Main Roads Western Australia Cheynes Beach East Environmental Impact Assessment

January 2015

Executive summary

Main Roads Western Australia (Main Roads) is planning to upgrade sections of the South Coast Highway, to improve the level of service and safety of the road. This report relates to the section of the South Coast Highway between straight line kilometre (SLK) 44.5 and 46.3, referred to as Cheynes Section East (the Project). The proposed works will include the construction of approximately 1.8 kilometres (km) of new road and decommissioning of approximately 0.9 km of existing highway. The Project is located within the Shire of Albany and situated approximately 45 kilometres (km) north-east of Albany and 420 km south of Perth. The Project is partly located within Hassel National Park, and will require the excision of 6.11 ha from this Park. This Park is vested with the Conservation Commission of Western Australia. Main Roads commissioned GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) to prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and high level Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Project. This report presents the output of this work and will be used to identify, assess and manage the anticipated environmental impacts associated with the Project. This report is subject to, and must be read in conjunction with, the limitations set out in Section 1.6 and the assumptions and qualifications contained throughout the report.

Key environmental aspects and impacts The environmental assessment considered that many of the environmental aspects are low risk and can be appropriately managed through a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to prevent/minimise environmental harm. The key environmental aspects that have the potential to cause significant environmental impacts (medium and high risk aspects) are: y Dieback: Potential to significantly impact adjacent bushland, including national parks, if not managed appropriately during the construction phase.

y Aboriginal Heritage: Require management and ongoing liaison indigenous groups during the construction phase to avoid impacts to the known Christmas tree site and other (unknown) sites if uncovered.

y Hassell National Park: the Project requires the excision of 6.11 ha of Hassell National Park. This will result in a 0.5% reduction in the size of the Park. y Vegetation: The project will result in the permanent loss of native vegetation (4.67 ha), including the Federal Kwongkan1 (kwongan) Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) (4.49 ha) and priority flora species. y Fauna: The Project will result in the permanent loss of habitat fauna, including foraging habitat for the conservation significant Black Cockatoo species (4.27 ha). It is considered that the Project will require environmental offsets to address residual environmental impacts on vegetation and fauna. Assuming the implementation of suitable offsets combined with the management recommendations identified in this report, the Project is unlikely to result in long-term significant impacts to the environment.

1 Kwongkan / kwongan – a type of heathland found in Western Australia. The name is derived from the language of the Nyungar / Noongar people. Kwongkan is used in this document to be consistent with DotE 2014b.

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Table of contents

1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Purpose of this report ...... 1 1.3 Scope of works ...... 1 1.4 Project definitions ...... 1 1.5 Relevant legislative requirements ...... 2 1.6 Limitations ...... 3 2. Description of the Project ...... 4 2.1 Project location ...... 4 2.2 Project description ...... 4 3. Methodology ...... 5 3.1 Desktop assessment ...... 5 3.2 Flora and fauna field survey...... 5 4. Assessment of Aspects and Impacts ...... 7 4.1 Hassell National Park ...... 7 4.2 Physical environment ...... 9 4.3 Surrounding land-use ...... 10 4.4 Vegetation and Flora ...... 11 4.5 Fauna...... 16 4.6 Dieback ...... 18 4.7 Air quality and noise ...... 18 4.8 Contaminated sites...... 18 4.9 Hydrology ...... 19 4.10 Heritage (non-indigenous) ...... 21 4.11 Aboriginal heritage ...... 21 4.12 Construction Phase Potential Impacts ...... 23 5. Environmental Management ...... 25 5.1 Key environmental factors ...... 25 5.2 Design environmental management...... 25 5.3 Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) ...... 26 5.4 Revegetation Management Plan ...... 29 5.5 Dieback Management Plan...... 30 5.6 Indigenous heritage management...... 30 6. Residual Environmental Impacts and Offsets ...... 32 6.1 Environmental Impact Assessment ...... 32 6.2 Residual Environmental Impacts...... 33 6.3 Offsets ...... 33 7. Project Approvals ...... Error! Bookmark not defined.

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8. Conclusion ...... 34 9. References ...... 35

Table index

Table 1 Key Environmental Legislation Relevant to the Project ...... 2 Table 2 Information Sources ...... 5 Table 3 Soil-landscapes within the Project Area (After: DAFWA 2014b) ...... 9 Table 4 DPaW managed reserves within 10 km of the Project Area ...... 10 Table 5 Vegetation clearing ...... 15 Table 6 Conservation significant flora loss ...... 15 Table 7 Wetlands within 10 km of the Project Area ...... 19 Table 8 Aboriginal heritage sites recorded within the Project Area, and within 10 km of the Project Area...... 21 Table 9 Risk Assessment ...... 32 Table 10 Assessment of the Project against Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) ...... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Figure index

Figure 1 Project Locality ...... 39 Figure 2 Surrounding Landuse and Conservation Areas ...... 39 Figure 3 Vegetation types...... 39 Figure 4 Vegetation condition ...... 39 Figure 5 Hydrological Features...... 39 Figure 6 Aboriginal Heritage ...... 39

Appendices

Appendix A - Figures Appendix B - Flora and Fauna Report Appendix C – DPaW Correspondence

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1. Introduction

1.1 Background

Main Roads Western Australia (Main Roads) is planning to upgrade sections of the South Coast Highway, to improve the level of service and safety of the road. This report relates to the section of the South Coast Highway between straight line kilometre (SLK) 44.5 and 46.3, referred to as Cheynes Section East (the Project) (Figure 1, Appendix A).

1.2 Purpose of this report

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and high level Environmental Management Plan (EMP) was prepared in accordance with the Main Roads requirements and incorporates information requested by the Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW). The purpose of this report is to describe the existing environment, based on desktop and field investigations, assess the potential environmental impacts of the proposed works and outline management measures. This document particularly focuses on the environmental impacts associated with the excision of Hassel National Park.

1.3 Scope of works Main Roads commissioned GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) to prepare an EIA and high level EMP for the Project. GHD’s scope of works included: y Determine the key environmental aspects to be considered y A description of the existing environment, including physical, biological, social, heritage, noise, and site contamination

y Impact assessment that describes the proposed works and the potential impacts on the key aspects of the existing environment y Consultation with the Conservation Commission of Western Australia (CCWA) and DPaW

y Providing environmental management measures to address potential impacts y Outlining the residual environmental impacts and need for proposed offsets y Identification and recommendation of potential regulatory approvals required including an assessment of whether the Project is likely to have a significant environmental impact which may trigger referral to either the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and/or Department of the Environment (DotE).

1.4 Project definitions The Project involves the relocation of a section of South Coast Highway approximately 1.8 km in length to improve the road safety (Figure 2, Appendix A). The following definitions apply to the Project: y Project Area – the area to be directly impacted by the Project: 6.50 ha. The Project Area includes land zoned for the South Coast Highway, Cheynes Beach Road and Hassell National Park. As such, the Project Area contains a mixture of native vegetation and previously cleared land, with: – 4.67 ha of native vegetation; and

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– 1.83 ha previously cleared. y Excision Area – the area that requires excision from Hassell National Park: 6.11 ha. Main Roads are proposing to excise an area of land that exceeds the clearing extent for the Project. This will allow for the establishment of road reserves adjacent to the Highway and enable future development (if required). It should be noted that the Excision Area includes a mixture of native vegetation and previously cleared areas such as access tracks and sections of the current South Coast Highway. The Excision Area includes: – Total extent of Excision Area 6.11 ha, of which 5.50 ha is native vegetation and 0.6 ha has previously been cleared; and – 1.47 ha of the Excision Area will be directly impacted by this Project, of which 1.32 ha contains native vegetation and 0.15 ha has previously been cleared. These areas are demonstrated on Figure 2 (Appendix A).

1.5 Relevant legislative requirements Key Commonwealth and Western Australian environmental legislation that may be relevant to the Project is outlined in Table 1. This EIA identifies (but does not apply for) additional clearances required under legislative requirements, including those required under the following Acts.

Table 1 Key Environmental Legislation Relevant to the Project Legislation Responsible Government Aspect agency

Commonwealth Legislation

Environment Protection and DotE Matters of National Biodiversity Conservation Act Environmental Significance 1999 including threatened flora and fauna Native Title Act 1993 National Native Title Native title Tribunal State Legislation

Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 Department of Aboriginal Archaeological and Affairs (DAA) ethnographic sites Biosecurity and Agricultural Department of Agriculture Weeds and feral animals Management Act 2007 and Food Western Australia (DAFWA) Conservation and Land Department of Parks and Use, protection and Management Act 1984 Wildlife (DPaW) management of public lands and waters and its flora and fauna Contaminated Sites Act 2003 Department of Environment Management of Regulation (DER) contaminated sites Environmental Protection Act DER Environmental impact 1986 assessment and management Environmental Protection DER Noise standards (Noise) Regulations 1997 Environmental Protection DER Clearing of native (Clearing of Native Vegetation) vegetation Regulations 2004 Heritage of Western Australia Heritage Council of European heritage Act 1990 Western Australia protection

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Land Administration Act 1997 Department of Regional Administration of State Development Land Rights in Water and Irrigation Department of Water Access to and use of water Act 1914 resources; protection and management of river flows and drainage Soil and Land Conservation Act Department of Agriculture Protection of soil and 1945 and Food, WA prevention/management of soil erosion Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 DPaW Protection of native wildlife

1.6 Limitations This report has been prepared by GHD for Main Roads and may only be used and relied on by Main Roads for the purpose agreed between GHD and Main Roads as set out in Section 1.3 of this report. GHD otherwise disclaims responsibility to any person other than Main Roads arising in connection with this report. GHD also excludes implied warranties and conditions, to the extent legally permissible. The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing this report were limited to those specifically detailed in the report and are subject to the scope limitations set out in the report. The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on conditions encountered and information reviewed at the date of preparation of the report. GHD has no responsibility or obligation to update this report to account for events or changes occurring subsequent to the date that the report was prepared. The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on assumptions made by GHD described in this report. GHD disclaims liability arising from any of the assumptions being incorrect. This EIA is based upon the Project Area designed and approved by Main Roads for this and additional information provided by the Main Roads Project Manager, including the description of the Project Area. GHD has prepared this report on the assumption that information provided by Main Roads and others who provided information to GHD, which GHD has not independently verified or checked beyond the agreed scope of works. The following technical studies have assessed particular environmental aspects and potential impacts, and are therefore relied upon for inclusion in this report: y GHD (2014) Flora and Fauna Assessment Cheynes Beach East; and y Brad Goode (2014) An Addendum Report of an Aboriginal Heritage Survey of the Proposed South Coast Highway Realignments Manypeaks Western Australia.

