En Route Radar Replacement Program Indra Australia Pty Ltd 12-Dec-2014 Doc No. 60318570
Environmental Assessment Report
Hann Tablelands Transportable Radar Site
AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Environmental Assessment Report Hann Tablelands Transportable Radar Site
Client: Indra Australia Pty Ltd
ABN: 28 091 92 231
Prepared by
AECOM Australia Pty Ltd Level 8, 540 Wickham Street, PO Box 1307, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia T +61 7 3553 2000 F +61 7 3553 2050 www.aecom com ABN 20 093 846 925
12-Dec-2014
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© AECOM Australia Pty Ltd (AECOM). All rights reserved.
AECOM has prepared this document for the sole use of the Client and for a specific purpose, each as expressly stated in the document. No other party should rely on this document without the prior written consent of AECOM. AECOM undertakes no duty, nor accepts any responsibility, to any third party who may rely upon or use this document. This document has been prepared based on the Client’s description of its requirements and AECOM’s experience, having regard to assumptions that AECOM can reasonably be expected to make in accordance with sound professional principles. AECOM may also have relied upon information provided by the Client and other third parties to prepare this document, some of which may not have been verified. Subject to the above conditions, this document may be transmitted, reproduced or disseminated only in its entirety.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Quality Information
Document Environmental Assessment Report
Ref 60318570
Date 12-Dec-2014
Prepared by Kristina Ihme & Nicole Pedersen
Reviewed by Mark Barnett
Revision History
Authorised Revision Revision Details Date Name/Position Signature
Mark Barnett B 21-Nov-2014 Draft Project Manager
C 12-Dec-2014 Final version to client Mark Barnett Project Manager
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction 1 1.1 Project Background 1 1.2 Objective 1 2.0 Project Description 2 2.1 Location Details 2 2.2 Development Details 2 2.3 Construction, Maintenance and Decommissioning Activities 7 2.3.1 Construction 7 2.3.2 Maintenance 7 2.3.3 Decommissioning 8 3.0 Methodology 9 3.1 Desktop Investigation 9 3.1.1 Review of Databases 9 3.2 Site Inspection 9 3.2.1 First Inspection 9 3.2.2 Second Inspection 10 4.0 Topography and Geology 11 4.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 11 4.2 Recommendations 11 5.0 Soils 12 5.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 12 5.2 Recommendations 12 6.0 Land Contamination 13 6.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 13 6.2 Recommendations 14 7.0 Climate 14 7.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 14 7.2 Recommendations 14 8.0 Air Quality 16 8.1 Existing Environment 16 8.2 Recommendations 16 9.0 Water Resources 17 9.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 17 9.2 Recommendations 19 10.0 Waste 19 10.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 19 10.2 Recommendations 20 11.0 Sensitive Environmental Areas 22 11.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 22 11.1.1 Mining Activities 22 11.1.2 Conservation Areas 22 11.1.3 Threatened Ecological Communities 22 11.2 Recommendations 22 12.0 Flora 23 12.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 23 12.1.1 Threatened Ecological Communities 23 12.1.2 Vegetation Communities 23 12.1.3 EVNT Flora Species 24 12.1.4 Weeds 24 12.2 Recommendations 25 12.2.1 Vegetation Clearing and Pruning 25 12.2.2 Weeds 26 Pre-Construction 26 During Construction 26 Post Construction 26
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13.0 Fauna 27 13.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 27 13.1.1 Habitat 27 13.1.2 EVNT Species 27 13.1.3 Least Concern and Common Species 28 13.1.4 Pest Species 28 13.2 Recommendations 28 14.0 Bushfire 30 14.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 30 14.2 Recommendations 31 14.2.1 Planning 31 14.2.2 Construction 32 14.2.3 Operation and Maintenance 32 15.0 Noise 33 15.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 33 15.2 Recommendations 33 16.0 Landscape Character 33 16.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 33 16.2 Recommendations 33 17.0 Non Indigenous Cultural heritage 34 17.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 34 17.2 Recommendations 34 18.0 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage 35 18.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 35 18.2 Recommendations 36 19.0 Approvals and Conditions 37 19.1 Commonwealth Legislation 37 19.2 State Legislation and Permit Requirements 37 19.3 Local Government Planning 41 20.0 Summary 42 21.0 References 44 Appendix A Vegetation Management Act 1999 Mapping A Appendix B Nature Conservation Act 1992, WildNet Search Results B Appendix C EPBC Act 1999, Protected Matters Search Tool Results C Appendix D Flora and Fauna Desktop Assessment Tables D Appendix E Desktop Searches F Appendix F Significant Impact Assessment G
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1.0 Introduction
1.1 Project Background AECOM Australia Pty Ltd (AECOM) has been engaged by Indra Australia Pty Ltd (Indra) to undertake an Environmental Assessment Report (EAR) for the proposed Hann Tableland transportable radar site. Airservices Australia (Airservices) has awarded Indra the En Route Radar Replacement Program (ERRP) contract for modernisation of the existing radar surveillance stations network. This radar surveillance network assists en route navigation for aircraft operating in the high level airspace on significant aviation routes. The ERRP will ultimately replace ageing en route surveillance radars located around Australia and is scheduled to be completed by 2016. The replacement of en route radars at each of the 11 sites will be supported by the temporary use of transportable radars. Transportable radars are intended to be deployed in support of existing en route radar, where required during this upgrade. The Hann Tableland transportable radar will provide navigational service to the region whilst the existing radar site is offline. Construction of the Hann Tableland transportable radar is proposed to commence in March/April 2015, with the radar being commissioned in September 2015. The transportable site will remain operational until the upgrade of the existing radar sites are completed, at which time the transportable site will be decommissioned and dismantled.
