throughout the site will be sensitive to the ecology of the site, with locally-indigenous species to be used adjacent to the dunes, and locally indigenous and Australian native plants used in less sensitive areas through the site. Access to the site will be via Phillip Island Road to the north of the site, and will be facilitated by dedicated left and right turning lanes from this road. This will allow for vehicles slowing to enter the site, and will not affect the flow of other traffic. Egress from the site will benefit from generous sight line distance in both directions, providing for safe traffic movements into Phillip Island Road. Street signage will be erected in accordance with VicRoads requirements, to enable easy identification of the site. The proposed caravan and camping park will provide a unique accommodation option on Phillip Island, which is recognised internationally as a tourist destination, due to its distinct natural attributes and attractions, and significant sporting events. Locating a caravan and camping park close to the stunning scenery of Phillip Island’s south coastline presents a unique opportunity for visitors to the area. Currently the vast majority of caravan parks are located close to developed areas, and there is no caravan park or similar accommodation within close proximity of the surf beaches of the south coast, despite Phillip Island being well- recognised for its excellent surf and beautiful beaches. This proposal seeks to provide in-demand tourist accommodation in a less developed, more natural setting, where guests can experience the coast and immediate hinterland in a more natural state. The importance of diversifying accommodation options on Phillip Island and providing unique experiences for visitors is described in detail in the recently completed
5 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN
Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035. This document provides strong support for expansion and diversification of tourist accommodation on Phillip Island. This proposal will create the opportunity for an increase in overnight stays on Phillip Island, which will benefit other businesses, and will provide job opportunities for the local population. The development will also make good use of a site which is currently degraded and serves no agricultural purpose. The significant revegetation proposed will improve the visual appearance of the site, particularly from adjacent public areas, Phillip Island Road, and adjacent private property to the east. The site will also benefit from stormwater absorption by extensive plantings, and also through the proposed on-site stormwater treatment ponds to be located in the north of the site. Road works In order to allow appropriate vehicle access to the site from Phillip Island Road, a new crossover is proposed to be located centrally on the site’s road frontage. Left and right turning lanes are required to provide safe ingress and egress, and this will require road widening to VicRoads requirements, and to the relevant Australian Standards. Appropriate road design has been undertaken by Brosnan Engineering Solutions. Comment will be sought on this design from VicRoads and Bass Coast Shire engineers. Vegetation Removal Currently there is very little vegetation on site, apart from pasture grasses and weeds covering the open paddocks. Aside from several Cypress specimens growing along the driveway to the dwelling, there is a small patch of Melaleuca ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark) located abutting the north boundary, to the north-west of the dwelling. This will be located within the vegetated area surrounding the proposed stormwater treatment ponds, and will remain in place. Road works to create a left turning lane will necessitate the removal of approximately 330sqm of vegetation from the road reserve. This is documented in the Biodiversity Assessment Report submitted with this application. The report demonstrates that the application for vegetation removal is to be assessed as a ‘low risk pathway’ application. In the context of the revegetation of the site proposed as part of the development, the removal of 330sqm of road side vegetation is minor, and will be generously compensated for through extensive on-site plantings. Drainage Currently stormwater flows through the site from the east and north, and is directed to drainage pipes under Phillip Island Road, where stormwater continues to flow northwards through Scenic Estate to the waters of Westernport. The proposed development of the land includes on-site retention and treatment of stormwater in treatment ponds to be located in the north of the site, where treated stormwater will then flow into the existing system. The treatment ponds are to be a key element in the landscaping of the site, and will be planted with plant species suitable to that use, and which will add to the aesthetic appeal of the overall landscape theme. The functionality of the stormwater treatment and disposal system is assessed in the Hydrology Report submitted with this application. Water Safety The proposed caravan and camping park is to be located within close proximity to Forrest Caves beach, which is a well-recognised surf beach, used by visitors and locals alike. Like all
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Phillip Island beaches, water conditions vary with the weather and swell conditions. The proposed park is to be promoted as a destination for guests who appreciate the energetic and natural setting of a surf beach, including swimmers, surfers, walkers, fishers, and bird and wildlife watchers. For safety of park patrons, all guests will receive beach safety information included with their park information material on arrival at the park. This will include advice in regards to the variety of beach conditions, and available patrolled beaches in the area. Beach safety signage will be placed at the pedestrian exit point on the west boundary of the site, where guests will access Forrest Caves beach. This signage will be consistent with the signage used by PINP (managers of the public coastal land to the west and south of the subject site), in order to avoid any ambiguity or confusion. CFA compliance All existing and proposed caravan parks in Victoria are bound by the safety requirements within the Caravan Park Fire Safety Guideline (CFA and MFB, 2012). This document stipulates, among other things, caravan park layout and on-site fire fighting equipment requirements. All proposed buildings, as well as the layout of internal roads and provision of fire fighting equipment will comply with the Caravan Park Fire Safety Guideline. 5 PLANNING CONTROLS The development and use of the site is controlled by the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. Specific provisions of this scheme that are relevant to this review are explained in the following. 5.1 Zoning Farming Zone Under the provisions of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme the subject site is included within the Farming Zone. The stated purpose of the Zone is: • To implement the State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies. • To provide for the use of land for agriculture. • To encourage the retention of productive agricultural land. • To ensure that non-agricultural uses, particularly dwellings, do not adversely affect the use of land for agriculture. • To encourage the retention of employment and population to support rural communities. • To encourage use and development of land based on comprehensive and sustainable land management practices and infrastructure provision. Pursuant to Table 1 at clause 35.07-1, camping and caravan park use is a section 2 use, and requires a planning permit. Pursuant to clause 35.07-4, buildings and works associated with a section 2 use require a planning permit, as does construction of a building within 50m of a category 1 road zone. 5.2 Farming Zone assessment While the proposed caravan and camping park is located within the Farming Zone, the subject site is an allotment which is of a size which limits the viability of farming activities. As the southern section of the property is sand dunes, the effective area available for farming is only 5.6ha. Also limiting the viability of farming activities on the land is the poor condition of soil, and the exposure of the site to salt-laden winds. The poor condition of the property, as well as its very low potential in regards to farming enterprises, is discussed in the Land Management Plan prepared by John Gallienne & Co Pty Ltd, submitted with this application.
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The Decision Guidelines at Clause 35.07-6 require consideration of issues relating to agriculture, dwelling and environment. Most of the agricultural issues relate to how the proposal will impact on the capability of the land and whether the use is sustainable. In this case, it is considered that the subject site cannot be used viably for agricultural purposes due to its small size and poor soil and climatic attributes, and that the impacts of the caravan and camping use of the land will have negligible impacts upon the operation of the larger, more viable farming units to the north- east and east. These do not adjoin the subject site. The adjoining property to the east has similar attributes to the subject site, in that it is of a small area, has extensive areas of vegetated dunes in the south, and has a dwelling located in the north-east corner. The key considerations in relation to the use and development of a caravan and camping park in this case relate to the visual impact of the buildings and works on the surrounding landscape, and the impacts of the development and caravan and camping park use upon the environment. Environmental issues In regards to the environmental impacts of the proposal, it is proposed to locate the proposed camping and caravan sites and buildings outside the vegetated dune area in the south of the property. This will ensure there is no physical impact upon the vegetated sand dunes and the flora and fauna within this section of the land. The associated effluent and stormwater from the buildings will be disposed of via the reticulated sewerage and stormwater networks which service the land. Therefore, there will be no impacts upon the hydrology of the foreshore reserve to the west, nor upon the marine environment. Apart from a small section of roadside vegetation to be removed to construct vehicle entry and left turning land into the property, the proposal does not require removal of any vegetation. The closest areas of substantial vegetation are within the vegetated sand dunes to the south and west. These will not be affected by the proposed development. The proposal includes extensive areas of revegetation, particularly around the perimeter of the site and a wide belt of planting along the north boundary. The proposed revegetation will create corridors for fauna linking the vegetated sand dunes to the south with roadside vegetation in the north, and will provide visual buffers from public roads and adjacent properties. Siting issues The overall siting design, including location of buildings (manager’s residence, shed, amenities blocks, camp kitchen and recreation room) and landscaping of the site has considered the natural features of the site and surrounding land, positioning the buildings on flat land well set back from boundaries. The resulting layout ensures that the buildings will be mostly concealed from views from outside the property by the proposed vegetation which will extend around the perimeter of the proposed caravan and camping park, and also throughout the internal layout of driveways and camping and caravan sites. The visual impact of the proposed buildings from the public road to the north will therefore be minimal. While the buildings will be visible from the north side of the public walkway to the Forrest Caves beach, this type of development (caravan and camping park) is a use which is a suitable fit within the tourism context of the land. While the development includes seven buildings, the proposed buildings are of a low profile, modest scale, and are to be spread throughout the site. Proposed landscaping within the park will ensure that the buildings will sit well
8 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN below the tree canopy within and outside the park, further minimising the visual impacts of the buildings upon adjacent public areas. Strategic support In regards to recent strategic planning work within Bass Coast Shire, the concept of a caravan and camping park nearby a beach on the south coast of Phillip Island has specific support, notably with specific references found within the Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 (‘the strategy’), which was adopted by Bass Coast Council in August 2016. This document sets out a target for growth for the tourism sector Phillip Island and San Remo towards 2035, setting down a vision, strategies and actions to help achieve this target. The Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 is the first tourism strategy to be completed for Phillip Island and is obviously very important for such a regionally and state- significant tourism destination. The tourism strategy refers specifically to the need for a caravan park located on the south coast of Phillip Island, close to the beach (p.49, item 14). This is clearly an endorsement of the proposed caravan and camping park concept, and a recognition that a caravan park located close to the surf is currently a missing piece in the overall patchwork of tourism accommodation and facilities on Phillip Island. The document is found at: http://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/getattachment/Business/Phillip_Island_Tourism_Strategy_2035/201 6_08_29_FINAL_Phillip_Island_San_Remo_Visitor_Economy_Strategy_2035_Growing_Tourism_(ED 16_116929).PDF.aspx The strategy also refers to council’s plans to host surfing competitions on Phillip Island, as a means of increasing the number and diversity of events over the year. A camping and caravan park located next to a surf beach would be a logical solution for accommodating competitors and their families: Securing an annual professional surfing event and two to three state, regional or local surfing events and attracting more surf camps for students. (Action 24) (page 30). The above statement also streams with council’s oft-stated stated desire to attract a junior surf contest to Phillip Island. Further supporting the proposed caravan and camping park concept is reference within the Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 to the importance of delivering: ‘the recommendations of the Phillip Island Pathways Strategy following community and stakeholder consultation, with a focus on delivering the trails that link the primary visitor accommodation nodes with the key attractions. (Action 25)’ (page 30 ) In response to the above statement, the proposed park is to be located on the main tourist route through Phillip Island, and also directly abutting the main pedestrian and cycling pathway, which will link the park to the main visitor attractions on Phillip Island, and will encourage walking and cycling as an alternative to motor vehicles, benefitting traffic flow on Phillip Island Road. Further to this, the subject site is positioned to take advantage of the Island Explorer tourist bus, as referred to on page 33 of the strategy: ‘Continue to support the concept of ‘Island Explorer’ summer season bus loop, with a shift to smaller more frequent buses to create a sustainable bus service in partnership with existing transport providers. (Action 39). ‘ In reference to the forecast visitor numbers for the Phillip Island region, the strategy clearly states on page 3:
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‘With the region expected to double its visitor numbers from 1.85 million in 2015 to 3.4 million and be worth upwards of $1.1 billion by 2035, the time for investment in marketing and tourism infrastructure for Phillip Island and San Remo is now.’ The proposed caravan park will be integral to the accommodation solutions required to cater for this growth. 5.3 Particular Provisions Clause 52.06 – Car parking Car parking includes a total of 51 overflow and additional car parking spaces on site, which are additional to the space provided by each guest site for their vehicle. It is possible that the overflow and visitor spaces can be made available for boat or trailer parking, if required. The proposed car parking spaces will be accessed via the proposed internal accessways. Within clause 52.06, car parking rates for caravan and camping parks are not provided. Clause 52.06-5A stipulates that in this instance, car parking must be provided to the satisfaction of the responsible authority. In this instance, the provision of 51 car parking spaces on site, in addition to the space allowed for a vehicle on each site, would adequately provide for the likely maximum demand created by the proposed caravan and camping park. The result of this will be less congestion within the sites area of the park. Clause 52.17 – Native vegetation The proposal includes removal of vegetation in order to construct an entry point from Phillip Island Road, and to construct road works required for a left-turning lane into the site entry. Clause 52.17-2 states that a permit is required to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation, including dead native vegetation. As required by clause 52.17-3, a Biodiversity Assessment Report and associated material has been prepared and is submitted with this application. Clause 52.29 – Creation of access to a road zone Clause 52.29 states that a permit is required to create or alter access to a Road Zone Category 1. The proposal includes alteration of the access to Phillip Island Road, relocating it from the north-east corner of the property to a more central location, and creating turning lanes within Phillip Island Road. Such an application must be referred to the Roads Corporation in accordance with section 55 of the Planning and Environment Act 1989. It is requested that this application be referred to VicRoads as soon as possible. 5.4 Overlays The site is affected by the following overlays: The Environmental Significance Overlay (Schedule 1) (ESO1) extends approximately 190m inland from the south boundary of the site. Pursuant to the overlay, a permit is required to construct a building. The ESO1 applies to coastal wetland areas and is applied to land with the aim of ensuring development does not compromise the environmental values of areas with habitat significance. The relevant environmental objectives include: • To ensure that development is compatible with the environmentally sensitive coastal areas.
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• To maintain and enhance the ecological attributes such as the biological, physical and chemical components of the wetland ecosystem, and their interactions which maintain the function of wetlands and of Ramsar sites. • To protect and ensure the long-term future of terrestrial and aquatic habitat for native plants and animals, include shorebird feeding areas and roosts and species and communities listed under the Fauna and Flora Guarantee Act 1988. • To encourage ecological restoration, regeneration and revegetation with indigenous species within the site and in adjoining areas. • To ensure that land abutting or draining into wetlands is managed to prevent any degradation of wetland function and values. • To protect water quality and prevent water pollution in watercourses, water bodies, wetlands and groundwater.
The Significant Landscape Overlay (Schedule 2) (SLO2) applies to all of the site, and recognises the visual and environmental features of the rugged south coast of Phillip Island. The overlay sets out the landscape character objectives to be achieved: • To protect existing native and indigenous coastal and hinterland vegetation, and ensure that it is the dominant feature of the landscape. • To protect cultural vegetation patterns. • To protect scenic outviews to undeveloped landscape features along the coastline including views from public recreation areas, lookouts (e.g. Pyramid Rock) and roads that abut or terminate at the coast. • To improve the clarity of edges to settlements and ensure the retention of the undeveloped, rugged coastal landscape between them, particularly west of Smiths Beach, and between Smiths Beach and Surf Beach. • To protect the wild, undeveloped and exposed character of the coastal edge. • To ensure ridge tops and prominent hill faces are kept free of visually dominant development, particularly when viewed from main roads and other key viewing locations. • To encourage landscape change that is consistent with the cultural heritage values of the landscape. • To minimise the visual impact of signage and other infrastructure, particularly on hill faces and in coastal areas. • To protect landscape character and attributes that are consistent with the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the area. • To recognise, and protect, the landscape of the Phillip Island Western and Southern Coast as a place of significant Aboriginal cultural heritage value. • Between Ventnor and Cat Bay, ensure buildings are set amongst vegetation and set back to retain an undeveloped character that does not duplicate the linear urban sprawl that has already occurred along the cliff top in the adjacent settlement. An assessment of the relevant overlay objectives is found later in this report. 6 Relevant Planning Policy 6.1 State Planning Policy Framework The purpose of State Planning Policy at Clause 11 of the scheme is explained as:
… to inform planning authorities and responsible authorities of those aspects of State level planning policy which they are to take into account and give effect to in planning and administering their respective areas. It is the State Government's expectation that planning and responsible authorities will endeavour to integrate the range of policies relevant to the issues to
11 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN be determined and balance conflicting objectives in favour of net community benefit and sustainable development.
The State Planning Policies that are relevant to the proposal are as follows: 12.01 Biodiversity 12.01-1 Protection of habitat Objective To assist the protection and conservation of biodiversity, including native vegetation retention and provision of habitats for native plants and animals and control of pest plants and animals. Strategies Assist the protection of conservation values of national parks and conservation reserves. Assist the conservation of the habitats of threatened and endangered species and communities as identified under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, including communities under-represented in conservation reserves such as native grasslands, grassy woodlands and wetlands. Address potentially threatening processes identified under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Assist re-establishment of links between isolated habitat remnants. Ensure that any changes in land use or development would not adversely affect the habitat values of wetlands and wetland wildlife habitats designated under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (the Ramsar Convention) or utilised by species designated under the Japan-Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA) or the China- Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (CAMBA). Consider the potential impacts of land use and development on the spread of plant and animal pests from areas of known infestation into natural ecosystems. Ensure that the siting of new buildings and works minimises the removal or fragmentation of native vegetation. Encourage the use of property vegetation plans or works programs. Consider the need to protect waterways and soil from degradation that may result from the loss of native vegetation and the use of voluntary conservation agreements. 12.02 Coastal areas 12.02-1 Protection of coastal areas Objective To recognise and enhance the value of the coastal areas to the community and ensure sustainable use of natural coastal resources. Strategies Coordinated land use and planning with the requirements of the Coastal Management Act 1995 to: Provide clear direction for the future sustainable use of the coast, including the marine environment, for recreation, conservation, tourism, commerce and similar uses in appropriate areas.
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Protect and maintain areas of environmental significance. Identify suitable areas and opportunities for improved facilities. Apply the hierarchy of principles for coastal planning and management as set out in the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008, which are: Principle 1: Provide for the protection of significant environmental and cultural values. Principle 2: Undertake integrated planning and provide clear direction for the future. Principle 3: Ensure the sustainable use of natural coastal resources. When the above principles have been considered and addressed: Principle 4: Ensure development on the coast is located within existing modified and resilient environments where the demand for development is evident and the impact can be managed. 12.02-2 Appropriate development of coastal areas Objective To ensure development conserves, protects and seeks to enhance coastal biodiversity and ecological values. Strategies Ensure development is sensitively sited and designed and respects the character of coastal settlements. Encourage revegetation of cleared land abutting coastal reserves. Maintain the natural drainage patterns, water quality and biodiversity within and adjacent to coastal estuaries, wetlands and waterways. Avoid disturbance of coastal acid sulfate soils. Protect cultural heritage places, including Aboriginal places, archaeological sites and historic shipwrecks. 12.04-2 Landscapes Objective To protect landscapes and significant open spaces that contribute to character, identity and sustainable environments. Strategies Ensure sensitive landscape areas such as the bays and coastlines are protected and that new development does not detract from their natural quality. Improve the landscape qualities, open space linkages and environmental performance in green wedges and conservation areas and non-urban areas. Recognise the natural landscape for its aesthetic value and as a fully functioning system. Ensure natural key features are protected and enhanced. 12.02-4 Coastal tourism Objective To encourage suitably located and designed coastal and marine tourism opportunities.
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Strategies Ensure that a diverse range of accommodation options and coastal experience are maintained and provided for and that sites and facilities are accessible to all. Ensure tourism developments demonstrate a tourist accommodation need and support a nature based approach within non-urban areas. Ensure developments are of an appropriate scale, use and intensity relative to its location and minimises impacts on the surrounding natural visual, environmental and coastal character. 13.01-1 Coastal inundation and erosion Objective To plan for and manage the potential coastal impacts of climate change. Strategies In planning for possible sea level rise, an increase of 0.2 metres over current 1 in 100 year flood levels by 2040 may be used for new development in close proximity to existing development (urban infill). Plan for possible sea level rise of 0.8 metres by 2100, and allow for the combined effects of tides, storm surges, coastal processes and local conditions such as topography and geology when assessing risks and coastal impacts associated with climate change. Consider the risks associated with climate change in planning and management decision making processes. For new greenfield development outside of town boundaries, plan for not less than 0.8 metre sea level rise by 2100. Ensure that land subject to coastal hazards are identified and appropriately managed to ensure that future development is not at risk. Ensure that development or protective works seeking to respond to coastal hazard risks avoids detrimental impacts on coastal processes. Avoid development in identified coastal hazard areas susceptible to inundation (both river and coastal), erosion, landslip/landslide, acid sulfate soils, bushfire and geotechnical risk. Clause 14.01 (Agriculture) includes relevant policy including: 14.01-1 Protection of agricultural land Objective To protect productive farmland which is of strategic significance in the local or regional context. Strategies Ensure that the State’s agricultural base is protected from the unplanned loss of productive agricultural land due to permanent changes of land use. Take into consideration regional, state and local, issues and characteristics in the assessment of agricultural quality and productivity. Permanent removal of productive agricultural land from the State's agricultural base must not be undertaken without consideration of its economic importance for the agricultural production and processing sectors.
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In considering a proposal to subdivide or develop agricultural land, the following factors must be considered: • The desirability and impacts of removing the land from primary production, given its agricultural productivity. • The impacts of the proposed subdivision or development on the continuation of primary production on adjacent land, with particular regard to land values and to the viability of infrastructure for such production. • The compatibility between the proposed or likely development and the existing uses of the surrounding land. • Assessment of the land capability. Subdivision of productive agricultural land should not detract from the long-term productive capacity of the land. Where inappropriate subdivisions exist on productive agricultural land, priority should be given by planning authorities to their re-structure. In assessing rural development proposals, planning and responsible authorities must balance the potential off-site effects of rural land use proposals (such as degradation of soil or water quality and land salinisation) which might affect productive agricultural land against the benefits of the proposals. Planning for rural land use should consider: • land capability; and • the potential impacts of land use and development on the spread of plant and animal pests from areas of known infestation into agricultural areas. 14.01-2 Sustainable agricultural land use Objective To encourage sustainable agricultural land use. Strategies Ensure agricultural and productive rural land use activities are managed to maintain the long-term sustainable use and management of existing natural resources. Encourage sustainable agricultural and associated rural land use and support and assist the development of innovative approaches to sustainable practices. Support effective agricultural production and processing infrastructure, rural industry and farm-related retailing and assist genuine farming enterprises to adjust flexibly to market changes. Facilitate the establishment and expansion of cattle feedlots, piggeries, poultry farms and other intensive animal industries in a manner consistent with orderly and proper planning and protection of the environment. 17.03-1 Facilitating tourism Objective To encourage tourism development to maximise the employment and long-term economic, social and cultural benefits of developing the State as a competitive domestic and international tourist destination. Strategies
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Encourage the development of a range of well designed and sited tourist facilities, including integrated resorts, motel accommodation and smaller scale operations such as host farm, bed and breakfast and retail opportunities. Seek to ensure that tourism facilities have access to suitable transport and be compatible with and build upon the assets and qualities of surrounding urban or rural activities and cultural and natural attractions. 6.2 Local Planning Policy Framework Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) The MSS provides the strategic planning framework for the Bass Coast Shire. Several of the issues raised in the MSS are of direct relevance to this proposal. They include: 21.03-4 Tourism Objectives and strategies Objective 1 To encourage new tourist development in appropriate locations. Strategy 1.1 Support new tourist development in the tourist areas identified in this Clause. Strategy 1.2 Discourage tourist developments from establishing intermittently along major tourist routes. Strategy 1.3 Discourage ad hoc tourist development along tourist routes outside identified tourist precincts, distant from existing tourist and urban infrastructure. Strategy 1.4 Discourage tourist developments on high quality agricultural land and in areas of high environmental and landscape quality. Strategy 1.5 Discourage tourist or recreation-based resorts such as golf courses from establishing on productive agricultural land. Strategy 1.6 Encourage new tourist development to be sited and designed to minimize its impact on the natural environment and landscapes. Strategy 1.7 Ensure tourism related developments is planned, located and integrated with existing settlements consistent within the coastal planning policy context. Objective 2 To provide diversity in tourist accommodation. Strategy 2.1 Encourage tourist accommodation in appropriately zoned rural areas. Strategy 2.2 Encourage the development of short-term tourist accommodation such as holiday units and cabins, particularly at Corinella, Coronet Bay, Grantville, San Remo, Cowes, and Inverloch. Objective 3 To provide diversity in tourist attractions and eating establishments. Strategy 3.1 Encourage a diverse range of restaurants and entertainment facilities at Cowes, San Remo, Wonthaggi, Grantville and Inverloch. Strategy 3.2 Facilitate the development of integrated recreation, cultural heritage or nature based tourist developments at locations identified for these uses. Strategy 3.3 Promote local art and craft people to establish home-based cottage industries with either direct sale to the public, through local retail outlets, at community markets, or at major tourist destinations. Strategy 3.4 Encourage tourist facilities and services that are compatible with and add value to the existing built and natural attractions of the municipality.
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Strategy 3.5 Encourage tourist, recreational activities, primary produce sales and tasting, linked or dependent upon agricultural activities, to establish in appropriately zoned rural areas. Objective 4 To encourage sustainable year-round tourism. Strategy 4.1 Actively promote tourist development that will contribute and reinforce the municipality as an all-year round tourist destination. Strategy 4.2 Encourage development which is innovative, attracts visitors throughout the year, is conducive to overnight stays or which leads to new tourist products or promotions. Strategy 4.3 Provide the necessary infrastructure needed to host major sporting and cultural events. Strategy 4.4 Support the provision of temporary camping and accommodation premises to satisfy demand beyond the capacity of established premises for major events attracting over 50,000 people. 21.03-5 Agriculture Overview Agricultural activities, particularly dairy and beef cattle farming are a significant contributor to the local and regional economies and a major source of local employment. Agriculture is the main land use of the Shire’s hinterland and as such creates an attractive landscape backdrop to the coastal areas. Objective 1 • To establish a strong and vibrant rural agricultural community comprising a range of diversified enterprises that is efficiently managed and ecologically sustainable. Strategy 1.1 Diversification of agricultural practices including introduction of new crops and animals, use of energy efficient technology, and ecologically sustainable farming techniques will be encouraged. Strategy 1.2 Strongly encourage farmers to prepare and implement Farm Management Plans for their properties, particularly as part of a planning permit application for a change in land use or development. Strategy 1.3 Encourage the planting of locally indigenous vegetation to provide shelter for livestock, minimise soil erosion and salinity, enhance landscape quality, and provide further opportunities for wildlife corridors. Objective 2 • To retain viable rural holdings, particularly on productive agricultural land. Strategy 2.1 Strongly discourage the subdivision of productive agricultural land. Strategy 2.2 Encourage restructuring of existing titles to more adequately respond to sustainable farming operations and environmental objectives. Strategy 2.3 Encourage use, development and management of land that is conducive to maintaining options and opportunities for future farming activities. 21.04 - Environment Clause 21.04-6 deals with Climate Change with the ‘Overview’ noting: Climate change is predicted to cause an increase in sea levels, a decrease in rainfall and more frequent and severe storm events. It is predicted that sea levels will rise up to 0.8 metres by the year 2050 (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report: Synthesis Report, UNESCO, 2007). There will be impacts on coastal
17 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN
settlements, biodiversity, infrastructure and agricultural production. As Bass Coast Shire has a number of low lying regions (both on the coast and further inland), and a large amount of viable agricultural land, the future impacts of climate change on the municipality are significant planning issues. Objective 3 To discourage development in areas that may be affected by climate change. The relevant strategy includes: Determine the effects of sea level rise and storm surges and prepare and implement strategies to address any potential issues. 21.05 – Landscape and Built Form Clause 21.05 deals with Landscape and Built form. Protection of the coastal and hinterland landscapes and views within the Shire is identified as a key feature. Objectives relevant to this application include: • To ensure that development is subordinate to the natural, visual and environmental landscape character and significance. • To protect the undeveloped character of the coastal strip. • To protect locally significant views and vistas that contributes to the character of the coastal and coastal hinterland region.