GHD does not accept liability in connection with unverified information, including errors and omissions in the report which were caused by errors or omissions in the technical information. It should be noted that each of the reports is based upon the Project Area described in Section 1.4 and 2.1 and displayed in Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Appendix A). Further assessment may be required should the Project Area significantly change.

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2. Description of the Project

2.1 Project location The Project is located within the Shire of Albany and situated approximately 45 kilometres (km) north-east of Albany and 420 km south of Perth (Figure 1, Appendix A). The Project is located within Hassel National Park, and will require the excision of 6.11 ha from this Park. This Park is vested with the CCWA.

2.2 Project description Main Roads proposes to realign a 1.8 km section of South Coast Highway associated with the Cheynes Beach Road intersection. The realignment is necessary to improve the level of service safety of the Highway at this location. South Coast Highway is a Regional route carrying local and intra-state traffic, including heavy vehicles. The section proposed for realignment has an aging deteriorating pavement with substandard vertical and horizontal geometry. Main Roads proposes to undertake the following activities as part of the upgrade: y construction of approximately 1.8 km of two land single carriageway road with two 3.5 m wide lanes, 1.0 m sealed shoulder and 1.0 m unsealed shoulder y reconstruction and realignment of the intersection with Cheynes Beach Road

y replacement of the existing culvert for the minor drainage line and replacement and improvement roadside drainage structures y pre-construction activities such as geotechnical investigations and service relocations

y Decommissioning of the current section of South Coast Highway and landscaping and revegetation works including revegetation of 2.54 ha of current highway This 1.8 km section is part of an overall strategy by Main Roads for upgrading the South Coast Highway between Albany and Jerramungup. Immediately to the west a 4.5 km section will be reconstructed and realigned to a similar standard to these works while immediately to the east a 20 km long section is in the early stages of planning for widening and shoulder improvements. These two Projects will undergo separate environmental assessments and approvals.

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3. Methodology

3.1 Desktop assessment A desktop assessment of the Project Area and the potential constraints of the proposed works were undertaken by viewing ArcGIS shapefiles and reviewing government agency managed databases (Table 2). Table 2 Information Sources

Aspect Information Source Climate Bureau of Meteorology Climate Data Online (BoM 2014) Heritage Department of Aboriginal Affairs (DAA) Heritage Inquiry System Search Tool (DAA 2014) Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) Protected Matters Search Tool (DotE 2014a) Heritage Council InHerit database (GoWA 2014a) Reserves Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) Estate spatial dataset City of Albany Town Planning Scheme (TPS) No. 3 Environmentally Department of Environment Regulation (DER) Native Vegetation Sensitive Areas Map Viewer (DER 2014b) Acid Sulfate Soils Australian Soil Resources Information System (ASRIS 2014) Contaminated sites DER Contaminated Sites Database (DER 2014a) Surface water and Department of Agriculture and Food WA (DAFWA) WetlandBase Groundwater (DAFWA 2014a) Department of Water (DoW) Geographic Data Atlas Vegetation Beard vegetation mapping (1979) Natural Resource Management Shared Land Information Platform (SLIP) (GoWA 2014b) GHD (2014) Cheynes Beach East Flora and Fauna Assessment (Appendix B) Threatened and DPaW Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) and Priority Priority Ecological Ecological Community (PEC) spatial datasets Communities EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (DotE 2014a) Conservation DPaW NatureMap database (DPaW 2007) Significant Flora and DPaW Threatened and Priority Fauna datasets (DEFL) Fauna DPaW Declared Rare and Priority Flora datasets Western Australian Herbarium database (WAHERB) Matters of National EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (DotE 2014a) Environmental Significance

A description of the environmental aspects listed in the above table and relevant conservation codes are detailed in the Flora and Fauna Report (GHD 2014) Appendix B.

3.2 Flora and fauna field survey

The following field surveys have been undertaken for the Project: y GHD November 2012: vegetation and flora survey y GHD November 2012: fauna survey

y GHD and Elizabeth Sandiford July 2014: targeted flora survey

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Further information on the methodology is provided in the report (Appendix B). GHD November 2012 – Flora and Fauna Assessment GHD ecologists undertook the field survey from 6 to 7 November 2012. The flora survey was undertaken with reference to the EPA Guidance Statement No. 51 Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia (EPA 2004a). The methodology involved a combination of quadrat sites (11) and traversing the Project Area on foot. The fauna assessment was carried out with reference to EPA Guidance Statement No. 56 Assessment of Environmental Factors for Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment (EPA 2004b). A level 1 fauna survey was completed, which enabled habitat mapping and assessment of potential conservation significant species usage. In conjunction with the Level 1 survey a targeted Black Cockatoo assessment was completed. GHD/Elizabeth Sandiford targeted Assessment – July 2014

A targeted survey for conservation significant flora species was completed on the 28 July 2014 with local botanist Elizabeth Sandiford. The aim of the survey was to identify and record the location of conservation significant species, particularly targeting Banksia brownii, within the Project Area. The survey involved two botanists walking transects across the Project Area. The survey also recorded opportunistic species, visually assessed the presence of the Kwongkan TEC and aligned vegetation types with their Albany Regional Vegetation Survey (ARVS) (Sandiford and Barrett 2010) vegetation types.

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4. Assessment of Aspects and Impacts

This section describes the Project Areas physical, biological and social aspects based on previous studies, desktop investigation and the recent (July 2014) site visit. This includes an assessment of potential environmental impacts of the proposed works on the receiving environment. Where relevant, recommendations are provided for additional investigations. Management and mitigation measures to address the identified impacts are outlined in Section 5 (EMP).

4.1 Hassell National Park

The Project Area is located within both road reserve and Hassell National Park (Class A Reserve, R 26650), which is managed by DPaW and vested with the CCWA. The Project will require the excision of 6.11 ha of Hassell National Park. Reserve number: 26550 Locality: City of Albany Vesting: Conservation Commission

Hassell National Park was gazetted in 16 November 1962 as a linear corridor of remnant vegetation (1264.6 ha) along an arterial transport route. The Hassell National Park is formed by remnant vegetation contained within the road reserve extending 38 km from Cheyne Beach Road through to Venns Road on Mettlers Lake Road. The national park occurs on both sides of the highway and ranges in width from 70 m up to 450 wide (on one side of the highway). Hassell National Park exists as a well-defined corridor of uncleared native vegetation (Department of Conservation and Land Management 1991), and therefore provides an important ecological linkage through otherwise cleared land. The park has been identified as an important inland vegetation and wildlife corridor from the Waychinicup and Mount Manypeaks area to the Cheyne Bay and Pallinup River areas. In the South Coast Region Regional Management Plan number 24 (1992–2002) (Department of Conservation and Land Management 1991), it was suggested that Hassell National Park did not meet the criteria for a National Park and would be more appropriate as a “miscellaneous reserve allowing for the existing multiple use to occur whilst still protecting roadside vegetation as the primary management objective” (Department of Conservation and Land Management, 1991). DPaW (2013) completed an assessment of the Excision Area (Appendix C). The following information has been extracted from this assessment (DPaW 2013). The vegetation contained within this road reserve is generally in good to excellent condition with some weed and dieback impacts. The corridor is frequented by the three species of black cockatoo as there is suitable feeding and roosting habitat and the reserve forms a corridor/fly way for these species, as well as other threatened fauna and mammals. There are also a number of freshwater wetlands that occur in vicinity and downstream of the proposed road re- alignment that form habitat for the threatened Australian Bittern (DPaW 2013). The existing threats present within the Excision Area include: y Introduced plants: edge effects from weeds such as African Love Grass

y Introduced animals: European fox, feral cat and rabbits are highly likely to occur in the reserve y Disease: largely interpreted – the area for excision has been impacted by dieback

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y Detrimental regimes: other than small pockets of fire the reserve is largely long unburnt

Hassel National Park provides the following critical habitat: y Hassel National Park is known to be feeding/roosting habitat for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. Recorded Threatened Fauna within or close proximity to the reserve and proposed road re-alignment site includes Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo, Baudins Black Cockatoo, Western Whipbird (Western Heath Subsp), Western Ringtail Possum, Brush Wallaby, Malleefowl, Australian Bittern

y There are a number of freshwater wetlands in the vicinity of the proposed excision and road realignment that include habitat for the threatened Australian Bittern The reserve is a narrow linear area and therefore has a high area to edge ratio, which will likely lead to high edge effects from weeds and ongoing road maintenance and upgrades. However, the habitat and connectivity for cockatoo species is important despite the linear nature of the reserve.

The reserve will likely retain a reasonable viability while undisturbed. However, as disturbance events occur such as fire or physical disturbances such as road maintenance, it is likely that the quality of the reserve will degrade due to weed invasion and introduction of dieback into a narrow linear reserve (DPaW 2013). Value of Excision Area As noted above, 6.11 ha (0.5 %) of Hassel National Park will require excision to enable the Project to commence. Based on field assessments (GHD 2014) the area to be excised provides the following values: y Native vegetation communities that is in excellent to good condition. These communities include the TEC – Kwongkan proteaceous shrubs y Habitat for conservation significant flora: four priority flora species identified as present during field investigations (GHD, 2014)

y Habitat for conservation significant fauna with the Baudin’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus baudinii), Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris), Quenda (Isoodon obesulus fusciventer) and Western Brush Wallaby (Macropus irma) considered likely to be present. y The area to be excised forms part of a wildlife corridor The native vegetation communities and fauna habitats (including cockatoo feeding habitat) are represented within the broader Hassell National Park and adjacent conservation areas. Similarly, the conservation significant flora recorded and expected to occur are known to be present within nearby conservation areas.

4.1.1 Potential impacts – Hassell National Park This section addresses the potential impacts to Hassell National Park in terms of its ability to maintain its ecological function. Impacts to other aspects present within the National Park, such as native vegetation and fauna habitats are detailed subsequently in this document. Loss of National Park Area: y Excision of 6.11 ha of Hassell National Park, this will result in a 0.5 % reduction in total area of the National Park. y Development of the Project will directly impact on 1.47 ha of the Excision Area, with the remainder retained as native vegetation or revegetated in areas of the existing Highway

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that will be decommissioned. Of this 1.47 ha, 1.32 ha is native vegetation and 0.15 ha has previously been cleared. y Reduction in the width of Hassell National Park to approximately 60 m wide from approximately 80 m at its narrowest point within the Excision Area.

y Indirect impacts include a reduction in the ability of Hassell National Park to provide fauna and vegetation values as well as an increase in existing threats to the National Park including weeds and dieback. These indirect impacts are discussed in subsequent sections of this document. It is considered that, given appropriate management, the Project will not significantly impact on the values or ability of Hassel National Park to provide its ecological function.