1.2 Objective The objective of this EAR is to describe the environmental values of the proposed radar site and other areas proposed to be disturbed by ERRP activities. The scope of this EAR has previously been established in Appendix A of the ERRP Environmental Survey Review and Approval Guidance document (Airservices, March 2013) and is summarised as follows: - Desktop review of relevant databases - Undertaking of a preliminary site survey to locate and identify any environmental values that may be impacted by the development - Preparation of an EAR and associated mapping to: Describe environmental values on site Assess the potential environmental impacts associated with development of the transportable radar site Provide recommendations, for consideration by Indra and Airservices Identify permits and approvals that may be required for the development to proceed. Two tree height surveys have been conducted as part of the site survey works. The results of these tree height surveys have been reported in accordance with the requirements of Appendix B, ERRP Environmental Survey Review and Approval Guidance document (Airservices, March 2013). Documented findings of the tree height surveys are presented in the Environmental Impact Assessment (AECOM, 2014). This document has been structured in such a way as to identify possible environmental impacts from this project, with the intention of providing direction to the detailed design of the development and preparation of the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).
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2.0 Project Description
2.1 Location Details The proposed Hann Tableland transportable radar site is located at 160 54’ 53.64’’ S, 1450 15’ 5.04’’ E, approximately 55 km west of Cairns and 20 km north west of Mareeba (Figure 3). The transportable radar is proposed to be located on Lot 170 CP887723, Tyrconnell Road, Glen Russell, Mareeba Shire. The existing Hann Tableland radar site is situated approximately 90 m south east of the proposed transportable radar site, on Lot 141 DA457. In addition the existing Ergon Energy Hann Tableland Communications site, is situated approximately 165 m south south east from the proposed transportable radar site on Lot 140 DA458. The existing site monitor for the Hann Tableland fixed radar is positioned at 160 55’ 0.70’’ S, 1450 24’ 53.68’’ E in Bibooh, approximately 8 km north of Mareeba. This same site monitor location will be used for the new transportable radar.
2.2 Development Details The transportable radar would be wholly situated within a compound as small as 16 m x 16 m, with a corresponding access track of approximate length 15 m (nominal width is 5 m). This footprint of works will be confirmed through the detailed design process. Infrastructure requirements for the transportable radar are expected to include: - In the radar compound: Compound pad (gravelled) and fencing Radar tower, 14.6 m in height (12 m radar tower and 2.6 m to the base of the radar)1 Radar shelter (3 x 4 m container). - 15 m long (approximate) access track (minimum width of 5 m), leading to the front gate of the radar compound, from the existing access road - Office and amenities container (temporarily on site for construction) - Satellite dish - 80 kVA diesel genset, housed in a container, with day tanks, as backup power supply - A 900L double skinned and bunded diesel fuel tank - Storage shed for maintenance materials, lubricants and oils - Three-phase power will be extended to the radar site. For the purpose of this EAR, it has been assumed that power will be extended to the transportable site as overhead lines from the existing Hann Tableland radar site, in parallel to the new access track - Dedicated parking area for light vehicles - Provision of communications for the new radar site, via microwave link with the existing Hann Tableland radar site. Concrete footings will be required for all the containers, generators and the fuel tank. The compound will be surrounded by a standard 2.5 m high chain-link mesh fence to prevent unauthorized access.
1 The dimensions of the radar tower are subject to change through the detailed design process in order to minimise the extent of clearing to surrounding canopy trees and, subsequently, reduce construction costs.
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Initial plans are to have a new length of access track established to provide vehicular access to the radar site from the existing access road. The exact alignment of this access track is yet to be finalised. However, it is anticipated that the track will be approximately 15 m in length and 5 m in width. It may be constructed to a standard suitable for 2WD vehicles to access the transportable radar site. Vegetation clearing may be required to establish the following: - Fenced radar compound - Fire breaks (if deemed necessary) - Access track - Swing movement of a heavy lift crane (if deemed necessary) - Vehicle turn-around areas - Laydown areas - Site office - Power to the transportable radar tower. In addition to the above-mentioned clearing, pruning or felling of taller trees within 500 m of the radar tower may also be required to minimise radar signal interference. Figure 1 and Figure 2 provide an appreciation for the typical elevation of infrastructure across a transportable radar site, based on the finalised design for the Princhester transportable radar. Note that the configuration of equipment shown in these figures will not necessarily be used for the Hann Tableland transportable site. These figures are presented to provide an appreciation for the scale of equipment, relative to each other.
Figure 1 Typical eastern elevation for a transportable radar site. Note that this configuration of equipment will not necessarily be used for the Hann Tableland transportable site. This figure is presented to provide an appreciation for the scale of equipment, relative to each other.
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Figure 2 Typical southern elevation for a transportable radar site. Note that this configuration of equipment will not necessarily be used for the Hann Tableland transportable site. This figure is presented to provide an appreciation for the scale of equipment, relative to each other.
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2.3 Construction, Maintenance and Decommissioning Activities 2.3.1 Construction Activities required to establish the Hann Tableland transportable radar site are expected to be as follows: Access Road Maintenance - Filling in of pot holes (as required) - Pruning back of overhanging vegetation. Civil Works - Geotechnical testing - Clearing, grubbing and excavation for the site and access track, including lay down, turnaround and temporary site office areas - Access track preparation including some drainage and road repair related earthworks to allow access to the site - General grading to clear rubble and sediment from tracks and drains (as required). Site Construction - Site preparation and establishment of footings for the radar tower, equipment room and other infrastructure - Crane lifting of heavy equipment (>30 ton) onto the clear radar site - Erection of transportable radar tower - Installation of radar and lightning arresters atop the radar tower - Installation of VSAT antenna, generator and fuel tank. Access for Construction Vehicles There will be a requirement for large heavy construction vehicles to access the top of the Hann Tableland as a minimum, as follows: - Heavy vehicles with 40 foot trailer access - Approximately 50 m boom crane may be required (30 tonnes lift), depending on access constraints to the site. Completion of construction works is likely to generate the following construction traffic: - Light commercial/4wd vehicles, 200-250 passes - Medium commercial vehicles (<4.5GVM), 40-80 passes - Heavy vehicles / single or twin steer / tandem axle (17-22.5t GVM) (tippers, concrete, freight), 50-90 passes - Special purpose vehicles type 1 (excavators/cranes), twin steer/tandem or triple axel, 8-12 passes. Construction work will be undertaken during daylight hours (approximately 0700 to 1800), and is proposed to be seven days a week, weather permitting. 2.3.2 Maintenance Activities required to maintain the Hann Tableland transportable radar site during its operation are expected to be as follows: - Refuelling of 900L bunded diesel fuel tank - Scheduled maintenance inspections for maintaining vegetation clearance buffers and other general infrastructure service - Unscheduled servicing of infrastructure, in response to equipment faults etc.