Clause 21.05-4 deals with Design and Built Form. The Overview highlights the importance of maintaining the valued aspects of the municipality’s character. It notes:
‘Where the built form character of an area is established and valued (and the area has not been identified for substantial change), new development should respect this character and add to the overall quality of the urban environment’.
Objectives relevant to this application are: Objective 1 To achieve a high standard of architecture and urban design for built form and public spaces throughout the municipality. Strategies include: Encourage high quality buildings and public spaces that are environmentally, economically and socially sustainable. Design and site development to complement the context in which it sits. Ensure the siting of buildings contributes to the public realm and respects the character of the area. Objective 2 To maximise energy saving, water conservation, and the principles of Environmentally Sustainable Design. Strategies include: Ensure development considers energy, water and natural resource efficiency in the construction and operation. Encouraging passive solar design, especially where there are views to the north or south.
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22.02 – Hilltop, Ridgeline and Prominent Coastal Landform Protection Policy This policy applies to ‘all land located on land adjacent to significant hilltops, ridgelines and prominent coastal landforms found within the Farming Zone’ (among others). In this case, the subject site is located within proximity of the coastline. The following policies apply: 22.02-2 Objectives • To protect the environmental, landscape and visual significance of hilltops, ridgelines and prominent coastal landforms. • To maintain panoramic roadside views of the scenic natural landscape along hilltops, ridgelines and prominent coastal landforms of the Shire. 22.02-3 Policy It is policy that development on ridgelines, prominent hill faces or distinctive coastal landforms should be avoided wherever possible. Where development cannot be avoided, the following considerations should be taken into account: Siting • Buildings should not be sited so as to breach ridgelines or hilltops. • Buildings should be sited to retain important views from existing surrounding buildings and public spaces. • Structures or buildings in proximity to ridgelines, hilltops and cliff edges should not be visually obtrusive when seen from major viewpoints including valley floors, tourist routes, main roads or from the ocean /bay. • Where possible, development and structures should be concentrated at particular locations, in a manner that reduces development sprawl and minimises their overall visual impact. • Whether the owner of the land has an approved ‘whole farm plan’ that provides strategic information in relation to the function and location of farm infrastructure. Design and landscaping • Development should be designed to follow the contours of the sloping site to prevent prominent silhouetting against the skyline. • Dominant or multiple angular roof slopes and designs are to be avoided. • Substantial landscaping should be used for buildings that have a significant impact on viewsheds in terms of bulk, scale and size. This can include restoration of existing vegetation in a manner that softens the impact of the development and allows it to blend in the natural landscape. • Structures requiring extensive earthworks during construction should be avoided to prevent permanent scarring of the landscape. Materials • Buildings and structures should be constructed of materials and colours which minimise visual intrusion to the landscape. Colours used should be similar to that found in the natural environment within the immediate area. • The use of reflective surfaces is discouraged in order to minimise glare and visual impact of the development.
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6.3 State and Local Policy Assessment At the State level, the key policy influences applicable to this application primarily relate to matters including minimising the impact of development within the rural and coastal landscape, and protection of surrounding agricultural land uses, as well as the environmental and ecological features of that landscape. In response, the site is constrained by poor soils and limited overall size, located in a relatively harsh environment, therefore farming of this allotment is unlikely to be viable. The site is also located in very close proximity to other non-agricultural uses, including the Forrest Caves car park to the west, and a rural-residential allotment to the east. The flat terrain of the site and the location of the proposed caravan and camping park north of the base of the sand dunes, facing north are significant features. The context is one of a flat landscape rising to sand dunes in the south. The caravan and camping park will not disrupt this landscape. Conversely, the natural appearance of the site will be enhanced through extensive landscaping and revegetation proposed. These works will also enhance the ecological integrity of the site. With specific regard to state and local policy which encourages appropriate tourism development to cater for expected demand, the proposal will accommodate visitors to Phillip Island in a relatively natural setting, close to the unique natural attributes of the south coast, and without extensive development of the land. The proposed park will cater to visitors who value the surrounding natural environment, and will minimise visual impacts upon the surrounding landscape through extensive and sensitive revegetation. The proposal will create an accommodation option on Phillip Island which will bolster the local and regional tourism sector, by providing nature-style accommodation close to a surf beach. Accommodation of this type close to a surf beach is currently lacking within Phillip Island. In regards to visual impacts of the proposal upon adjacent public areas, the park site will be improved from its current condition, which is devoid of native vegetation, and is in an unused state. Proposed extensive revegetation will conceal much of the proposed development from view from public areas and adjacent private properties. In regards to the ecological integrity of the site, this is expected to improve considerably following the proposed landscaping and revegetation. In regards to the location of this proposed tourist facility, the site makes efficient use of the main tourist road which will carry all the guests to the site, and is to be located within close proximity of the Surf Beach township, 220m to the west. Further to this, the main pedestrian and cycling pathway through Phillip Island abuts the site, and connects the proposed park to nearby townships, and other tourist attractions located along the tourist route. Importantly, the site is located close to one of the many iconic surf beaches on Phillip Island (Forrest Caves beach) for which Phillip Island and the wider region is known. The park will cater to tourists arriving in motor homes, caravans, campervans, camper trailers and cars, seeking a site close to the natural features of Phillip Island. The layout of the proposed camping and caravan park is typical of traditional parks which serve vehicle-based campers. The trend towards cabin-based accommodation, and the closure of many caravan parks has resulted in a lack of this style of camping and caravan park. The proposed park will provide valid accommodation options for visitors arriving to attend the major sporting and cultural events on Phillip Island such as the Moto GP and other motor sport events held at the Phillip Island Circuit. The proposed facility will also provide a desirable accommodation option for competitors and their families
20 PLANNING REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND RD, NEWHAVEN participating in surf contest on Phillip Island, particularly given the location of the site close to a surf beach. Surf contests on Phillip Island are supported in the Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, and are recognized within this document as an important addition to the range of major and minor events conducted on Phillip Island. Local planning policy seeks development which is sensitive to the context in which it sits. In this case the development balances the significance of the landscape with the strategic value of the site for use as a tourism facility. The proposed buildings will be of a modest scale, and will be appreciated within the context of the significant tourism attributes of Phillip Island. Based upon the preceding analysis as outlined in this submission, it is considered that the proposal meets the relevant policies within the State and Local Planning Policy frameworks. 6.4 ESO1 Assessment The Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 1 requires that application consider the following decision guidelines (as relevant to this application): • The maintenance and improvement in the stability of coastal wetlands, dunes and coastlines. The proposed buildings are to be sited on a flat section of land, and will have a negligible impact upon the stability of the adjacent dunes. • The impact of the proposal on coastal processes and the need to protect and enhance environmentally sensitive coastlines. The proposed buildings are to be located well away from the sand dunes in the south. In this location the buildings will not affect coastal processes or sensitive areas of coastline. • The conservation of any areas of environmental importance or significance The subject land features rookeries of the Short-tailed Shearwater in the elevated sand dunes section of the property. The proposed buildings and camping and caravan sites are located outside this area, and there will be no works of any sort within the habitat areas. • Potential threats to the quality, life cycle processes or functioning of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems or native plant and animal species. The proposed buildings are to be located in an area which has previously be used for limited cattle grazing, and has more recently been overgrown with weeds. The proposed revegetation of the perimeter of the site and throughout the site will allow for improvements to the functioning of the terrestrial ecosystem, and will improve conditions for indigenous plant and animal species. • The function of the wetland, watercourse or habitat area as part of a broader natural system. The site is part of the south coast habitat area. There will be no impacts upon this wider natural system, apart from the improvements to be made to the extent of native vegetation on site. • The preservation of any existing native vegetation including measures to rejuvenate degraded areas and areas abutting watercourses with indigenous plant species. All existing vegetation located in the sand dunes to the south will be retained. • The extent of any proposed removal of native vegetation.
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Native vegetation removal is proposed in the road reserve, in order to construct necessary site vehicle entry and road widening. Accompanying this application is a Biodiversity Assessment Report which details compliance with the requirements of Clause 52.17 of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. • The necessity of retaining a buffer strip of vegetation in the vicinity of water courses, roads and property boundaries. Proposed revegetation of the site will result in a network of indigenous vegetation along all boundaries and throughout the site. • Control of noxious and environmental weeds and pest animals, including the need to minimise the spread of weeds and soil pathogens. Weed removal will be undertaken prior to revegetation works and development of the site. • The capacity of the soil and water to absorb wastes and the design of any effluent disposal system. The site has access to effluent and stormwater networks. • The works to prevent and control drainage and stormwater run-off from any building, works, access road or driveway. All stormwater and drainage run-off will be adequately drained from the site within the available networks. • The need to maintain the seasonality, quantity and quality of water flows through the area and through other areas with a common system of drainage. Collection of stormwater on site will be formalized and dispose into the available external network. • The need to minimise water pollution through the establishment of best practice performance standards and monitoring regimes for stormwater. A stormwater retention system to meet relevant Council and Australian standards will be installed as part of the development, in the north of the site. • The location, dimension and level of any excavation or alteration to the natural surface that may impact on the drainage function of the wetland, including works to stabilize buffers in areas of fill or excavation. The site is flat and any development proposed is unlikely to impact upon the natural drainage of the site. • Any comments from the Department of Sustainability and Environment. The application has not been forwarded to DELWP as yet. 6.5 SLO2 Assessment The Significant Landscape Overlay Schedule 2 requires that application consider the following decision guidelines (as relevant to this application): • The key objectives and strategies at Clause 21.08-1, Landscape. These have been addressed in section 6.3 of this report. • Whether the proposed buildings are sited and designed to maximise retention of existing vegetation, and provide for the planting of new indigenous coastal vegetation wherever possible.
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Native vegetation removal is proposed in the road reserve, in order to construct necessary site vehicle entry and road widening. Accompanying this application is a Biodiversity Assessment Report which details compliance with the requirements of Clause 52.17 of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. Opportunity exists on site for extensive revegetation to complement the existing vegetation within the sand dunes in the south of the site. • Whether the visibility of the proposal is minimised in landscapes visible within 500 metres of formal scenic lookouts in the area. To the west of the site is the Forrest Caves lookout at the top of the dunes overlooking Forrest Caves beach. From this outlook platform the proposed buildings will not be visible, as the top of the dune will obscure the entire site. From Phillip Island Road, the proposed buildings will not be visible once proposed revegetation is established. Before the vegetation is established, the proposed buildings will appear in context with the existing dwelling and outbuildings (located in the north-east part of the site). • On large rural lots that extend further than 500 metres back from the southern coast, whether the proposed development is sited on the side of ridgelines and hills away from the coast to avoid built intrusion into the coastal viewshed. As noted above, much care has been taken in the siting of the buildings to ensure that there is no disturbance to any significant coastal views. • The cumulative impact of developments visible from all key viewing corridors (e.g. from Phillip Island Tourist Road) and scenic lookouts on the open rural character of these views, and the availability of scenic views to the ocean, coastal dunes/cliffs. The development will not affect views from any key viewing corridors. The development will either be concealed by the surrounding terrain or proposed revegetation works, or will appear as a minor element of the wider landscape. • Whether the proposed development is an extension or alteration to a development already in existence on the land. N/A Summary As outlined above, the siting of the proposed buildings have been considered with particular sensitivity to the features of the site, the adjoining coastal landscape, and views from surrounding areas. The proposal includes extensive planting along west, north and east boundaries and throughout the site, therefore improving the coverage of indigenous vegetation on the site. The proposed buildings will have a negligible impact upon the ecological functioning of the site, and the proposed use and occupation of the site will allow for control of weeds and improvements to the ecology of the site. The development is also located in such a way that will not affect current views of the coast enjoyed by the public and occupiers of adjoining properties.
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7 Conclusion The proposed camping and caravan park makes appropriate use of a site well-located on the main tourist route within an established tourist destination, and provides for a unique accommodation type, with limited visual impacts and positive environmental outcomes. The proposal will result in an overall improvement of a site which has poor attributes for farming use, and will provide for extensive revegetation, and a low impact but appropriate use of the site. It will result in an orderly use of the land which will also improve the range of accommodation options within the region. Chris Johnstone Jardine Johnstone October 2016
24 Attachment 1 – Title documents Copyright State of Victoria. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act and for the purposes of Section 32 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 or pursuant to a written agreement. The information is only valid at the time and in the form obtained from the LANDATA REGD TM System. The State of Victoria accepts no responsibility for any subsequent release, publication or reproduction of the information.
REGISTER SEARCH STATEMENT (Title Search) Transfer of Page 1 of 1 Land Act 1958 VOLUME 08860 FOLIO 001 Security no : 124062792526H Produced 12/10/2016 04:14 pm
LAND DESCRIPTION
Lot 1 on Plan of Subdivision 089850. PARENT TITLE Volume 01075 Folio 969 Created by instrument LP089850 11/12/1970
REGISTERED PROPRIETOR
Estate Fee Simple Joint Proprietors KENNETH CHARLES ROWLINGSON JANICE JOY ROWLINGSON both of PHILLIP ISLAND TOURIST ROAD "SURF BEACH ESTATE" COWES 3922 X806007H 11/10/2001
ENCUMBRANCES, CAVEATS AND NOTICES
MORTGAGE AL736259K 06/03/2015 MECU LTD
Any encumbrances created by Section 98 Transfer of Land Act 1958 or Section 24 Subdivision Act 1988 and any other encumbrances shown or entered on the plan or imaged folio set out under DIAGRAM LOCATION below.
DIAGRAM LOCATION
SEE LP089850 FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND BOUNDARIES
ACTIVITY IN THE LAST 125 DAYS
NIL
------END OF REGISTER SEARCH STATEMENT------
Additional information: (not part of the Register Search Statement)
Street Address: 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND ROAD NEWHAVEN VIC 3925
ADMINISTRATIVE NOTICES
NIL eCT Control BANK AUSTRALIA Effective from 27/06/2015
DOCUMENT END
Title 8860/001 Page 1 of 1 Imaged Document Cover Sheet
The document following this cover sheet is an imaged document supplied by LANDATA®, Land Victoria.
Document Type plan Document Identification LP089850 Number of Pages 1
(excluding this cover sheet)
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Copyright and disclaimer notice: © State of Victoria. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act and for the purposes of Section 32 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 or pursuant to a written agreement. The information is only valid at the time and in the form obtained from the LANDATA® System. The State of Victoria accepts no responsibility for any subsequent release, publication or reproduction of the information.
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o aeIssued to Date No. proposed caravan park 15-16 p job no. : address: N 1285 Phillip Island Road r oject: E 2 WHAVEN VIC 3925 3D rec room & camp kitchen Amendment Schedule Description www.beaumontconcepts.com.au Fax: 03 56721924 Ph: 03 56725196 Wonthaggi Vic 3995 332 White Road P.O. Box 825 Wonthaggi Office NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 1285 Phillip Island Road Address: Proposed Caravan Park Project: 3 1 3D reception 3D caretakers residence AT-3. PlanningPermitApplication160308-1285PhillipIslandRoad,NewhavenBuildingPlansbyApplicant 4 3D storage shed Beaumont The drawings,designs, & specifications & copied,or reproduced wholly orin part without the express writtenpermission copyrighttherein are the property of © copyright © © copyright of
Beaumont Concepts Concepts Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, . Drawing No. Drawn By: coverpage TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS SB T1 Scale: Project No. Date: 15-16 12/10/2016 11:02:10 AM sheet size A2 TOWN PLANNING ONLY benchoven hp ubo & hot - plate & under bath - b refridgerator - ref stainless steelsink - sss dryer detector smoke - s dr - washingmachine dishwasher wm - dw - laundry trough tr - pan shower - p wash basin - sh wb - vanitybasin - vb of face wall slider fows - cavityslider - cs slidingdoor unit - sdu legend: o aeIssued to Date No. 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 no. material schedule: aeaeiisnrh5.9m 6.3 6.3 58.59 m² 8.1 58.59 m² maleamenities north 8.1 female amenitiesnorth 75.60 m² storage shed 9.4 75.60 m² maleamenities south femaleamenities south 87.30 m² recreationroom camp kitchen caretaker residence reception
N
O
R
T H development schedule silvertopash timberdecking silvertopash pergola structure colorbond fascia,gutter and parapetcapping trimdekroofing zincalume(non reflective) aluminium powdercoated silvertopash verticalcladding weathertexweathergroove vertical cladding material Amendment Schedule 0.8m 11.3 104.68 m² 6.1 6.1 56.70 m² 4.9 56.70 m² 45.36 m²
ramp 1 covered deck Squares reception floor plan 1 : 100 Description
sdu sh p water tank bath office 4500 vb water tank
reception natural natural black zincalume anodisedsilver natural black colour
10800
3900 black No.1
overall building height 2550 4 2 www.beaumontconcepts.com.au Fax: 03 56721924 Ph: 03 56725196 Wonthaggi Vic 3995 332 White Road P.O. Box 825 Wonthaggi Office Level3.15 Level0.60 reception south elevation reception north elevation 1 : 100 1 : 100 5 o silvertopash No.2 6 7 natural solarpanels 3 1 water tank solarpanels NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 1285 Phillip Island Road Address: Proposed Caravan Park Project: 2 water 1 tank o aoie ivrN.4 iclm o black No.5 zincalume No.4 anodisedsilver No.3 7 Level3.90 5 Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.90 6
600 2550
3900
overall building height
3900
overall building height Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.90
600 2550 water tank 3 5 6 reception east elevation 1 reception west elevation 7 1 : 100 1 : 100 o silvertopash No.7 solarpanels 4 natural Beaumont The drawings,designs, & specifications & 5 copied,or reproduced wholly orin part without the express writtenpermission copyrighttherein are the property of © copyright © © copyright of
Beaumont Concepts Concepts Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, solarpanels 5 d. d. Dimmed emergency lights (assafety permits e.g. exit signs) peakShort-tailed Fledging period 15th April to 10thMay. c. windows to have black outfeatures to block lightspill aftersunset during b. sidewaysspill shouldbe shielded especially near windows a. internallighting to be as lowwattage as possibleto ensure personalsafety Internal building lighting 10thMay (peak Short-tailed Shearwaterfledging period). all d. external lighting to be turned offall night (not used) between 15thApril and blue, c. green,yellow or red filterson outside lights roadlighting upward b. andsideways spill shielded on outdoor lights,especially any internal external a. lightingto be as lowwattage as possible to ensure personalsafety External lighting . 2 Drawing No. Drawn By: receptionfloor plan&elevations TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS 3 SB T2 1 2 water tank Scale: Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.90 600 2550 1 : 100 Project No. 3900
overall building height Date: 15-16 12/10/2016 11:02:12 AM sheet size A2 TOWN PLANNING ONLY benchoven hp ubo & hot - plate & under bath - b refridgerator - ref stainless steelsink - sss dryer detector smoke - s dr - washingmachine dishwasher wm - dw - laundry trough tr - pan shower - p wash basin - sh wb - vanitybasin - vb of face wall slider fows - cavityslider - cs slidingdoor unit - sdu legend: o aeIssued to Date No. 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 n material schedule: aeaeiisnrh5.9m 6.3 6.3 58.59 m² 8.1 58.59 m² maleamenities north 8.1 female amenitiesnorth 75.60 m² storage shed 9.4 75.60 m² maleamenities south femaleamenities south 87.30 m² recreationroom camp kitchen caretaker residence reception o.