4.2 Physical environment

4.2.1 Climate The climate of the region is temperate, with warm to hot summers and mild to cold winters. The mean2 maximum temperature is 25.1 degrees Celsius (°C) in summer (January and February), and 16.2 – 17 °C in winter (June-August). The mean minimum temperature is 6.1 – 6.9 °C in winter and 11.7 – 14 °C in summer. The mean annual rainfall is 605.8 mm per year, with monthly means from around 25.8 mm in summer to 70.7 mm in July (BoM 2014).

4.2.2 Landform/geology Soil-landscape mapping is a survey of land resources which delineates repeating patterns of landscapes and associated soils (Schoknecht et al 2004). The mapping of the South-West of Western Australia was investigated to determine the soil-landscapes present within the Project (DAFWA 2014b). The soil-landscapes that occur within the Project Area are detailed in Table 3.

Table 3 Soil-landscapes within the Project Area (After: DAFWA 2014b)

Soil-Landscape Description Location Mapping Minor Valleys Broad valleys in sedimentary rocks; 30 m relief; Occurs at the intersection S7 Slope Phase smooth slopes. Deep sands and iron podzols with Cheynes Beach on slopes; Albany blackbutt-Jarrah-Sheoak Road. Woodland. Podzols and yellow duplex soils on floors; paperbark woodland, teatree heath. Takalarup Broadly undulating plateau; lakes; depressions; Eastern and western Subsystem hummocks; scattered siltstone. Gravelly yellow extent of the Project Area. duplex soils on plains, yellow solonetzic soils in depressions, podzols in sands of hummocks. Minor Valleys 6 Narrow V-shaped valleys, in sedimentary Small valley sections west Subsystem rocks;<10 m relief. Sandy yellow duplex soils of Cheynes Beach on slopes; Jarrah-Marri low forest. Deep sands intersection. on narrow swampy floor; sedges and reeds.

4.2.3 Land capability and salinity The Natural Resource Management Shared Land Information Platform (SLIP) has mapped the salinity, flooding and water erosion risk for the majority of the Project Area as 3-10% moderate to high risk. The section near the drainage line and dampland is assessed as 10-30% moderate to high risk (DAFWA 2014b).

2 BoM 2013 provides mean data for the time period between 1966 and 1997.

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The wind erosion risk is mostly within the 3-10% moderate to high risk category, with sections near the drainage line being 30-70 % moderate to high risk and the dampland 30-50 % moderate to high risk (DAFWA 2014b).

4.2.4 Acid sulphate soils (ASS) The ASRIS database indicates that the majority of the Project Area is classified as ‘Low Probability of Occurrence’ with a very low degree of confidence.

4.2.5 Potential impacts The potential impacts to the physiological environment are expected to occur during the construction phase, these are likely to be minor and temporary given appropriate management measures. y The potential risk of water and wind erosion as a consequence of the proposed works is expected to be moderate and confined to the areas of deeper cuts y Undisturbed, ASS do not pose a risk, and only becomes an issue where excavation is required, works are required below the water table, or lowering of the water table is required. Therefore, consideration as to the requirement for dedicated ASS investigations should be based on the construction requirements for the Project and whether disturbance of natural soils (outside of the existing disturbed area) is required

The impacts on the physical environment are expected to be minor and once the site is revegetated and stabilised they will are unlikely to pose long-term changes to the existing environment.

4.3 Surrounding land-use The land surrounding the Project Area is zoned ‘Rural’ and ‘Parks and Recreation’ according to the City of Albany Town Planning Scheme No. 3. To the north and north west of the Project Area land has been cleared for agriculture and tree farming. Review of aerial photography identifies the nearest residences are: y 750 m north east of the northern extent of the Project Area y 1.5 km west of the southern extent of the Project Area Six DPaW-managed reserves occur within 10 km of the Project Area including three Class A reserves and three Class C reserves (Table 4 and Figure 2 (Appendix A)). The Project also is located partly within Hassell National Park (A Class Reserve). Table 4 DPaW managed reserves within 10 km of the Project Area

Reserve Name/Number Class Size (ha) Location Cheyne Road Nature Reserve R27157, Class C 367.4 located 2.4 km south-east North Sister Nature Reserve R26385 Class C 1007.7 located 5.5 km west Lake Pleasant View Nature Reserve Class A 267.1 located 7.4 km south R15107 Waychinicup National Park R25865 Class A 803.7 located 9.1 km south White Lake Nature Reserve R36550 Class A 174.1 located 9.3 km north-west Mount Manypeaks Nature Reserve Class C 1330 located 10 km south R36028

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4.3.1 Environmentally Sensitive Areas An ESA is located on the north-western side of the intersection between South Coast Highway and Cheyne Beach Road. This ESA is associated with the collection of the Threatened species, Banksia brownii (Figure 2, Appendix A). This is further discussed in Section 4.4.4.

4.3.2 Potential impacts Rural Land and Residents The Project is unlikely to result in impacts to the surrounding land use. The works involve the upgrade and relocation of an existing highway, as such the Project is unlikely to result in a change in existing site conditions. Given the distance to the nearest residence is more than 750 m and separated by a mixture of native vegetation, tree farms and agricultural land the relocation of the highway is unlikely to alter existing operational conditions. During the construction phase there may be some short- term impacts due to changes in traffic conditions, noise, vibration and dust, but these are expected to be minor if standard construction management is implemented. These are discussed further in Section 4.12. Surrounding Conservation Reserves The impacts to Hassell National Park have been discussed in Section 4.1. It is not expected that the Project will directly impact on any of the other reserves located within close proximity to the proposed works. Given the size and nature of the Project and distance to surrounding nature reserve (more than 2 km) indirect impacts to these reserves are not expected. Management of construction impacts, such as air, noise, hydrocarbons, dieback and weeds, which have the potential to cause off-site impacts should be managed through a CEMP.

4.4 Vegetation and Flora

The vegetation and flora of the Project Area was assessed through desktop and field surveys. An initial field survey was completed by GHD in November 2012 with a follow up targeted survey for Banksia brownii undertaken by GHD and Elizabeth Sandiford in July 2014. This section summarises the key findings of the vegetation and flora assessment. A copy of the report (GHD 2014) is provided at Appendix B.

4.4.1 Vegetation types The flora and vegetation survey (GHD 2014) identified five vegetation types within the Project Area (Figure 3, Appendix A). The main vegetation type is a Hakea Shrubland on an undulating plain over dissected laterite. In the western portion of the Project Area the Hakea Shrubland forms a mosaic with Eucalyptus staeri / E. marginata Woodland. There is a minor watercourse near the Cheynes Beach Road intersection that consists of degraded Melaleuca cuticularis Woodland with Pericalymma spongiocaule Shrubland its eastern margin. A low lying depression forms a small area of dampland vegetation in the northern extent of the Project Area. Comparison with other mapped vegetation Although Beard (1979) maps the Project Area as Vegetation Association 994 it is considered that the vegetation aligns more closely with Association 978: Low forest; jarrah, Eucalyptus staeri and Allocasuarina fraseriana.

Although the Project Area is located outside of the survey extent for the Albany Regional Vegetation Survey (ARVS) (Sandiford and Barrett 2010) a comparison has been drawn where possible:

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y Mosaic Hakea Shrubland and Eucalyptus Woodland and Hakea Shrubland: Hakea spp Shrubland/Woodland Complex (31) y Melaleuca cuticularis Drainge Line: Melaleuca cuticularis/Melaleuca preissiana Open Woodland Complex (52) y Kunzea / Pericalymma Heath: Pericalymma spongiocaule low heath (39)

4.4.2 Threatened Ecological Communities The field assessment confirmed the presence of the EPBC Act Endangered TEC Proteaceous Dominated Kwongkan3 Shrublands (Kwongkan TEC) of the Southeast Coastal Floristic Province of Western Australia within the Project Area. The TEC is considered to be represented by vegetation units: y Hakea Shrubland y Mosaic Hakea Shrubland and Eucalyptus Woodland

y Dampland This TEC occurs within the Esperance Sandplain and Mallee bioregions with some patches occurring in the adjoining bioregions of south-west Western Australia. The ecological community is typical of vegetation within some of the reserves across the region, such as Stirling Range National Park, Fitzgerald River National Park and Cape Le Grand National Park (DotE 2014b). Typically for this ecological community, plants from the family Proteaceae make up a large component of the flora, including plants from the genera Adenanthos, Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea, Isopogon and Lambertia.

The ecological community has an estimated overall decline in extent due to clearing across its range of 51 %, from 2 416 931 ha to 1 185 188 ha. Decline is not homogenous, with the ecological community declining is some ecodistricts by more than 70 % (DotE 2014b). The main ongoing threats to the Kongkan TEC are: y Land clearing and impacts associated with fragmentation y Land management practices y Plant pathogens (dieback)

y Altered fire regimes y Invasive flora and fauna with key weed species known to impact the community including African lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula), bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), blue lupin (Lupinus cosentinii), Australian golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha) and Victorian tea- tree (Leptospermum laevigatum).

y Climate change

The total extent of this TEC within the Project Area is 4.49 ha. No other EPBC Act TECs or DPaW TECs or PECs were present within the Project Area.

4.4.3 Flora diversity A total of 232 native plant taxa (including subspecies and varieties) representing 36 families were recorded during the field surveys.

3 Kwongkan / kwongan – a type of heathland found in Western Australia. The name is derived from the language of the Nyungar / Noongar people. Kwongkan is used in this document to be consistent with DotE 2014b.

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The level of floristic diversity recorded is high. This is due to the Project Area being located within an area of Southern Western Australia that is known for its high floristic diversity. However, the vegetation types present within the Project Area and their floristic composition are well represented within the adjacent DPaW estates and boarder Hassell National Park. As such, the diversity recorded within the Project Area is considered to be comparable to the surrounding environment.

4.4.4 Conservation significant flora The two field surveys (November 2012 and July 2014) identified four conservation significant flora species present within the Project Area (Figure 3, Appendix A): y Andersonia sp Jamesii (J Liddelow 84) – DPaW Priority 4 y Stylidium daphne – DPaW Priority 2 y Stylidium gloeophyllum – DPaW Priority 4 y Gonocarpus trichostachyus– DPaW Priority 3

A likelihood of occurrence assessment identified that an additional six species are considered likely to occur. These are species that have suitable habitat within the Project Area, may be relatively wide spread and/or have previously been recorded within 500 m of the Project Area. The targeted survey July 2014 and November 2012 assessment did not confirm the presence of any of these species within the Project Area. Given the survey effort it is considered that substantial populations would have been detected, however as the vegetation is very dense and some species are cryptic scattered individuals may have been missed. Sarrah Barrett (DPaW) completed a survey for Banksia brownii in 2011: one plant was located at just outside of the Project Area (34 48 29.4 and 118 15 25.8). It was noted that the remainder of the population appears to be dead due to Phytophthora dieback. This species was a key target species during both the 2012 and 2014 site investigations and was not recorded.