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2.3.3 Decommissioning Reinstatement of a transportable site includes removal of the radar, and all equipment and fencing. Only the concrete foundations will be left (pending approval). It will also involve clean-up of the work site, including removing any surplus materials, disposing of refuse, removing sediment fences, restabilising disturbed surfaces and revegetation (as required).
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3.0 Methodology
3.1 Desktop Investigation 3.1.1 Review of Databases A review of the following publically available databases and search tools was undertaken to provide focus to the site surveys and to inform the environmental assessment process: - Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1992 (EPBC Act) Protected Matters Search Tool (PSMT), Department of the Environment (DoE) - WildNet Search, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (DEHP) - Environmentally Sensitive Areas mapping, Queensland Government - MinesOnlineMaps, Department of Natural Resources and Mine (DNRM) - Regional Ecosystem mapping, DEHP - Regulated Regrowth mapping, DEHP - Essential Habitat mapping, DEHP - Environmental Management Register (EMR) and Contaminated Land Register (CLR), DEHP; - Queensland Heritage Register, DEHP - Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Database and Register, Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs (DATSIMA).
3.2 Site Inspection 3.2.1 First Inspection Brief in-field site surveys were conducted on the 27th -28th of March 2014. Due to logistical and time constraints on the 27th, surveys commenced from mid-afternoon onwards2. Other limitations encountered included: - Dense grass and Lantana camara (lantana) thickets - Difficult terrain and access to the site and surrounds - Low visibility due to low cloud; and generally misty/wet conditions. Given these constraints and the requirement to collect important tree location and height data, assessment of the presence of ecological constraints was limited to a random meander method whilst collecting relevant tree data. This level of survey was considered sufficient for providing initial feed-back regarding the potential presence of ecological constraints. This initial site survey focussed around 16°54'55.98"S, 145°15'1.73"E which was the intended location for the transportable radar site at the time of survey. Tasks undertaken during field surveys were as follows: - Tree location mapping using Differential Global Position Systems (DGPS) - Tree height measurement using a laser range finder and DPGS - Confirmation of RE within and immediately adjacent to the site and the access track3 - Identification of flora species listed under the EPBC Act and Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006 (NC Regulation)
2 Approximately 13 hours were spent on site; however, the greater majority of this time was spent spatially locating canopy trees via DGPS and determining tree height through laser range finder methods. 3 Due to time constraints; the length of the access track, the minimal impact to vegetation likely to result from proposed works, only a basic analysis of regional ecosystems along the access track were undertaken (e.g. approximate densities of indicator species through areas adjacent to the access track were identified and relative densities were observed not specifically counted).
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- Identification of fauna habitats, particularly those that provide potential habitat for EVNT species protected under the EPBC Act and NC Act - General observation and active searches for fauna present within adjacent areas to site including: Incidental diurnal avifauna records Incidental diurnal herpetofauna searches Scat searches and analysis Track and digging analysis - Identification of pest weed and vertebrate species or potentially present on site. All surveys were undertaken concurrently using a random meander technique to traverse the site during tree mapping surveys. REs were confirmed through an approximation of canopy height and cover as well as a comparison of dominant canopy species and other characteristic species with: - The Regional Ecosystem Description Database (REDD) Version 6.1 (updated February 2013, Queensland Herbarium (2013)) - RE and Regrowth Vegetation (Regrowth) mapping. 3.2.2 Second Inspection A second site inspection was conducted on 7th and 8th of October 2014. The purpose of this second site inspection was to: - profile the environment immediately surrounding the revised transportable radar location, at 160 54’ 53.64’’ S, 1450 15’ 5.04’’ E - confirm the presence and extent of threatened flora species immediately adjacent to the proposed transportable radar location and surrounds - broaden the extent of the original tree height survey (March 2014) to include trees surrounding the revised transportable radar location.
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4.0 Topography and Geology
4.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts The transportable site is located at approximately 1042 m Australian Height Datum (mAHD). It lies on the Hann Tableland, atop a steep, mountainous ridge which forms part of the Mareeba granite formation (Plate 1), which comprises of Early Permian to Late Carboniferous granite outcrops and boulders and cream to pale grey, medium to locally coarse-grained biotite-muscovite and biotite granite, locally foliated soils (Whitaker et. al., 2007; Bultitude et. al., 1997). This conforms to Land Zone 12 – hills and lowlands on granitic rock (Wilson and Taylor, 2012). To its eastern edge it is steepest with a drop to approximately 850m AHD within 1000m. The average slope at its western extent is similar with a drop to approximately 870m AHD within a 1000m.
Plate 1 Showing present geology “Mareeba granite” within the project site
4.2 Recommendations The effort and cost associated with handling and moving granite boulders, during site establishment, will need to be appropriately considered when planning construction of the transportable radar site. Geotechnical testing may be considered necessary to inform design and earthworks planning for this project. The large boulders at this site will strongly influence final design of site, carpark and access track. The topographical survey should include a thorough identification and mapping of all boulders/boulder fields to map out this constraint around the site. Rock breakers or drills may be required to establish the radar site. Noise generated from these activities is not expected to result in a measurable increase in levels at the closest sensitive receptor. However, works on site should be restricted to daylight hours (approximately 0700 to 1800).