N
O
R
T H development schedule silvertopash timberdecking silvertopash shadescreen colorbond fascia,gutter and parapetcapping trimdekroofing zincalume(non reflective) aluminium powdercoated weathertexexterior board cladding weathertexweathergroove vertical cladding material Amendment Schedule 0.8m 11.3 104.68 m² 6.1 6.1 56.70 m² 4.9 56.70 m² 45.36 m² Squares Description 1 covered 2700 deck residence floor plan 1 : 100
sdu natural natural black zincalume (notvisible) anodisedsilver shalegrey black colour 3850 sdu l
iving overall building height 600 2550 2 9900 dining solarpanels residence north elevation 1 : 100 robe bed 2 o black No.1 dw
sss wm tr kit store www.beaumontconcepts.com.au Fax: 03 56721924 Ph: 03 56725196 Wonthaggi Vic 3995 332 White Road P.O. Box 825 Wonthaggi Office hp & ubo utility 9500 p'try ref solarpanels sh p vb water tank o saege o aoie ivrN.4 iclm o black No.5 zincalume No.4 anodisedsilver No.3 shalegrey No.2 robe
4500 deck bed 1 1 sdu NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 1285 Phillip Island Road Address: Proposed Caravan Park Project: 2
4500 3 6 5 7 Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.85 Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.85
3850 2 Level0.60 Level3.15 Level3.85 overall building height
600 2550 4 3 5 7 3 o silvertopash No.7 residence south elevation residence east elevation residence west elevation 1 : 100 1 : 100 1 : 100 solarpanels 5 5 natural 2 water Beaumont The drawings,designs, & specifications & tank copied,or reproduced wholly orin part without the express writtenpermission copyrighttherein are the property of © copyright 1 solarpanels © © copyright of
Beaumont Concepts Concepts Beaumont Concepts 1 6 & must not be used, . solarpanels Drawing No. Drawn By: water tank 3 caretaker residence floorplan &elevations TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS solarpanels 2 SB 6 T3
600 2550 Level3.15 Level3.85 Level0.60
1 3850 Scale: ocerall building height 1 : 100 Project No. 600 2550
3850 Date: overall building height 15-16 12/10/2016 11:02:15 AM sheet size A2 TOWN PLANNING ONLY material schedule:
no. material colour
1 weathertex weathergroove vertical cladding black
2 silvertop ash vertical cladding natural
3 aluminium powder coated anodised silver
4 trimdek roofing zincalume (non reflective) zincalume No. 1 black No. 2 silvertop ash No. 3 anodised silver No. 4 zincalume No. 5 black No. 7 silvertop ash 5 colorbond fascia, gutter and parapet capping black natural natural 6 silvertop ash pergola structure natural
7 silvertop ash timber decking natural
development schedule
Squares 2 3 1 4 5 7 6 1 2 3 4 5 reception 45.36 m² 4.9 caretaker residence 87.30 m² 9.4 Level 3.90 Level 3.90 camp kitchen 56.70 m² 6.1
t
Level 3.15 Level 3.15 h
recreation room 56.70 m² 6.1 g
i
e
female amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 h
g
n
male amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 0
i
0
d
l
i storage shed 104.68 m² 11.3 9
u
3900 3 2550 2550
b
female amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 l
l
a male amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 Level 0.60 Level 0.60 r e
v
overall building height building overall o
camp kitchen north elevation camp kitchen east elevation 2 1 : 100 3 1 : 100
3 1 2 5 6
Level 3.90
t
h Level 3.15
g
i
e
h
g
n
0
i
0
0
d
5
l
i
9
5
u
3
2
b
l
l
a
r
e Level 0.60
v
13500 o
RTH camp kitchen south elevation NO 4 1 : 100 laundry camp legend: facilities kitchen sdu - sliding door unit 4500 4 5 1 6 7 cs - cavity slider fows - face of wall slider vb - vanity basin sdu sdu 5° pitch Level 3.90 wb - wash basin
t sh - shower h Level 3.15
g
i p - pan e
h
tr - laundry trough covered g
n
0
i dw - dishwasher deck 0
0
d
5
l
i
9 wm - washing machine 5
u
3
2
b
dr - dryer l
l
a s - smoke detector r Level 0.60
e sss - stainless steel sink v ref - refridgerator o b - bath hp & ubo - hot plate & under bench oven camp kitchen floor plan 1 1 : 100 camp kitchen west elevation 5 1 : 100 TOWN PLANNING ONLY PLANNING TOWN
Project: Wonthaggi Office © copyright TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS Amendment Schedule P.O. Box 825 Proposed Caravan Park A2 332 White Road © copyright Beaumont Concepts camp kitchen floor plan & elevations Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Address: The drawings, designs, & specifications & sheet size No. Date Issued to Description Ph: 03 56725196 copyright therein are the property of 1285 Phillip Island Road Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, Drawn By: SB Scale: 1 : 100 Date: 12/10/2016 11:02:18 AM Fax: 03 56721924 copied, or reproduced wholly or in part without the express written permission www.beaumontconcepts.com.au NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 of Beaumont Concepts. Drawing No. T4 Project No. 15-16 material schedule:
no. material colour
1 weathertex weathergroove vertical cladding black
2 silvertop ash vertical cladding natural
3 aluminium powder coated anodised silver
4 trimdek roofing zincalume (non reflective) zincalume No. 1 black No. 2 silvertop ash No. 3 anodised silver No. 4 zincalume No. 5 black No. 7 silvertop ash 5 colorbond fascia, gutter and parapet capping black natural natural 6 silvertop ash pergola structure natural
7 silvertop ash timber decking natural
development schedule
Squares reception 45.36 m² 4.9 caretaker residence 87.30 m² 9.4 camp kitchen 56.70 m² 6.1 1 6 5 2 5 3 2 1 6 7 recreation room 56.70 m² 6.1 female amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 Level 3.90 5° pitch Level 3.90 male amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1
t
t
Level 3.15 h h Level 3.15
g storage shed 104.68 m² 11.3 g
i i
e e
female amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 h h
g g
n n
0 0
male amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 i i
0 0
0 0
d
d
5 5
l
l
i i
9 9
5 5
u u
3 3
2 2
b b
l l
l
l
a
a
r
r
Level 0.60 e e Level 0.60
v v
0
o o
0
6
recreation north elevation recreation east elevation 2 1 : 100 3 1 : 100
5 3 1
Level 3.90
t
h Level 3.15
g
i
e
h
g
n
0
i
0
0
d
5
l
i
9
5
u
3 covered 2
b
l deck l
a
r
e Level 0.60
v
o
TH sdu OR N recreation south elevation
0
0 4 5 recreation legend: 4 1 : 100 room
sdu - sliding door unit storage cs - cavity slider fows - face of wall slider 7 6 1 5 vb - vanity basin wb - wash basin 5° pitch Level 3.90 sh - shower p - pan t 13500 h Level 3.15
g tr - laundry trough i
e
h
dw - dishwasher
g
wm - washing machine n
0
i
0
0
d
5
l
dr - dryer i
9
5
u
3
2
s - smoke detector b
l sss - stainless steel sink recreation room floor plan l
a r Level 0.60 ref - refridgerator e
1 v b - bath 1 : 100 o hp & ubo - hot plate & under bench oven recreation west elevation 5 1 : 100 TOWN PLANNING ONLY PLANNING TOWN
Project: Wonthaggi Office © copyright TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS Amendment Schedule P.O. Box 825 Proposed Caravan Park A2 332 White Road © copyright Beaumont Concepts recreation room floor plan & elevations Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Address: The drawings, designs, & specifications & sheet size No. Date Issued to Description Ph: 03 56725196 copyright therein are the property of 1285 Phillip Island Road Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, Drawn By: SB Scale: 1 : 100 Date: 12/10/2016 11:02:21 AM Fax: 03 56721924 copied, or reproduced wholly or in part without the express written permission www.beaumontconcepts.com.au NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 of Beaumont Concepts. Drawing No. T5 Project No. 15-16 material schedule:
no. material colour
1 weathertex weathergroove vertical cladding black
2 silvertop ash vertical cladding natural
3 aluminium powder coated anodised silver
4 trimdek roofing zincalume (non reflective) zincalume No. 1 black No. 2 silvertop ash No. 3 anodised silver No. 4 zincalume No. 5 black No. 7 silvertop ash 5 colorbond fascia, gutter and parapet capping black natural natural 6 silvertop ash pergola structure natural
7 silvertop ash timber decking natural
development schedule
Squares reception 45.36 m² 4.9 caretaker residence 87.30 m² 9.4 1 2 5 6 6 4 6 5 1 camp kitchen 56.70 m² 6.1 recreation room 56.70 m² 6.1 Level 3.90 5° pitch 5° pitch Level 3.90 female amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1
t
t
male amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 Level 3.15 h h Level 3.15
g
g
i i
storage shed 104.68 m² 11.3 e e
h h
female amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 g g
n n
0 0
i i
0 0
0 0
d
d
5 5
l
l
male amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 i i
9 9
5 5
u u
3 3
2 2
b b
l l
l
l
a
a
r
r
Level 0.60 e e Level 0.60
v v
0 0
o o
0 0
6 6
amenities north elevation (S) amenities east elevation (S) 2 1 : 100 3 1 : 100
18000 6 1 2 5
covered Level 3.90 ramp deck t h Level 3.15
g
i
e
h
baby change seating
g
n
0
i
0
0
d
5
l
i
9
5
u
3
2
b
0
l
l
0
a
5 female r
4 e Level 0.60
v
amenities 0
o
0
6
RTH NO hws & service area amenities south elevation (S)
e
e
t
t
a a 4
g legend: covered area g 1 : 100 sdu - sliding door unit cs - cavity slider fows - face of wall slider vb - vanity basin 6 4 6 5 1 wb - wash basin unisex sh - shower 0 disabled urinals 0 5° pitch 5° pitch Level 3.90 p - pan male 5
4 tr - laundry trough & shower amenities t h Level 3.15
g dw - dishwasher i
e wm - washing machine h
baby change seating g
dr - dryer n
0
i
0
0
d
5 s - smoke detector l
i
9
5
u
3 sss - stainless steel sink 2
b
covered ramp
l ref - refridgerator l deck a
r
b - bath e Level 0.60
v
0 hp & ubo - hot plate & under o
0 bench oven 6 amenities block (south) floor plan amenities west elevation (S) 1 1 : 100 5 1 : 100 TOWN PLANNING ONLY PLANNING TOWN
Project: Wonthaggi Office © copyright TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS Amendment Schedule P.O. Box 825 Proposed Caravan Park A2 332 White Road © copyright Beaumont Concepts amenities block (south) floor plan & elevations Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Address: The drawings, designs, & specifications & sheet size No. Date Issued to Description Ph: 03 56725196 copyright therein are the property of 1285 Phillip Island Road Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, Drawn By: SB Scale: 1 : 100 Date: 12/10/2016 11:02:26 AM Fax: 03 56721924 copied, or reproduced wholly or in part without the express written permission www.beaumontconcepts.com.au NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 of Beaumont Concepts. Drawing No. T6 Project No. 15-16 material schedule:
no. material colour
1 weathertex weathergroove vertical cladding black
2 silvertop ash vertical cladding natural
3 aluminium powder coated anodised silver
4 trimdek roofing zincalume (non reflective) zincalume No. 1 black No. 2 silvertop ash No. 3 anodised silver No. 4 zincalume No. 5 black No. 7 silvertop ash 5 colorbond fascia, gutter and parapet capping black natural natural 6 silvertop ash pergola structure natural
7 silvertop ash timber decking natural
development schedule
Squares 1 2 5 6 6 4 6 5 1 reception 45.36 m² 4.9 caretaker residence 87.30 m² 9.4 Level 3.90 5° pitch 5° pitch Level 3.90 camp kitchen 56.70 m² 6.1
t t
h Level 3.15 h Level 3.15
recreation room 56.70 m² 6.1 g g
i i
e e
female amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 h h
g g
n n
male amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 0 0
i i
0 0
0 0
d d
5 5
l l
i i
9 9
storage shed 104.68 m² 11.3 5 5
u u
3 3
2 2
b b
female amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 l l
l l
a a male amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 r r Level 0.60
e Level 0.60 e
v v
0 0
o o
0 0
6 6
amenities north elevation (N) amenities east elevation (N) 2 1 : 100 3 1 : 100
13950
6 1 2 5
covered Level 3.90 ramp deck t h Level 3.15
g
i
e
h seating baby change seating
g
n
0
i
0
0
d
5
l
i
9
5
u
3
2
b
l
0
l
0
a
r 5 female
e Level 0.60
4
v
0
amenities o
0
6
RTH amenities south elevation (N)
e O e hws & service area
t N t
a a 4
g g covered area 1 : 100 legend: sdu - sliding door unit cs - cavity slider fows - face of wall slider 6 4 6 5 1 unisex vb - vanity basin 0 0 disabled urinals wb - wash basin 5 male 5° p pitch Level 3.90 4 itch 5° sh - shower & shower amenities
t p - pan h Level 3.15
g
i
tr - laundry trough e
h dw - dishwasher seating
g
n
0
i
wm - washing machine 0
0
d
5
l
i
9 dr - dryer covered 5
u ramp 3
2
b s - smoke detector deck
l
l sss - stainless steel sink a
r
e Level 0.60
ref - refridgerator v
0
o b - bath 0 hp & ubo - hot plate & under 6 bench oven amenities west elevation (N) amenities block (north) floor plan 5 1 : 100 1 1 : 100 TOWN PLANNING ONLY PLANNING TOWN
Project: Wonthaggi Office © copyright TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS Amendment Schedule P.O. Box 825 Proposed Caravan Park A2 332 White Road © copyright Beaumont Concepts amenities block (north) floor plan & elevations Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Address: The drawings, designs, & specifications & sheet size No. Date Issued to Description Ph: 03 56725196 copyright therein are the property of 1285 Phillip Island Road Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, Drawn By: SB Scale: 1 : 100 Date: 12/10/2016 11:02:29 AM Fax: 03 56721924 copied, or reproduced wholly or in part without the express written permission www.beaumontconcepts.com.au NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 of Beaumont Concepts. Drawing No. T7 Project No. 15-16 material schedule:
no. material colour
1 weathertex weathergroove vertical cladding black
2 colorbond roll-a-door shale grey
3 trimdek roofing zincalume (non reflective) zincalume
4 colorbond fascia, gutter and parapet capping black No. 1 black No. 2 shale grey No. 3 zincalume No. 4 black
development schedule
Squares reception 45.36 m² 4.9 caretaker residence 87.30 m² 9.4 camp kitchen 56.70 m² 6.1 recreation room 56.70 m² 6.1 female amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 male amenities south 75.60 m² 8.1 storage shed 104.68 m² 11.3 female amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 1 3 4 2 1 3 4 male amenities north 58.59 m² 6.3 Level 4.00 Level 4.00 5° pitch
t
t
h h
g Level 3.10 g Level 3.10
i i
e e
h h
g g
n n
0 0
i i
0 0
d
d
l
l
i i
0 0
0 0
u u
4 4
0 0
b b
0 0
l l
3 3
l
l
a
a
r
r
e e
v v Level 0.10 o Level 0.10 o
shed north elevation shed east elevation 2 1 : 100 3 1 : 100
2400 x 2400 roll-a-door 2400 x 2400 roll-a-door 2400 x 2400 roll-a-door 2400 x 2400 roll-a-door
0
3.6m wide bay 3.6m wide bay 3.6m wide bay 3.6m wide bay 8
shed 1
7 1 3 4 1 3 4 Level 4.00 5° pitch Level 4.00
t
t
h h
g g Level 3.10 Level 3.10
i i
e e
h h
g g
n n
0 0
i i
0 0
d
d
l
l
i i
0 0
0 0
u u
4 4
0 0
b b
0 0
l l
3 3
l
l
a
a
r
r
e e
14580 v v o Level 0.10 o Level 0.10
shed floor plan shed south elevation shed west elevation 1 1 : 100 4 1 : 100 5 1 : 100 TOWN PLANNING ONLY PLANNING TOWN
Project: Wonthaggi Office © copyright TOWN PLANNING DRAWINGS Amendment Schedule P.O. Box 825 Proposed Caravan Park A2 332 White Road © copyright Beaumont Concepts shed floor plan & elevations Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Address: The drawings, designs, & specifications & sheet size No. Date Issued to Description Ph: 03 56725196 copyright therein are the property of 1285 Phillip Island Road Beaumont Concepts & must not be used, Drawn By: SB Scale: 1 : 100 Date: 12/10/2016 11:02:31 AM Fax: 03 56721924 copied, or reproduced wholly or in part without the express written permission www.beaumontconcepts.com.au NEWHAVEN VIC 3925 of Beaumont Concepts. Drawing No. T8 Project No. 15-16 AT-4. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road Newhaven - Traffic Engineering Assessment by Applicant
Traffic Engineering Assessment
Proposed Caravan Park at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven
Prepared For KJR Investments Pty Ltd
December 2016 G18015R-01A Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
Traffic Engineering Assessment
Proposed Caravan Park at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven
Document Control
Issue No. Type Date Prepared By Approved By A Final 5/12/2016 T. Togany D. Robertson
Traffix Template Version 1.0 – May, 2015
Our Reference: G18015R-01A
COPYRIGHT: The ideas and material contained in this document are the property of Traffix Group (Traffix Group Pty Ltd – ABN 32 100 481 570, Traffix Survey Pty Ltd – ABN 57 120 461 510, Traffix Design Pty Ltd – ABN 41 060 899 443). Use or copying of this document in whole or in part without the written permission of Traffix Group constitutes an infringement of copyright. LIMITATION: This report has been prepared on behalf of and for the exclusive use of Traffix Group’s client, and is subject to and issued in connection with the provisions of the agreement between Traffix Group and its client. Traffix Group accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any third party.
G18015R-01A Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ...... 1 2 Existing Conditions ...... 1 2.1 Subject Site...... 1 2.2 Road Network ...... 4 2.3 Existing Traffic Conditions ...... 4 3 The Proposal ...... 6 4 Car Parking Considerations ...... 6 4.1 Statutory Car Parking Requirements ...... 6 4.2 Anticipated Parking Demands ...... 6 4.3 Conclusion - Adequacy of Parking Provision ...... 6 4.4 Car Parking Layout ...... 7 5 Internal Road Layout ...... 7 6 Traffic Considerations...... 7 6.1 Traffic Generation and Distribution ...... 7 6.2 Traffic Impacts...... 8 7 Conclusions ...... 8
G18015R-01A Page i Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
1 Introduction
Traffix Group has been engaged by KJR Investments Pty Ltd to prepare a traffic engineering assessment report for a proposed caravan park located at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven. This report provides a detailed traffic engineering assessment of the traffic and parking issues associated with the proposed development.
2 Existing Conditions
2.1 Subject Site
The subject site is located on the south side of Phillip Island Road to the east of The Esplanade in Newhaven, as shown in the locality plan in Figure 1.
Subject Site
Reproduced with Permission of Melway Publishing Pty Ltd Figure 1: Locality Map The subject site is irregular in shape and is predominantly vacant, with the exception of the northeastern portion of the site which currently accommodates a residential dwelling. Vehicle access to this dwelling is taken via an existing driveway to Phillip Island Road adjacent to the eastern boundary of the property.
G18015R-01A Page 1 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
An aerial photograph of the site is shown in Figure 2.
Scenic Estate Conservation Area Car Park Access (approx.)
Forrest Caves Access Road
Subject Site
Source: Nearmap Figure 2: Aerial Photograph of Site The site is situated within a Farming Zone (FZ) under the Bass Coast Planning Scheme as shown in Figure 3. The former Scenic Estate is located on the north side of Phillip Island Road opposite the subject site. This is to be developed as a coastal reserve. As part of that, Council is proposing to construct an off- street car park. It is understood that the location and design of the access off Phillip Island Road are being resolved with VicRoads. Current indications are that the entrance will be located approximately 50m east of the western boundary of the subject site. The intersection treatment will include left and right turn lanes. Approximately 50m west of the subject site is an unsealed road that provides access to Forrest Caves. This road intersects with Phillip Island Road as a T-intersection with no turn lanes in Phillip Island Road.
G18015R-01A Page 2 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
Subject Site
Source: http://services.land.vic.gov.au Figure 3: Zoning Map
G18015R-01A Page 3 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
2.2 Road Network
Phillip Island Road is in the Road Zone Category 1 (RDZ1) under the Bass Coast Planning Scheme and is under the control of VicRoads. In the vicinity of the subject site, Phillip Island Road has an 11.2m wide carriageway which accommodates a single lane of through traffic (3.3m wide) and a wide sealed shoulder in each direction of travel. A speed limit of 80 km/h currently applies to Phillip Island Road past the subject site. It is understood that Council is in discussion with VicRoads to reduce the speed limit in the vicinity of the access to the proposed car park serving the Scenic Estate coastal reserve to 60 km/h. Phillip Island Road is shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5.
Figure 4: Phillip Island Road - View East Figure 5: Phillip Island Road - View West Adjacent to Subject Site Adjacent to Subject Site
2.3 Existing Traffic Conditions
Traffix Group undertook a 7-day tube count on Phillip Island Road, adjacent to the subject site. The counts were undertaken from Tuesday 25 November, 2014 to Monday 1 December, 2014. The survey occurred during “schoolies” at Phillip Island. Selected results are shown in Table 1.
G18015R-01A Page 4 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
Table 1: Phillip Island Road Traffic Volumes
Time Period Eastbound Westbound Two-way
Average Weekday
Morning Peak Hour 361 vph* 343 vph 704 vph 8:00am to 9:00am
Afternoon Peak Hour 449 vph 422 vph 871 vph 3:00pm to 4:00pm
Daily 4,900 vpd** 5,236 vpd 10,134 vpd
Saturday
Morning Peak Hour 385 vph 559 vph 944 vph 11:00am to 12:00pm
Afternoon Peak Hour 392 vph 698 vph 1,090 vph 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Daily 5,712 vpd 6,893 vpd 12,605 vpd
Sunday
Morning Peak Hour 541 vph 513 vph 1,054 vph 11:00am to 12:00pm
Afternoon Peak Hour 835 vph 323 vph 1,158 vph 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Daily 7,708 vpd 5,216 vpd 12,924 vpd
* vph = vehicles per hour ** vpd = vehicles per day The Bass Coast Shire Council Phillip Island Integrated Transport Study A Community Vision for Transport report prepared by GTA Consultants dated 26/05/14 states that Phillip Island Road carries in the order of 10,000 vpd during typical non-school holiday periods and almost 14,000 vpd in peak holiday seasons. The traffic volumes recorded for the Saturday and Sunday are therefore close to being representative of a “typical peak holiday” period.
G18015R-01A Page 5 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
3 The Proposal
A plan of the proposed development is attached at Appendix A. It is proposed to develop the subject site for the purposes of a caravan park, accommodating a total of 208 caravan sites (including one large group site). In addition to the caravan sites, the development plan illustrates the provision of two car parking areas accommodating 50 formal car spaces, with one parking area located near the northeast corner of the site and the other near the southwest corner. The parking area near the northeast corner of the site also provides an informal parking area for buses or people with caravans to temporarily park and access the managers’ office upon arrival/departure. Vehicle access to the site is to be taken via Phillip Island Road. Brosnan Engineering Solutions Pty Ltd has prepared an access layout plan for the proposed access point associated with the development. This plan is also attached at Appendix A and shows the provision of left and right-turn treatments on Phillip Island Road at the site’s access point.
4 Car Parking Considerations
4.1 Statutory Car Parking Requirements
The statutory car parking requirements for developments are detailed in Clause 52.06 of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. The land use term ‘camping and caravan park’ is included under the land use term ‘accommodation’ as outlined in Clause 74 of the Planning Scheme. The land use term ‘accommodation’ is not specified within Table 1 under Clause 52.06 of the Planning Scheme. Accordingly, car parking must be provided to the satisfaction of the responsible authority, as outlined under Clause 52.06-5A.
4.2 Anticipated Parking Demands
The RTA Guide to Traffic Generating Developments (2002) sets out a car parking rate of 1 space to each caravan site for caravan parks. Application of this rate to the proposed development results in a car parking demand for 208 spaces.
4.3 Conclusion - Adequacy of Parking Provision
Typical of caravan parks, parking associated with each caravan site usually occurs on the site itself. In addition to the 208 caravan sites, the development plan illustrates the provision of 50 formal car spaces within two car parking areas on the site and an informal parking area near the manager’s office. We are therefore satisfied that the level of on-site car parking provision is more than sufficient to cater for the likely parking demands associated with the proposed development.
G18015R-01A Page 6 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
4.4 Car Parking Layout
Two car parking areas are to be provided on site, accommodating 50 formal car spaces. The development plan does not show any dimensions of the car parking spaces. It is therefore recommended that all formal car spaces be provided in accordance with the requirements of the Planning Scheme, being at least 2.6m wide, 4.9m long and accessed from an aisle that is at least 6.4m wide. Subject to these dimensions being adopted, the proposed car parks will provide for convenient and accessible parking.
5 Internal Road Layout
The development is to provide an internal road network, with some roads operating one-way and others operating two-way. The development plan does not show any dimensions of the internal road widths. It is therefore recommended that:
• One-way roads be at least 3.0m wide; and • Two-way roads be at least 5.5m wide, in order to facilitate simultaneous vehicle movements. Subject to these road widths being adopted, the proposed internal road layout will operate in an appropriate and acceptable manner.
6 Traffic Considerations
6.1 Traffic Generation and Distribution
The RTA Guide to Traffic Generating Developments (2002) provides a guide to the likely traffic generation of the proposed development. Whilst no traffic generation rate is provided for a caravan park, the RTA rate for a motel, which falls under the ‘Casual Accommodation’ group, is a comparable use if each site is considered as one motel room. The RTA guide provides traffic generation rates for a motel use as follows:
• Daily vehicle trips: 3 per unit • Evening peak hour vehicle trips: 0.4 per unit Conservatively applying the PM peak hour traffic volume to the AM peak hour period, the proposed development is therefore anticipated to generate a daily traffic volume of 624 vehicle per day (vpd), with up to 83 vehicle per hour (vph) occurring during each peak hour period. This level of traffic will be generated to/from Phillip Island Road.
G18015R-01A Page 7 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
6.2 Traffic Impacts
In the order of 83 vehicle movements are anticipated to be generated by the proposed development during the AM and PM peak hour periods. Peak traffic volumes associated with the proposed development are likely to occur on the weekend. As shown in the access layout plan attached at Appendix A, auxiliary right and left turn lanes are proposed on Phillip Island Road at the site’s access point as part of the proposed development. Subject to these turn lanes being designed in accordance with the relevant requirements of the Guide to Road Design Part 4A: Unsignalised and Signalised Intersections (Austroads), we are satisfied that the level of traffic that is likely to be generated by the proposed development will be readily accommodated by Phillip Island Road without any adverse impacts.
7 Conclusions
Having undertaken a detailed traffic engineering assessment of the proposed caravan park at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, we are of the opinion that: 1. The level of on-site car parking provision is more than sufficient to cater for the likely parking demands associated with the proposed development. 2. Subject to the following recommendations being adopted, the proposed car parks will provide for convenient and accessible parking: • Formal car spaces should be at least 2.6m wide, 4.9m long and accessed from an aisle that is at least 6.4m wide. 3. Subject to the following internal road widths being adopted, the proposed internal road layout will operate in an appropriate and acceptable manner: • One-way roads should be at least 3.0m wide; and • Two-way roads should be at least 5.5m wide in order to facilitate simultaneous vehicle movements. 4. Subject to the right and left turn treatments proposed on Phillip Island Road at the site’s access point being designed in accordance with the relevant requirements of Guide to Road Design Part 4A: Unsignalised and Signalised Intersections (Austroads), the level of traffic that is likely to be generated by the proposed development will be readily accommodated by Phillip Island Road without any adverse impacts. 5. There are no traffic engineering reasons why a planning permit should not be issued for the proposed development.
G18015R-01A Page 8 Traffic Engineering Assessment 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven: Proposed Caravan Park
Appendix A: Proposed Development and Access Layout Plans
G18015R-01A Vision The scenic South coast of Phillip Island is a tourist destination of State significance. The Site at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven has been significantly modified as a result of farming, and currently presents as a relatively featureless grassy paddock abutting coastal dunes. The dune system will be rehabilitated and managed as a Conservation Area (in co-operation with and under guidance of PINP). The balance of the Site is proposed to be developed as a camp ground and caravan park, providing an alternative accommodation option on the south coast of the Island for travellers and holiday-makers. The landscape treatment aims to create a native bush / coastal setting, responding to the site conditions. It features a meandering site layout, extensive revegetation, earth mounding and an on-site stormwater treatment system. A palette of locally indigenous and suitable Australian native plants is nominated which will thrive in these conditions, creating an attractive and contextual landscape setting.
Landscape Principles
Theme & vision • Respond to site conditions: topography, vegetation & microclimate 01 • Preserve the environmental integrity of the dunal system • Create South-coast landscape that fits comfortably in context • Create camp/cabin/ caravan sites nestled within the landscape • Develop a safe, attractive pedestrian environment • Locate communal facilities in visually prominent, central areas Philli p Island road
Plant selection & placement • Indigenous plant palette to coastal interface • Locally Indigenous & Australian plants native elsewhere 02 • Wetland species in accordance with Melbourne Water & Westernport Water Guidelines
Road layout • Indicative alignment of entry road to be refined by traffic engineers • Meandering, predominantly one-way internal roads, minimum road widths 03 • Views along all internal roads to terminate in planted areas
Conservation area
Functional Layout • 208 sites indicated on this plan 04 • Southern third of site can be closed during the off season • Larger sites located closer to Phillip Island Rd • Smaller sites located closer to conservation area
Adjoining Land interface • SOUTH: Boundary to Conservation areas to have visually permeable fence, restricting pedestrian access to the dunes and a planted boundary 05 • NORTH: Phillip Island Road interface to be densely planted & earth bunding • EAST: Interface with private land, densely planted boundary & earth bunding • WEST: Philip Island Nature Parks land, public access to Forest caves beach, densely planted boundary & earth bunding
Key Plan - Not to scale
The Surf Park Landscape Masterplan 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 03 DRWN AC CHKD HW APPROV HW DATE 25.08.2016 Philip island r oad Proposed location & road treatment of entry road to be confirmed by traffic engineer
+2.0
+1.5 +2.0
+1.0 Carparking indicative layout
Playground & Amenities picnic area block
+1.0 Office & managers residence Depot
+1.0
+2.0
+1.0
rec room Group sites Park & communal amenities Camp kitchen
+1.0
Public access Amenities to Forrest block caves Carpark
+1.0
+1.0 CANOPY TREES e.g Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea'+2 .0 Yellow Gum SCREES TREES e.g Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree +2.0 Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla C onse SHRUBS e.g rv ation Area Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria +2.0 Correa alba White Correa GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach Legend CANOPY TREES e.g CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Dune Earth Mounding Boundary Fencing Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Grassland EVC 879 For noise attenuation, visual screening, Visually permeable fencing Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea' Yellow Gum Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle sightlines & topographical interest preventing pedestrian access SCREES TREES e.g Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush to dunes Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla Primary entry road Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass Camp sites Two-way sealed road for vehicular traffic. Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush Total of 208 sites including: - Nominally 8m width Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS -15 sites at 9 x 18m SHRUBS e.g Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Water Guidelines Secondary internal avenues -50 sites at 10 x 12m Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle for Constructed Wetlands One-way sealed road for vehicular traffic -92 sites at 9 x 10m Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses to minimise road surface area. -46 sites at 7.5 x 7.5m Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria Carex appressa Tall Sedge - Nominally 4m width -1 larger groups site Correa alba White Correa Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Pedestrian Paths Storm water GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Juncus sp Juncus Gravel paths throughout sites and to Treatment ponds Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass connect to Forrest Caves and to Phillip Refer to Hydrology study by Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush Island Road SUP -Nominally 2m width others Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Dune Grassland EVC 879 SCALE 1:500 (A1) The Surf Park Landscape MasterplanAcacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla 0 10 20 PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 03 DRWN AC CHKD HW APPROV HW DATE 25.08.2016 Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Water Guidelines for Constructed Wetlands Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses Carex appressa Tall Sedge Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Juncus sp Juncus
AT-5. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Flora and Fauna Assessment by Applicant
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria
June 2015 Revised: October 2016
Report prepared for:
JardineJohnstone
Environment and Planning
PO Box 30,
San Remo VIC 3925
Prepared by: Australian Ecosystems Pty Ltd Australian Ecosystems Pty Ltd PO Box 583 Port Melbourne, VIC 3207 Phone: 03 9673 0300 [email protected] www.australianecosystems.com.au
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF APPENDICES ...... II
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 6
1.1 Project background ...... 6
1.2 Objectives ...... 6
1.3 Study Area ...... 7
1.4 The Proposal ...... 8
1.5 Acknowledgements ...... 8
2.0 METHODS ...... 11
2.1 Data and literature review ...... 11
2.1.1 Flora and Vegetation Information sources ...... 11
2.1.2 Fauna and Habitat Information sources ...... 11
2.2 Field survey ...... 12
2.2.1 Vegetation assessment ...... 12
2.2.2 Threatened species assessment ...... 12
2.3 Limitations ...... 14
3.0 ECOLOGICAL VALUES ...... 16
3.1 Flora...... 16
3.1.1 Historic Vegetation ...... 16
3.1.2 Current Vegetation ...... 16
3.1.3 Flora species recorded ...... 20
3.1.4 Threatened flora species ...... 20
3.2 Fauna ...... 21
3.2.1 Fauna species recorded ...... 21
3.2.2 Fauna habitats ...... 22
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page i
3.2.3 Threatened fauna species ...... 23
3.2.4 Threats to Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater ...... 23
4.0 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON ECOLOGICAL VALUES ...... 26
5.0 MANAGEMENT OF IMPACTS ON ECOLOGICAL VALUES...... 27
5.1 Construction Phase ...... 27
5.2 Operations Phase ...... 27
6.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 29
REFERENCES ...... 31
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Flora species recorded at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015 ...... 34
Appendix 2: Potentially Occurring Rare or Threatened Flora species recorded at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015 ...... 37
Appendix 3: Fauna species recorded on site during the fauna survey ...... 40
Appendix 4: Potentially occurring threatened fauna species at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015...... 41
Appendix 5: Indigenous Planting Guide ...... 44
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Revised masterplan of the proposed caravan park at 1285 Phillip Island (Tract, 2016) 9
Figure 2: Location of the Study Area, 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven ...... 10
Figure 3: Distribution of vegetation within the study area...... 19
Figure 4: VBA records of Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater ...... 25
LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS
Plate 1 Coastal Dune / Study Area Interface ...... 16
Plate 2 Contour drains and Predominately Introduced Vegetation within the study area ...... 17
Plate 3 Coastal Dune vegetation adjacent to study area ...... 18
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page ii
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page iii
Executive Summary
Intro
Australian Ecosystems Pty Ltd was engaged by JardineJohnstone to undertake a flora and fauna assessment of 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria. Specifically the flora and fauna assessment was to survey areas within the property under the Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) proposed for development. The assessment also considered impacts to Short- tailed Shearwater (Ardenna tenuirostris) and Hooded Plover (Thinornis rubricollis) colonies, as well as other species within the adjacent dune system and determine appropriate measures to minimise impacts on ecological values.
Flora Findings
During the survey, 61 flora species were recorded, of them 26 were indigenous, 34 were exotic and one indigenous to Victoria but considered outside of its natural range. The flora survey found that the study area to consist predominately of introduced vegetation. The study area is largely dominated by introduced perennial grasses Cenchrus clandestinus (Kikuyu) and Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass). On the margins of the study area, scattered indigenous plants persist along and under fencelines where they have been protected from grazing. The coastal dunes consist primarily of indigenous vegetation, with a complex of two Ecological Vegetation Classes Coastal Dune Grassland: EVC 879 and Coastal Dune Scrub: EVC 16.