4.4.5 Vegetation condition and declared plants (weeds) Vegetation condition was largely assessed as being in Excellent (2) condition, with little disturbance or edge effects. Near the intersection with Cheynes Beach Road previous clearing and access tracks are present and this area contained a greater number of introduced (mostly grass species) in the understorey. The condition in this area ranged from Very Good (3) to Completely Degraded (6). Areas of condition rating Very Good (3) to Completely Degraded (6) comprise 4 ha of the Project Area (Figure 4, Appendix A). Generally, native vegetation within the Project Area contained limited species and density of weeds. Weeds were mostly restricted to the verge of the Highway and edge effects, such as the spread of weeds from the road verge into native vegetation, were minimal. The Melaleuca drainage line was the exception, with weeds (particularly grasses) dominant. It is likely that this drainage line has been cleared in the past and watercourse would disperse weed seeds into this area from farmland to the north. During the survey, 13 introduced species were recorded, none of the weeds recorded are listed as Weeds of National Significance (WONS) or Declared Plants under the BAM Act 2007.

4.4.6 Regional and local significance of vegetation types Regional and local extent Regionally, the extent of Beard’s (1979) vegetation associations have been determined by the state-wide vegetation remaining extent calculations maintained by DPaW (latest update 2012 –

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Government of Western Australia 2013). The vegetation types within the Project Area are considered to align with Beard (1979) association 978. The extent remaining of vegetation association 978 is above 38 % at the State, IBRA and Local Government scale. It also indicates that more than 24 % of the current extent is within DPaW managed lands (GHD 2014). The ARVS (Sandiford and Barrett, 2010) notes that Pericalymma spongiocaule Shrubland (39) (which aligned with GHD vegetation type Kunzea/Pericalymma Heath) appears to have less than 30% of its pre-clearing extent remaining in Western Australia. Sandiford and Barrett, (2010) also note that grazing by stock has resulted in the removal of the understorey and its replacement by pasture or weed species in many remnants, particularly Melaleuca cuticularis/M. preissiana Open Woodland (52) (which aligns with GHD vegetation type Melaleuca drainage line). This unit is also regarded as having at least 40 % of its ARVS extent in a modified or transformed state. Regional and local significance

The regional and local significance of the vegetation types was assessed by incorporating and adapting relevant criteria as outlined in EPA Guidance Statement 10 (EPA 2006), Local Government Biodiversity Planning Guidelines: Addendum to the South West Biodiversity Project Area (Molloy et al. 2007) and Sandiford and Barrett (2010).

A quantitative assessment was not possible for all vegetation types/categories (due to a lack of comparative pre-clearing vegetation extent data) at the vegetation type scale, in these instances information has been provided on the broader Beard (1979) vegetation association scale. The vegetation is considered to be regionally and locally significant for the following criteria: y Representation of ecological communities: – Presence of Kwongkan TEC – Presence of vegetation types that are expected to have less than 1500 ha locally – Forms part of a larger intact remnant in good or better condition y Diversity: – Forms part of an intact remnant vegetation in good condition with high species diversity y Rarity: – Presence of Kwongkan TEC – Provides habitat for conservation significant fauna species – Known presence of DPaW Priority Flora y Maintaining ecological processes or natural systems: – Hassell National Park forms part of an important wildlife corridor (discussed in Section 4.5) y Protecting streamline fringing vegetation – Presence of riparian vegetation associated with the drainage-line and dampland (discussed in Section 4.9)

4.4.7 Potential impacts It is considered that the proposed linear clearing is the minimum necessary for the safe upgrade and long-term operation of the Highway. However, the Project will result in the direct loss of native vegetation types including: y 4.67 ha of native vegetation within the Project Area (see Table 5)

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y 1.32 ha of native vegetation within the Hassel National Park Excision Area (see Table 5) y 4.49 ha of Kwogkan TEC – this is estimated to represent 0.0004 % of the predicted current extent (1,185,188 ha) y Loss of conservation significant flora species known to occur in the Project Area (see Table 6) In addition, to the direct loss there is the potential to cause: y The introduction and/or spread of weed species and dieback into the Project Area and adjacent bushland y Changes to hydrology that can alter the floristic composition of vegetation Given the small extent of clearing (4.67 ha) and occurrence of large extents of similar vegetation in nearby national parks the loss of vegetation is not expected to result in significant local or regional impacts to the extent, type or biodiversity of the area. Management will be required during design and construction to minimise both direct and indirect impacts. Table 5 Vegetation clearing

Vegetation Type Extent to be cleared Extent Excision Extent to be Project Area (Ha) Area (Ha) cleared in Excision Area (Ha) Hakea Shrubland 4.01 3.87 1.15 Kunzea / Pericalymma 0.06 0.11 - Health Dampland 0.22 0.21 0.13 Melaleuca Drainage line 0.12 0.20 - Mosaic Hakea Shrubland / 0.26 1.12 0.04 Eucalyptus Woodland Total native vegetation 4.67 5.51 1.32 Cleared 1.83 0.60 0.15 TOTAL 6.50 6.11 1.47

Table 6 Conservation significant flora loss

Species Status Number in Number Known % Loss from Project Area Project

Andersonia sp P4 82 13 Records on Florabase 12.7% Jamesii (J. Population estimate: 643 Liddelow 84(

Stylidium P2 6 10 records on Florabase: 14 % daphne Population estimate: 43

Stylidium P4 12 19 records on Florabase: 3.18% gloeophyllum 200+ recorded by GHD in 2012 outside of Project Area.

Population estimate: 377+

Gonocarpus P3 63 12 records on Florabase: 11.03 % trichostachyus Population estimate: 572 +

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* Florabase (WAHERB 1998) records often provide the count (frequency) in descriptors such as common, frequent, scattered without providing an actual number of plants. For the purposes of this assessment these records have been counted as one plant. As such the population estimates are underrepresented with the actual number of plants expected to be much higher. Therefore, the percent impact calculated is considered to be very conservative.

4.5 Fauna

4.5.1 Fauna habitats Two fauna habitats were identified within the Project Area during the 2012 field survey: y Hakea shrubland y Eucalyptus woodland

The fauna habitats identified within the Project Area are well represented within the region. The recorded habitat types are considered to provide good habitat for a variety of fauna species, given the variety of habitat resources available for fauna.

4.5.2 Observed fauna The field survey recorded a total of 42 fauna species, including 37 birds, two mammals and three reptiles.

4.5.3 Conservation significant fauna During the field survey, no conservation significant species were recorded. An assessment on the likelihood of these species occurring in the Project Area was conducted based on species biology, habitat requirements, the quality and availability of suitable habitat and records of the species in the area. Eighteen conservation significant and terrestrial migratory fauna species were assessed (excluding the migratory marine and wetland species), with four species considered likely to occur and, three species possibly occurring within the Project Area. The remaining 11 species were unlikely to occur within the Project Area. The four species considered likely to occur in the Project Area include: y Baudin’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus baudinii). Vulnerable (EPBC Act) and Threatened (WC Act) y Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus latirostris). Endangered (EPBC Act) and Threatened (WC Act) y Quenda (Isoodon obesulus fusciventer). Priority 5 listed by DPaW y Western Brush Wallaby (Macropus irma). Priority 4 listed by DPaW.

The three species considered possible in the Project Area include: y Forest Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii naso). Vulnerable (EPBC Act) and Threatened (WC Act) y Western Bristlebird (Dasyornis longirostris). Vulnerable (EPBC Act) and Threatened (WC Act) y Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus): Migratory (EPBC ACT) and IA (WC Act)

Black Cockatoo Assessment

The Black Cockatoo assessment identified the following:

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y Roosting: the Project Area is unlikely to provide roosting habitat for Baudin’s, Carnaby’s or Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoos for roosting. No evidence of roosting was recorded during the field survey y Breeding: no known breeding or potential breeding trees where recorded within the Project Area. y Feeding: the two species of Black Cockatoo species are known to feed on a variety of plant species, including Allocasuarina, Eucalyptus, Hakea and Banksia (Groom 2011). All of these genera were identified within the Project Area during the field survey. In particular, the Albany Blackbutt (Eucalyptus staeri) and proteaceous Banksia and Hakea species would provide foraging habitat for Black Cockatoos, and are regarded as high value foraging species for Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo (Groom 2011). The Project Area provides 4.27 ha of foraging habitat.

4.5.4 Ecological linkages and wildlife corridors The Macro Corridor Project (Wilkins et al. 2006) identified at least 21 potential vegetation corridors that could be defined as macro corridors, all of which have regional nature conservation significance and strategic spatial significance within the South Coast Bioregion. Hassel National Park forms part of the macro-corridors identified by Wilkins et al (2006). Hassell National Park is 1264.6 ha in size and therefore also makes up a locally and regionally significant contiguous bushland linkage, which provides a vegetation corridor through an otherwise cleared landscape. The park has been identified as an important inland vegetation and wildlife corridor from the Waychinicup and Mt Manypeaks area to the Cheyne Bay and Pallinup River areas.

4.5.5 Potential fauna impacts The potential impacts to fauna as a consequence of developing the Project are: y Landscape fragmentation – the ability of a patch of remnant vegetation to persist over a protracted period as a functional ecological assemblage is largely influenced by its size, proximity to other patches, the quality of the linkage between individual patches and the scale of threatening processes (Molloy et al 2009). The Project will require clearing of a linear section of vegetation within Hassell National Park, which forms part of a wildlife corridor. The clearing will reduce the width of native vegetation from approximately 80 m to 60 m (at its narrowest point) along the northern boundary. However, the clearing will not fragment the continuous linkage. It is expected the wildlife corridor function of Hassell National Park will be retained. y Habitat loss: Construction of the Project will require clearing of 4.67 ha of vegetation and loss of the associated fauna habitat. This includes 4.27 ha of foraging habitat for Black Cockatoos. y Death or injury of fauna during clearing, construction and operation (including road kills). It is not expected that the re-alignment will increase/alter the number of fauna vehicle strikes from existing conditions. y Secondary impacts from noise, dust and vibration during construction. It is expected that fauna will have adequate adjacent areas to find habitat/refuge if disturbed. During the construction phase management will be required to minimise the extent of clearing and injury/death of fauna. It is expected the direct loss of foraging habitat for Black Cockatoos will be managed through environmental offsets.