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5.0 Soils
5.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts The predominant soil types present within the project site are mapped as being Kandosols (ASRIS, 2001). These soils are anticipated to have a moderate level of erodibility. However all soil types, if cleared of overlying vegetation and left exposed to erosive processes (i.e. wind and rain) have potential to disperse.
Figure 5 Photograph showing predominant soil type within the project site
5.2 Recommendations The intention for this development should be to achieve a net balance of cut and fill across the extent of works. Material that is ‘won’ through establishing the radar site can be used as fill material elsewhere on site, i.e. in establishing the access track or in foundation pads for other equipment etc. The benefits of achieving a net balance of material are: - Any material brought onto site would have to be certified as ‘weed free’. The use of native material in construction alleviates the need to obtain ‘weed free’ certification - Re-use of material on-site avoids the cost and effort associated with off-site removal and disposal. The need for fill may not directly coincide with the winning of material. As an interim measure, excess material should be temporarily stockpiled within natural clearings until an on-site use is identified. Appropriate measures should be implemented to ensure the retention of all material. These measures may include extending sediment fencing around sides of the stockpile that are down gradient or adjacent to steep slopes. If stockpiling is to occur within the wet season, an overlaying tarp would prevent rainwater infiltration of this material. Mareeba Shire Council has placed a sign on the main gate, leading up to the proposed site, warning of the presence of Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) in the area. The sign also indicates that plant material and soil should not be removed from the area. Therefore any excess material generated by the project will be required to remain on site in permanent, stabilised stockpiles. The location of permanent stockpiles should be determined by the contractor, in consultation with Airservices and other relevant stakeholders. Information on soil dispersivity should be collected during geotechnical investigations. A site-specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan should be prepared prior to the commencement of construction. Particular issues that the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan needs to consider include: - Surrounding terrain - Scheduling of work activities to avoid, where possible, the exposure of soils during the wet season - Temporary stockpiling of material within natural clearings until an on-site use is identified
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- Stabilisation of exposed surfaces and permanent stockpiles, post-construction and post-decommissioning - Maintaining temporary erosion and sediment control measures in place, post-construction, until the site is stabilised. It is expected that implementation and maintenance of appropriate erosion and sediment controls would minimise the likelihood of material migrating off site. If managed appropriately, the risk of material loss is considered to be negligible.
6.0 Land Contamination
6.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts The potential for contaminated land to exist in proximity to the proposed transportable radar site was assessed through interrogation of the DEHP Environmental Management Register (EMR) and Contaminated Land Register (CLR). The EMR lists land that has been, or is being used for the purpose of a notifiable activity that has been reported to DEHP. Notifiable activities are those that have been identified as likely to cause land contamination and are listed in Schedule 3 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994. Under the Act, landowners and local government must inform the department that land has been or is being used for a notifiable activity. The EMR provides information on historical and current land use, including whether the land has been or is currently used for a notifiable activity, or has been contaminated by a hazardous contaminant. sites on the EMR in most circumstances pose a 'low risk' to human health or the environment under their current land use. Entry on the EMR does not mean that the land must be cleaned up or that the current land use must stop. The CLR is a register of proven contaminated land ('risk' sites) that is causing or may cause serious environmental harm. Land is recorded on the CLR when a scientific investigation shows that the land is contaminated and that action needs to be taken to remediate or manage the land (for example, technical measures to prevent migration of contaminants or full removal and off-site treatment) to prevent serious environmental harm or other adverse public health risks. Table 1 represents the Lot and Plan numbers that have been searched on the EMR/CLR to provide an appreciation for the contamination status of the proposed site and surrounding lands. Findings from these searches are summarised in Table 1 and can be viewed Appendix E.
Table 1 Summary of EMR/CLR searches
Lot/Plan Listed on EMR Listed on CLR Listing Reason 170 on CP887723 Proposed Transportable Mineral processing Radar site (two small MLs – 4917 and 4916) 140 on DA458 Existing Radar site N/A 140 on DA458 Ergon Energy Facilities N/A
Lot 170 on CP887723 is listed on the EMR due to mineral processing, which occurs on two small mineral licences (MLs). The two MLs, #4917 and #4916, are very small in size and located approximately 4km south west from the proposed transportable radar site. Therefore, this EMR listing, and the activities warranting the listing are not expected to have an impact on this project. Lot 170 CP887723 is also listed on the EMR as having both ‘substantial’ and ‘slight’ potential to be affected by residual UXO. The southern portion of Lot 170 is listed as having substantial UXO potential and has been assessed as previously being an area of artillery and mortar impact. The Department of Defence categorise land as having substantial UXO potential if it has a history of numerous UXO finds or heavy residual fragmentation. The Department of Defence advise that all existing land usage within substantial UXO potential areas may continue without specific UXO search or remediation. This portion of Lot 170 adjoins the existing access road, but is not expected to be traversed or otherwise disturbed by ERRP works.
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The eastern portion of Lot 170 is mapped by the Department of Defence as having slight UXO potential. It has been assessed as previously being an area of artillery, mortar and grenade impact. The Department of Defence categorise land as having slight UXO potential if it has a confirmed history of military activities that have resulted in residual UXO, but Defence considers it inappropriate to assess the UXO risk as substantial. The Department of Defence advise that all land usage and development within areas of slight UXO potential can continue without further UXO investigation or remediation. Lot 56 NPW767 is Hann Tableland National Park and is listed as having substantial UXO potential. The adjoining township of Biboohra (to the east of the national park) was used as a major training area during World War II. Consequently, the national park was used as a heavy impact area for artillery.