Fauna Findings
A total of twenty-two bird species, two mammals and two amphibians were detected during the site survey. Of these, one introduced mammal, European Rabbit and one introduced bird, Starling were recorded, along with evidence of another introduced mammal, Red Fox. One fauna species of Victorian conservation significance was recorded during the site survey, Pacific Gull which is listed as Near Threatened and was recorded along the foreshore. Southern Brown Tree Frog and Common Froglet were recorded from various locations, largely in remnant vegetation outside of the study area.
A desktop review found records for the vulnerable Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater on and in close proximity to the study area, colonies of both species are well known to utilise habitats adjacent to the study area. The development footprint of the study area is located in modified pasture, this habitat type is unlikely to support populations of either species, however adjacent coastal dunes and beach are likely to provide habitat for these species.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page iv
Impacts
Any proposed development within the study area will remove modified vegetation consisting of introduced species, with scattered indigenous flora which is largely composed of colonising species tolerant of grazing and disturbance. The modified pasture provides habitat to several fauna species found to be common within the study area, these species maybe displaced as part of the construction and operation of the caravan park but this habitat type is relatively common in the local area.
Potential offsite impacts on the coastal dunes and beach are dependent on mitigation measures, where these are not controlled or mitigated, impacts may include increased weed invasion beyond current levels, trampling and erosion of dunes from foot traffic, disturbance of nesting fauna particularly Short-tailed Shearwaters and disturbance of Hooded Plover on the ocean beach.
Mitigation
The construction and operation of the caravan park should follow a conservation strategy which minimises both onsite and offsite impacts on ecological values. This strategy should implement measures such as fencing of the dune system to prevent access, lighting plans, planting of indigenous species in any landscaping, weed control in adjacent dunes and also potential consider conservation agreements on the dunes to protect this area in perpetuity. Other measures in the strategy should focus on education of caravan park users, including signage in the park and dunes, information for users when checking into the park, interpretation events and compliance measures.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page v
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Project background
Australian Ecosystems Pty Ltd was engaged by JardineJohnstone on behalf of the proponent, Ken Rowlingson to undertake a flora and fauna assessment of 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria. Specifically the flora and fauna assessment was requested by Bass Coast Council and the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) to survey areas within the property under the Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) proposed for development and consider impacts to Short-tailed Shearwater (Ardenna tenuirostris) and Hooded Plover (Thinornis rubricollis) colonies, as well as other species within the dunes and determine appropriate measures to minimise impacts.
The purpose of the report was to provide the results of the flora and fauna assessment, outline potential impacts arising from the development within the ESO area on ecological values and provide recommendations on measures to mitigate potential impacts.
The proponent is proposing is to construct and operate a camping and caravan park at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, currently largely used for agistment grazing with a residence in the north east corner and fenced coastal dune system in the south of the property. The caravan park proposal consists of 204 sites, facilities/amenities, managers residence and visitor parking, as well as revegetation and landscaping of buffers and fencing of the dunes within the south of the property as a conservation zone (Figure 1). The area within the dunes will not be subject to any development and only access and works sympathetic to the biodiversity of the dunes will be allowed from the proposed caravan park.
It is proposed that a total of 1.47 hectares within the ESO on the property will be constructed on and 2.46 hectares will be included in the dune conservation area.
1.2 Objectives
The objectives of this flora and fauna assessment are to:
• Conduct a desktop review of flora and fauna databases such as the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas for potential threatened species records existing on the study area; • Have a suitable qualified botanist and zoologist undertake a flora and fauna assessment of the study area this would include;
o Record all occurring species noted during the assessment; o Map the distribution of habitats and/or vegetation communities if present;
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 6
o Note habitats for rare or threatened species if present and determine likelihood of occurrence for potentially occurring species. • Prepare a report which outlines the findings of the flora and fauna assessment and discuss potential impacts upon threatened species and coastal dune system; • Prepare a figure/s showing the distribution of any historic or current rare or threatened species and their habitats within the study area; • Outline, discuss and recommend practical measures to protect species, habitats and vegetation communities which maybe present with specific reference to Short Tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover.
1.3 Study Area
The study area is located on a property at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria, approximately 80 kilometres south east of Melbourne CBD. The property is an 8.09 hectare parcel used for agistment grazing with a residence in the north east corner and fenced coastal dune system in the south of the property. The study area, that being the area of the property with an Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) and proposed to be developed is located to the southern end of the property, covering 1.47 hectares within the ESO on the property. The coastal dune system is directly adjacent to the south of the development area, it is 2.46 hectares in size and was included in the study to assist in determining potentially occurring species which may be impacted and also assist in determining appropriate species for revegetation.
The local area land use is predominately agricultural to the north and east, with Phillip Island Nature Park (Forest Caves reserve) to the west and ocean/beach reserve to the south.
The study area is located within the:
• Port Phillip Westernport Catchment area;
• Bass Coast Council; and
• Gippsland Plain Bioregion.
The property is zoned Farm Zone under the Bass Coast Council Planning Scheme, and is subject to a Significant Landscape Overlay – Schedule 2 (SLO2) and in part an Environmental Significance – Schedule 1 (ESO1).
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 7
1.4 The Proposal
The proposal consists of the construction of 204 camping sites, facilities/amenities, managers residence and visitor parking, as well as revegetation and landscaping of buffers and fencing of the dunes within the south of the property as a conservation area (Figure 1). The area within the dunes will not be subject to any development and only access and works sympathetic to the biodiversity of the dunes will be allowed from the proposed caravan park.
1.5 Acknowledgements
Australian Ecosystems appreciates advice on Shearwater management along with historical and current management of the coastal dunes from Jarvis Weston (Phillip Island Nature Parks). Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning provided access and data to the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas and other biological databases and maps. Chris Johnstone (JardineJohnstone) provided background to the project and site.
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Legend CANOPY TREES e.g CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal EARTH MOUNDING BOUNDARY FENCING INTERNAL BUILDING LIGHTING Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Dune Grassland EVC 879 For noise attenuation, visual screening, Visually permeable fencing Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea' Yellow Gum Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle sightlines & topographical interest preventing pedestrian access to dunes "*OUFSOBMMJHIUJOHUPCFBTMPXXBUUBHFBTQPTTJCMF UPFOTVSFQFSTPOBMTBGFUZ SCREENS TREES e.g Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush #4JEFXBZTTQJMMTIPVMECFTIJFMEFEFTQFDJBMMZOFBS Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla XJOEPXT PRIMARY ENTRY ROAD CAMP SITES Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass $8JOEPXTUPIBWFCMBDLPVUGFBUVSFTUPCMPDL Two-way sealed road for vehicular traffic. Total of 204 sites including: MJHIUTQJMMBGUFSTVOTFUEVSJOHQFBL4IPSUUBJMFE Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush - Nominally 8m width 'MFEHJOHQFSJPEUI"QSJMUPUI.BZ -15 sites at 9 x 18m Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS %%JNNFEFNFSHFODZMJHIUT BTTBGFUZQFSNJUTFH -50 sites at 10 x 12m FYJUTJHOT SHRUBS e.g Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne SECONDARY INTERNAL AVENUES -92 sites at 9 x 10m Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle Water Guidelines for Constructed Wetlands One-way sealed road for vehicular traffic -46 sites at 7.5 x 7.5m EXTERNAL LIGHTING Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses to minimise road surface area. -1 larger groups site Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria Carex appressa Tall Sedge "&YUFSOBMMJHIUJOHUPCFBTMPXXBUUBHFBT - Nominally 4m width Correa alba White Correa Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree STORM WATER TREATMENT QPTTJCMFUPFOTVSFQFSTPOBMTBGFUZ #6QXBSEBOETJEFXBZTTQJMMTIJFMEFEPOPVUEPPS GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark PEDESTRIAN PATHS PONDS MJHIUT FTQFDJBMMZBOZJOUFSOBMSPBEMJHIUJOH Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass Juncus sp Juncus Gravel paths throughout sites and to Refer to Hydrology study by others $#MVF HSFFO ZFMMPXPSSFEöMUFSTPOPVUTJEFMJHIUT Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush connect to Forrest Caves and to Phillip %"MMFYUFSOBMMJHIUJOHUPCFUVSOFEPòBMMOJHIU OPUVTFE CFUXFFOUI"QSJMBOEUI.BZ QFBL Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Island Road SUP 4IPSUUBJMFE4IFBSXBUFSøFEHJOHQFSJPE Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach -Nominally 2m width
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0.5 0
kilometres Projection: Universal Transverse Mercator Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia
Figure 2 Location of study area Flora and Fauna Assessment of Proposed Caravan Park, 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria Map prepared by Australian Ecosystems, July 2015
While AE has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, AE make no representations or guarantees about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. AE cannot accept any liability of any kind for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs which may be incurred as a result of this product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way for any reason.
2.0 METHODS
The following section describes the information sources and the methodology applied to assess flora and fauna habitat at the study area.
Plant taxonomy in this report follows the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) (DELWP 2015a) and with reference to Census of Victoria Vascular Plants (Walsh and Stajsic 2007). Fauna taxonomy used throughout this report follows the VBA (DELWP 2015a).
2.1 Data and literature review
Existing information regarding flora, native vegetation and fauna that was reviewed for the current investigation is listed below.
2.1.1 Flora and Vegetation Information sources
• Victorian Biodiversity Atlas search, for plants (including threatened species) previously recorded on or within a radius of 10 kilometres from the study area (DELWP 2015a);
• Victorian Flora Information System search, for plants (including threatened species) previously recorded within a radius of 10 km from the study area (Viridans 2014);
• Extant and pre-1750 (pre-European settlement) Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) Biodiversity Interactive Mapping (DELWP 2015b) for indicative distribution of vegetation types
• Gippsland Plain Bioregion EVC benchmarks for standardised vegetation type descriptions (DELWP 2015c)
• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) Protected Matters Search Tool (DofE 2015a) for a list of nationally threatened flora with suitable habitat in the immediate area
• Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria –2014 (DEPI 2014)
2.1.2 Fauna and Habitat Information sources
• Victorian Biodiversity Atlas search, for fauna (including threatened species) previously recorded on or within a radius of 10 kilometres from the study area (DELWP 2015a);
• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) Protected Matters Search Tool (DofE 2015a) for a list of nationally threatened fauna with suitable habitat in the immediate area
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 11
• Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria (DEPI 2013a)
2.2 Field survey
The study area was surveyed on foot on 17 June 2015 following the desktop review of existing information (listed above). Plant and animal species, habitat and extant vegetation (Ecological Vegetation Class (EVC)) were recorded. Flora species observed are presented in Appendix 1, and fauna species recorded on study area and in the local area are in Appendix 3.
2.2.1 Vegetation assessment
Vegetation was categorised based on the following DELWP guidelines (DEPI 2013b):
Remnant patch - an area of vegetation that consists of at least 25% of the total perennial understorey cover is native; or A group (i.e. three or more) of trees where the tree canopy cover is at least 20%.
Scattered trees - canopy trees within an area where more than 75% of the total understorey plant cover is weeds or non-native plants and the overall canopy cover (i.e. three or more) of trees is less than 20%
2.2.2 Threatened species assessment
The presence or potential presence of threatened flora and fauna on the site was determined through the site survey, review of threatened species lists (state flora and fauna databases and EPBC Act predictive matters list). The likelihood of these species persisting on, or frequenting the site, was established based on the vegetation/habitat present on the site, its condition and the habitat preference of the species.
Targeted threatened species searches were not undertaken in detail on this site.
The status of flora and fauna as listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning rare and threatened species advisory lists (DEPI 2013a; DEPI 2014a) is as per Box 1 and Box 2
Box 1 Status of rare and threatened flora Status under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) L Listed as threatened Conservation Status in Victoria (DEPI Advisory List of Rare and Threatened Flora 2014a)
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x Presumed Extinct in Victoria: not recorded from Victoria during the past 50 years despite field searches specifically for the plant, or, alternatively, intensive field searches (since 1950) at all previously known sites have failed to record the plant. e Endangered in Victoria: at risk of disappearing from the wild state if present land use and other causal factors continue to operate. v Vulnerable in Victoria: not presently endangered but likely to become so soon due to continued depletion; occurring mainly on sites likely to experience changes in land-use which would threaten the survival of the plant in the wild; or, taxa whose total population is so small that the likelihood of recovery from disturbance, including localised natural events such as drought, fire or landslip, is doubtful. r Rare in Victoria: rare but not considered otherwise threatened - there are relatively few known populations or the taxon is restricted to a relatively small area. k Poorly Known in Victoria: poorly known and suspected, but not definitely known, to belong to one of the above categories (x, e, v or r) within Victoria. At present, accurate distribution information is inadequate. Status under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) EX Extinct: A taxon is extinct when there is no reasonable doubt that the last individual of the taxon has died. CR Critically Endangered: A taxon is critically endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. EN Endangered: A taxon is endangered when it is not critically endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. VU Vulnerable: A taxon is vulnerable when it is not critically endangered or endangered but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future.
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Box 2 Status of rare and threatened fauna Status under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) L Listed as threatened Conservation Status in Victoria (DELWP Advisory List of Rare and Threatened Fauna 2013a) cr A taxon is Critically Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Critically Endangered (IUCN Standards and Petitions Subcommittee 2010), and it is therefore considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. en A taxon is Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Endangered (IUCN Standards and Petitions Subcommittee 2010), and it is therefore considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild. vu A taxon is Vulnerable when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Vulnerable (IUCN Standards and Petitions Subcommittee 2010), and it is therefore considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild. nt A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for, or is likely to qualify for, a threatened category in the near future. dd A taxon is Data Deficient when there is inadequate information to make a direct, or indirect, assessment of its risk of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. Status under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) EX A taxon is extinct when there is no reasonable doubt that the last individual of the taxon has died. CR A taxon is critically endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. EN A taxon is endangered when it is not critically endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. VU A taxon is vulnerable when it is not critically endangered or endangered but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future.
2.3 Limitations
Ecological surveys are often unable to detect all species present on a site, due to the cryptic nature and seasonal growth cycles of certain species. The aim of the current project was to assess the extent of vegetation, fauna presence and habitat values, and the potential for threatened species. Disturbances at the study area including grazing and recent slashing may limit the ability to identify species and determine extents.
Notwithstanding the above constraints, flora and fauna species and habitat were recorded and the required data was collected as accurately as possible to meet the project scope and produce meaningful results. Wherever appropriate, a precautionary approach has been applied in the
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discussion of implications. That is, where insufficient evidence is available for the occurrence or likelihood of occurrence of a species, it is assumed that the species could be in an area of suitable habitat.
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3.0 ECOLOGICAL VALUES
3.1 Flora
3.1.1 Historic Vegetation
The biodiversity interactive map (DELWP 2015b) pre-1750’s modelled EVC map has two vegetation types in the study area, Swamp Scrub (EVC 53) and Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (EVC 922). Swamp Scrub is endangered within the bioregion, this EVC is associated with the poorly drained soils behind the dunes and the EVC mosaic is considered vulnerable within the Bioregion, it is associated with dunes and well drained soils.
3.1.2 Current Vegetation
The vegetation of the study area is highly modified and consists primarily of introduced species, particularly introduced grasses Cenchrus clandestinus (Kikuyu) and Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass) which contribute a near 100% vegetative cover in large parts. Very few indigenous flora species where observed within the modified and grazed areas of the study area. Observations of species such as Ficinia nodosa (Knobby Club-sedge), Tetragonia implexicoma (Bower Spinach) and Rhagodia candolleana subsp. candolleana (Seaberry Saltbush) were confined to the edges where fences offer protection from grazing and regeneration has occurred following disturbance.
Plate 1 Coastal Dune / Study Area Interface
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Disturbance though clearing of the previous indigenous vegetation, historic grazing and earthworks for drains and dam have reduced indigenous vegetation to <1% vegetative cover within the study area and no EVC was assigned to this area of predominately introduced vegetation. A small dam in the south east corner of the paddock provides habitat to a variety of indigenous and introduced sedges and aquatic herbs, however as the modified substrate is combined with a high cover of exotic flora, the vegetation is described as predominately introduced.
Plate 2 Contour drains and Predominately Introduced Vegetation within the study area
The dune system consists of a mosaic of EVCs, largely Coastal Dune Grassland: EVC 879 (Depleted) on the ocean side exposed to wind and spray and Coastal Dune Scrub: EVC 16 (Depleted) on the lee side of the dunes. The site also has affinities to Bird Colony Succulent Herbland: EVC 155 (Rare) where large patches of Tetragonia implexicoma (Bower Spinach) persist, however this maybe due to previous disturbance rather than nutrient-enriched sandy
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substrates associated with shearwaters. Overall, the shifting sands mean vegetation communities within the dune system are temporal in extent and relatively similar in floristic composition.
The condition of vegetation within the dunes is variable, while the nature of the dunes means sands are shifted by natural processes such as wind and wave actions, human induced impacts such as weed invasion and competition is seen as the main altering process in the dunes. The main weed is Ammophila arenaria (Marram Grass) which is widespread over the dune system, this weed has been introduced for dune stabilisation purposes but can change the shape of dunes, leaving them more susceptible to wave erosion, competes with indigenous species and also can make it difficult for Little Penguins and Shearwaters to access beach habitats. Herbivory by European Rabbits along with Black Wallaby is leading to a reduced cover of palatable species and loss of flora diversity. Rabbit warrens are also causing disturbance and reducing the dune stability.
Plate 3 Coastal Dune vegetation adjacent to study area
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metres Projection: Universal Transverse Mercator Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia
Figure 3 Extant vegetation Flora and Fauna Assessment for Proposed Caravan Park, 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria Map prepared by Australian Ecosystems, July 2015
While AE has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, AE make no representations or guarantees about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. AE cannot accept any liability of any kind for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs which may be incurred as a result of this product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way for any reason.
3.1.3 Flora species recorded
During the survey, 61 flora species were recorded, of them 26 were indigenous, 34 were exotic and one, Melaleuca armillaris (Bracelet Honey-myrtle) indigenous to Victoria but considered outside of its natural range. Several of the indigenous species were recorded only in the coastal dune area and not within the development footprint. Flora species recorded are presented in Appendix 1.
3.1.4 Threatened flora species
There are a total of 29 flora species listed as rare or threatened in Victoria which have been previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area (DELWP 2015a) (Appendix 1). A further three species listed under the Commonwealth EPBC Act are predicted to occur or have habitat occurring within the study area (DotE 2015).
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Appendix 2 also predicts the potential occurrence of each threatened flora species and its likelihood of occurrence within the study area.
The VBA (DELWP 2015) contains a 2005 record of Lotus australis var. australis (Austral Trefoil) on the development area, with a location accuracy of 150 metres of the record. Lotus australis var. australis is listed as Poorly Known within Victoria. Lotus australis var. australis is known from a variety of environments across Victoria including coastal areas including dunes and coastal cliffs (Moxham 2009, Walsh and Entwisle 1996). The species is highly susceptible to herbivory and is unlikely to persist within the grazed paddock environs and more likely to persist in the dune system (W. Tomlinson pers. obs.).
A nearby record for the rare Oxalis rubens (Dune Wood-sorrel) from 1999 in the Forest Caves reserve is likely to be relatively spatially correct as this species is known from coastal dunes (DELWP 2015; Walsh and Entwisle 1999). While it is possible this species may persist on the dunes of the property, it is unlikely to persist within the development area given the specific nature of its habitats.
3.2 Fauna
3.2.1 Fauna species recorded
Fauna Survey
A total of twenty-two bird species, two mammals and two amphibians (frogs) were detected during the site survey (Appendix 3). The most abundant species found at the site were Superb Fairywren. Two frogs, Southern Brown Tree Frog (Litoria ewingii) and Common Froglet (Crinia signifera) were recorded from various locations, largely in remnant vegetation on the dunes outside of the study area. The only introduced species recorded during the survey were Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) and European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), which were found to be abundant at the site. There were also signs of Red Fox (Vulpus vulpus), with numerous scats and animal remains found at the site. Most of the animal remains consisted of rabbits, however there was also a Cape Barren Goose carcass found near the roadside section of the property. No signs of domestic/feral cats were detected at the site, however it can be assumed that they are found in the area. Red Fox and cats are known to be a major threat to beach/dune-nesting species such as Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater.
Desktop search
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Investigation of the Victorian Fauna State Database, showed that there has been a total of 324 terrestrial fauna (native and introduced) species recorded within a 10km radius of the site (DELWP 2015b) (Appendix 3). Of these, there are 252 birds, 41 mammals, 10 reptiles, 8 amphibians and 6 fish species.
3.2.2 Fauna habitats
Phillip Island is an important area for fauna conservation, in particular bird species, with a number of threatened and/or migratory species utilising the wetland and terrestrial habitats for foraging and breeding. The importance of these habitats can be highlighted, given that it borders part of Westernport Bay, which is an internationally significant wetland site (RAMSAR). In addition, Birdlife International considers Phillip Island an internationally Important Bird Area (IBA), due to its role in providing habitat for significant and threatened species such as Hooded Plover (Thinornis rubricollis), Short-tailed Shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris), Fairy Penguin (Eudyptula minor) and Pacific Gull (Larus pacificus). The area contains some of the largest populations of these species in Victoria (Harris & Norman 1981; Weston 1993; Hansen et al. 2011).
At the site, the coastal dune system and vegetation types on the southern (ocean facing) side of the property, provides important habitat for Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater (Harris & Norman 1981; PPWCMA; DELWP 2015b). Hooded Plover, which is largely sedentary (Weston 2006), utilise the beach and the sand dune system for foraging and nesting (Weston 2003). The eastern Australian populations are commonly associated with high-energy ocean beaches with wide wave wash zones for foraging on washed up organic material, such as seaweed, that is often inhabited by a rich source of invertebrates (Marchant & Higgins 1993; Weston 2003). The species is also often associated with sparsely vegetated sand dunes that provide shelter and nesting sites (Baird & Dann 2003). Nests can also be found in shallow scrapes above the high- tide zone of the beach (Weston 2003). These habitats are threatened by disturbances such as trampling/erosion and weed invasions that can reduce their suitability as Hooded Plover foraging and breeding sites (Weston 2000).
Short-tailed Shearwater are found at Phillip Island for around 6-months of the year and utilise the dune areas for breeding and nesting. Nest sites are found in dunes that are not too overgrown with vegetation and that provide open spaces of soft sand/soil at least 30cm deep, from which this species constructs burrows up to 2m deep (Skira 1991). Native plant species such as Tetragonia implexicoma (Bower Spinach) and Rhagodia candolleana (Seaberry Saltbush) are important for dune stabilisation and for preventing the burrows from collapsing (Skira 1991).
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However, annual weeds can have a negative impact on burrows by initially providing structure for the burrows, but leaving them susceptible to erosion and collapsing after they die back (Harris & Norman 1981; Skira 1991). Plant species that have been found to be unsuitable for Shearwater burrowing include Lycium ferocissimum (African Boxthorn), Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry), Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu) and Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass) (Brown et al. 1993; Skira et al. 1996). In addition fire can cause physical destruction on burrows and can disrupt breeding processes for Shearwaters (Brown et al. 1993; Skira et al. 1996).
3.2.3 Threatened fauna species
Fauna Survey
One fauna species of conservation significance recorded during the site survey, Pacific Gull (Larus pacificus), which is listed as ‘Near Threatened’ on Victoria’s advisory list of threatened fauna (DEPI 2013).
Desktop search
Investigation of the threatened fauna in the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas, show that there has been a total of 78 terrestrial and marine/terrestrial (seals and whales) fauna recorded within 10km of the survey site. Of those, there are 64 bird species, six terrestrial mammals, seven marine mammals, one amphibian and one reptile listed (Appendix 3). In terms of classifications of threatened bird species, there are five ‘critically endangered’, 13 ‘endangered’, 26 ‘vulnerable’ and 17 ‘near threatened’ species recorded in the area. Birds found within the immediate (500 m radius) area of the site include Black-browed Albatross (Thalassarche melanophris), Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus), Hooded Plover and Pacific Gull. Cape Barren Goose has not previously been recorded on the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas at the site.
Numerous records of Hooded Plover were found to be occurring along the beach and dune area of the property, however there was also one record of a Hooded Plover individual in the modified pasture/paddock of the northern section of the property (Figure 4). It can be assumed that this is a GIS/technological error or that there has been a mistake in the data being entered, because this is not a habitat favoured by this species.
3.2.4 Threats to Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater
In terms of conservation, Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater are the most vulnerable to human-induced changes to the landscape and other threats. The main threats to Hooded Plover populations relate to poor breeding success, which is primarily caused by human disturbance and
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predation and/or destruction of nests by feral and domestic animals, such as cats, foxes and dogs (Baird & Dann 2003). Not only are the young affected by predation, but adults are known to abandon their nests while there is a potential threat, which can lead to eggs being exposed to the elements (heat and cold) and the eventual failure to incubate (Hanish 1998; Retallick & Bolitho 1993). There are a number of methods currently being implemented to help increase the breeding success of Hooded Plover, which include fencing, signage and restrictions (i.e. no dogs allowed) and monitoring/wardens attending significant habitats and breeding sites/beaches (Weston et al. 2003). Monitoring of beaches and wardens have helped to increase the survival rate of Hooded Plover fledglings (Weston et al. 2003).
Short-tailed Shearwaters are also threatened by predation from introduced foxes and cats, in particular the young, which are vulnerable in their burrows (Norman 1971; Kirkwood et al. 2005). Excessive trampling and destruction of burrows by people and animals has been found to have a negative effect on Shearwater colonies and weeds and other vegetation can impact on the structural integrity of burrows (Harris & Norman 1981; Skira 1991). Artificial lights are also a major cause of mortality in fledgling Short-tailed Shearwaters, which are known to be attracted to light, particularly on their first flight and/or on moonless and windy nights (Rodriguez et al. 2014). Records of mortalities for this species have grown in Phillip Island over the last couple of decades, most likely due to the increase in people and development in the region (Rodriguez et al. 2014). However, research has shown that a reduction of light, particularly in key areas of breeding can significantly reduce Short-tailed Shearwater mortalities (Rodriguez et al. 2014).
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 24 Study area
0 2.5 5
kilometres Projection: Universal Transverse Mercator Datum: Geocentric Datum of Australia 1994
Species records supplied by The State of Victoria, Department of Environment and Primary Industry (accessed via the 'Atlas of Victorian Wildlife' [June 2015] - © Viridans Biological Databases).
Figure 4 Location of Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Sheerwater records within a 10 kilometre radius of the study area Flora and Fauna Assessment of Proposed Caravan Park,1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria Map prepared by Australian Ecosystems, July 2015 While AE has taken care to ensure the accuracy of this product, AE make no representations or guarantees about its accuracy, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. AE cannot accept any liability of any kind for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs which may be incurred as a result of this product being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way for any reason.
4.0 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON ECOLOGICAL VALUES
The proposal, if approved will have various impacts on ecological values both onsite and potentially offsite.
Without mitigation measures or strategies to ameliorate potential issues, the proposal may have the following impacts on onsite and offsite values:
• Removal of scattered indigenous plants which currently have a vegetative cover of <1% in the study area;
• Importation and movement of soil onsite (and potentially to areas offsite) carrying weed seed and pathogens;
• Creation of an area devoid of vegetation during the construction phase which will provide an opportunity for weeds to establish, which could then colonize the adjoining vegetation;
• After construction, plants that are used for landscaping have the potential to colonize the adjoining vegetation should inappropriate species be selected;
• Removal of habitat (modified pasture) for locally common fauna;
• Disturbance of fauna during the construction and operation of the caravan park;
• Potential for an increase of people accessing and trampling the vegetation within the dunes;
• Potential for disturbance and harm of Short-tailed Shearwaters and their burrows in the event of people accessing the dunes;
• Potential for disturbance and harm of Hooded Plovers and their breeding processes due to increased human activity in the beach area; and,
• Potential for light at the site to impact on Short-tailed Shearwaters.