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4.6 Dieback The site is considered to occur in an area at risk of Phytophthora cinnamomi, commonly known as Dieback. Dieback is found throughout the southern extent of Western Australia in areas with susceptible plant species that receive rainfall in excess of 400 mm/year (Dieback Working Group 2008). DPaW (2013) noted the occurrence of dieback within the Project Area. No detailed dieback mapping has been undertaken. Detailed dieback surveys and mapping will be undertaken prior to any ground disturbance. It is understood Main Roads will complete dieback surveys and mapping prior to ground disturbance.

4.6.1 Potential impact The vegetation units present within the Project Area are susceptible to dieback. Dieback results in a significant reduction in floristic and structural diversity. In particular, dieback is one of the key threats to B. brownii thickets and the Kwongkan TEC.

Dieback will require management during the construction phase.

4.7 Air quality and noise The Project Area is surrounding by national parks and agriculture. The existing highway would contribute to some level of vehicle emissions. However, it is expected that the existing air quality and noise emissions is typical of the agricultural district.

4.7.1 Potential impacts The potential impacts are expected to be minor and restricted to the construction phase, with the exception of ongoing noise/vehicle emissions from the highway. However, as there is an existing highway the upgrade works and not expected to significantly change existing conditions. Dust is likely to be a minor issue during earthworks. No major sensitive receivers are located adjacent to the proposed works. Noise and vibration are unlikely to be significant, with few sensitive receptors (homes) nearby. Construction work is not expected to significantly contribute to noise levels at the nearest sensitive receivers, provided works are limited to normal working hours. Activities that may result in air and noise emissions include: y Physical disturbance of the land – such as removal of vegetation and topsoil, excavation and earthworks y Transportation – haulage of materials and machinery y Dust from dry, cleared areas and soil stockpiles

4.8 Contaminated sites A search of DER’s contaminated sites database indicates there are no identified contaminated sites within or in the vicinity of the Project Area (DER 2014a).

4.8.1 Potential impacts Any contamination identified during works should be managed in accordance with a project CEMP. Furthermore, any pollution generating activities such as refuelling or storage of chemicals during works should also be managed in accordance with a CEMP.

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It is understood the Project involves standard road construction, so the use and storage of hazardous substances will be limited. Materials used onsite should be handled, used and disposed of in accordance with their MSDS and Main Roads standard procedures.

4.9 Hydrology No areas proclaimed under Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (RIWI Act) occur within the Project Area. This includes: y RIWI Groundwater Areas y Groundwater sub-areas y RIWI Watercourses y RIWI Surface water area y Public Drinking Water Source Areas (PDWSA). The Project Area is located within the Albany Coast Drainage River Basin (DoW 2014). A drainage line flows through the area from freshwater wetlands to the north into the Waychinicup River. The drainage line, within the Project Area, represents a lower point in the landscape and does not have a defined bed or banks. The drainage line supports Melaleuca species that are typical of wetter localities on the south coast. This drainage line is expected to be inundated during winter months. During the July 2014 site visit ponding was observed along an access track in the dampland. No water flow was noted in the drainage line near Cheynes Beach Road. During both the GHD 2012 and 2014 site visits no evidence of erosion was observed. Desktop searches did not identify the presence of any Ramsar listed sites 10 km of the Project Area (DotE 2014a). One wetland system listed as a Nationally Important Wetland (on the Directory of Important Wetlands), Lake Pleasant View System (WA049), is located over 5 km to the west and upstream of the Project Area. The South Coast Significant Wetlands dataset displays the location and boundary of regionally and internationally significant wetlands in the south coast region (DPaW 2014). A search of this database did not identify any wetlands within the Project Area. As shown in Figure 5 (Appendix A) and Table 7 there are nine significant wetlands within a 10 km buffer of the Project Area. Many of these (eight) are located north/west and upstream of the Project. Cheyne Down wetland is located approximately 3.2 km south east of the Project. This wetland appears to be located on a different tributary to that drainage line that intersect the Project Area and not expected to be a downstream receiving environment. Table 7 Wetlands within 10 km of the Project Area

Wetland Name and ID Category Location Number Sunday Swamp Conservation Class Approximately 9 km North UFI: BA21603875 east Cheyne Downs Conservation Class Approximately 3.2 km south UFI: BA21603907 east Pfeiffer Lake National (ANCA) Approximately 4.3 km east UFI: BA21603904 Tarnup Lake National (ANCA) Approximately 5 km north UFI: BA21603896 west Mt Pleasant View National (ANCA) Approximately 7.0 km west UFI: BA21603911

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No. 1 Swamp Conservation Class Approximately 10 km north UFI: BA216003871 east South Sister Lake National (ANCA) Approximately 9.0 km west UFI: BA21603901 North Sister Lake National (ANCA) Approximately 9.8 km north UFI: BA21603882 west White Lake National (ANCA) Approximately 10 km north UFI: BA21603884 west

4.9.1 Potential impacts The proposed works may cause disturbance or interruption to the natural drainage and surface run-off patterns and may result in run-off to watercourses that could lead to contamination or sedimentation of downstream aquatic ecosystems. However, the proposed works are not expected to significantly alter the hydrological regime, given appropriate drainage design. Potential impacts to hydrology include: y Groundwater – GHD understands there is no dewatering, or requirement to construct bores for construction water. Furthermore, the hydrological regime (drainage patterns) will be maintained. Hence, there is no expectation that groundwater level will be impacted. Should dewatering or bores be required permits will be required from the Department of Water for installation of bores and groundwater abstraction. y Surface Water – there is one minor drainage line and a dampland located within the Project Area. It is expected that the relocated highway will utilise similar drainage features (drains along the side of the highway and culverts at watercourses) as the existing highway. Observations during site visits show that there is no erosion present. It is expected that the surface water hydrology can be maintained in its current regime with appropriate drainage design. y Erosion/sedimentation: during the construction phase and until revegetation has achieved a stable landform there is the potential for erosion and sedimentation. This is likely to be more pronounced along drainage lines. y Pollution impacts associated with construction phase: the storage and handling of chemicals and hydrocarbons will require management to prevent pollution of watercourses. y Operational phase: pollution from road runoff into the environment. This is unlikely to be greater that current conditions and minor during normal road use.

It is expected that the potential impacts to hydrology can be adequately managed to maintain existing environmental conditions.

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4.10 Heritage (non-indigenous)

A search of the Western Australian State Heritage Office Inherit database has indicated that there are no known sites of heritage significance within the vicinity of the Project Area (GoWA 2014a). The only site listed on the database is Hassell National Park which is listed as an indicative Place on the Register of National Estate (see Section 4.1). There are no impacts on non-indigenous heritage aspects predicted, other than those previously discussed for Hassell National Park.

4.11 Aboriginal heritage A search of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs’ (DAA’s) Aboriginal Heritage Inquiry System did not identify any known Registered sites of Aboriginal heritage significance within the Project Area. However, one ‘Other Heritage Place’ occurs within the Project Area, being the Moojarr (Christmas trees) along South Coast Highway. This site has been lodged and is regarded as a mythological site. An additional, four ‘Registered Heritage Places’ and five ‘Other Heritage Places’ were identified within 10 km of the Project Area. These have been mapped at Figure 6 (Appendix A) and detailed in Table 8. Goode (2014) and Goode and Greenfield (2008) completed Aboriginal heritage surveys of the Project Area. Consultations were held on 9 June 2014 with six representatives of the Wagyl Kaip WC98/70 and Southern Noongar WC96/109 native title claim groups. Resulting from this consultation no new ethnographic sites of significance as defined by section 5 of the AHA were identified to be located in the proposed Project Area. In relation to heritage Place ID 26296 the Noongar community confirmed the cultural significance of the Moodjar trees and described them as a natural feature that is associated with religious beliefs in relation to the path taken by ancestral spirits to Koorannup (Bates 1985: 222, 224). Despite accepting that this heritage place would unlikely qualify as an Aboriginal site under section 5b of the AHA, due to these trees not being marked as special as opposed to the species, the Noongar community acknowledged that Main Roads updated plans would respect their religious beliefs and avoid affecting the previously identified Moodjar trees located at the intersection of South Coast Highway (SLK 45.54) and Cheyne Beach Road. Mr Paul Greenfeld (Archaeologist) conducted an archaeological inspection of the Project Area on 16 July 2014. Resulting from this inspection no archaeological material was located in the area of the proposed realignment. The vegetation was noted to be thick and visibility overall was poor. Apart from gravel and coffee rock there were no other types of rock sighted that could be used for quarrying or flaking. Mr Greenfeld advised that some potential did exist for sub-surface material to be uncovered in the clearing; however he considered the risk of a breach of the AHA to be low. Table 8 Aboriginal heritage sites recorded within 10 km Project Area, and within 10 km of the Project Area.

Name and Site ID Status Access Type Location Moojarr (Christmas Lodged Open, no Mythological Located at the intersection Trees) South Coast gender with Cheyne Beach Road and Highway restrictions South Coast Highway. Manypeaks Site 1 Project avoids this site (mythological). (Site ID 26296)

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Archaeological Site Lodged Open, no Artefacts / 2 km north east. 1 – Manypeaks gender Scatter (stone artefact restrictions scatter) (Site ID 26295). Waychinicup River Lodged Open, no Artefacts / Approximately 1.7 km south of Archaelogical site gender Scatter the Project Area near Cheyne (artefacts/scatter). restrictions Beach Road. (Site ID 26795) Lake Pleasant Registered Open, no Artefacts / Approximately 6 km south west View gender Scatter of the southern end of the (Site ID 5116) restrictions Project Area Lake Pleasant Registered Open, no Historical Approximately 6 km south west View Reserve gender (Site ID 17229) restrictions Lake Pleasant Stored Open, no Approximately 6 km south west View Dune (Site ID gender 21520) restrictions Lake Pleasant Registered Open, no Artefacts / Approximately 6 km south west View East gender Scatter (Site ID 4419) restrictions Lake Pleasant Registered Open, no Rockshelter Approximately 6 km south west View Turtle Site gender (Site ID 17698) restrictions Manypeaks Stored Open, no Approximately 6 km south west Termite Mound gender (Site ID 17262) restrictions Yoolberup (Site ID Insufficient Closed, no Ceremonial, Approximately 4.3 km south of 17474) information gender mythological the southern end of the Project restrictions Area. The Project Area is located within two Native Title Claims: y Southern Noongar: Date lodged: 18/11/1996, Status: Active, Registration status: Accepted for registration, Representative: SW Aboriginal Land and Sea Council Aboriginal Corporation y Wagyl Kaip: Date lodged: 29/091998, Status: Active, Registration status: Accepted for registration, Representative: SW Aboriginal Land and Sea Council Aboriginal Corporation

4.11.1 Potential impacts The Project does not impact on any known heritage sites, however there is potential for sub- surface material to be uncovered in the clearing.