6.2 Recommendations A site Contamination Due Diligence Assessment Report has been prepared for the Hann Tableland transportable radar site to identify if works associated with establishing this infrastructure has potential to disturb contaminated or hazardous materials. If required to be used on site, dangerous goods should be handled and stored in accordance with the National Standard for the Storage and Handling of Workplace Dangerous Goods (NOHSC: 1015(2001)), relevant safety data sheets (SDS) and applicable Australian Standards. If contaminated material is thought to have been encountered, based on visual or olfactory indicators, works in the vicinity of potential contamination should cease until the nature of contamination is properly assessed by an appropriately qualified professional. An Emergency Response Plan should be prepared prior to construction and implemented for the duration of construction, operation and decommissioning. The Emergency Response Plan should, amongst other issues, give consideration to appropriate response to spillages of hazardous and/or contaminating materials. At present, the extent of ERRP works for the transportable radar are expected to be restricted to land not mapped as having UXO potential. . However, all construction personnel for the ERRP works should be trained, through site induction, to identify and report any suspected UXO. Any clearing or other disturbance of previously undeveloped land within areas of substantial UXO potential should not proceed without survey for UXO by a qualified contractor.
7.0 Climate
7.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts The climate in the Mareeba Shire LGA is humid subtropical climate that differs from the surrounding tropical savannah climate due to higher elevation (BoM, 2014). Temperature extremes have ranged from 36.7 °C to -0.6 °C. The average annual rainfall is 918.2mm with 55.6 mean number of rain days per year. Rainfall averages suggest a distinct wet and dry season, with the wet generally December to March and the dry June to September. The area lies within the cyclone risk zone and the area is subject to summer thunderstorms. There is a high incidence of winter and early spring fogs.
7.2 Recommendations Where possible, activities on site involving ground disturbance and exposure of soils (i.e. vegetation clearing, site levelling, decommissioning works etc.) should be scheduled to occur outside of the wet season. Any exposed soil is susceptible to erosion if subjected to erosional processes (i.e. rain, strong winds etc.). Therefore, the risk of erosion occurring across the site will be increased if surfaces are left exposed during the wet season or periods of high winds. However, it is expected that implementation and maintenance of appropriate erosion and sediment controls would minimise the likelihood of material migrating off site. As such, a site-specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan should be prepared prior to the commencement of construction, with consideration for the season in which works will occur.
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If construction works are scheduled to occur within cyclone season, the Bureau of Meteorology’s ‘Tropical Cyclone Outlook’ should be consulted every three days (three day outlook provided) to gauge the probability of a cyclone impacting the region. The Bureau of Meteorology issues a cyclone warning when a cyclone is expected to hit within 24 hours. Warnings identify communities likely to be hit, the name of the cyclone, its position, intensity, severity and movement. Communities under threat will be advised to take certain steps. - Category 1 - wind gusts less than 125 km/hr - Category 2 - wind gusts 125 to 169 km/hr - Category 3 - wind gusts 170 to 224 km/hr - Category 4 - wind gusts 225 to 279 km/hr - Category 5 - wind gusts more than 280 km/hr. In the event of a cyclone during construction, all loose items that may become projectiles in high winds should be secured or removed from the site. All infrastructures should be designed and installed, in accordance with specifications, to withstand cyclone conditions.
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8.0 Air Quality
8.1 Existing Environment Situated on top of the Hann Tablelands, the proposed radar is likely to be exposed to stronger winds than would be experienced at the base of the tablelands. Stronger winds may increase erosional potential of exposed soils. Construction, operation and decommissioning activities with potential to generate air-borne particulate matter or emissions are as follows: - Construction: Dust generation during site preparation works due to exposure of cleared surfaces to wind erosion Loss of stockpiled materials to wind erosion Movement and operation of construction vehicles and plant. - Operation: GenSet emissions from fuel combustion Movement and operation of maintenance/refuelling vehicles and plant. - Decommissioning: Dust generation from site rehabilitation works Movement and operation of construction vehicles and plant. The above mentioned sources of emissions are all expected to be temporary in nature. The closest sensitive receptor is a residence situated approximately 8 km to the east of the site. Therefore it is not expected to be impacted by dust or other emissions generated by the project. The impacts to air quality from this project are expected to be negligible given the location of the nearest sensitive receptor and the temporary nature of the proposed activity.
8.2 Recommendations With implementation of a site-specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan and considered use of emission- generating vehicles and plant, the impacts to air quality from this project are expected to be both temporary and minor in nature. The CEMP will document general measures for reducing impacts on air quality during site activities. These control measures should be implemented.
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9.0 Water Resources
9.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts The closest watercourse (East Hodgkinson River) is situated approximately 2 km west of the fixed radar site. Moreover, there are several creek crossings starting approximately 3 km south of the site location that the established access road crosses (seven creeks/unnamed watercourses (non-perennial)), before it joins with McBean Road (refer to Figure 3). At the time of inspection, water was observed to be overflowing the road at five of the seven crossings (refer to Table 2). The project site lies within the Mitchell River Basin, whereas the established access track crossings are tributaries of the Walsh River basin that is located 22 km south of the project site. The Walsh River is a major tributary of the Mitchell River. Being situated on a peak, the proposed radar site has no upstream stormwater inputs and stormwater would drain away from this high point down the natural gradient of the surrounding slopes. Stormwater falling away from the site will predominantly run through remnant vegetation. The access track was observed to be in relatively good condition. At the time of preparing this EAR, AECOM was not aware of any need for maintenance or upgrade works along the access road and/or at creek crossing locations. The need for vegetation pruning along the access road, to provide vertical clearance for construction vehicle access, cannot be discounted. Any works within, or in close proximity to a watercourse has potential to degrade existing water quality (if the creek is in a state of flow). This degradation of water quality may be as a consequence of increased sediment load, the loss of construction materials to water and impact to the riparian environment. There is no fish habitat area (FHA) within close proximity of the project site, with the closest being located approximately 53km east. The closest wetland protection area (WPA) is located 30km south of the project site.