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5.0 MANAGEMENT OF IMPACTS ON ECOLOGICAL VALUES
5.1 Construction Phase
During the construction phase of the caravan park, an Environmental Management Plan should be prepared which outlines the following:
• Figures which clearly shows environmental no go zones; • Measures to establish and stop entry into no go zones to protect sensitive areas particularly dunes and Forrest Caves reserve; • Areas and measures for the storage of soil and materials; • Efforts to minimise erosion and the movement of sediments during all construction activities; • Minimisation of noise, lighting and vibration during all construction activities; • Vehicle and plant hygiene; and, • Waste minimization and storage.
5.2 Operations Phase
During the operation of the caravan park, a conservation strategy should be developed which informs users of the values, minimises impacts on adjacent habitats and species and enhances ecological values of the study area:
• Secure fencing of the coastal dune system and access to the Forrest Caves Reserve only through designated walk ways to prevent access from the caravan park into the dunes; • Signage which describes the values within the dunes and impacts of walking over and trampling habitat; • Consider providing an induction and/or information sheet for visitors on their arrival that outlines the conservation values upheld by the caravan park and informs them about how they can minimise their impacts, particularly on threatened species such as Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater; • Ensure locally indigenous plants that are appropriate to the study area are utilised in landscaping (Appendix 5), these may also include species not typically found in the location but suitable for amenity of the caravan park such as Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana, Allocasuarina verticillata, Leptospermum laevigatum, Banksia integrifolia, and Melaleuca lanceolate.
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• Control environmental weeds in the caravan/camping park and adjacent areas of the dune system (i.e. Kikuyu and Buffalo Grass); • Ensure that no pets or other animals are allowed on the site. • Ensure waste is kept to a minimum and/or is well-sealed to prevent food scraps from attracting feral predators to the site. • Reduce light pollution from outdoor lights (in particular street lamps) at the site, by installing low wattage, upward spill shielded, colour filtered lights. • Investigate interpretation activities or events within the caravan park to inform users of the values and what they can do to assist conservation efforts; • Consider offering some form of contribution (monetary or other) to local conservation groups, such as the Hooded Plover monitoring groups/wardens, who may need additional resources to assist with their work in monitoring and protecting the birds during breeding/nesting season.
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6.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The property contains 2.46 hectares of an environmentally significant coastal dune system, covered predominantly in the rare Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (EVC 922) vegetation type. This area provides important habitat for threatened bird species, such as Hooded Plover and large colonies of Short-tailed Shearwater, which are of conservation significance. Protection of the dune/coastal area of property should therefore be a priority and measures should be put in place to reduce/prevent any adverse impacts of the caravan park development and its visitors on flora and fauna in the region. As part of the conditions for approval of the development, it has been highlighted that the dune system and coastal side of the property would be fenced off and people would not be allowed access to this area.
The area of the property proposed for the development of the caravan/camping park, which includes 1.47 hectares of an Environmental Significance Overlay, has previously been grazed and is highly modified, consisting of less than 1% native vegetation cover. If appropriate environmental guidelines for development are followed, impacts from the construction phase should not have an adverse impact on flora and fauna at the site. It is proposed that construction activities be conducted in an environmentally sensitive way and that disturbance be kept to a minimum through implementation of an environmental management plan. The proposal indicates that only indigenous vegetation of local provenance would be planted on the site and that the plants would provide additional buffers between the land and vegetation bordering the property. This would benefit the dune conservation area by reducing the incidence of weedy grass invasion and their potential to impact on native vegetation and the structural integrity of Shearwater burrows.
The operational phase of the development has the potential to impact on fauna such as Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater, unless measures to mitigate these effects are implemented. The main impacts to Shearwaters would be from light pollution, particularly from outside lamps that are known to attract fledglings on their maiden flights. It has been recommended that the park install suitable lighting at the site, which has been proven to reduce/prevent the incidence of bird collisions with the development. Other potential impacts on the Shearwater colonies could result from people accessing the dunes and causing destruction to the burrows or harming the birds. Therefore, it is recommended that visitors are made well aware of the restrictions to access of the dune area, not only on the property, but in dunes along that entire stretch of coast line. It is also recommended that the fence be constructed in a way that impedes entry.
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Hooded Plovers could be impacted by the increase in humans/visitors to the beach unless actions are taken to mitigate these potential problems. Firstly, it would be important educate the public/visitors and to make them aware of the potential issues (i.e. impact of trampling on nests and abandonment/failed incubation of eggs). We recommend that additional signs and information detailing the conservation significance of the beach in terms of protecting threatened birds and their habitat should be provided to visitors and placed in strategic places along the coast. We also recommend that the caravan/camping park offer some form of contribution to local Hooded Plover monitoring/conservation groups to help assist them with providing resources on the beach (wardens) during times of the year that the birds are most vulnerable to being disturbed by visitors.
Overall, we were satisfied that the proponent has a view to establishing this caravan/camping park as an environmentally sensitive development with a conservation focus. If the managers of the park are clear in terms of their values and show a duty of care to the local environment, visitor impacts at this site could be negligible. Many tourist establishments have been successful in creating a profitable business that is also focused on conservation and being sensitive to the environment. An establishment of this kind may also be an attraction for the right kind of visitors.
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REFERENCES
Baird, B. & P. Dann (2003). The breeding biology of Hooded Plovers, Thinornis rubicollis, on Phillip Island, Victoria. Emu. 103:323-328.
Brown, M. J., Maruyama, N., & Williams, K. J. (1993). Ecological studies of vegetation in short-tailed shearwater colonies in Tasmania. In Papers and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania (Vol. 127, pp. 11-16).
DEPI 2013a. Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria - 2013 Department of Environment and primary Industries, East Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPI 2013b. Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines: Permitted clearing of native vegetation. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, East Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPI 2014. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria – 2014. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, East Melbourne, Victoria.
Viridans 2014. Flora Information System. Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, East Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPI 2014a. Victorian Flora State Database. The State of Victoria, Department of Environment and Primary Industries (accessed via the 'Flora Information System', [2014, January] - © Viridans Biological Databases). The contribution of the Royal Botanical Gardens to the database is acknowledged.
DELWP 2015a Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, East Melbourne, Victoria.
DELWP 2015b. Biodiversity Interactive Maps – Vegetation Mapping – 3.2. http://mapshare2.dse.vic.gov.au/MapShare2EXT/imf.jsp?site=bim Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, East Melbourne, Victoria.
DELWP 2015c. EVC Benchmarks – Gippsland Plain bioregion. http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/241910/GipP_EVCs_combined.pdf Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, East Melbourne, Victoria.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 31
DotE 2015. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) Protected Matters Search Tool. http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected-matters-search- tool Department of the Environment. Canberra.
Hanisch, D. (1998). Effects of human disturbance on the reproductive performance of the Hooded Plover. Hons. Thesis. University of Tasmania.
Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011), Western Port Welcomes Waterbirds: Improving our understanding of waterbird use of Western Port. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No. 222, Department of Sustainability and Environment.
Harris, M. P., & Norman, F. I. (1981). Distribution and status of coastal colonies of seabirds in Victoria.
Kirkwood, R, Dann, P, & Belvedere, M (2005). A comparison of the diets of feral cats Felis catus and red foxes Vulpes vulpes on Phillip Island, Victoria. Australian Mammalogy, 27(1), 89- 93.
Marchant, S. & PJ Higgins, eds. (1993). Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds. Volume 2 - Raptors to Lapwings. Melbourne, Victoria: Oxford University Press.
Moxham, C., Sinclair, S., Walker, G. & Douglas, I. (2009a) The vegetation of the Nepean Peninsula, Victoria – an historical perspective. Cunninghamia 11, 27–47
Norman, FI (1971). Predation by the fox (Vulpes vulpes L.) on colonies of the short-tailed shearwater (Puffinus tenuirostris (Temminck)) in Victoria, Australia. Journal of Applied Ecology, 21-32.
PPWCMA 2013. Current Media Releases – Short-tailed Shearwaters – the plucky birds with an extraordinary story of migration and survival. Accessed 28/06/2015 http://www.ppwcma.vic.gov.au/news/media-releases/MediaReleases_78_244.aspx
Retallick, R & Bolitho, E (1993). Disturbance of Hooded Plovers by domestic dogs. Stilt. 23:23.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 32
Rodríguez, A., Burgan, G., Dann, P., Jessop, R., Negro, J. J., & Chiaradia, A. (2014). Fatal attraction of short-tailed shearwaters to artificial lights.
Skira, IJ (1991). The short-tailed shearwater: a review of its biology. Corella, 15(2), 45-52.
Skira, IJ, Brothers, NP & Pemberton, D. (1996). Distribution, abundance and conservation status of Short-tailed Shearwaters Puffinus tenuirostris in Tasmania, Australia. Marine Ornithology, 24(1-2), 1-14.
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Walsh, N.G. and Entwisle, T.J. (1999).Flora of Victoria, vol. 4. Inkata Press, Melbourne
Walsh, N.G. and Stajsic, V. (2007). A census of the vascular plants of Victoria, 8th edn. Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, South Yarra.
Weston, M.A. (2000). The effect of human disturbance on the breeding biology of Hooded Plovers. Ph.D. Thesis. Victoria: University of Melbourne.
Weston, M.A. (1993). Twelve years of counting the Hooded Plover in Victoria, Australia. Stilt. 23:15-19.
Weston, M. A. (2003). Managing the Hooded Plover in Victoria: a review of existing information. Melbourne: Parks Victoria.
Weston, M. A., & Elgar, M. A. (2006). Parental care in hooded plovers (Thinornis rubricollis). Emu, 105(4), 283-292.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 33
Appendix 1: Flora species recorded at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015
Recorded FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name Common Grass- Carex breviculmis sedge Cyperaceae $ Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla Aizoaceae Crassula spp. Crassula Crassulaceae Dianella brevicaulis Small-flower Flax-lily Hemerocallidaceae Dichondra repens Kidney-weed Convolvulaceae $ Disphyma crassifolium subsp. Rounded Noon- clavellatum flower Aizoaceae Australian Salt- Distichlis distichophylla grass Poaceae Ficinia nodosa Knobby Club-sedge Cyperaceae Juncus spp. Rush Juncaceae Common Blown- Lachnagrostis filiformis s.s. grass Poaceae $ Lepidosperma gladiatum Coast Sword-sedge Cyperaceae $ Leucophyta brownii Cushion Bush Asteraceae Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife Lythraceae $ Melaleuca lanceolata Moonah Myrtaceae Myriophyllum salsugineum Lake Water-milfoil Haloragaceae $ Olearia axillaris Coast Daisy-Bush Asteraceae $ Olearia glutinosa Sticky Daisy-bush Asteraceae Grassland Wood- Oxalis perennans sorrel Oxalidaceae $ Ozothamnus turbinatus Coast Everlasting Asteraceae Coast Tussock- Poa poiformis var. poiformis grass Poaceae Rhagodia candolleana subsp. $ candolleana Seaberry Saltbush Chenopodiaceae
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 34
Recorded FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name Rytidosperma spp. Wallaby Grass Poaceae $ Senecio spathulatus s.l. Dune Groundsel Asteraceae Spinifex sericeus Hairy Spinifex Poaceae Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach Aizoaceae # Acacia longifolia subsp. sophorae Coast Wattle Mimosaceae # Leptospermum laevigatum Coast Tea-tree Myrtaceae Bracelet Honey- # Melaleuca armillaris myrtle Myrtaceae # Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla Myoporaceae * Agrostis capillaris Bent Grass Poaceae * Ammophila arenaria Marram Grass Poaceae * Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed Asteraceae * Atriplex prostrata Hastate Orache Chenopodiaceae * Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu Poaceae * Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Asteraceae * Cynosurus echinatus Rough Dog's-tail Poaceae * Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot Poaceae * Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt-grass Poaceae * Helminthotheca echioides Ox-tongue Asteraceae * Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog Poaceae * Hordeum leporinum Barley-grass Poaceae * Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed Asteraceae * Isolepis levynsiana Tiny Flat-sedge Cyperaceae * Lagurus ovatus Hare's-tail Grass Poaceae Leontodon taraxacoides subsp. * taraxacoides Hairy Hawkbit Asteraceae * Lolium rigidum Wimmera Rye-grass Poaceae
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 35
Recorded FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name * Lophopyrum ponticum Tall Wheat-grass Poaceae * Lotus creticus Lotus Fabaceae * Lycium ferocissimum African Box-thorn Solanaceae * Oxalis pes-caprae Soursob Oxalidaceae * Paspalum distichum Water Couch Poaceae Toowoomba * Phalaris aquatica Canary-grass Poaceae * Romulea rosea Onion Grass Iridaceae * Rumex conglomeratus Clustered Dock Polygonaceae * Solanum linnaeanum Apple of Sodom Solanaceae * Sonchus asper s.s. Rough Sow-thistle Asteraceae Common Sow- * Sonchus oleraceus thistle Asteraceae * Sporobolus africanus Rat-tail Grass Poaceae * Stenotaphrum secundatum Buffalo Grass Poaceae * Ulex europaeus Gorse Fabaceae Solanum sp. Kangaroo Apple Solanaceae Notes: * = introduced to Australia, $ = only recorded on dune site, outside of development footprint, # = maybe outside natural range
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 36
Appendix 2: Potentially Occurring Rare or Threatened Flora species recorded at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015 Number of Likelihood of FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name records occurrence Amphibolis No habitat, marine k antarctica Sea Nymph Cymodoceaceae 2 species Unlikely, grazing/modification Amphibromus Wavy Swamp has removed v sinuatus Wallaby-grass Poaceae 2 habitat Asplenium No habitat, marine obtusatum subsp. species v northlandicum Shore Spleenwort Aspleniaceae 3 Atriplex paludosa No habitat, r subsp. paludosa Marsh Saltbush Chenopodiaceae 9 saltmarsh species Avicennia marina No habitat, marine r subsp. australasica Grey Mangrove Verbenaceae 1 species r Bromus arenarius Sand Brome Poaceae 1 Possible in dunes No habitat, heathland/ r Caladenia vulgaris Slender Pink-fingers Orchidaceae 4 woodland species No habitat, Cardamine heathland/ k tenuifolia Slender Bitter-cress Brassicaceae 2 woodland species k Clematis decipiens Slender Clematis Ranunculaceae 3 Likely in dunes No habitat, heathland/ k Corunastylis ciliata Fringed Midge-orchid Orchidaceae 2 woodland species No habitat, Eucalyptus globulus woodland/forest r # subsp. globulus Southern Blue-gum Myrtaceae 5 species r Exocarpos syrticola Coast Ballart Santalaceae 3 Possible in dunes No habitat, Pale-flower Crane's- heathland/ r Geranium sp. 3 bill Geraniaceae 2 woodland species
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 37
Number of Likelihood of FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name records occurrence No habitat, marine k Halophila australis Oval Sea-wrack Hydrocharitaceae 1 species Heterozostera Australian Grass- No habitat, marine r nigricaulis wrack Zosteraceae 1 species Heterozostera No habitat, marine r tasmanica Tasman Grass-wrack Zosteraceae 1 species Possible, not r Juncus revolutus Creeping Rush Juncaceae 2 recorded No habitat, heathland/ v Lepidium foliosum Leafy Peppercress Brassicaceae 3 woodland species Leptecophylla No habitat, juniperina subsp. heathland/ v oxycedrus Crimson Berry Ericaceae 7 woodland species r Limonium australe Yellow Sea-lavender Plumbaginaceae 8 Possible in dunes Lotus australis var. Possible in dunes k australis Austral Trefoil Fabaceae 1 Melaleuca armillaris Recorded, outside r # subsp. armillaris Giant Honey-myrtle Myrtaceae 1 of natural range No habitat, heathland/ r Monotoca glauca Currant-wood Ericaceae 7 woodland species r Olearia sp. 2 Peninsula Daisy-bush Asteraceae 4 Possible in dunes r Oxalis rubens Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalidaceae 12 Likely in dunes Poa poiformis var. Possible in dunes r ramifer Dune Poa Poaceae 4 Salsola tragus Possible in dunes r subsp. pontica Coast Saltwort Chenopodiaceae 3 No habitat, Thelymitra X heathland/ f e merraniae Merran's Sun-orchid Orchidaceae 1 woodland species
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 38
Number of Likelihood of FFG EPBC VROTS Origin Scientific Name Common Name Family Name records occurrence No habitat, One-flower Early heathland/ r Wurmbea uniflora Nancy Colchicaceae 3 woodland species No habitat, grassland/ f V v Glycine latrobeana Clover Glycine Orchidaceae 0* woodland species No habitat, Prasophyllum grassland/ f E e frenchii Maroon Leek-orchid Orchidaceae 0* woodland species No habitat, heathland/ f V v Pterostylis cucullata Leafy Greenhood Fabaceae 0* woodland species Notes: f = listed under Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, V = Vulnerable, E = Endangered, r = rare, k = Poorly Known, # = maybe outside natural range, * = Predicted to occur or habitat occurring by PMST (DotE 2015).
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 39
Appendix 3: Fauna species recorded on site during the fauna survey Common Name Scientific Name Abundance Vic Conservation Status Birds Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen 2 Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides 2 Cape Barren Goose Cereopsis novaehollandiae 2 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris >30 Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus 1 Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera 1 Little Raven Corvus mellori 1 Magpie Lark Grallina cyanoleuca 1 Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles 4 Musk Lorikeet Glossopsitta concinna 2 New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae 2 Pacific Gull Larus pacificus 1 Near Threatened Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 2 Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus 2 Silver Gull Chroicocepalus novaehollandiae 4 Striated Fieldwren Calamanthus fuliginosus 2 Superb Fairywren Malurus cyaneus >50 Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans 2 Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena 3 Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus 1 White-browed Scrubwren Sericornis frontalis 1 Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys 1 Mammals European Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus 7 Black Wallaby Wallabia bicolor 6 Amphibians Common Froglet Crinia signifera 5 Southern Brown Tree Frog Litoria ewingii 4
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 40
Appendix 4: Potentially occurring threatened fauna species at 1285 Phillip Island Road, June 2015 Number of Recorded EPBC FFG VAL Common Name Scientific Name Records (VBA) Onsite EN L en Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus 1 No vu Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis 72 No VU L cr Australian Painted Snipe Rostratula australis 1 No V Black Falcon Falco subniger 1 No VU vu Black-browed Albatross Thalassarche melanophris 16 No nt Black-faced Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscescens 16 No vu Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa 14 No VU Blue Petrel Halobaena caerulea 7 No L en Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis 32 No L nt Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia 184 No L Common Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus schreibersii 4 No nt Common Diving-Petrel Pelecanoides urinatrix 10 No vu Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 22 No vu Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 16 No CR en Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea 108 No Numenius CR vu Eastern Curlew 242 No madagascariensis L vu Eastern Great Egret Ardea modesta 123 No VU vu Fairy Prion Pachyptila turtur 14 No VU L en Fairy Tern Sternula nereis nereis 34 No L en Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa 3 No nt Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 4 No EN Gould's Petrel Pterodroma leucoptera 1 No L en Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris 1 No cr Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii 1 No EN L vu Grey-headed Albatross Thalassarche chrysostoma 3 No VU L vu Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus 4 No
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 41
Number of Recorded EPBC FFG VAL Common Name Scientific Name Records (VBA) Onsite L cr Grey-tailed Tattler Tringa brevipes 7 No L en Ground Parrot Pezoporus wallicus wallicus 1 No VU L en Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis 1 No vu Hardhead Aythya australis 19 No L vu Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis 143 VBA Indian Yellow-nosed VU L vu Thalassarche carteri 4 No Albatross L en Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia 4 No nt Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii 11 No cr Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus 5 No L vu Lewin's Rail Lewinia pectoralis pectoralis 1 No nt Little Button-quail Turnix velox 1 No L en Little Egret Egretta garzetta nigripes 7 No L vu Little Tern Sternula albifrons sinensis 3 No VU L nt Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus 8 No L nt Magpie Goose Anseranas semipalmata 20 No v Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 7 No v Musk Duck Biziura lobata 85 No nt Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus hillii 1 No VU L nt Northern Giant-Petrel Macronectes halli 1 No CR L cr Orange-bellied Parrot Neophema chrysogaster 4 No vu Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva 5 No nt Pacific Gull Larus pacificus pacificus 500 Yes nt Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius 196 No L vu Powerful Owl Ninox strenua 3 No en Red Knot Calidris canutus 39 No nt Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia 248 No vu Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres 11 No L ex Rufous-bellied Pademelon Thylogale billardierii 1 No
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 42
Number of Recorded EPBC FFG VAL Common Name Scientific Name Records (VBA) Onsite nt Sanderling Calidris alba 6 No VU L vu Shy Albatross Thalassarche cauta 13 No nt Sooty Oystercatcher Haematopus fuliginosus 60 No EN L vu Southern Giant-Petrel Macronectes giganteus 3 No nt Spotted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma punctatum 1 No EN L en Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor 6 No vu Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus 102 No L vu White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster 37 No vu White-faced Storm-Petrel Pelagodroma marina 4 No nt White-fronted Tern Sterna striata 4 No vu White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus 11 No
Notes: EPBC: Listed under Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999, FFG: Listed under Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, VAL: Listed on Victoria’s Advisory List for Threatened Fauna 2013. CR = Critically Endangered, EN= Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, nt = near threatened, L = Listed.
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 43
Appendix 5: Indigenous Planting Guide
Flora and Fauna Assessment – 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven – Revised Oct. 2016 Page 44
EVC/Bioregion Benchmark for Vegetation Quality Assessment
Gippsland Plain bioregion
EVC 53: Swamp Scrub
Description: Closed scrub to 8 m tall at low elevations on alluvial deposits along streams or on poorly drained sites with higher nutrient availability. The EVC is dominated by Swamp Paperbark Melaleuca ericifolia (or sometimes Woolly Tea-tree Leptospermum lanigerum) which often forms a dense thicket, out-competing other species. Occasional emergent eucalypts may be present. Where light penetrates to ground level, a moss/lichen/liverwort or herbaceous ground cover is often present. Dry variants have a grassy/herbaceous ground layer.
Canopy Cover: %cover Character Species Common Name 50% Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark
Understorey: Life form #Spp %Cover LF code Medium Shrub 2 10% MS Small Shrub 2 1% SS Large Herb 2 5% LH Medium Herb 3 15% MH Small or Prostrate Herb 2 5% SH Large Tufted Graminoid 2 10% LTG Large Non-tufted Graminoid 3 10% LNG Medium to Small Tufted Graminoid 2 5% MTG Medium to Tiny Non-tufted Graminoid 2 15% MNG Ground Fern 1 5% GF Scrambler or Climber 1 1% SC Bryophytes/Lichens na 20% BL
LF Code Species typical of at least part of EVC range Common Name MS Coprosma quadrifida Prickly Currant-bush MS Leptospermum continentale Prickly Tea-tree LH Lycopus australis Australian Gipsywort LH Lythrum salicaria Purple Loosestrife LH Persicaria praetermissa Spotted Knotweed MH Hydrocotyle pterocarpa Wing Pennywort MH Stellaria angustifolia Swamp Starwort MH Lobelia anceps Angled Lobelia SH Crassula helmsii Swamp Crassula LTG Juncus procerus Tall Rush LTG Poa labillardierei Common Tussock-grass LNG Gahnia radula Thatch Saw-sedge LNG Phragmites australis Common Reed LNG Baumea rubiginosa s.l. Soft Twig-rush MTG Triglochin procerum s.l. Water Ribbons MTG Juncus gregiflorus Green Rush MNG Eleocharis acuta Common Spike-sedge GF Blechnum cartilagineum Gristle Fern SC Calystegia sepium Large Bindweed
Ecological Vegetation Class bioregion benchmark
EVC 53: Swamp Scrub - Gippsland Plain bioregion
Recruitment: Continuous
Organic Litter: 40 % cover
Weediness: LF Code Typical Weed Species Common Name Invasive Impact MH Hypochoeris radicata Cat's Ear high low LNG Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog high high
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment November 2007 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2007 This publication is copyright. Reproduction and the making available of this material for personal, in-house or non-commercial purposes is authorised, on condition that: • the copyright owner is acknowledged; • no official connection is claimed; • the material is made available without charge or at cost; and • the material is not subject to inaccurate, misleading or derogatory treatment. Requests for permission to reproduce or communicate this material in any way not permitted by this licence (or by the fair dealing provisions of the Copyright Act 1968) should be directed to the Nominated Officer, Copyright, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002.
For more information contact: Customer Service Centre, 136 186 This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. www.dse.vic.gov.au EVC/Bioregion Benchmark for Vegetation Quality Assessment
Gippsland Plain bioregion EVC 160: Coastal Dune Scrub
Description: Closed scrub to 5 m tall with occasional emergents occurring on secondary dunes along ocean and bay beaches and lake shores. Occupies siliceous and calcareous sands that are subject to high levels of saltspray and continuous disturbance from onshore winds.
Life forms: Life form #Spp %Cover LF code Medium Shrub 6 50% MS Large Herb 1 1% LH Medium Herb 3 10% MH Small or Prostrate Herb 1 1% SH Large Tufted Graminoid 2 5% LTG Medium to Small Tufted Graminoid 6 15% MTG Medium to Tiny Non-tufted Graminoid 1 1% MNG Scrambler or Climber 3 5% SC Bryophytes/Lichens na 10% BL
LF Code Species typical of at least part of EVC range Common Name MS Acacia longifolia s.l. Coast Wattle MS Leptospermum laevigatum Coast Tea-tree MS Rhagodia candolleana ssp. candolleana Seaberry Saltbush MS Leucopogon parviflorus Coast Beard-heath SH Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla LTG Austrostipa mollis Supple Spear-grass LTG Austrostipa flavescens Coast Spear-grass MTG Austrodanthonia geniculata Kneed Wallaby-grass MTG Lepidosperma concavum Sandhill Sword-sedge SC Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach
Recruitment: Episodic/Fire. Desirable period between disturbances is 30 years.
Organic Litter: 40 % cover
Ecological Vegetation Class bioregion benchmark EVC 160: Coastal Dune Scrub - Gippsland Plain bioregion
Weediness: LF Code Typical Weed Species Common Name Invasive Impact MS Chrysanthemoides monilifera Boneseed high high MS Coprosma repens Mirror Bush low high MS Lycium ferocissimum African Box-thorn low high MS Cotoneaster pannosus Velvet Cotoneaster low high LH Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle high low MH Salpichroa origanifolia Pampas Lily-of-the-Valley high high MH Hypochoeris radicata Cat's Ear high high MH Hypochoeris glabra Smooth Cat's-ear high low SH Medicago polymorpha Burr Medic high low SH Crassula multicava ssp. multicava Shade Crassula high low SH Carpobrotus edulis Hottentot Fig high high LNG Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu high high MTG Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Panic Veldt-grass high high MTG Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt-grass high low MTG Bromus diandrus Great Brome high low MTG Romulea rosea Onion Grass high low MTG Sporobolus africanus Rat-tail Grass high high MTG Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue high low MTG Hainardia cylindrica Common Barb-grass high low MTG Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass high low MNG Lagurus ovatus Hare's-tail Grass high low MNG Aira caryophyllea Silvery Hair-grass high low SC Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew high high SC Delairea odorata Cape Ivy high high SC Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper high high
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment April 2004 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2004 This publication is copyright. Reproduction and the making available of this material for personal, in-house or non-commercial purposes is authorised, on condition that: • the copyright owner is acknowledged; • no official connection is claimed; • the material is made available without charge or at cost; and • the material is not subject to inaccurate, misleading or derogatory treatment. Requests for permission to reproduce or communicate this material in any way not permitted by this licence (or by the fair dealing provisions of the Copyright Act 1968) should be directed to the Nominated Officer, Copyright, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002.