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4.12 Construction Phase Potential Impacts

A range of impacts requiring consideration and management during the Project’s construction phase are predicted or possible. These include: y Noise and vibration y Dust production y Fire y Pollution through the use of fuels, chemicals or from general construction litter y Traffic management requirements These impacts are expected to be short term (approximately 15-18 months) and are likely to be limited to the construction site and its near surroundings, including the local road system. The management of these impacts should include the following consideration and general actions where appropriate. Management of these issues should be clearly defined through the preparation and implementation of a CEMP for the Project.

4.12.1 Noise and vibration Construction noise will occur due to earth works, road rehabilitation works and vehicle movement within the Project Area. Management of these issues should be clearly outlined in a CEMP for the Project.

4.12.2 Dust emissions Dust is likely to result from road construction and materials cartage operations, with impacts expected to be localised to the Project Area and transport routes. Dust emissions may result from construction activities, particularly during summer. Dust can impact the amenity of local residents and regional air quality. Dust emissions may result from traffic movement, earth moving, operation of vehicles and plant equipment, excavation, vegetation clearing and stockpiled materials. These emissions are typically short term impacts during construction, and should be managed through a CEMP.

4.12.3 Fire Fire can pose a threat to human life, property and livestock as well as flora and fauna. The vegetation within the Project Area is considered to be susceptible to fire. Sufficient time is required between fires to allow plants to mature and produce seed and suitable conditions are need for seed germination and establishment. Construction activities should give consideration to fire risk activities and where relevant incorporated into a CEMP.

4.12.4 Waste, litter and hazardous materials There is a minor risk that the construction works will create temporary or localised pollution/contamination as a result of fuel or chemical spills or mismanagement of construction materials. Construction works are likely to generate general waste, construction wastes and waste from decommissioning of the current highway. Poor management of waste materials may lead to litter or contamination of the Project Area and surrounds. This in turn may impact on the aesthetics of the area (e.g. visual amenity) and the health of terrestrial ecosystems.

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Hazardous materials, including hydrocarbons, will be used during construction. Spills and discharges of these hazardous materials may result in small scale contamination of soil, or may result in contamination of adjacent land. Consequently, hazardous materials will require management during construction. This should be managed through the following general actions: y Any bulk fuel and oil stores should be bunded and managed in accordance with relevant Australian Standards

y If vehicle or machinery servicing is to occur on site, it should occur in designated servicing areas which are supplied with adequate spill trays and spill response equipment y All litter and construction waste should be contained in lidded bins and removed regularly to an approved waste refuge facility Management of these issues should be clearly outlined in a CEMP for the Project.

4.12.5 Traffic management requirements Increased traffic volumes arising from the movement of construction and transport vehicles may result in some localised short-term adverse impacts on local and regional traffic movements. The following potential impacts have been identified: y Injury to road users due to construction vehicles operating at the sites y Potential damage to roads and spillage of carted materials, particularly sand

y Altered public access Although there is no obvious environmental need for a traffic management plan during construction, this may be required from a road user safety perspective.

4.12.6 Visual amenity The Project is located on the South Coast Highway and intersection with Cheynes Beach Road. This is a tourist route for travellers visiting the nearby Cheynes Beach and Waychinicup National Park. The proposed works will be visible from the existing road. There are no residences or tourist sites (rest points, camp grounds etc) that overlook the Project. The proposed works will result in minor and short-term visual impacts during construction. General housekeeping within the construction site will reduce these visual amenity impacts.

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5. Environmental Management

The following section outlines environmental management measures developed for the Project following assessment of potential environmental impacts. The aim of environmental management is to minimise the environmental impacts associated with the proposed works as well as to identify areas of responsibilities required for the implementation of management strategies. The Project is expected to be delivered through a construction contract. Roadworks should be conducted in line with Main Roads Specification and environmental management measures outlined in a CEMP. The environmental management measures listed in the following section should form the basis for these Plans.

5.1 Key environmental factors The key environmental factors for the proposed Project were identified through the desktop and field investigations. The relevant environmental factors identified during this process and addressed in this EIA include: y Hassell National Park

y Flora and vegetation y Terrestrial fauna y Dieback and weeds

y Aboriginal heritage – it should be noted that although discussed in this EIA heritage will be assessed and managed separately under the AH Act. Other environmental factors have been identified as requiring less detailed assessment as they pose a lower risk and can be readily managed through Main Roads procedures and adherence to regulations. These factors include: y Dust, noise and vibration

y Waste and hydrocarbon management y Water y ASS and contaminated sites

y Fire y Amenity

5.2 Design environmental management

To minimise the potential environmental impacts of the Project the following recommendations for design should be implemented: Vegetation clearing y Design the project to minimise clearing, this will include utilising previously disturbed areas y Clearing should be kept to the minimum necessary to safely construct and operate the highway Drainage

y Design and implement road drainage to maintain existing surface water flows

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y Ensure road drainage design incorporates erosion control and sediment management requirements

5.3 Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) The contractor should prepare a CEMP that will detail mitigation measures, key performance indicators (KPIs), responsible parties and contingency measures for environmental management throughout the construction phase and until practical completion is achieved. The CEMP should include the following components as a minimum.

5.3.1 General environmental management procedures

Communication Plan Environmental issues specific to the project should be communicated as follows: y Outline the internal and external communication protocols, this will include the requirement for environmental training and inductions, regulator consultation, broader community consultation and communication pathways

y A complaints register shall be maintained by the contractor. All complaints received shall be forwarded to the Main Roads’ Project Manager for action. Serious complaints shall be investigated within 24 hours of the complaint being received

Record keeping Ensure standard record keeping requirements are completed within 3 months of completion of the project activities.

Monitoring A monitoring schedule should be developed throughout the construction phase and until practical completion. The aim of monitoring will be to identify any areas that are not achieving KPIs and implement contingency plans (where necessary).

Contingency Measures Contingency measures should be developed that document the actions to be undertaken where monitoring/audits or non-compliance with the CEMP be identified.

5.3.2 Flora and fauna management - general During construction, mitigation measures should be implemented to reduce impacts to native vegetation, fauna habitats and fauna species. These may include, but not be limited to, the following measures: y Demarcate all native vegetation and fauna habitats to be retained (i.e. pegging), so that “No Go” zones are clearly delineated and noted by construction workers, and any accidental loss of vegetation is avoided. y Induct all staff and contractors regarding biodiversity constraints, particularly the presence of conservation significant species, and required actions regarding biodiversity values.

y Do not permit site personnel to bring firearms, other weapons or pets on site. y If possible clearing operations to avoid peak breeding times of threatened species. y If any native fauna is disturbed during clearing it should be allowed to make its own way to adjacent vegetated areas.

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y One week prior to clearing operations, a suitably experienced and licenced “fauna spotter” should be employed to inspect the Project Area. Prior to the commencement of clearing, the area should be searched for fauna and any fauna relocated into the neighbouring vegetation. Searches should include ground searches for fauna, tree inspections, including the use of a cherry picker if required, with the purpose to remove any birds (including eggs) from the trees The “fauna spotter” will be present during all clearing works. y It is not expected that trenching will be required for the Project. Should trenches be constructed they will be inspected by the “fauna spotter” on a regular basis (dawn, midday and prior to sunset). If trenches are left open overnight ramps will be constructed to permit fauna to escape. y Any injured it should be taken to a designated veterinary clinic or a DPaW nominated wildlife carer.

5.3.3 Dust, noise and vibration management There are no sensitive receptors in close proximity (within 200 m) of the Project Area. Dust, noise and vibration management will comply with regulatory requirements and respond to complaints by the public/agencies or land-owners. Dust: y Clear vegetation only when necessary and treat areas requiring soil stabilisation as soon as practicable. y Surface watering, spreading of hydromulch or similar will be used to protect loose surfaces or cleared areas. y Apply dust suppression techniques to sealed roads on or near the project site that are affected by excessive dust. y Water tankers will be made available to dampen exposed surfaces within construction and laydown areas, particularly during ground disturbing activities. y Minimise or cease project activities during periods of high wind or when excessive dust is generated. y Inform nearby sensitive receptors including adjoining communities of activities that may cause excessive dust and respond quickly to complaints by community members. y Apply water, road sweeping and signage for suitable speed limits will be used during vehicle movement. Noise and vibration y Ensure compliance with all applicable statutory requirements. y Limit construction activity to normal business hours and liaise with the local Shire if construction activities are required outside of these hours. y Communicate the need to undertake out of hour’s project activities to the community, if necessary. y Adopt construction techniques that will minimise vibration impacts within nearby sensitive receptors, particularly for compaction operations. y Undertake compaction operations during normal business hours and maximise separation distances between vibration inducing activities and nearby sensitive receptors.

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 27

5.3.4 Waste and hydrocarbon management The contractor should be responsible for the appropriate storage, management and disposal of waste and hazardous materials. This should include: Pollution and litter y All waste materials from the Project Area will be removed from the site upon completion of the project and to the satisfaction of the Project Manager or Site Superintendent.

y Construction waste and other rubbish will be contained in bins with lids (where practicable) and removed regularly. Hazardous materials

y Bulk fuel and hazardous material storage areas will be bunded and managed in compliance with applicable Australian Standards. y Regular vehicle servicing will be undertaken at designated areas, at least 100 m away from watercourses. y Site personnel shall be trained in the use of emergency Fire suppressant equipment. y Spill trays and spill response equipment will be available near fuel storage or refuelling areas. y All hazardous material spills will be reported according to statutory requirements. y Hazardous materials will be disposed of at an approved and certified facility.

y Temporary storage of bitumen, asphalt, concrete or aggregate shall occur at designated depots or controlled hardstands located within the Project Area. y Pre-coating of aggregate will only occur in approved and designated areas.

y All chemicals on site will be stored in suitable containers or tanks in accordance with their MSDS.

5.3.5 Water management The mitigation measures that should be implemented for water management include: y Vegetation removal and soil disturbance will be minimised, where practicable.

y Disturbed areas will be stabilised soon after construction activities are completed. y Existing natural drainage paths and channels along the road or the vicinity of the Project Area will not be unnecessarily blocked or restricted during project construction.

y Vehicle and equipment wash down areas will be located away from environmentally sensitive areas. y All spills will be contained immediately and removed within 24 hours to minimise the potential for contaminants to enter groundwater. y No on-site storage of fuel, oils and other contaminant materials will be permitted within 100 m of a watercourse or wetland.