Table 2 Photographs of creek crossings along the existing access road Creek Crossing Number Photograph (refer to Figure 3) 1
2
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9.2 Recommendations At the time of preparing this EAR, AECOM was not aware of any need for essential maintenance or upgrade works along the access road and/or at creek crossing locations. However, rill erosion scars either side of creek crossing # 4 may need to be in-filled and compacted to prevent exacerbation of erosion at this location and to allow for the safe passage of construction vehicles. In doing so, clean material will need to be used and no material should be placed in, or allowed to enter, the adjacent watercourse. If maintenance or upgrade works are required within any of the watercourses, as identified through the design process, then the potential impacts will need to be assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures identified. Direct impacts to creeks can be mitigated through implementation of the following measures: - Obtaining all necessary approvals and permits prior to the commencement of works. Refer to Section 19.0 for a summary of permits and approvals that may be required for this project. - Adherence to all conditions appended to any approval or permit obtained for the works. - Preparation and implementation of an appropriate erosion control measures. - Scheduling works around this watercourse to occur outside periods of peak flow (i.e. outside of the wet season). Water for construction purposes will need to be sourced from an off-site location, which is either a private source or a source supported by a valid Water Licence under the Water Act 2000. If water is to be obtained from natural sources (i.e. watercourses along the access road), then a Water Licence will be required. Water can be obtained from private sources (i.e. private dams or boreholes) without the need for a permit. However, a water use agreement should be entered into with the owner and compensation payment may apply. Water extraction will need to be conducted in accordance with the terms of a water use agreement (for private sources) or with the conditions appended to a Water Licence (for natural sources).
10.0 Waste
10.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts Wastes would be generated by the project through a number of activities in both the construction and operational phases. This would include vegetation clearing, earthworks, infrastructure construction, operation of site offices and eventual decommissioning of the site. The wastes generated by these activities would include both ‘general waste’ and ‘regulated waste’ as defined by the EP Regulation. ‘General waste’ is defined as waste other than regulated waste. ‘Regulated waste’ is that derived from commercial or industrial processes and of a type mentioned in Schedule 7 of the EP Regulation. Regulated waste is generally more hazardous in nature and may cause harm if not properly managed. Table 3 lists the wastes expected to be generated in the construction and operational phases of the Project.
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Table 3 Wastes potentially generated by the development during construction and operation phases
Waste Source Solid Liquid
Construction - Excess cleared vegetation - Vehicle and equipment wash down - Any excess spoil water - Waste or excess concrete - Vehicle and construction equipment - Building materials maintenance wastes (e.g. oils, - Scrap metal hydraulic fluids, contaminated fuels)* - Wooden boxes and pallets - Spillage from chemical or oil storage - Packaging materials (plastic wrapping, - Wastewater from site office cardboard) - Treatment tanks sludge and residues - Batteries* (e.g. sewage tanks in portable toilets)* - Electrical wiring and insulation - Wastewater from on-site construction - Filter cartridges from earth-moving office machinery - Stormwater run-off from both sealed - On-site construction office municipal and un-sealed surfaces wastes (food scraps, paper, cardboard, - Concrete rinse water glass) Operation - Litter from maintenance works - Wastewater from maintenance works - Site offices municipal wastes (food scraps, - Unplanned spills from maintenance paper, cardboard, glass) works Decommissioning - Waste concrete - Vehicle and construction equipment - Electrical wiring and insulation maintenance wastes (e.g. oils, - Scrap metal hydraulic fluids, contaminated fuels)* - Radar pad materials - Spillage from chemical or oil storage - Filter cartridges from earth-moving - Wastewater from site office machinery - Treatment tanks sludge and residues - On-site municipal wastes (food scraps, (e.g. sewage tanks in portable toilets)* paper, cardboard, glass) - Wastewater from on-site construction office Notes: * Indicates waste regulated under Schedule 7 of the Environmental Protection Regulation 1998. Most wastes (in terms of quantity and type) would be produced during site preparation works. This would include vegetation cleared to accommodate the radar site, access tracks, laydown areas and turn-around point. It is anticipated that cleared native vegetation will be retained on-site. Weeds and weed infested material will require off-site removal and disposal to a landfill that will accept green waste. The intention for this development should be to achieve a net balance of cut and fill across the extent of works. Material that is ‘won’ through establishing the radar site can be used as fill material elsewhere on site, i.e. in establishing the access track or in foundation pads for other equipment etc. In doing so, the need to dispose of clean and suitable native material may be avoided. Minimal waste would be generated by the operation of the transportable radar once construction is complete. Operational wastes would be largely restricted to those such as litter and oil, generated during maintenance activities. Decommissioning wastes would be very similar to those produced during initial construction, with the exception of original packaging materials.
10.2 Recommendations Wastes generated during the project would be managed in accordance with the relevant policies and regulations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994. To avoid the need for additional clearing, skip bins and other waste containment vessels should be situated within a designated construction-phase laydown area. Similarly, excess material should be temporarily stockpiled within natural clearings until an on-site use is identified.
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Cleared vegetation, to be retained on site, should be stockpiled so as to avoid the need for additional clearing. This may involve selective placement of cleared vegetation (grubbed or whole) in natural clearings across the site. This approach may provide additional habitat for terrestrial fauna across the site. The waste management hierarchy is a set of principles to be used in waste minimisation practices. The hierarchy sets out the framework to get the most practical benefits possible from products so that the minimum amount of waste is generated. The hierarchy, listed in the preferred order of adoption, is shown in Figure 6.
Avoidance
Re-Use
Recycling
Energy Recovery
Disposal
Figure 6 Waste management hierarchy The Waste Management Hierarchy forms the basis of effective waste management practices and should be considered during the detailed design, construction and operation phases of the project. This can be achieved through the development of a Waste Management Plan (WMP) for the project. The WMP would consider as a minimum: - The waste management hierarchy - Identifying and implementing opportunities to minimise waste wherever practicable - Training employees in the WMP, including opportunities for reducing, re-using and recycling wastes - Identifying key performance indicators - Specifying spill response plans - Providing procedures to handle, collect and dispose of wastes. The transportation of regulated wastes (as defined in Schedule 7 of the EP Regulation) can be an Environmentally Relevant Activity (ERA), requiring a development approval under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (SPA). The volumes of regulated waste transported during this project are not expected to constitute an ERA. However, all regulated waste should be handled, transported and disposed of by a licensed waste disposal contractor (for a mobile ERA). Appropriately licensed contractors will be aware of local facilities that are permitted to receive any given regulated waste.