For more information contact: Customer Service Centre, 136 186 This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. www.dse.vic.gov.au EVC/Bioregion Benchmark for Vegetation Quality Assessment
Gippsland Plain bioregion EVC 879: Coastal Dune Grassland
Description: Consists of grasses and halophytes (succulents) that colonise the foredunes of ocean beaches. Soils are siliceous sands that have a very low humus content.
Life Forms: Life form #Spp %Cover LF code Medium Shrub 1 5% MS Small Shrub 1 5% SS Prostrate Shrub 1 1% PS Large Herb 2 5% LH Medium Herb 4 5% MH Small or Prostrate Herb 3 10% SH Medium to Small Tufted Graminoid 3 10% MTG Medium to Tiny Non-tufted Graminoid 2 25% MNG Scrambler or Climber 1 1% SC Total understorey projective foliage cover 60%
LF Code Species typical of at least part of EVC range Common Name MS Atriplex cinerea Coast Saltbush SS Suaeda australis Austral Seablite MH Acaena novae-zelandiae Bidgee-widgee MH Actites megalocarpa Dune Thistle MH Senecio pinnatifolius Variable Groundsel SH Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla SH Crassula sieberiana Sieber Crassula SH Disphyma crassifolium ssp. clavellatum Rounded Noon-flower SH Apium annuum Annual Celery MTG Dianella brevicaulis Small-flower Flax-lily MTG Carex pumila Strand Sedge MNG Spinifex sericeus Hairy Spinifex MNG Ficinia nodosa Knobby Club-sedge SC Clematis microphylla Small-leaved Clematis
Recruitment: Continuous
Organic Litter: 10 % cover
Weediness: LF Code Typical Weed Species Common Name Invasive Impact LH Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle high low MH Hypochoeris radicata Cat's Ear high low MH Leontodon taraxacoides ssp. taraxacoides Hairy Hawkbit high low MTG Thinopyrum junceiforme Sea Wheat-grass high high LTG Ammophila arenaria Marram Grass high high
Ecological Vegetation Class bioregion benchmark EVC 879: Coastal Dune Grassland - Gippsland Plain bioregion
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment April 2004 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2004 This publication is copyright. Reproduction and the making available of this material for personal, in-house or non-commercial purposes is authorised, on condition that: • the copyright owner is acknowledged; • no official connection is claimed; • the material is made available without charge or at cost; and • the material is not subject to inaccurate, misleading or derogatory treatment. Requests for permission to reproduce or communicate this material in any way not permitted by this licence (or by the fair dealing provisions of the Copyright Act 1968) should be directed to the Nominated Officer, Copyright, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002.
For more information contact: Customer Service Centre, 136 186 This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. www.dse.vic.gov.au AT-6. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Biodiversity Assessment Report by Applicant
12 October 2016
Ken Rowlingson 11 Phillip Island Road San Remo VIC 3925
Dear Ken Re: Biodiversity Assessment Report – 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven This cover letter and attached photographs, plan and report includes assessment of existing indigenous vegetation located on site and in the road reserve which may have arisen on site naturally, or is comprised of planted indigenous species. It is possible that this vegetation may be removed in the future to allow for construction of proposed road works for the site and works within the site. The subject section of the road reserve features vegetation growing in the existing open drainage culvert and on the banks of the culvert adjacent to the existing road surface and the existing pedestrian and cycling path. The majority of the subject vegetation is comprised of indigenous species. The indigenous species include Melaleuca ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark) and Myoporum insulare (Common Boobialla), which are naturally- occurring within the local area, and Melaleuca armillaris (Giant Honey Myrtle), the natural range of which is in East Gippsland. The understorey of these dominant plants within the road reserve includes mostly broadleaf and grass weed species, with a smaller presence of Poa species (Tussock Grass), which are possibly naturally arising, or may have been planted. The location of the assessed vegetation is shown in the attached Site Plan – 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (including the adjacent road reserve). Within the five years prior to this application to remove vegetation, there has been some removal of Melaleuca ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark) from a small area in the north of the site, adjacent to the north boundary. However, this was regrowth following removal of livestock from the land, and its removal was exempt pursuant to the regrowth exemption provided in clause 52.17 of the Bass Coast Planning Scheme. The subject land includes the private land within the Farming Zone, and road reserve land which is located within the Road Zone (Category 1). The proposed caravan park use and development of the adjacent land at 1285 Phillip Island Road will require construction of a crossover and left turning lane within the road reserve adjacent to that property, and these works will necessitate removal of some vegetation within the area of the proposed works. This report also includes a small patch of Melaleuca ericifolia (Swamp Paperbark) within the property at 1285 Phillip Island Road which is not proposed for removal but may need to be removed for construction of the stormwater treatment ponds which form part of the proposed caravan and camping park development. See below for a site plan of the vegetation, photographs of the subject vegetation, and the Biodiversity Assessment Report. Please feel free to contact me on 0400 426 415 to discuss this matter further. Yours sincerely
Chris Johnstone
2 Photographs of the subject vegetation
Roadside vegetation 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (12/10/2016)
Roadside vegetation 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (12/10/2016)
3
Roadside vegetation 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (12/10/2016)
Roadside vegetation 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (12/10/2016)
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Roadside vegetation 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven (12/10/2016)
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Site Plan – 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, and adjacent road reserve.
6 Biodiversity assessment report
Biodiversity information for applications for permits to remove native vegetation under clause 52.16 or 52.17 of the Victoria Planning Provisions
Date of issue: 12 October 2016 Time of issue: 11:11:31
Property address Address unknown 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND ROAD NEWHAVEN 3925
Summary of marked native vegetation
Risk-based pathway Low Total extent 0.035 ha Remnant patches 1 0.025 ha 2 0.002 ha 3 0.005 ha 4 0.003 ha Location risk A
See Appendix 1 for risk-based pathway details
Offset requirements
If a permit is granted to remove the marked native vegetation, a requirement to obtain a native vegetation offset will be included in the permit conditions. The offset must meet the following requirements:
Offset type General offset Offset amount (general biodiversity 0.021 equivalence units)
Offset attributes Vicinity Port Phillip And Westernport Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Minimum strategic biodiversity 0.774 score
Strategic biodiversity score of marked 0.968 native vegetation
See Appendix 2 for offset requirements details
Biodiversity assessment report Page 1 Biodiversity assessment report
Next steps
This proposal to remove native vegetation must meet the application requirements of the low risk-based pathway and it will be assessed in the low risk-based pathway.
If you wish to remove the marked native vegetation you are required to apply for a permit from your local council.
The Biodiversity assessment report should be submitted with your application for a permit to remove native vegetation you plan to remove, lop or destroy.
The Biodiversity assessment report provides the following information that is required to be provided with your application for a permit to remove native vegetation:
The location of the site where native vegetation is to be removed. The area of the patch of native vegetation and/or the number of any scattered trees to be removed. Maps or plans containing information set out in the Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines. The risk-based pathway of the application for a permit to remove native vegetation. The strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed. The offset requirements should a permit be granted to remove native vegetation.
If you have undertaken any permitted clearing on your property within the last five years contact DELWP to confirm offset requirements.
Additional information is required when submitting an application for a permit to remove native vegetation. Refer to the Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines for a full list of application requirements.
Biodiversity assessment report Page 2 Biodiversity assessment report
Maps of marked native vegetation
Biodiversity assessment report Page 3 Biodiversity assessment report
See Appendix 3 for biodiversity information maps
© The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2015 Obtaining this publication does not guarantee that an application will meet This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in the requirements of clauses 52.16 or 52.17 of the Victoria Planning accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Provisions or that a permit to remove native vegetation will be granted. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. Notwithstanding anything else contained in this publication, you must ensure that you comply with all relevant laws, legislation, awards or orders For more information contact the DELWP Customer Service Centre 136 186 and that you obtain and comply with all permits, approvals and the like that affect, are applicable or are necessary to undertake any action to remove, Disclaimer lop or destroy or otherwise deal with any native vegetation or that apply to matters within the scope of clauses 52.16 or 52.17 of the Victoria Planning This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its Provisions. employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. www.delwp.vic.gov.au
Biodiversity assessment report Page 4 Biodiversity assessment report
Appendix 1 - Risk-based pathway details
Risk-based pathway Low Total extent 0.035 ha Remnant patches 1 0.025 ha 2 0.002 ha 3 0.005 ha 4 0.003 ha Location risk A
Why is the risk-based pathway low?
The following table explains how the risk-based pathway is determined:
Extent Location A Location B Location C < 0.5 hectares Low Low High hectares and < 1 Low Moderate High hectares hectares Moderate High High
The marked native vegetation is located entirely within Location A and has a total extent of less than 0.5 hectares.
At this location, native vegetation removal of this size is not expected to have a significant impact on the habitat of any rare or threatened species. As a result, an application for the removal of this native vegetation must meet the requirements of, and will be assessed in, the low risk-based pathway.
For further information on location risk please see Native vegetation location risk map factsheet. For information on the determination of the risk-based pathway see Permitted clearing of native vegetation ±Biodiversity assessment guidelines.
Have you received a planning permit to remove native vegetation in the last five years?
If you have undertaken any permitted clearing on your property within the last five years, the extent of this past clearing must be included in the total extent of your current permit application. The risk-based pathway for your application requirements and assessment pathway is determined using the combined extent of permitted clearing within the last five years and proposed clearing.
If the risk-based pathway determined from this combined extent is low, contact DELWP to confirm offset requirements.
Biodiversity assessment report Page 5 Biodiversity assessment report
Appendix 2 - Offset requirements details
If a permit is granted to remove the marked native vegetation the permit condition will include the requirement to obtain a native vegetation offset. This offset must meet the following requirements:
Offset type General offset Offset amount (general biodiversity 0.021 equivalence units)
Offset attributes Vicinity Port Phillip And Westernport Catchment Management Authority (CMA) Minimum strategic biodiversity 0.774 score
Strategic biodiversity score of marked 0.968 native vegetation
Native vegetation to be removed
Total extent (hectares) for 0.035 This is the total area of the marked native vegetation in hectares. calculating habitat hectares The total extent of native vegetation is an input to calculating the habitat hectares of a site and in calculating the general biodiversity equivalence score. Where the marked native vegetation includes scattered trees, each tree is converted to hectares using a standard area calculation of 0.071 hectares per tree.
Condition score* 0.397 This is the weighted average condition score of the marked native vegetation. This condition score has been calculated using the Native vegetation condition map.
The condition score of native vegetation is a site-based measure of how close the native vegetation is to its mature natural state, as represented by a benchmark reflecting pre-settlement circumstances. The Native vegetation condition map is a modelled layer based on survey data combined with a benchmark model and a range of other environmental data.
Habitat hectares 0.014 Habitat hectares is a site-based measure that combines extent and condition of native vegetation. The habitat hectares of native vegetation is equal to the current condition of the vegetation (condition score) multiplied by the extent of native vegetation.
Habitat hectares = total extent x condition
Strategic biodiversity score 0.968 This is the weighted average strategic biodiversity score of the marked native vegetation. This strategic biodiversity score has been calculated using the Strategic biodiversity map.
The strategic biodiversity score of native vegetation is a measure of the native vegetation¶s importance for Victoria¶s biodiversity, relative to other locations across the landscape. The Strategic biodiversity map is a modelled layer that prioritises locations on the basis of rarity and level of depletion of the types of vegetation, species habitats, and condition and connectivity of native vegetation.
Biodiversity assessment report Page 6 Biodiversity assessment report
General biodiversity 0.014 The general biodiversity equivalence score quantifies the relative overall equivalence score contribution that the native vegetation to be removed (the marked native vegetation) makes to Victoria¶s biodiversity. It is calculated as follows:
General biodiversity equivalence score = habitat hectares × strategic biodiversity score
* Offset requirements for partial clearing: If your proposal is to remove parts of the native vegetation in a remnant patch (for example only understorey plants) the condition score must be adjusted. This will require manual editing of the condition score, and an update to the following calculations that the biodiversity assessment tool has provided: habitat hectares, general biodiversity equivalence score and offset amount.
Offset requirements
Offset type General offset A general offset is required when a proposal to remove native vegetation is not deemed, by application of the specific-general offset test, to have a significant impact on habitat for any rare or threatened species. All proposals in the low risk-based pathway will require a general offset.
Risk factor for general 1.5 There is a risk that the gain from undertaking the offset will not offsets adequately compensate for the loss from the removal of native vegetation. If this were to occur, despite obtaining an offset, the overall impact from removing native vegetation would result in a loss in the contribution that native vegetation makes to Victoria¶s biodiversity.
To address the risk of offsets failing, an offset risk factor is applied to the calculated loss to biodiversity value from removing native vegetation.
Offset amount (general 0.021 This is calculated by multiplying the general biodiversity equivalence biodiversity equivalence score of the native vegetation to be removed by the risk factor for units) general offsets. This number is expressed in general biodiversity equivalence units and is the amount of offset that is required to be provided should the application be approved. This offset requirement will be a condition to the permit for the removal of native vegetation.
Risk adjusted general biodiversity equivalence score = general biodiversity equivalence score clearing × 1.5
Minimum strategic 0.774 The strategic biodiversity score of the offset site must be at least 80 per biodiversity score cent of the strategic biodiversity score of the native vegetation to be removed. This is to ensure offsets are located in areas with a strategic value that is comparable to, or better than, the native vegetation to be removed.
Vicinity Port Phillip And The offset site must be located within the same Catchment Westernport CMA Management Authority boundary as the native vegetation to be removed.
Biodiversity assessment report Page 7 Biodiversity assessment report
Appendix 3 - Biodiversity information maps
Biodiversity assessment report Page 8 Biodiversity assessment report
Biodiversity assessment report Page 9 Biodiversity assessment report
Biodiversity assessment report Page 10 AT-7. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Land Management Plan by Applicant
Land Management Plan
K.C. & J.J. Rowlingson
Property Location: 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria
Prepared by John Gallienne & Co Pty Ltd PO Box 408 Warragul Vic 3820 Phone 03 5623 2940
October 2016 2
3
CONTENTS ...... PAGE
1. Introduction 4
2. Current Land Productivity and Infrastructure 5 2.1 Comments on Stocking and Grazing 5 2.3 Feedbase on the property 6
3. Soils 7 3.1 Assessment of Land Quality 7 3.2 Definition of Agricultural Quality Classes 8
4. Climate 9 4.1 Temperature 9 4.2 Rainfall 9 4.3 Frosts 10 4.4 Sunlight Hours 10 4.5 Climatic Conditions Summary 11
5. Trees and Shrub Revegetation 12
6. Summary 13
Attachments 1. ‘Woolami’ Soil Map 2. Soil test results 3. Plan of features and Levels Survey 4. Title Plan 5. Plan of proposed Caravan Park 6. The Economic Benefits of Native Shelter
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Land Management Plan for:
J.C. & J.J. Rowlingson
Property Location: 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven, Victoria 3925
Land Description: Lot 1 on plan of Subdivision 089850 Parent Title Volume 01075 Folio 969 Created by instrument LP 089850 11/12.1970
1. Introduction This Land Management Plan has been prepared following two inspections of the property, including a meeting with Mr Chris Johnstone at the property.
Property data has been collected and an evaluation of the current infrastructure and land productivity has been made.
It is noted that the subdivision to create this property title was approved on 27 October 1970.
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2. Current Land Productivity and Infrastructure Total property area is approximately 8.1 hectares. There is a dwelling on the property however this is separately fenced and was not considered part of the Land Management Plan.
Approximately 2.5 ha across the south end of the property rises into the adjacent coastal sand dunes, this rising sandy area has an irregular edge. The remainder of the property is generally flat. The levels survey shows a small slope towards the north- east corner. (See attachment for grid surveyed levels). At the time of inspecting and sampling this area was showing heavy surface cracking Soil type on this area varies from sandy/clay-loam to clay.
The flatter areas have had a network of drains strategically installed in the past to take any excess surface water of the land.
The boundary fencing construction varies from 4 - 8 strand barbed wires. The fencing is not stock proof because of: - Rusted/broken wires, - Native animals crossing over/under fences ie wallabies, wombats particularly along the southern (coastal) boundary. - People entering/exiting the property over the fence from the adjacent carpark near the south-west corner of the property. This has caused the fence to be pushed down and now becoming too low to hold stock.
There is a small shallow dam near the south-east corner at the toe of the sandy bank, the dam was dry at the time of inspection and appeared to have never been a reliable water source. There is a drain that leaves this dam site carrying excess water to the north. There is no evidence of drainage water moving towards the southern boundary at any point across the property to seep into the base of the dunes. There are no cattle or sheep yards on the land.
2.1 Comments on stocking and grazing There was no stock on this property at the time of inspection. Four beef cattle were in the adjacent landowner’s paddock. Stocking rate on a property is used to evaluate grazing pressure, to calculate feed requirements, and to estimate liveweight gain or meat production in the case of beef cattle or sheep.. The standard in Australia is to express stocking rate as Dry Sheep Equivalent (DSE) per hectare. It is based on the quantity of feed - Dry Matter (DM) required by a 45kg liveweight wether sheep per day to maintain body weight. This is calculated at one kgDM/head/day for a 45 kg wether. (See attachment) 6
Note: The hectare area is the ‘grazing area’ on the farm, ie pasture/crop etc on the farm.
2.2 Feedbase on the property The following species are present in the pasture: Grass Species: Buffalo and Kikuyu, (Both primarily summer growing species), Phalaris (Sparse), Fog grass. Legume Species: There were no legumes in the feedbase. Weed Species: Dandelion, Ribweed, Sea Barley grass (Salt indicator weed) The ground cover showed a maximum of 10-15% bareground. There were no areas of soil or pasture erosion observed.
Annual pasture production is estimated at 1.3 – 1.8 tonne Dry Matter/hectare (tDM/ha) per year, this is an exceptionally low level of productivity. However it concurs with the visual appearance of the feedbase and the very low soil test results. The property could not carry any stock on a year round basis.
The soil test results show that the available levels of phosphorous in the soil (Olsen P Test method) are both in the extremely low range, ie within the range found in roadside or bushland samples, or surrounding old cemetery sites. Soil potassium and sulphur levels are in the low – moderate, soil levels for the trace elements copper and zinc are also extremely low. The sodium% of cations for the soil test from the northern sample is high (above 6%) The only test that is suitable for agricultural production is the soil pH result (acidity- alkalinity). From experience these pH levels are a result of seepage from the sand dune base moving out in a northerly direction over many years.
Note: The soil test data is the result of analysis of two standard 30 cores (0-10cm depth samples) collected using the standard zig-zag pattern procedure. No cores collected within 5 metres of fence lines, and in this case no samples collected within 2 metres of drains, or 10 metres of the small dam.
Sample No1: The area in the northerly direction indicated to be used for the Caravan Park Layout
Sample No2: The area in the southerly direction outside the area proposed to be used for the proposed Caravan Park.
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3. Soils The main characteristics that determine the agricultural potential of soils are: • Chemical characteristics such as pH (acidity/alkalinity) and availability of nutrients which determine soil fertility. • Physical characteristics including attributes such as structure, ease of root penetration, water-holding capacity, and permeability.
The major soil type within the property is known as “alluvial plain” soil. It was formed from sediments under the sea prior to the uplift. Remnants of the old coastal sand dunes are evident along the southern boundary Variations of colour occur as a result of organic staining.
Using the Department of Primary Industries - Soils and Land of West Gippsland map database (Sargent and Imhoff) titled ‘Woolami’ this area is referred to as: Landform: - Riverine – Narrow Alluvial Plain Geology: - Recent Sediments Dominant Soils: - Hydrosols
3.1 Assessment of Land Quality Within the region assessment of land quality is based on inherent land and climatic characteristics which are considered in terms of their effect on versatility and inherent productivity for agricultural use.
The assessment is time stable unless there are major social, economic or technological changes. Highly rated areas will maintain an advantage over lower rated areas. Any good or naturally fertile soils with low to moderate slopes and a reliable and suitable climate will remain more capable of agriculture than areas less supported by these attributes.
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3.2 Definition of Agricultural Quality Classes An assessment of the agricultural land within the study area has been carried out according to land classes shown in Table 1. This data has been taken from the Department of Agriculture Assessment of Agricultural Quality in Gippsland Report 1984, by I. R. Swan and A.G. Volum.
Table 1 Definition of Agricultural Quality Classes Class General Characteristics 1 Class 1 land is the most versatile with the highest inherent productivity. It is capable of the majority of agricultural uses or is very highly productive pasture under flood irrigation. The growing season is 12 months or 11 months with readily utilised underground water. 2 Class 2 land is highly versatile but has a lower level of inherent productivity than Class 1. It is capable of the majority of agricultural uses but requires greater inputs than Class 1 land to achieve high production. The growing season is at least 11 months or 10 months with readily utilised underground water. 3 Class 3 land generally is of limited versatility but is very good dairying and grazing land. It is sometimes suitable for orchards and extensive area cropping but not suitable for intensive uses such as vegetable growing. Sub-class 3a is suitable for more intensive uses providing particular care is taken to prevent soil erosion, or supplementary irrigation overcomes moisture limitations in the summer. The growing season is at least 10 months or 9 months with readily utilised underground water. 4 Class 4 land is capable of extensive grazing but is generally unsuitable for cropping. Sub-class 4a land is suitable for intensive market gardening but supplementary irrigation, high levels of fertiliser and erosion prevention measures are necessary. The growing season is at least 9 months or 8 months with readily utilised underground water. 5 Class 5 land is marginal agricultural land either because of steep slopes and thin skeletal soils, very steep slopes or growing season less that 9 months. 6 Class 6 land is non- agricultural land because it is unavailable for agriculture.
• This land area is Class 5 on this property. With the soil types/location and poor management history making it marginal land grazing or growing horticultural crops.
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4. Climate The climatic data provided is from the Bureau of Meteorology weather station at Cowes. This is the nearest compatible recording site.
4.1 Temperature Summer temperatures range from a mean maximum daily temperature of 22- 24ºC.
Winter temperatures range from a mean maximum daily temperature of 7-8ºC.
Soil temperatures may reach low enough levels to retard pasture growth, ie less than 7ºC some days from mid June to late July and low enough to limit nitrification from early June to early August, ie less than 9ºC on some days. Nitrification is the important process whereby legumes (clovers, lucerne etc) convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form which plants can use – it therefore has high importance to the grazing industries and less impact on horticulture.
Wind also has an influence on plant production; in particular hot north and north-westerly winds in summer have a damaging effect on plants through drying out and/or removing soil moisture.
4.2 Rainfall Average rainfall is 764mm per year (89 year average), see Table 2 for details. November-April are usually the driest months. In most years rainfall is lowest and evaporation highest during these months and therefore limits plant growth. Rain falls on an average of 153 days during the year.
Effective rainfall occurs during the months May-September having a direct influence on grazing pasture and horticulture crop growth at that time.
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Table 2 Temperature and Rainfall Data Mean Daily Temperature Mean Rainfall Rain Days Max Min mm January 24.1 13.3 44.2 7.9 February 24.4 14.1 42.8 7.3 March 22.7 13.0 56.0 9.5 April 19.3 11.2 68.0 12.6 May 16.4 9.5 75.9 15.3 June 13.7 7.8 79.1 15.9 July 13.2 7.0 74.9 16.8 August 14.3 7.4 74.2 17.1 September 16.4 8.4 70.3 15.3 October 18.4 9.4 69.0 14.1 November 20.1 10.6 58.3 11.6 December 22.6 12.3 51.6 9.4 The above data is based on the weather station at Cowes (Bureau of Meteorology records)
4.3 Frosts Occurrence of frosts depends very much on local conditions such as topography and vegetation. Thus any data on frosts should be interpreted carefully. Sloping sites are generally less subject to frosts than valleys or depressions, and the differences between two nearby sites can be substantial.
A heavy frost is considered to be 0.0ºC or less, when the temperature is between 0.0º and 2.2º conditions are equivalent to a light frost.
4.4 Sunlight Hours Sunlight is important to agriculture because it provides the necessary energy for plant growth. Sunlight assists photosynthesis, which is the process that chlorophyll in plants produces sugar and starch from carbon dioxide and water in the air.
The more sunlight hours per day provided adequate water, warmth and nutrients are available, the more plants will grow.
Table 3 Sunlight hours per day at Ellinbank (The closest location where measured). Month J F M A M J J A S O N D
Sunlight 8.4 7.9 6.4 5.5 4.1 3.3 3.8 4.7 5.5 6.4 7.0 7.6
Hours/Day
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4.5 Climatic Conditions Summary The following points are a summary of the key climatic conditions in the district. • Rainfall restriction for plant growth is likely from early December to late March.
• There are no temperature restrictions for plant growth during any month.
• Length of growing season in the study area is 9.5 months without irrigation.
• The occurrence of heavy frosts during the year is low, light frosts can occur May to October.
Predictions from CSIRO indicate that future climate changes in the region where this property is located are: • The warming by 2030 is around 0.5 to 1.4 C relative to 1990 with a tendency for maxima to rise more than minima, least warming in winter, greatest rise in maxima in spring and greatest rise in minima in summer.
• The high projections would make present temperatures occur about two weeks later between February and June, and about two weeks earlier from August to December. In winter and summer, the changes extend to almost one month for minimum temperatures.
• The mid-range rainfall projections indicate decreases of 2% in summer and autumn, 3 to 4% in winter and 7% in spring. The low and high rainfall projections add about + 8% uncertainty.
• The projections described above have been designed by CSIRO for raising awareness rather than for application in risk assessment. Uncertainties are relatively small for temperature and moderate for rainfall.
This data is from CSIRO Climate Change in Australian Dairy Regions, by K. J. Hennessy. October 2007.The development of the data has been funded by Dairy Australia and the Australian Government Department of Climate Change (February 2008). Climate change is real and underway, however from the predictions provided above it is unlikely to have a significant negative impact on pasture production in this region or on this property. 12
5. Trees and Shrub Revegetation After the construction phase of the proposed business is completed it is proposed to plant trees and shrubs in various locations. The attachment ‘Economic Benefits of Native Shelterbelts Report 01/14 is provided. This report contains information on the most recent data available.
The Bass Coast Landcare is another source of credible information. 13
8. Summary 8.1. The proposed development and business activity will not cause any negative impact on the use or productivity of this land or adjacent farm land in the short or long term.
8.2. The project will support a sustainable use of this land, and remove the interpretation of many travellers of a degraded landscape as they travel along Phillip Island Road.
8.3. The property has never been a viable productive section of agricultural land. This opinion is based on the visual appearance of the soils, plant species growing on the site, and the very low results shown in the soil test data.
8.4. The land area is too small (approx 8.1 hectare) to operate a viable cattle or sheep grazing enterprise.
8.5. Basic facilities: stock yards, loading race and crush, stock water supply, electrified wires on boundary fencing are not present.
8.6. There is no potential for growing horticultural crops.
8.7. There is no potential for utilising irrigation water.
8.8. To improve the productivity of the pastures, while also attending to the matters at Point 5 above an estimated cost just for pasture development of $1,190.00/ha. (Contractors, Gypsum, Fertiliser, Seed, Weed control) should be assumed. Having spent that sum of money/hectare over 2 years it would take 2.5-2.8 years for the establishment phase to be complete. Unfortunately despite this huge cost the farm business would never become viable.
Yours faithfully
John Gallienne.