5.3.6 Acid sulfate soils The risk of ASS soils is considered low, if any suspected ASS is uncovered the material will be tested, treated and management actions implemented.

28 | GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004

5.3.7 Contaminated sites If any suspected contaminated material is encountered during construction, works should cease in the area and the site Superintendent/Environment Officer be contacted for advice. Management measures for the safe treatment/disposal of the contamination should then be implemented.

5.3.8 Fire Fire is a risk to the Project Area and adjacent national parks and private land holdings. The following management measures should be implemented during construction: y No fires shall be lit within the Project Area. y Machinery will be fitted with approved spark arresting exhaust systems. y All vehicles, plant and equipment to be fitted with fire extinguishers and restricted and to designated cleared areas. y A water tanker/fire fighter unit will be on site at all times during project construction and personnel trained in their use. y All hot works will be undertaken in accordance with standard safety procedures y Construction personnel will extinguish and report fires occurring within the Project Area.

5.3.9 Traffic A Traffic Management Plan should be developed as part of the CEMP. This should include: y The use of appropriate personal safety and traffic management signs. y Advance notification of construction activities, particularly to local residents. y Any significant amounts of material spilled from construction vehicles should be cleaned up on occurrence.

5.3.10 Visual amenity The Project Area is visible from the current highway and Cheynes Beach Road, visual amenity should be managed through: y Stockpiles and other materials will be stored in designated areas and kept in a neat and tidy condition at all times. y The duration of ground disturbing activities will be limited as far as practicable.

5.4 Revegetation Management Plan

The construction contractor should also prepare a Revegetation Management Plan for the Project, which addresses revegetation of the following areas: y Any disturbed areas that are no longer needed for ongoing operation of the highway y The current highway that will be decommissioned The Revegetation Management Plan should be prepared in accordance with the following: y revegetate/rehabilitate areas cleared for temporary purposes. Revegetation will be undertaken in accordance with Main Roads’ ‘Guideline Revegetation Planning and Techniques’. y Topsoil management during the roadworks is important to optimise resource use and to minimise the risk of transporting weeds and/or dieback. A Topsoil Management Plan

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 29

should be prepared by Main Roads for the Project and detail the use and movement of in- situ topsoil during roadworks. y Revegetation of cleared areas and the current highway using local “provenance” native seed and / or seedlings. Opportunities to provide some ground dwelling fauna habitat should also be considered such as replacement of cleared logs surrounding areas. The aim of revegetation should be to achieve a stable, self-sustaining landform that has similar density and species diversity to the surrounding environment.

5.5 Dieback Management Plan A Dieback Management Plan should be prepared prior to the commencement of Project works, which includes the following requirements: y Prior to any ground disturbing activities commencing a dieback assessment and mapping should be completed. This assessment will show the current extent of dieback. y Hygiene management measures to prevent the introduction and spread of dieback within the Project Area and adjacent bushland y The location of wash-down areas and methods y Monitoring and compliance assessments and reporting during and post construction

The Dieback Management Plan should be developed in consultation and agreement with DPaW.

5.6 Indigenous heritage management

Goode (2014) provides the following recommendations for indigenous heritage management: y Main Roads respect the Noongar community’s religious beliefs and avoid all Moodjar trees at Cheyne Beach Road identified to be a culturally significant natural feature associated with religious beliefs. Should this not be possible then it is further recommended that Main Roads will need to seek an assessment of the status of this previously reported heritage Place ID 26296 Moodjar (Christmas Trees) South Coast Highway Manypeaks Site 1 from the DAA to clarify if any approvals are required in order to proceed without risk of a breach of section 17 of the AHA.

y It was further advised during the survey by the Noongar consultants that it would be appropriate for Noongar to be engaged to monitor all ground disturbing works for the project in order to make sure sub-surface archaeological material is identified if it is unearthed (see Greenfeld 2008). It was advised that the South Coast Highway was in need of upgrading due to safety issues and that the project should proceed with the above issues being addressed prior to works commencing.

Other measures to be implemented should include: y Ensure on-site construction personnel are aware of the location of all Aboriginal heritage sites on site and the requirement to avoid impacting them.

y Clearly demarcate the boundaries of heritage sites where the possibility of site disturbance may occur. y In the event that human skeletal material is discovered, work will cease immediately and the Police contacted. If the skeletal remains are determined to be of Aboriginal origin, the Department of Aboriginal Affairs will be contacted as soon as practicable.

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y In the event that artefacts or material of Aboriginal origin is discovered, work will cease within 25 metres of the material and a qualified archaeologist will investigate the item(s) and take appropriate actions (i.e. contact DAA). Liquid spills, stormwater and runoff materials will be managed to ensure project activities and drainage do not adversely affect heritage sites or any wetland or water body including creeks, springs, swamps and soaks.

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 31

6. Residual Environmental Impacts and Offsets

6.1 Environmental Impact Assessment

The impact assessment considered the potential impact, its duration and magnitude and the residual impact post mitigation. The following categories were applied: y Low Risk Impacts: those considered to be temporary and/or not significantly different to existing site conditions and that can be appropriately managed to prevent long term environmental impacts. These impacts are unlikely to need to be offset.

y Medium Risk Impacts: those aspects that have the potential to have significant environmental impacts should management measures not be sufficient. Depending on the level of mitigation and management, these impacts may require offsets.

y High Risk Impacts: those aspects that result in a significant impact to the environment that cannot be mitigated. These impacts may still be acceptable, but will most likely require an offset for residual environmental impacts.

As shown in Table 9, many of the aspects assessed are considered to be minor risks once management is applied. Table 9 Risk Assessment

Aspect Discussion

Low Risk Impacts

Physical Environment These aspects are considered to be temporary and/or will (Landform, land capability and not be substantially different from existing site conditions. It salinity, ASS) is expected that they can be appropriately managed during the construction phase to prevent environmental harm. Surrounding Land-use

Construction Phase Impacts (noise, dust, fire, pollution, waste, traffic, visual)

Air Quality

Contaminated sites

Hydrology

Heritage (non-indigenous)

Medium Risk Impacts

Dieback Potential to significantly impact adjacent bushland, including national parks, if not managed appropriately during the construction phase.

Aboriginal Heritage Require management and ongoing liaison indigenous groups during the construction phase to avoid impacts to the known

32 | GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004

Christmas tree site and other (unknown) sites if uncovered.

Hassell National Park The Project requires the excision of 6.11 ha of Hassell National Park. Other than the Excision Area it is unlikely that the remainder of Hassell National Park will be impacted by the Project.

High Risk Impacts

Vegetation The Project will result in the permanent loss of native vegetation, including the Federal Kwogkan TEC and priority flora species.

Fauna The Project will result in the permanent loss of native vegetation that provides a wildlife corridor and fauna habitat, including foraging habitat for the conservation significant Black Cockatoo.

6.2 Residual Environmental Impacts Residual environmental impacts are those impacts that remain after mitigation measures have been applied. The potential residual environmental impacts for this Project are: y The loss of 4.67 ha of native vegetation and fauna habitat, including: – 4.49 ha of Kwongkan TEC – 4.27 ha of Black Cockatoo foraging habitat y The loss of priority flora species known to occur in the Project Area y The excision of 6.11 ha and clearing of 1.32 ha of native vegetation within Hassell National Park

6.3 Offsets Offsets are actions to address significant residual environmental impacts of a development or activity. Wherever possible, a ‘like for like’ approach should be taken, such that the offset measure should target the specific environmental value being impacted by the proposed action. Proponents increasingly have to plan for and provide offsets during approvals for new and existing projects. The offset is required to be a mix of direct and indirect offsets, that should aim to achieve net environmental benefits being provided for different aspects of the environment in the same location. This assessment has identified the need to consider the provision of an environmental offset for potential significant environmental impacts after efforts to avoid, minimise and reduce impacts have been applied. The values to be offset include: y The loss of 6.11 ha of Hassell National Park y The clearing of 4.49 ha of TEC y The clearing of 4.27 ha of potential black cockatoo habitat

It is understood Main Roads will prepare an offset management plan to address these residual environmental impacts. The offset package will be determined and agreed between Main Roads and relevant government agencies including DPaW, DotE and the Conservation Commission.

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 33

7. Conclusion

This EIA has identified the environmental aspects that will potentially be impacted by the Project through desktop and field investigations. The environmental assessment considered that many of the environmental aspects are low risk and can be appropriately managed through a CEMP to prevent environmental harm. This includes the physical environment (landform, land capability and salinity, ASS), construction phase impacts (noise, dust, fire, pollution, waste, visual), surrounding land-use, air quality, hydrology, contaminated sites and heritage (non- indigenous). The key environmental aspects that have the potential to cause or cause significant environmental impacts (medium and high risk aspects) are: y Dieback: Potential to significantly impact adjacent bushland, including national parks, if not managed appropriately during the construction phase. y Aboriginal Heritage: Require management and ongoing liaison indigenous groups during the construction phase to avoid impacts to the known Christmas tree site and other (unknown) sites if uncovered. y Hassell National Park: the Project requires the excision of 6.118 ha of Hassell National Park. y Vegetation: The project will result in the permanent loss of native vegetation, including the Federal Kwogkan TEC and priority flora species.

y Fauna: The Project will result in the permanent loss of native vegetation that provides a wildlife corridor and fauna habitat fauna, including foraging habitat for the conservation significant Black Cockatoo.

It is considered that the Project will require environmental offsets to address residual environmental impacts on vegetation and fauna. Given the implementation of these offsets combined with other management recommendations the Project is unlikely to result in long-term significant impacts to the environment.

34 | GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004

8. References

Australian Soil Resource Information System (ASRIS) 2014, Australian Soil Resource Information Viewer, retrieved October 2014, from http://www.asris.csiro.au/index_ie.html. Beard, JS, 1979 Vegetation Survey of Western Australia: the Vegetation of the Albany and Mount Barker Area Western Australia: Map and Explanatory Memoir 1:250,000 series, Perth: Vegmap Publications. Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) (2014) Climate Data Online. Retrieved August, 2014, from http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/data/index.shtml Department of Aboriginal Affairs (DAA) 2014, Aboriginal Heritage Inquiry System, retrieved April 2014, from http://maps.dia.wa.gov.au/AHIS2/default.aspx. Department of Agriculture and Food WA (DAFWA) 2014a, WetlandBase: The Western Australian Wetlands Database, retrieved April 2014, from http://spatial.agric.wa.gov.au/wetlands/framesetup.asp. Department of Agriculture and Food WA (DAFWA) 2014b, NRM SLIP Mapping retrieved October 2014, from http://maps.agric.wa.gov.au/nrminfo/framesetup.asp Department of Conservation and Land Management 1991, South Coast Region Regional Management Plan number 24 (1992–2002), Perth, Department of Conservation and Land Management. Department of Environment Regulation (DER) 2014a, Contaminated Sites Database, retrieved July 2014, from https://secure.dec.wa.gov.au/idelve/css/. Department of Environment Regulation (DER) 2014b, Native Vegetation Map Viewer, retrieved July 2014, from http://maps.dec.wa.gov.au/idelve/nv/index.jsp. Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) 2007–, NatureMap: Mapping Western Australia's Biodiversity, 2014, from http://NatureMap.dec.wa.gov.au/.

Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) 2013, Reserve Assessment Report – Proposed excision from Hassel Natiola Park for road re-alignment of South Coast Highway. Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) 2014. South Coast Significant Wetlands Dataset. Downloaded from GoWA (2014b). Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) (2012). Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 referral guidelines for three threatened black cockatoo species. Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. Australian Government Canberra Department of the Environment (DotE) 2014a, Protected Matters Search Tool Results, retrieved October 2014, from http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/pmst/index.html. Department of the Environment (DotE) 2014b Approved Conservation Advice for Proteaceae Dominated Kwongkan Shrublands of the southeast coastal floristic province of Western Australia. Retrieved May 2014, from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/communities/pubs/126- conservation-advice.pdf Department of Water (DoW) 2014, Geographic Data Atlas. Retrieved July 2014 from, http://www.water.wa.gov.au/idelve/dowdataext/index.jsp

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 35

Environmental Protection Authority 2004a, Guidance Statement No. 51: Terrestrial Flora and Vegetation Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia. Perth: EPA. Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) 2004b, ‘Guidance Statement No. 56, Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors: Terrestrial Fauna Surveys for Environmental Impact Assessment in Western Australia’, Perth, Environmental Protection Authority. EPA 2006. Guidance for the Assessment of Environmental Factors (in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act 1986): Level of Assessment for Proposals Affecting Natural Areas within the System 6 Region and Swan Coastal Plain Portion of the System 1 Region. No 10.

GHD 2014. Cheynes Beach East; Flora and Fauna Assessment. Unpublished report prepared for Main Road Western Australia. Goode, G. 2014. An Addendum Report of an Aboriginal Heritage Survey of the Proposed South Coast Highway Realignments Manypeaks Western Australia Goode, B and Greenfield, P 2008. An Aboriginal Heritage Survey of the Proposed South Coast Highway Realignments: Manypeaks Western Australia. A report prepared for Maunsell Australia on behalf of Main Roads. Government of Western Australia (GoWA) 2013, 2013 Statewide Vegetation Statistics incorporating the CAR Reserve Analysis (Full Report), Current as of June 2013, WA Department of Parks and Wildlife, Perth, retrieved September 2014, from https://www2.landgate.wa.gov.au/web/guest/downloader. Government of Western Australia (GoWA) 2014a, Heritage Council InHerit database, retrieved July 2014, from http://inherit.stateheritage.wa.gov.au. Government of Western Australia (GoWA) 2014b, Shared land Information Platform: WA Atlas, retrieved July 2014, from https://www2.landgate.wa.gov.au/bmvf/app/waatlas/.

Groom, C 2011, Plants used by Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo, Department of Environment and Conservation, Perth. Molloy, S., O’Connor, T., Wood, J. and Wallrodt, S. 2007. Addendum for the South West Biodiversity Project Area. South West Biodiversity Project, Western Australian Local Government Association. Molloy, S., Wood, J., Hall, S., Wallrodt, S. and Whisson, G. (2009) South West Regional Ecological Linkages Technical Report, Western Australian Local Government Association and Depart of Environment and Conservation, Perth. Sandiford EM and Barrett S 2010 Albany Regional Vegetation Survey: Extent, type and status A project funded by the Western Australian Planning Commission (EnviroPlanning “Integrating NRM into Land Use Planning: and Sate NRM Program), South Coast Natural Resource Management Inc. and City of Albany for the Department of Environment and Conservation. Unpublished report. Department of Environment and Conservation, Western Australia. Schoknecht N, Tille P and Purdie B, 2004, Soil-landscape mapping in South-western Australia: Resource Management Technical Report 280, Department of Agriculture, Perth, Western Australia. Shepherd, DP, Beeston, GR and Hopkins, AJM 2002, Native Vegetation in Western Australia: Extent, Type and Status, Natural Resource Management Technical Report No. 249: Department of Agriculture.

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Western Australia (WA) Herbarium 1998–, FloraBase–the Western Australian Flora, Department of Parks and Wildlife, retrieved September 2014, from http://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/. Wilkins, P., Gilfi llan, S., Watson, J. and Sanders, A. (ed). 2006. The Western Australian South Coast Macro Corridor Network – a bioregional strategy for nature conservation, Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) and South Coast Regional Initiative Planning Team (SCRIPT), Albany, Western Australia.

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Appendices

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004

Appendix A - Figures

Figure 1 Project Locality Figure 2 Surrounding Landuse and Conservation Areas Figure 3 Vegetation and flora Figure 4 Vegetation condition Figure 5 Hydrological Features Figure 6 Aboriginal Heritage

GHD | Report for Main Roads Western Australia - Cheynes Beach East, 61/31004 | 39 610,000 615,000 620,000

Locality Map BLUFF CREEK RD CORIMUP EAST RD

ALBANY

6,150,000 SOUTHERN OCEAN 6,150,000

SOUTH COAST HWY

MT PLEASANT RD

PFEIFFERRD CHEYNE BEACH RD

CIRCUIT RD 6,145,000 6,145,000

610,000 615,000 620,000

LEGEND Main Roads Western Australia Job Number 61-31004 Paper size : A3 Revision 0 Project Area Cheynes Beach East 0 500 1,000 1,500 Date 11 Nov 2014 Metres Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 o Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 50 Locality Figure 1

G:\61\31004\GIS\Maps\Working\6131004_G006_Rev0.mxd 239 Adelaide Terrace Perth WA 6004 Australia T 61 8 6222 8222 F 61 8 6222 8555 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2014. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, GA and MRWA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: Geoscience Australia: NatMap 250K; MRWA: Road Network - 20120528, Project Area - 20130221. Created by: jbmonteignies 613,000 614,000 615,000 616,000

Albany Local Planning Scheme Hassell National Park Important Regional Road Major Highway No Zone Parks & Recreation Rural 6,148,000 6,148,000

CHEYNE BEACH RD 6,147,000 6,147,000

SOUTH COAST HWY

613,000 614,000 615,000 616,000

LEGEND Main Roads Western Australia Job Number 61-31004 Paper size : A3 Revision 0 Project Area Cheynes Beach East 0 100 200 300 400 500 Managed Lands & Water Date 12 Nov 2014 Metres Excision Area National Park Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 o Environmentally Sensitive Areas Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 50 Land Use & Conservation Areas Figure 2

G:\61\31004\GIS\Maps\Working\6131004_G007_Rev0.mxd 239 Adelaide Terrace Perth WA 6004 Australia T 61 8 6222 8222 F 61 8 6222 8555 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2014. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, Landgate, DPaW, DoP and MRWA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: Landgate: SLIP Virtual Mosaic - 2014; MRWA: Road Network - 20120528, Project Area - 20130221, Excision Area - 20141022; DoP: Albany Local Planning Scheme - 20110525; DPaW: Managed Lands & Water - 20140708, Environmentally Sensitive Areas - 20120605. Created by: jbmonteignies 614,000 616,000

Threatened & Priority Flora (DPaW) # * Threatened *# *# Priority 1 - Poorly Known Taxa *# Priority 2 - Poorly Known Taxa *# Priority 3 - Poorly Known Taxa *# Priority 4 - Rare, Near Threatened Taxa Conservation Significant Flora (GHD) !( Andersonia sp Jamesii P4 (J. Liddelow 84) !( Stylidium daphne P2 !( Gonocarpus trichostachyus P3 !( Stylidium gloeophyllum P4

6,148,000 !( !( 6,148,000 Vegetation Type !(!(!( !(!(!( !(!( Hakea Shrubland !( !( Kunzea / Pericalymma Heath !(

Cleared !( Dampland Melaleuca drainage line Mosaic Hakea Shrubland / Eucalyptus Woodland

!( !(

!(!( *# *# !( !( !( !( !( !(!( !( !( !(!(!( *# !(

!(

!( !( !( !( *# !( !( CHEYNE BEACH RD !( !( *#

SOUTH COAST HWY

614,000 616,000

LEGEND Main Roads Western Australia Job Number 61-31004 Paper size : A3 Project Area *# Cheynes Beach East Revision 0 0 100 200 300 400 *# Date 12 Nov 2014 Hassell National Park Boundary Metres Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 o Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 50 Vegetation & Flora Figure 3

G:\61\31004\GIS\Maps\Working\6131004_G008_Rev0.mxd 239 Adelaide Terrace Perth WA 6004 Australia T 61 8 6222 8222 F 61 8 6222 8555 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2014. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, Landgate, DPaW and MRWA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: Landgate: SLIP Virtual Mosaic - 2014; MRWA: Road Network - 20120528, Project Area - 20130221; DPaW: Managed Lands & Water - 20140708, TPFL / Herbarium - 20140624; GHD: Vegetation Types - 20140930, Conservation Significant Flora - 20140930. Created by: jbmonteignies 614,000 615,000 616,000

Vegetation Condition 1. Pristine or Nearly so 1-2 2. Excellent 2-3 3. Very Good 3-4 4. Good 4-5 5. Degraded 5-6 6. Completely Degraded 6,148,000 6,148,000

CHEYNE BEACH RD

6,147,000 SOUTH COAST HWY 6,147,000

614,000 615,000 616,000

LEGEND Main Roads Western Australia Job Number 61-31004 Paper size : A3 Revision 0 Project Area Cheynes Beach East 0 100 200 300 400 Date 12 Nov 2014 Metres Hassell National Park Boundary Map Projection: Transverse Mercator Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 o Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 50 Vegetation Condition Figure 4

G:\61\31004\GIS\Maps\Working\6131004_G009_Rev0.mxd 239 Adelaide Terrace Perth WA 6004 Australia T 61 8 6222 8222 F 61 8 6222 8555 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com.au © 2014. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD, Landgate, DPaW and MRWA make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason. Data source: Landgate: SLIP Virtual Mosaic - 2014; MRWA: Road Network - 20120528, Project Area - 20130221; DPaW: Managed Lands & Water - 20140708; GHD: Vegetation Condition - 20140930. Created by: jbmonteignies