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11.0 Sensitive Environmental Areas
11.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 11.1.1 Mining Activities There are two small mining leases located about 4km south east from the proposed transportable radar site, on the same land parcel as the project. Impact on these mineral processing operations are unlikely to occur based on current project understanding and relative location of these sites (refer Section 6.0) 11.1.2 Conservation Areas The Hann Tableland National Park is located approximately 350m north/east from the project site (Figure 3). The northern portion of the park was gazetted in 1989 to conserve forests of the Hann Tableland mountain range. The southern half of the park was acquired from pastoralists in 2004, nearly doubling the size of the estate and included areas of conservation significance along Boyle Creek. The Hann Tableland National Park will not be impacted by the current project. No Commonwealth or State conservation areas are situated in proximity to the proposed radar site. Therefore no impacts to conservation areas are expected as a consequence of this project. 11.1.3 Threatened Ecological Communities Threatened Ecological Communities (TEC) are a Matter of National Environmental Significance (MNES) protected under the EPBC Act. The DoE PSMT results show that there are no TECs listed as occurring within 1 km radius of the proposed transportable radar site (refer to Appendix C). As such, no impacts to TECs are expected as a consequence of this project.
11.2 Recommendations No recommendations specific to sensitive environmental areas for this project.
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12.0 Flora
12.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 12.1.1 Threatened Ecological Communities No threatened ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act are known or likely to occur within the transportable site or wider study area. Vegetation present on site is not analogous with any threatened ecological community listed under the EPBC Act. 12.1.2 Vegetation Communities The transportable site is currently mapped as part of an extensive tract of remnant vegetation containing the following REs: - RE 7.12.61 – Queensland blue gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) +/- granite ironbark (E. granitica) woodland to open forest on foothills and uplands on granite and rhyolite, of the moist and dry rainfall zones. - RE 7.12.65 – Rock pavement or areas of skeletal soil, on granite and rhyolite of dry western or southern areas +/- shrublands to closed forests of Acacia species and / or swamp box (Lophostemon suaveolens) and / or black she-oak (Allocasuarina littoralis) and / or Atherton Lockyer's Gum (E. lockyeri ssp. exuta). These REs are listed as Least Concern under the Queensland Vegetation Management Act 1999 (VM Act) and an Of Concern biodiversity status. Queensland blue gum open forest dominates the transportable site and adjacent land with pink bloodwood (Corymbia intermedia) and swamp box also present in the canopy to 20 – 25 m tall. Sheoaks dominated the understorey tree layers to 10 – 15 m tall and 4 – 8 m tall whilst a mid-dense shrub layer is present and dominated by canopy recruits to 4 m tall. Groundcover is dense in patches and dominated by blady grass (Imperata cylindrica) and forb species including cockspur flower (Plectranthus apreptus). Outcropping is extensive and leaf litter also patchy in places. Edge effects visible adjacent access track. Large thickets of weeds, primarily lantana (Lantana camara) are present throughout this community. Vegetation within the transportable site is moderately disturbed with evidence of clearing and weed thickets present. Livestock scats were also noted in this area. Current vegetation management mapping of the transportable site and adjacent land is incorrect with vegetation present on site analogous with the sub-community RE 7.12.61a – Queensland blue gum open forest to tall open forest and woodland. This community is considered Least Concern under the VM Act.
Plate 2 Vegetation present on transportable site (left) and in surrounding area (right) is consistent with RE 7.12.61a The existing access track is mapped as non-remnant vegetation; however, is enveloped by mapped remnant vegetation including RE 7.12.61 and RE 7.12.65 as well as the following: - RE 7.12.34 – White mahogany (E. portuensis) and / or grey ironbark (E. drepanophylla) +/- pink bloodwood +/- lemon-scented spotted gum (C. citriodora) +/- granite ironbark open woodland to open forest on uplands on granite.