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John Gallienne & Co Pty Ltd Soil Analysis Report
Client Name: K C & J J Rowlingson, 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven Vic Sample Identification: No1 North Date: April 2015
ANALYTICAL TEST TEST RESULT
Phosphorus mg/kg 2.8 Extremely Low (Olsen) Potassium mg/kg 263.0 Moderate (Colwell) Sulphur mg/kg 12.8 Moderate (KCL40)
6.9 Neutral pH (1 : 5 water )
6.0 pH (Calcium Chloride)
0.19 Slightly Saline Salt dS/m (Elec cond)
4.85 Moderate Organic Carbon % Copper mg/kg 0.86 Low (EDTA) Zinc mg/kg 0.77 Low (EDTA) Manganese mg/kg 5.6 Moderate (EDTA) Iron mg/kg 143.1 Low - Desirable (Reactive) Boron mg/kg 3.4 High - Satisfactory (HWS) CATIONS (Exchangeable) 15.76 Calcium meq/100g
4.45 Magnesium meq/100g
1.90 Sodium meq/100g
0.67 Potassium meq/100g
<0.01 Aluminium meq/100g
3.5 High - Desirable Calcium/magnesium ratio
8.3 Saline - Undesirable Sodium % of Cations
<0.1% Very Low - Desirable Aluminium % of Cations
The test(s) reported have been performed in accordance with the terms of registration with the Australian Soil and Plant Advisory Council, Australia. John Gallienne & Co Pty Ltd Soil Analysis Report
Client Name: K C & J J Rowlingson, 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven Vic Sample Identification: No 2 South Date: April 2015
ANALYTICAL TEST TEST RESULT
Phosphorus mg/kg 3.7 Extremely Low (Olsen) Potassium mg/kg 124.0 Low (Colwell) Sulphur mg/kg 7.1 Low (KCL40)
7.8 Slightly Alkaline pH (1 : 5 water )
7.1 pH (Calcium Chloride)
0.13 Slightly Saline Salt dS/m (Elec cond)
2.11 Low Organic Carbon % Copper mg/kg 0.51 Low (EDTA) Zinc mg/kg 0.62 Low (EDTA) Manganese mg/kg 3.5 Moderate (EDTA) Iron mg/kg 54.6 Low - Desirable (Reactive) Boron mg/kg 1.3 High - Satisfactory (HWS) CATIONS (Exchangeable) 11.81 Calcium meq/100g
1.40 Magnesium meq/100g
0.56 Sodium meq/100g
0.29 Potassium meq/100g
<0.01 Aluminium meq/100g
8.4 High - Desirable Calcium/magnesium ratio
4.0 Moderately Saline - Satisfactory Sodium % of Cations
<0.1% Very Low - Desirable Aluminium % of Cations
The test(s) reported have been performed in accordance with the terms of registration with the Australian Soil and Plant Advisory Council, Australia.
Copyright State of Victoria. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act and for the purposes of Section 32 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 or pursuant to a written agreement. The information is only valid at the time and in the form obtained from the LANDATA REGD TM System. The State of Victoria accepts no responsibility for any subsequent release, publication or reproduction of the information.
REGISTER SEARCH STATEMENT (Title Search) Transfer of Page 1 of 1 Land Act 1958 VOLUME 08860 FOLIO 001 Security no : 124062792526H Produced 12/10/2016 04:14 pm LAND DESCRIPTION
Lot 1 on Plan of Subdivision 089850. PARENT TITLE Volume 01075 Folio 969 Created by instrument LP089850 11/12/1970
REGISTERED PROPRIETOR
Estate Fee Simple Joint Proprietors KENNETH CHARLES ROWLINGSON JANICE JOY ROWLINGSON both of PHILLIP ISLAND TOURIST ROAD "SURF BEACH ESTATE" COWES 3922 X806007H 11/10/2001
ENCUMBRANCES, CAVEATS AND NOTICES
MORTGAGE AL736259K 06/03/2015 MECU LTD
Any encumbrances created by Section 98 Transfer of Land Act 1958 or Section 24 Subdivision Act 1988 and any other encumbrances shown or entered on the plan or imaged folio set out under DIAGRAM LOCATION below.
DIAGRAM LOCATION
SEE LP089850 FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND BOUNDARIES
ACTIVITY IN THE LAST 125 DAYS
NIL
------END OF REGISTER SEARCH STATEMENT------
Additional information: (not part of the Register Search Statement)
Street Address: 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND ROAD NEWHAVEN VIC 3925
ADMINISTRATIVE NOTICES
NIL eCT Control BANK AUSTRALIA Effective from 27/06/2015
DOCUMENT END
Title 8860/001 Page 1 of 1 Imaged Document Cover Sheet
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Vision The scenic South coast of Phillip Island is a tourist destination of State significance. The Site at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven has been significantly modified as a result of farming, and currently presents as a relatively featureless grassy paddock abutting coastal dunes. The dune system will be rehabilitated and managed as a Conservation Area (in co-operation with and under guidance of PINP). The balance of the Site is proposed to be developed as a camp ground and caravan park, providing an alternative accommodation option on the south coast of the Island for travellers and holiday-makers. The landscape treatment aims to create a native bush / coastal setting, responding to the site conditions. It features a meandering site layout, extensive revegetation, earth mounding and an on-site stormwater treatment system. A palette of locally indigenous and suitable Australian native plants is nominated which will thrive in these conditions, creating an attractive and contextual landscape setting.
Landscape Principles
Theme & vision • Respond to site conditions: topography, vegetation & microclimate 01 • Preserve the environmental integrity of the dunal system • Create South-coast landscape that fits comfortably in context • Create camp/cabin/ caravan sites nestled within the landscape • Develop a safe, attractive pedestrian environment • Locate communal facilities in visually prominent, central areas Philli p Island road
Plant selection & placement • Indigenous plant palette to coastal interface • Locally Indigenous & Australian plants native elsewhere 02 • Wetland species in accordance with Melbourne Water & Westernport Water Guidelines
Road layout • Indicative alignment of entry road to be refined by traffic engineers • Meandering, predominantly one-way internal roads, minimum road widths 03 • Views along all internal roads to terminate in planted areas
Conservation area
Functional Layout • 208 sites indicated on this plan 04 • Southern third of site can be closed during the off season • Larger sites located closer to Phillip Island Rd • Smaller sites located closer to conservation area
Adjoining Land interface • SOUTH: Boundary to Conservation areas to have visually permeable fence, restricting pedestrian access to the dunes and a planted boundary 05 • NORTH: Phillip Island Road interface to be densely planted & earth bunding • EAST: Interface with private land, densely planted boundary & earth bunding • WEST: Philip Island Nature Parks land, public access to Forest caves beach, densely planted boundary & earth bunding
Key Plan - Not to scale
The Surf Park Landscape Masterplan 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 03 DRWN AC CHKDHW APPROV HW DATE 25.08.2016 Philip island road Proposed location & road treatment of entry road to be confirmed by traffic engineer
+2.0
+1.5 +2.0
+1.0 Carparking indicative layout
Playground & Amenities picnic area block
+1.0 Office & managers residence Depot
+1.0
+2.0
+1.0
rec room Group sites Park & communal amenities Camp kitchen
+1.0
Public access Amenities to Forrest block caves Carpark
+1.0
+1.0 CANOPY TREES e.g Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea'+2 .0 Yellow Gum SCREES TREES e.g Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree +2.0 Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla C onse SHRUBS e.g rv ation Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Ar Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria ea +2.0 Correa alba White Correa GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach Legend CANOPY TREES e.g CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Dune Earth Mounding Boundary Fencing Banksia marginata Silver Banksia Grassland EVC 879 For noise attenuation, visual screening, Visually permeable fencing Eucalyptus leucoxylon 'Rosea' Yellow Gum Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle sightlines & topographical interest preventing pedestrian access SCREES TREES e.g Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush to dunes Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla Primary entry road Allocasuarina verticillata Drooping She-oak Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass Camp sites Two-way sealed road for vehicular traffic. Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush Total of 208 sites including: - Nominally 8m width Myoporum insulare Common Boobialla STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS -15 sites at 9 x 18m SHRUBS e.g Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Water Guidelines Secondary internal avenues -50 sites at 10 x 12m Acacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle for Constructed Wetlands One-way sealed road for vehicular traffic -92 sites at 9 x 10m Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses to minimise road surface area. -46 sites at 7.5 x 7.5m Bursaria spinosa Sweet Bursaria Carex appressa Tall Sedge - Nominally 4m width -1 larger groups site Correa alba White Correa Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Pedestrian Paths Storm water GRASSES & GROUNDCOVERS e.g Juncus sp Juncus Gravel paths throughout sites and to Treatment ponds Austrostipa stipoides Coast Spear Grass connect to Forrest Caves and to Phillip Refer to Hydrology study by Lomandra longifolia subsp.longifolia Spiny Headed Matt-rush Island Road SUP -Nominally 2m width others Poa poiformis Coast Tussock Grass Tetragonia implexicoma Bower Spinach CONSERVATION AREA INTERFACE Plant species consistent with Coastal Dune Scrub EVC 160 and Coastal Dune Grassland EVC 879 SCALE 1:500 (A1) The Surf Park Landscape MasterplanAcacia longifolia ssp sophorae Coast Wattle 1285 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven Atriplex cineraria Coast Saltbush Carpobrotus rossii Karkalla 0 10 20 PROJECT_DRG NO 0316-0033 D001 REV 03 DRWN AC CHKDHW APPROV HW DATE 25.08.2016 Poa poiformis var poiformis Coast Tussock-grass Rhagodia candolleana ssp candolleana Seaberry Saltbush STORM WATER TREATMENT PONDS Plant species consistent with Swamp Scrub EVC 53 and Melbourne Water Guidelines for Constructed Wetlands Acacia verticillata ssp. verticillata Prickly Moses Carex appressa Tall Sedge Leptospermum lanigerum Woolly Tea-tree Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Juncus sp Juncus
The Economic Benefits of Native Shelter Belts Report 01/14
SUMMARY HOW SHELTERBELTS WORK
Permeable shelterbelts of trees and shrubs work by filtering and breaking the force of the wind, allowing slight air movement through the shelterbelt. However recent research has shown dense windbreaks (<30% porosity) provide increased protection downwind of a well-designed Typical shelterbelt utilising existing fence lines. Source: DPI Victoria (2009). windbreak or shelterbelt.
The protection of existing native vegetation and the planting The differences in air pressure on the windward and leeward of shelterbelts may provide a multitude of productivity and sides of the shelterbelt provides the protection,5 forming a biodiversity benefits for farming industries. The value of ‘cushion’ of slow moving air on either side of the shelterbelts in raising agricultural productivity has been shelterbelt.6 demonstrated in many countries suggesting potential improvements in crop yields (25%), pasture yields (20-30%), and dairy milk production (10-20%).1
The following information is based on references and previous research, providing examples of existing ‘facts and figures’ when considering the economic benefits of implementing shelterbelts. Productivity increases relate to all agricultural industry sectors, including the dairy, wool, Impact of wind speed reductions and distance from windbreak. meat, cropping, and horticultural industries. Source: Rowan Reid (University of Melbourne) (2013).
Farmers can use this information to more effectively utilise The shelterbelt/windbreak height determines the size of sheltered area, with taller trees protecting a greater the landscape to potentially increase productivity, while area. The tallest tree species should form the backbone if conserving and enhancing critical resources such as soil shelter is the primary objective. health, water quality, and protection from environmental stressors (wind, heat & cold impacts). Wind deflected around the ends of windbreaks increases turbulence and reduces shelter effect, therefore windbreaks/shelterbelts should be long and continuous, to minimise end-effects.7
A grid of shelterbelts offers best protection from all winds.
Multiple configurations of shelterbelts at Curdievale (SW Victoria), providing stock and pasture protection from various wind directions. Source: Quickbird USA (2008).
Shelterbelts with strategic placement and well-defined objectives have numerous potential benefits to farm productivity such as:
Protect crops and pastures from drying winds Protect livestock from cold or hot winds Provision of shade to protect stock from the effects of heat stress in 2 Protection zone principles. summer as ‘extreme’ heat years increase Source: Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2012). Provide habitat for wildlife and natural biological control agents Help prevent salinity and soil erosion Boundary shelter/windbreaks can reduce bio-security hazards to stock from neighbouring land3 (eg. prevent nose-to-nose contact, weed movement control) Provide posts, firewood, timber, fodder, honey, bushfoods, nuts, cork and various other products Protect and enhance living and working areas Acts as a firebreak Increase medium to long-term land values4 Multi-layered windbreak to reduce wind tunnelling effects. Source: Agriculture WA (2012). 1 ADAPTING TO A CHANGING CLIMATE
Even though continually disputed, the evidence is clear of an increasing warming climate trend 8 and increases in extreme weather events. The analysis9 shows that the extent and frequency of exceptionally hot years have been increasing rapidly over recent decades, and that trend is expected to continue.
This research suggests further that on average, exceptionally Thermal neutral zone – The effect of temperature on animal production. high temperatures are likely to occur every one to two years, (Source: Ames 1980) or for the last 100 years, the hottest five years are what we can expect every one to two years (2010-2030). Effective Livestock – Dairy farm shelter can assist in protecting farm animals, paddocks, plants and soils from such increasing extreme events. Sheltered areas have up to 17% estimated increase in dairy milk production.14 PRODUCTIVITY BENEFITS On a 27 degree (Celsius) day, unsheltered cows have 26% less milk production than shaded stock.15
Milk yields are depressed by cold at a rate of up to 1.34kg per day (4% fat-corrected milk).16
Over (approx.40-60 years) the lifetime of fencing and General shelterbelt; total dairy production will increase by 30% (20% improved pasture growth, 10% improved milk Please note: the following research findings relate to specific production), and $150/ha of sheltered pasture.17 sites and therefore cannot be expected across all farm sites with varied climate and soil fertility zones. The findings Heat stress can markedly reduce stock fertility, milk relate to trials in a particular location at a particular time. production and increase mortality of calves.18
Shelter reduces animal stress (heat/cold) and animal The use of trees can reduce heat load (summer) in cows maintenance energy needs, providing more energy for 19 production.10 by 50% and heat loss in winter, and is more cost- effective than using electricity-driven sprinklers and fans Increased shelter for stock, pasture and crops increasing while absorbing carbon dioxide. productivity.11
If 10% of the farm is dedicated to shelterbelts; the potential reductions in wind speed can amount to between 33-50%.12
Greater livestock gains result from increased pasture supply and reduced environmental stress; such gains have potential to offset the loss of land occupied by trees.13
Moderation of spray-drift.
Less reliance on introduced pollinators.
Heat stress in dairy cows20 (normal body heat range 38.2-39° C). Reduced pesticide usage via natural biological control. (Note: THI – Temperature humidity index)
Increased land values and landscape amenity. -THI > 72 = dry matter intake decline, reproductive performance decline -THI > 75 = significant decline dry matter intake Increased ecologically sustainable property values, legacy -THI > 78 = significant decline in milk yield for future generations, and diversifying future family
income.
Effective shelter placement can be used to dry out
laneways, provide fire-breaks, stabilise roadways, utilise less arable areas.
2 Livestock - Sheep Livestock - Cattle
Fewer stock losses specifically lambs and shorn sheep; In cattle – efficiency of production (live-weight gain or shelter reduces livestock losses of new-born lambs with milk output per unit of feed) is improved by shelter; trials in SE Australia suggesting effective shelter reduces shading and protection from high-humidity alleviates 21 these losses by 50%. stress, and improves milk production and weight gain.33
Sheltered sheep show a 31% increase in wool production Protected areas of farms have a 20% to 30% higher yield and a 21% increase in live-weight (5 year trial).22 than unprotected areas, with annual benefits of $38-$66 per hectare.34 In shorn sheep, shelter that reduces wind speed by 50% can reduce energy losses by 20%, 23increase live-weight Cold stress reduces live-weight gain in cattle by 31% over by 30%. several weeks.35
Cold stress reduces live-weight gain by 6kg in sheep and Heat stress reduces stock fertility, weight gain, and depresses wool growth by 25%, while heat stress reduces increased mortality of calves and sheep, and may cause 36 wool growth by reducing feed intake.24 abortion and under-sized calves.
Sheltered lambs exhibit a 50% reduction in losses (SW Shorthorn cows show reductions in cud-chewing in Victoria) and 28% increase in survival rates.25 unsheltered areas and increased rumination, reducing 37 productivity.
Winter lamb mortality (birth to 48 hrs) reduced by 10% in sheltered areas.26
Effective temperature and additional feed required to meet the cow’s energy requirements38
Pasture production
Shelter improves plant growth and increased pasture and crop production, by reducing moisture loss from soils and Impact of wind-chill and wetness on sheep27 transpiration in crops and pastures; shelter reduced the loss of water from soil in late spring by 10-12mm.39 Sheltered off-shear wethers require only 1/3 the supplementary feed as unsheltered stock.28 On one farm protected areas had a 20% increase in 40 average annual growth pasture growth. Heat-load reduction on ewes at joining and lambing results in 10-16% more lambs present at marking.29 Major gains in decreased animal stress and greater pasture production in winter can support an extra 1-3 41 Heat stress is detrimental to ram fertility, ovulation rate sheep/ha. and conception in ewes, and foetal development.30 Shelter can increase agricultural production such as increased wool production, increased pasture growth The use of hedgerows using native shrubs/grasses is an 42 emerging trend for specifically providing shelter in (10-60%) therefore increase stocking rates.
lambing paddocks31 There is growing evidence that soils around trees contain
elevated amounts of organic material and a higher nutrient status, thereby promoting pasture growth.43
Impact to off-shears sheep of climatic extremes (Source: Rowan Reid 2013).
Permeable shelterbelts planted with a variety of local native species provide habitat 32 Shelter effects on plant growth and factors that influence losses in the competitive for native wildlife without creating turbulence. zone and gains in the shelter zone44
3 Cropping Biosecurity benefits – all industries
Increase in pest insect predators by increasing habitat. Decrease in chemical spray drift by reducing wind speeds. Providing a natural barrier to fungal spores carried by
wind and in dust. Shelterbelts increase crop yields, even allowing for cropping land lost from paddock and near-shelter Reducing soil particle movement by reducing wind competition.45 speeds during cultivation, harvesting etc. Facilitate healthier stock/crops and greater resilience to Shelterbelts can potentially be affective for a distance pests and diseases. 12-15 times the height of the tallest tree, with protection of some crops observed at up to 25 times the height.46 Restrict unwanted stock movements, prevent stray movement. Increases in crop yields in Australian studies include: 22% Disease control advantage (preventing nose-to-nose 47 for oats, 47% for wheat in areas of above 600mm contact, which can spread diseases like strangles or annual rainfall. pestivirus).
Weed control advantage (trees and bushes can stop the Sand-blasting at seedling stage of cereal crops leads to reduced plant growth, due to moisture stress and spread of serrated tussock). physical damage.48 Managerial advantages (in keeping various groups of animals separate and creating usable laneways for moving stock and vehicles)54.
Landscape values
Long-term development of 30% of total farm contributes to a more environmentally sustainable land use, reducing salinity and erosion, with the remaining land better managed and fertilised as productivity increases.
The microclimate behind shelterbelts.49 Land protection benefits; control of groundwater
recharge and salinity; deeply-rooted trees provide An increased net cereal yield of 15% per annum was necessary recharge control. attributed to shelterbelts;50 in Rutherglen, Victoria, an increase in wheat and crop yields in sheltered zones Shelterbelts reduce topsoil loss via reducing wind scour estimated between 22% and 47%.51 and rapid drying of soils; removal of clay and silt particles by wind contain much precious nutrients; reducing Although trees may impact the crop for a distance equal paddock wind speed by half, will reduce wind erosion to to twice their height, they shelter a much larger area, one-eighth (1/8).55 extending downwind for at least 15 times their own 52 height. Shelterbelts placed above and as buffers along
watercourses, reduce stream sedimentation and eutrophication, improve water quality, and reduce soil and nutrient run-off from paddocks. Interception of nutrients before entering water storages improves water quality for stock.
Stabilise soil surface; reduce waterlogging, also useful in non-arable areas such as those impacted by gully erosion.
Improved landscape amenity and aesthetics.
Potential fire protection; as localised wind speeds can be reduced.56
Crop productivity and distance from shelterbelts.53
4 Land values
Farms with some shelterbelts and remnant vegetation increase capital value by 15%.57
NSW Valuer General valued the best vegetated farm at
$140ha more than the district average value; in more Utilise wide and mixed species shelterbelts to increase biodiversity. Source: Mallee Futures (2012). fertile areas there was a 35% premium over average values.58 Birds and Bats are insectivorous and require mixed Add aesthetic value to the landscape by screening species plantings and the development of hollows; the 59 diet of insectivorous bats such as the Southern Freetail undesirable sights and increasing property value 65 Bat comprises 80% Rutherglen Bug.
Limitations of shelterbelts 100 Straw-necked Ibis consume up to 25,000 insects per
day (locust & grasshoppers); natural insect control on an The need to understand the limitations of shelterbelts if adjoining 100,000ha of crop land was worth an designing for positive impacts. estimated $675,000 per year (Barmah Forest area).66
Cost of establishment, maintenance, land lost to Lizards (Skinks & Geckos) feed heavily on insects and also production, and may harbour pest species. depend on ground rock, fallen timber, and dead trees for Fire risks are an issue if incorrectly sited – some refuge.
consideration should be given to the use of some exotic Provide potential wildlife corridors for animal and and deciduous species to reduce flammability and 60 genetic transfer across the landscape. provide increased light in winter .
Tree and shrub species diversity reflects wildlife Potential "rain shadow" effect in the lee of shelter belts. diversity; size of shelterbelts and remnants, proximity to water, proximity to corridor linkages, age structure of Increased competition to adjoining pastures in areas of 67 low rainfall and soil fertility – this is reduced by using less vegetation, diversity of flora and therefore fauna.
competitive species. Increased sediment filtration and therefore increases in Reductions in growth and pasture quality during winter water quality in local waterways.
when shaded by east-west shelter belts Lowering of water tables to reduce salt loads in local streams. BIODIVERSITY BENEFITS Return of bird and other wildlife species. The CSIRO names key ecosystem services provided by well- 61 designed shelterbelts: biological control, climate SHELTERBELT DESIGN regulation, erosion control and sediment retention, soil formation, water regulation, nutrient cycling, pollination, The value of whole-farm planning raw materials, food production, catchment management and biodiversity conservation. A well-considered whole-farm plan ensures objectives including landscape integrity, biodiversity, agriculture and Reduction of pesticide use; biological control of insect pests of pasture where a diverse array of trees and forestry activities are provided for. shrubs is maintained; biological control is performed by birds, parasitic wasps and other animals; flowering plants Farm planning allows evaluation of the efficiency and impact species such as Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa) and of current land-use, and agricultural operations. Silver Banksia (Banksia marginata) provide habitat for pasture-grub parasitising wasps (Scolid and Thynid). 62
Mixed-species in older shelterbelts with fallen logs provide habitat for robberflies, lacewings, ladybirds, hoverflies, mantids and bee-flies which all parasitise pasture grubs and wingless grasshoppers.63
Sugar gliders utilise Acacia gums (Black wattle – Whole-farm planning is critical to locating shelterbelts for multiple benefits. Source: DEPI Victoria (2013). A.mearnsii) and Eucalypt sap in spring/summer, and feed on insects including moths and pasture scarabs, and consume up to 18,000 scarab beetles per hectare per season, and 3.25kg of insects per year.64
5 The location of a shelterbelt is influenced by considering all How wide? site features such as: property infrastructure, prevailing and Shelterbelts incorporating trees and shrubs in 3-6 rows seasonally problem winds, soil types, problem areas of (12-24m wide) are effective for most situations. erosion and salinity, remnant vegetation, use of non-arable areas, and other on-site specific features. It is therefore Wider and strategically-placed shelterbelts promote important to specifically design the shelterbelt to suit the increased biodiversity habitat and reduced ‘edge-effects, required purposes/benefits. increasing the ‘core’ area, and reducing species predation.72
Design general information Many references suggest shelterbelts of 2-4 rows (or direct seed equivalent) with 2m between the outer rows
Plant shelterbelts and windbreaks perpendicular to the and fence. direction wind protection is required; these are not always the prevailing winds. Single-row belts should only be used on land of highest value, and where space is limiting, and must include Cornered and right-angled windbreaks provide species with uniform ‘ground-to-top’ foliage cover. protection from a range of wind directions. 1-2 row shelterbelts are cost-effective options but Site shelterbelts and windbreaks where there is require a uniform and high survival rate. maximum benefit to stock, crops, pasture and wildlife. Smaller trees and shrubs are placed on the outside of Assess the site prior as part of planning to understand central tall trees to prevent shading out. site limitations (topography, drainage, erosion, shallow soil) and useful native plant associations to use. An average shelterbelt (3 rows/12m wide) can promote 12 species of woodland bird; if widened to 25m (7 rows) 73 Investigate what other benefits can be gained by linking the number rises to 17. remnants, protecting riparian zones, preventing salinity. If shelterbelts are wide enough they can incorporate Crops are most affected by hot-drying winds from the limited stock grazing and provide protection in severe north. weather situations.
Livestock are at risk from cold winds and rain from the To minimise cost, utilise existing fence-lines for south-south west, and summer heat and wind from the shelterbelt establishment. north. Spacing and Density During summer, shelterbelts protect crops and pasture from severe evapotranspiration and wind and soil Density of shelterbelt depends on purpose; if providing erosion; such situations benefit from a grid of additional habitat for native fauna use multiple rows shelterbelts using north-south and east-west including dense shrubs, which also reduces wind orientations.68 funnelling under the shelterbelt.
This configuration provides shade for stock at different A denser windbreak offers higher protection over short distances, while a less-dense windbreak provides less times of day and protection from winds from all 74 directions and prevents permanent shading of pasture protection but over a greater distance. and crops as they receive sun at different times of the day. As density is reduced, turbulence is also reduced and downwind protection increases; a medium density of 75 Generally speaking the extent of protected area equals 40-60% is recommended. the length of the belt x height of shelterbelt x 10, while the minimum length should be 10 times the height Density is modified by the structure of the shelterbelt (tallest layer); therefore if 25m height, the shelterbelt and influenced by: height, density, number of rows, should be 250m long. Networks of belts or finishing belts width, species used, foliage texture, spacing, length and in low areas is preferred as with having shelterbelts continuity of shelterbelt. wrap-around at the ends69 To reduce the potential of wind-tunnelling under Effective locations are high in the landscape (ridge-line) Eucalypt canopies, multiple rows should be used and the produces the greatest area of protection.70 role of non-local species and exotic species could be considered. Planting on contour lines should be avoided as localised
frosts can result.71
6 Row design Establishment and Maintenance
Row-planting provides easier access for maintenance but not necessarily most effective shelterbelt.
Close-plantings produce a faster result, utilising the fastest growing, local-provenance species in the centre row.
Using local fast-growing trees as the central species supports slower growing species.76 Establishment of seedling or direct-seeded shelterbelts is detailed in many other accessible references on the internet For row-plantings in general, larger trees are planted 3- but include: weed control (6-12 months prior to planting), 4m apart, with larger shrubs 2.5-4m apart; lower shrubs fencing, deep-ripping and planting/direct- seeding; steps are placed 1.5-2.5m apart. that should be well planned prior to commencement. The
quality of site preparation directly relates to shelterbelt The number of plants to use per hectare varies by site and localised climatic and soil variables, with a guide as success and therefore the potential biodiversity and 1000 plants/ha (1km long x 10m wide @ 3m plant productivity benefits. spacing). Management after planting includes: control of browsing animals (rabbits, hares, wallabies, kangaroos, livestock, Direct seeding options snails), and grass and broad-leaved weeds. Selective sprays used in late spring after planting may continue for the first Direct seeding utilises locally-collected seed of suitable tree, shrub, grass, and ground cover species in various 5 years of establishment. Gaps from death of plants must be proportions (to mimic mixed native vegetation). replenished with replacement seedlings.
If established within and prior to average and above average rainfall, direct seeding produces a more diverse, ‘natural’ and self-maintaining shelterbelt over time.
Initial weed and pest animal control is critical in the first
2-5 years for successful establishment.
CONCLUSION Seed requirements for direct seeding based on 0.5kg / ha. Well-designed, established and maintained shelterbelts, Seed ratios should be based on 1/3 trees and 2/3 shrubs. support ecologically sustainable agriculture, which benefit from increased productivity, sustainability, biodiversity, and DPI and local consultants can provide detailed property and landscape values. information on direct seeding projects and species suitable. Sustainable whole-farm planning incorporating shelterbelts and biodiversity values can also potentially increase the Species selection ‘environmental credentials’ of a farm, supporting best- Provenance - source seed for planting and direct seeding practice and increased market share. if possible from the closest remnants (within 20km) of the same soil type, and drainage position in the Shelterbelts are not a short term panacea but a mid to long- landscape (species most adapted to site climatic and term proposition that requires a flexible approach and site- physical characteristics). specific solutions. More than this they contribute to equity for future generations, position farmers for a ‘low-carbon’ Local provenance species have a higher establishment future, and adaptation to a changing climate. and survival rate as reported in numerous studies.77
Species selection is based on the objectives of the shelterbelt and influenced by height, growth rate, and density characteristics. Fodder, honey and timber species can be incorporated to provide periodic or long-term resources.
7 USEFUL RESOURCES, LINKS Livestock - Sheep
EverGraze Phone Seminar – Turning reproductive performance into reality. EverGraze Exchange – Improving the survival of lambs EverGraze Action – Perennial grass hedges for lamb survival EverGraze Case Study – Currie’s: Sheltering their lamb income EverGraze Supporting Site – Curries, Casterton Broster JC, Rathbone DP, Robertson SM, King BJ, Friend MA (2012a) Ewe movement and ewe-lamb contact levels in shelter are greater at higher stocking rates. Animal Production Science 52, 502-506. Broster JC, Robertson SM, Dehaan RL, King BJ, Friend MA (2012b) Evaluating seasonal risk and the potential for windspeed reductions to reduce chill index at six locations using GrassGro. Animal Production Science 52, 921-928. Robertson S, King BJ, Broster JC, Friend MA (2011) Survival of twin lambs is increased with shrub belts. Animal Production Science 51, 925-938. Robertson SM, King BJ, Broster JC, Friend MA (2012) The survival of lambs in shelter See DEPI (Victoria) Landcare Notes: declines at high stocking intensities. Animal Production Science 52, 497-501. Broster JC, Dehaan RL, Swain DL, Friend MA (2010). Ewe and lamb contact at lambing is influenced by both shelter type and birth number. Animal, 4(5), 796-803 http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/environment-and-wildlife/community- http://www.evergraze.com.au/library-content/hamilton-key-message-shelter- programs/landcare/victorian-landcare-gateway improves-lamb-survival/
LC0137: Shelterbelts for Livestock Protection LC0138: Shelterbelt Management Shelterbelt benefits - general LC0139: Shelterbelts and Wildlife LC0104: Tree planting and aftercare http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/vegetation/nvinfosheet1.pdf LC0133: The benefits of using indigenous plants http://ianluntresearch.wordpress.com/2012/11/21/can-livestock-grazing-benefit- biodiversity/ http://live.greeningaustralia.org.au/nativevegetation/pages/pdf/Authors%20Y/2_Yunuas Cost/benefit calculation a_et_al.pdf http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/agdex2073 http://www.westvicdairy.com.au/Portals/0/content/publications/industry- http://www.evergraze.com.au/library-content/shelter-investment- reports/natural-resource-management/Chapter5-Shelter&Productivity.pdf tool/http://www.evergraze.com.au/ http://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/12505/1/53030185.pdf http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/shelter-on-farms/page-5 http://www.landcare.org.nz/files/file/746/Biodiversity%20for%20Farmers.pdf http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/current/special-statements.shtml Livestock – Dairy http://www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/farmer-vet-wins-biosecurity-award/. http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/721285/csiro-bom-report- future-droughts.pdf http://www.thedairysite.com/articles/837/cold-stress-in-cows http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/soil-water/erosion http://www.dairyingfortomorrow.com/index.php?id=96 http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/shelter-on-farms/page-1 http://www.dairyingfortomorrow.com/uploads/documents/file/Case%20studies/trees http://www.livestocklibrary.com.au/handle/1234/22004 %20benefit%20sale%20dairy%20farm.pdf http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/beef-and-sheep/beef/handling-and- http://www.dairyingfortomorrow.com/index.php?id=52 management/cattle-shelter-guidelines http://www.nzffa.org.nz/farm-forestry-model/resource-centre/tree-grower- http://www.clw.csiro.au/publications/farming_ahead/2000/Helen%20Cleugh_Nov200 articles/tree-grower-november-2008/natives-and-those-problematical-pivots/ 0.pdf http://www.coolcows.com.au/Infrastructure/Paddocks%20and%20laneways/trees-for- http://www.urbanwateralliance.org.au/publications/UWSRA-tr16.pdf shade.htm http://milkmaidmarian.com/2011/12/28/our-green-investment-already-begins-to- grow/ CONTACT http://bioprotection.org.nz/news/story/shelterbelt-research-gets-funding-dairynz
Please contact Lisette Mill, Landcare Network Facilitator. Shelterbelt design [email protected] Ph. 0408 712 713. http://www.gwlap.org.au/docs/Windbreaks&Shelterbelts_single%20page%20style.pdf http://www.southernwoods.co.nz/documents/Info2-DairyFarmPlanting2.pdf This report is copyright of the http://www.farmforestline.com.au/pages/2.2.1_shade.html Basalt to Bay Landcare Network, http://live.greeningaustralia.org.au/nativevegetation/pages/pdf/Authors%20C/9_Cleu gh.pdf P.O. Box 5465, http://www.nzjf.org/free_issues/NZJF27_2_1982/D0B5A0A6-04FE-44BD-9A86- Warrnambool, VIC 3280 D6DE1F802941.pdf http://www.dairysa.com.au/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=ZoHXJj8RA24%3D&tabid=76&mi Australia. d=421 http://www.heytesburylandcare.org.au/attachments/DAPFS5_Shelterbelts.pdf Author: Peter Austin (Landtech Consulting) 2013/14 http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/forestry/innovation-research/technical-reports/private- [email protected] forestry-research-database http://www.strathewenlandcare.org.au/page/landholder_grants_and_projects.html#S helterbelts http://www.landcaretas.org.au/wp- content/uploads/2012/09/NSW_PWS_Factsheet7NativeShelterbelts.pdf http://www.palservices.com.au/pages/belts_shelterbelts.html http://www.tagsforpots.com.au/index_files/Revegetation%20Planner%20guide.pdf http://www.nativegrasses.com.au/field_days/Rowan_Reid.pdf http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/diagram/15600/shelter-belts-effect-on-wind http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/business- management/property-management-systems/core-components-for-farm-planning- services http://live.greeningaustralia.org.au/nativevegetation/pages/pdf/Authors%20B/8b_Bir d_SWVT.pdf
Allocasuarina are useful species to provide porosity and filter weed seed. Source: Reafforestation.com.au (2012).
8
REFERENCES
1 Tisdell CA (1985) Conserving and Planting Trees on Farms; Lessons from Australian Cases. Volume 53; Review of Marketing and Agricultural Economics. 2 Bureau of Meteorology (2012). Special Climate Statements. Accessed from: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/current/special-statements.shtml 3 Plant & Animal Health Australia (2013). Accessed from: http://www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/farmer-vet-wins-biosecurity-award/. 4 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 5 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 6 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 7 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 8 8 Bureau of Meteorology (2012). Special Climate Statements. Accessed from: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/current/special-statements.shtml 9 http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/721285/csiro-bom-report-future-droughts.pdf 10 Reid, R and Bird, PR (1990) Shade and Shelter, Trees for Rural Australia Chapter 24, Inkata Press, Sydney 11 DSE Vic (2012) Summary of Biodiversity Benefits Fact Sheet 2. Accessed from: www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/138490/VBRRA-P26-web.pdf 12 Bird, P.R., Kearney, G.A. and Jowett, D.W. (1996). Trees and Shrubs for south west Victoria. Accessed from: http://live.greeningaustralia.org.au/nativevegetation/pages/pdf/Authors%20B/8b_Bird_SWVT.pdf 13 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 14 Blare, D., (1994), ‘Benefits of Remnant Vegetation: focus on rural lands and rural communities’, Prepared for Protecting Remnant Bushland. Orange Agricultural College, Orange 15 Fitzpatrick, D., (1994), Money Trees on Your Property. Inkata Press, Sydney; p.174. 16 Anderson, G., (1986) The Effect of Trees on Crop and Animal Production. Trees and Natural Resources, Vol 28. No 4. 17 Fitzpatrick, D., (1994), Money Trees on Your Property. Inkata Press, Sydney; p.174. 18 Cremer, K.W. (1990), Trees for Rural Australia. Inkata Press, Sydney. 19 Dairy Australia, 2012 ‘Cool Cows- Dealing with Heat Stress in Australian Dairy Herds’,Trees for Shade, accessed 12 September 2013 from http://www.coolcows.com.au/Infrastructure/Paddocks%20and%20laneways/trees-for-shade.htm 20 Armstrong, DV (1994). Heat stress interaction with shading and cooling. Journal of Dairy Science. Accessed from: www.csiro.au/~/media/CSIROau/.../CAF_WorkingPaper10_pdf 21 Donnelly, JR (1984) The productivity of breeding ewes grazing on lucerne or grass and clover pastures on the Tablelands of Southern Australia. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 35(5) 709 – 721, Published: 1984. 22 Lynch, J.J., and Donnelly, J.B., (1980). Changes in Pasture and Animal Production Resulting from the Use of Windbreaks. Australian Journal of Agriculture, 31:967-979. 23 Black J & Bottomley G (1980). Australian Journal of Experimental Animal Husbandry. Accessed from: http://www.publish.csiro.au/nid/72.htm 24 Anderson, G., (1986) The Effect of Trees on Crop and Animal Production. Trees and Natural Resources, Vol 28. No 4. 25 Bird, R., (1981), Benefits of Tree Planting in South West Victoria. 26 Squires, V.R., (1983), ‘The value of trees as shelter for livestock, crops and pastures: a review’. 27 Reid, R. and Bird, P.B.(1990), 'Shelter' in Trees for Rural Australia, ed. K.W. Cremer, Inkata Press Melbourne, pp 319-335. 28 Kingham L., (1996). ‘Winning battles but losing the war?’ in Proceedings of Remnant Vegetation in the Central West. Orange. 29 Wakefield. S., (1989), Designing windbreaks on farms. Forestry Commission of NSW, NSW Agriculture and Fisheries, Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney. 30 Anderson, G., (1986) The Effect of Trees on Crop and Animal Production. Trees and Natural Resources, Vol 28. No 4. 31 Evergraze (2013). Shelter improves lamb survival. Accessed from: http://www.evergraze.com.au/library-content/hamilton-key-message-shelter-improves-lamb-survival/ 32 Landcare Tasmania (2012). Native shelterbelts; Factsheet 7. Accessed from: http://www.landcaretas.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/NSW_PWS_Factsheet7NativeShelterbelts.pdf 33 Reid R & Bird PR (1990) Shade and Shelter. Ch. 9 in ‘Trees for Rural Australia’. Inkata Press, Sydney. 34 Fitzpatrick, D., (1994), Money Trees on Your Property. Inkata Press, Sydney; p.174. 35 Anderson, G., (1986) The Effect of Trees on Crop and Animal Production. Trees and Natural Resources, Vol 28. No 4. 36 Cremer, K.W. (1990), Trees for Rural Australia. Inkata Press, Sydney. 37 Cremer, K.W. (1990), Trees for Rural Australia. Inkata Press, Sydney. 38 The Dairy Site (2007). Cold Stress in Cows. Accessed from: http://www.thedairysite.com/articles/837/cold-stress-in-cows#sthash.E58g7ewF.dpuf 39 Lynch, J.J., and Donnelly, J.B., (1980) Changes in Pasture and Animal Production Resulting from the Use of Windbreaks. Australian Journal of Agriculture, 31:967-979. 40 Radcliffe, J.E., (1983), Grassland Responses to Shelter. NZ Journal of Experimental Agriculture. 41 Bird PR, Jackson TT and Williams KW (2002). The effect of synthetic windbreaks on pasture growth in south-western Victoria, Australia. A Paper for the Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture, A CSIRO Publication. 42 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 43 Wetlandcare Australia (2008). Effect of Grazing on Biodiversity. Ecologically Sustainable Grazing. Accessed from: http://www.wetlandcare.com.au/index.php/ 44 Westvic Dairy (2013). Shelter and productivity, health & welfare of livestock (Chapter 5) Accessed from: http://www.westvicdairy.com.au/Portals/0/content/publications/industry-reports/natural-resource- management/Chapter5-Shelter&Productivity.pdf 45 Bird PR, Bicknell D, Bulman PA, Burke SJA, Leys JF, Parker JN, van der Sommen FJ, Voller P (1992) The role of shelter in Australia for protecting soils, plants and livestock. Agroforestry Systems18: 59-86. 46 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 47 Sturrock JW (1981) ‘Shelter boosts crop yield by 35% - also prevents lodging’. Shelter and productivity, health & welfare of livestock (Chapter 5) Accessed from: http://www.westvicdairy.com.au/Portals/0/content/publications/industry-reports/natural-resource-management/Chapter5-Shelter&Productivity.pdf 48 Anderson, G., (1986), The Effect of Trees on Crop and Animal Production. Trees and Natural Resources, Vol 28. No 4. 49 Marshall, J.K. (1967), 'The effect of shelter on the productivity of grasslands and field crops', Field Crop Abstracts, Vol. 20, pp 1-14. 50 Adamson, E., (1988), The Relationship Between Trees and Rural Productivity. Ministry for Planning and Environment, Victoria : Australian Environmental Council, 1988. 51 Bird PR, Bicknell D, Bulman PA, Burke SJA, Leys JF, Parker JN, van der Sommen FJ, Voller P (1992). The role of shelter in Australia for protecting soils, plants and livestock. Agroforestry Systems18: 59-86. 52 Dengate, J., (1983), Windbreaks and shade trees help landowners and wildlife, Habitat 11(1): 14-15. 53 Burke, S. (1998), Windbreaks, Inkata Press, Port Melbourne. 54 Animal Health Australia (AHA) and Plant Health Australia (PHA) Farmbiosecurity.com.au, 2012, ‘Farmer vet wins biosecurity award’, accessed 12th September 2013 from: http://www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/farmer-vet-wins-biosecurity-award/ 55 Bird PR, Bicknell D, Bulman PA, Burke SJA, Leys JF, Parker JN, van der Sommen FJ, Voller P (1992). The role of shelter in Australia for protecting soils, plants and livestock. Agroforestry Systems18: 59-86. 56 DSE Victoria (2012) Summary of Biodiversity Benefits Fact Sheet 2. Accessed from: www.dse.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/138490/VBRRA-P26-web.pdf 57 Clowes, A (1997), Farm Ecology in Property Management Planning, Farming for the Future. 58 Kingham L., (1996). ‘Winning battles but losing the war?’ in Proceedings of Remnant Vegetation in the Central West, Orange. Remnant Vegetation Conference, Orange, NSW. 59 Andrue, MG (2007). The Benefits of Windbreaks for Florida Growers. Accessed from: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fr253 60 Reid, R. (2013). Comments provided on Shelterbelts Factsheet (Basalt to Bay Landcare Network). University of Melbourne, Vic. 61 CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, and Sidney Myer Centenary Celebration, (2000). CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, and Sidney Myer Centenary Celebration, (2000), The Nature and Value of Australia’s Ecosystem Services. Accessed from: http://www.ecosystemservicesproject.org/html/publications/docs/Qld_Env_Conf_Paper.pdf 62 Bennett, A.F (1987) Conservation of mammals within a fragmented forest environment; pp 41-52 in Nature Conservation. Surrey-Beatty, Sydney. 63 CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, and Sidney Myer Centenary Celebration, (2000). CSIRO Wildlife and Ecology, and Sidney Myer Centenary Celebration, (2000), The Nature and Value of Australia’s Ecosystem Services. Accessed from: http://www.ecosystemservicesproject.org/html/publications/docs/Qld_Env_Conf_Paper.pdf 64 Breckwoldt. R., (1983). Wildlife in the Back Paddock. Angus and Robertson, Sydney. 65 Lumsden. L., (2001). ‘The Ecological Role of Insectivorous Bats in Rural Landscapes’ in NRE Chief Scientists’ Biodiversity Science Symposium 15 May 2001. Department of Natural resources and Environment, East Melbourne. 66 Glanznig, A., (1999). Native Vegetation and Farm Productivity: the biodiversity connection. Australian Landcare pp52-53. 67 Bennett, A. and Platt, S. (1996). Wildlife on the farm. Pp 23-36 in From the Ground Up – Property Management Planning Manual. (Ed. P. Dixon). Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Department of Agriculture: Melbourne. 68 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 69 Reid, R. (2013). Comments provided on Shelterbelts Factsheet (Basalt to Bay Landcare Network). University of Melbourne, Vic. 70 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 71 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 72 DPI Victoria (2012) Shelterbelt Design http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/soil-water/erosion 73 Greening Australia (2000) Bringing Back the Birds. Accessed from: http://live.greeningaustralia.org.au/vegfutures/pages/page139.asp 74 Goolwa/Wellington LAP SA (2010) Windbreaks and Shelterbelts. Accessed from: http://www.gwlap.org.au/publications.php 75 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 76 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria. 77 Bird, R (2000).Farm forestry in Southern Australia, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Dept. of Sustainability & Environment, Hamilton, Victoria.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This report was created in response to landholder confusion about the benefits of planting native shelter belts on their properties in South West Victoria. To address a gap in the provision of a compilation of recent research about the topic – The Basalt to Bay Landcare Network asked Peter Austin to compile that evidence. This draft was then circulated within the agriculture industry, researchers, universities, and government providers in Victoria and interstate – to provide feedback and additional input so that the final report would reflect an across the board agreement that there are economic benefits to landholders from the planting of native shelter belts. This activity is at the core of what our not-for-profit group does – facilitating across tenure the increase of native vegetation to support businesses, communities, and biodiversity. From this report we plan to increase funding in our Network Region for supporting landholders to action these benefits on a local and regional scale. We undertake to update the report biannually.
The Basalt to Bay Landcare Network would like to thank the following people and organisations for their endorsement and/or contributions to this document. We sincerely appreciate the collaboration this report now represents.
Meat and Livestock Australia – Cameron Allen Otway Agroforestry Network – David Curry, Rowan Reid Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources South Australia – Rob Pallamountain Victorian Farm Tree and Landcare Association – Susi Johnstone, Richard Jameson. Bega – Melissa Balas, Marni Teal Heytesbury District Landcare Network – Geoff Rollinson The Gardiner Foundation – Karensa Delany Dairy Australia – Cathy Phelps Fonterra- Leeson White Murray Goulburn – Sam Dalziel Warrnambool Cheese and Butter- Jessica Westwick Westvic Dairy- Louise Sheba Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority Advisory Committee – Rod Bird Department of Environment and Primary Industries – Nerissa Lovric Australian Wool Innovation- Gus Manatsa Victorian Farmers Federation – Peter Walsgott, VFF Land Management Committee Upper Barwon Landcare Network Inc - Peter Greig
ORGANISATION DETAILS
The Basalt to Bay Landcare Network Incorporated is a not-for-profit Landcare Group based in Koroit, Victoria. Our Network Region covers the Council areas of Moyne and Warrnambool. This represents almost 4% of the land area of Victoria. We have been a group since 2007 and have a part time Landcare Facilitator position funded by the Victorian State Government Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. For information about our current and past projects please visit www.basalttobay.org.au
10 AT-8. Planning Permit Application 160308 - 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - Stormwater Management Report by Applicant
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT REPORT 1285 PHILLIP ISLAND ROAD NEWHAVEN
BROSNAN ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS
Copyright Notice © Copyright – Brosnan Engineering Solutions P/L The information contained on this document are the property of Brosnan Engineering Solutions P/L. Use or copying of this document in whole or in part without the permission of Brosnan Engineering Solutions P/L is an infringement of copyright.
This report has been prepared for and on behalf of Brosnan Engineering Solutions P/L client Ken and Janice Rowlingson. Brosnan Engineering Solutions P/L accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this report by any third party.
1. INTRODUCTION
COMMISSION Brosnan Engineering Solutions has been commissioned by Ken and Janice Rowlingson to prepare a Stormwater Management Plan for the development of a Caravan and Camping Park. This report aims to determine the existing drainage regimes of the site, potential upgrades to existing infrastructure and the treatment of stormwater from the site. The site is located at 1285 Phillip Island Road, Newhaven - namely Lot 1 LP89850.
AIM
The aim of this report is to identify the existing internal and external drainage regimes for the site, upgrades to existing drainage infrastructure and the treatment of stormwater from the site.
REFERENCES The following documents are referred to throughout this report: • Feature Survey of the site undertaken by Raso Consulting Surveyors • Development plan prepared for the site prepared by Tract • Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning contour information
2. BACKGROUND & RECOMMENDATIONS
LOCATION The subject land in located on the western edge of the Newhaven Township and is zoned from Farm Zone (FZ) under the Bass Coast Shire Council Planning Scheme.
The subject land is located approximately 9 kilometres from the Central Business Districts of Cowes, 6 kilometres from San Remo and 4 kilometres from Newhaven. The site adjoins existing the existing Forest Caves carpark to the west and farmland to the east.
The subject land has frontage to the Phillip Island Tourist Road. A locality plan is attached below.
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PROPOSAL
A copy of the Proposed Development Plan prepared by Tract for the Caravan and Camping Park is attached below.
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STORMWATER TREATMENT
Stormwater from the site will discharge to the existing council owned land opposite ther development site and ultimately to Westernport Bay.
The site is in a Melbourne Water catchment and therefore is required to treat all stormwater leaving the site to meet Urban Stormwater – Best Practice Environmental Guidelines. The
Guidelines establish stormwater quality objectives to assist in determining the level of stormwater management necessary to meet the SEPP requirements.
Urban Stormwater – Best Practice Environmental Guidelines (1999) states that stormwater management should be based on the following principles:
• Provision of public safety and prevention of flood damage and control of storm flows. • Preservation and enhancement of stormwater quality. • Preservation of the natural and beneficial function of the natural drainage system. • Treatment of stormwater in order to meet water quality objectives for reuse and/or discharge to surface waters. • Protection of natural systems. • Reduction of potable water demands.
These principles can be applied as a part of an ordered framework to achieve environmental management objectives as set out in the SEPP.
The objectives for environmental management of stormwater are as follows:
Pollutant Receiving Water Current best practice performance objective Objective Post Construction Phase Suspended Solids (SS) Comply with SEPP 80% retention of the typical urban annual load Total Phosphorus (TP) Comply with SEPP 45% retention of the typical urban annual load Total Nitrogen (TN) Comply with SEPP 45% retention of the typical urban annual load Litter Comply with SEPP 70% retention of the typical urban annual load Flows Maintain flows at pre- Maintain discharges for the 1:10 ARI to the 1:5 year ARI at pre- development levels development levels Construction Phase Suspended Solids Comply with SEPP Effective treatment of 90% of daily runoff events. Effective treatment equates to a 50%ile SS concentration of 50mg/L Litter Comply with SEPP Prevent litter from entering the stormwater system Other Pollutants Comply with SEPP Limit the application, generation and migration of toxic substances to the maximum extent practicable
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The performance objectives can be achieved by incorporating Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles into the stormwater design for the development. The concept of WSUD is based on formulating development plans that incorporate multiple stormwater management objectives, which recognise the opportunities and also the constraints for urban and landscape design and stormwater management.
A summary of the WSUD elements to be provided as a part of the development are provided below:
• Sediment Basins The sediment basin is the first link in the WSUB treatment train. A sediment basin is designed to reduce the velocity of the stormwater thus allowing sediments to settle out. A secondary function of the basin is to remove litter and organic material. A sediment basin should be cleaned out of sediment approximately every five (5) years.
• Bio-retention Basin A bio-retention basin is designed to remove course sediments, litter, organics and some nutrients, mainly phosphorous. A swale or buffer are typically located adjacent to a hard standing area (ie. Roadways or carparks) and collect the runoff from these areas.
• Rainwater Tanks A rainwater tank serves two (2) purposes, firstly to reduce the amount of potable water required by a dwelling by storing rainwater in the tank and connecting the tank to toilets and the laundry and secondly provides detention of the stormwater flows on site.
For the development of this Caravan and Camping Park the following parameters have been used.
Consideration Area (m2) Site Area (less dune Conservation Area) 55,560 Buildings Area 1,224 Road and Carparks Area 11,845 Footpath Area 344 Campsites Area 20,454 Grassed and Landscaped Area 21,382 Treatment Area 311
The above-mentioned parameters were applied to the site and a MUSIC model prepared. The inputs into the modelling program are detailed below.
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The proposal to treat stormwater for the site is as follows:
• A 100m2 sediment basin • A 30m2 Bio-retention basin with a 300mm depth filter medium and 200mm extended detention depth • A 20,000 litre rainwater tank that collect roof water from all buildings
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The results of the modelling of the above mentioned treatment parameters for the site are detailed below:
As detailed in the table above the parameters adopted for the site will satisfy the Water Sensitive Urban Design requirements of Bass Coast Shire Council and Melbourne Water.
The locations of the sediment and bio-retention basins are detailed below together with cross sections of both basins.
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INTERNAL STORMWATER DRAINAGE
The site generally falls from the south to the Phillip Island Tourist Road. A feature and level survey of the site has been undertaken by Raso Consulting Surveyors and a copy can be seen below.
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There are numerous channels cut on the property and adjoining properties to the east of the site to direct stormwater to the existing 225 millimetre diameter culvert under the Phillip Island Tourist Road. The culvert crosses the road in the north eastern corner of the property.
It is not proposed to install any underground stormwater drainage to drain to internal roads and carparking areas. The roads and carpark will be lowered below the existing ground level and graded to direct stormwater to the treatment areas.
All stormwater collected from the roof areas will be directed to the proposed 20,000 litre rainwater tank. It is proposed to use the collected rainwater for toilet flushing and watering of garden areas. The overflow from the rainwater tank is to be directed to the sediment basin.
EXTERNAL STORMWATER DRAINAGE
As mentioned in the internal drainage comments the properties to the west discharge their stormwater to the development site via a series of drainage channels. The open channels ultimately discharge to the 225 millimetre drainage pipe under the Phillip Island Tourist.
In order to prevent external stormwater from entering the development it is proposed to incorporate a continuous landscaped mound along the western boundary of the site with a 300 millimetre open channel at the base. This will still allow the external stormwater to be directed to the culvert under the Phillip Island Tourist Road.
An example of the mound and open channel can be seen below.
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EXTERNAL STORMWATER DRAINAGE
The development site and also the external sites drain to the existing 225 millimetre culvert underneath the Phillip Island Tourist. This culvert is under capacity and will need to be upgraded as a part of the development. The new culvert size or bank of smaller culverts has not been calculated as a part of this report as we are awaiting confirmation from VicRoads on the width of turnlanes to service the development.
3. CONCLUSION
In conclusion it has been determined that the stormwater leaving the development site can be treated to Water Sensitive Urban Design Best Practice Standards and the external stormwater drainage can be managed and directed away from our development site. There will be a requirement to upgrade the existing culvert under the Phillip Island Tourist Road to provide an adequate point of discharge.
This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of Ken and Janice Rowlingson and should not be reproduced except in full.
Matt Brosnan BROSNAN ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS PTY LTD
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