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- RE 9.11.3 - Semi-deciduous mesophyll vine forest on moist and dry metamorphic foothills. - RE 9.11.25 - Simple-complex mesophyll to notophyll vine forest on amphibolites of the very wet lowlands and foothills. All REs adjacent to the existing access track are listed as Least Concern under the VM Act. Observational surveys identified that all vegetation adjacent to the existing access road is likely to meet remnant status and was typically dominated by myrtaceous species in varying compositions and densities. Given the minimal impacts to vegetation adjacent to the access track are likely from the proposed activities, no further assessment was deemed necessary. 12.1.3 EVNT Flora Species Desktop analysis has identified 21 EVNT flora species within the buffer area searched (Appendix C PMST). A review of each species’ associated habitat requirements, range and likelihood of occurring on site is provided in Appendix D. Further, an analysis of each EVNT flora species potential to be impacted by the proposed works is presented in Appendix D. A review of the Wildlife Online database with smaller buffer areas was consulted to assist in the refinement of species records due to the variety of habitats encounter within a 20 km buffer from site (Appendix B Wildlife Online). Upon refinement assessments of individual species’ ecology and that observed within the site, it was identified that only five species had the potential to occur, being: - Bulbophyllum newportii (EPBC – N/A, NC Regulation – NT) - Chamaesyce carissoides (EPBC – V, NC Regulation – V) - Cucumis costatus (EPBC – N/A, NC Regulation – NT) - Homoranthus porteri (EPBC – N/A, NC Regulation – NT) - Plectranthus spectabilis (EPBC – N/A, NC Regulation – NT). This refinement has been driven by the observed microhabitats, vegetation communities and density of weed species dominating the site. Original field surveys detected the potential presence of one EVNT species within and adjacent to the site; Plectranthus spectabilis (NT - NC Act). Of the remaining aforementioned EVNT species, none were detected during site surveys; this however, does not preclude them from occurring within the site and surrounding habitats. General limitations of the surveys and the physical timing of the surveys mean that EVNT species may have not been detected or may be present in the future should immigration of seed or germination of dormant seed occur. Plectranthus spectabilis is known to occur in the immediate locality. Both essential habitat mapping for this species and Protected Plants Flora Survey Trigger mapping covers the site and surrounding areas. This mapping is an indication of known records of this species observed in the locality. Follow-up targeted flora survey was conducted in October 2014 to obtain samples of this suspected Plectranthus spectabilis species whilst in flower for identification by the Queensland Herbarium. The Queensland Herbarium subsequently identified the species as Plectranthus apreptus, which is not an EVNT species. The transportable radar site was also assessed for the presence or absence of other EVNT flora species and their habitat. No EVNT species were observed. 12.1.4 Weeds Weed species that are considered to threaten economic and natural values at a national scale are listed as Weeds of National Significance (WoNS). WoNS are listed based on their invasiveness, potential for spread, and potential to impact on economic and natural values. The Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (LP Act) provides a Queensland framework for the control and management of declared weeds, the development of pest management plans and the development of stock route management plans. The LP Act provides three classes of declaration for weeds in Queensland including: - Class 1 pests can cause adverse economic, environmental and social impacts. Once established in Queensland, Class 1 pests are subject to eradication from the state
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- Class 2 pests established in Queensland can have adverse economic, environmental and social impacts - Class 3 pests are established in Queensland and have, or could have, an adverse economic, environmental or social impact. The LP Act requires that all landholders take reasonable steps to keep lands free of Class 1 and Class 2 pests as defined under this Act. Eighteen weed species were recorded during field surveys of the transportable site and CIA. Of these, three species are considered of significance including: - Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) – listed as Class 2 declared plant in Queensland under the Queensland Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (LP Act) - Lantana (Lantana camara) - listed as a WoNS and Class 3 declared plant in Queensland under the LP Act - Rubber vine (Cryptostegia grandiflora) – listed as a WoNS and Class 2 declared plant in Queensland under the LP Act. A dedicated weed survey was not conducted as part of the site inspection. However weed species, where encountered during the course of other survey activities, were recorded. Due to historical anthropogenic disturbances such as: logging; the construction of the existing access road; the construction of the Hann Tableland radar surveillance system; the construction of Ergon infrastructure; installation of three-phase power lines; cattle grazing; and altered light and fire regimes, a high level of weed intrusion was noted throughout areas both adjacent to and within site. Weeds typically dominated these edge affected areas, particularly ground covers and lantana although areas of dense native grasses including blady grass were noted. Throughout all areas surveyed down slope of the thin ridgeline displaying exposed granite, tall (up to 2 m in height) exotic grass cover dominated the ground cover with pockets of lantana occurring sporadically. The relevant Local Government Authority, Mareeba Shire Council does not have a specific pest management policy. In the absence of any local planning mechanisms the LP Act and WoNS will be used to identify pest weed species on site. Based on this no further weed species are considered to have any additional legislative status or regulatory requirements. All environmental pest noted or found on site post construction works should be treated through similar weed management means as those listed species on site where practicable or specific management options developed if necessary.
12.2 Recommendations 12.2.1 Vegetation Clearing and Pruning The following mitigation measures are proposed to minimise the impacts of the Project on vegetation and flora values on and adjacent to the site: - Locate associated laydown areas in existing cleared areas adjacent the access track. - Clearly demarcate the extent of clearing required for the project prior to works commencing. - Install trunk protection around trees which are to be retained in close proximity to construction activities. - Maintain a register of all canopy trees cleared or impacted by the project, recording location, ID number and type of impact. - Felling is to be conducted selectively, by chainsaw. - Trees are to be directionally felled into natural clearings to avoid impacting other canopy trees. - Felled trees are to be retained in as few pieces as possible and pushed into natural clearings to be stockpiled for the life of the transportable radar. - Vegetative material will be pulled back across the site during rehabilitation works. - Mark all trees which are to be pruned to achieve a clear radar critical zone with blue flagging tape.
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- Tree work is inherently hazardous and is to be carried out by a person suitably qualified and experienced in arboriculture (minimum of AQF Level 3 in arboriculture). Work is to be performed in accordance with relevant OHS guidelines. - When lowering or dropping branches, no other part of the tree being pruned, or adjacent trees, shall be damaged. - When pruning a tree, the minimum necessary to achieve the aim of the exercise is to be removed. - Removed branches are to be stockpiled in natural clearings with other cleared vegetation, for later use in site rehabilitation. The following measures are to be implemented during construction of the transportable radar: - No clearing of native vegetation along creek lines transecting the access track. - Vehicles and plant are not permitted to be operated off designated roads and tracks. - Fires are not permitted on site. - Hot works have potential to start fires, with safety and environmental implications. Hot works are to only be conducted under a Hot Work Permit, or similar, issued by the Construction Manager (or their delegate). If hot works is required, a 9 kg fire extinguisher is to be at hand for the duration of works. - Smoking is only permitted in the designated smoking area, which will be situated on the cleared eastern verge of the access road. In addition to the above measures, the following measures are to be implemented during operation, maintenance and decommissioning: - All pre-clearing markings and protective tree fencing are to be retained for the duration of operation and decommissioning of the transportable radar. - All stockpiled vegetation is to be pulled back and distributed across the disturbed footprint following decommissioning and removal of all project infrastructure. 12.2.2 Weeds Weed mitigation measures are focussed both on preventing the introduction of invasive weeds to the site and preventing the spread of existing weed species into adjoining properties. Weed management mitigation measures are discussed in terms of the project stages including pre-construction, during construction and post construction. Pre-Construction A Weed Management Plan that addresses the pre, during and post construction phases of the project is to be prepared prior to construction. This plan will include the hygiene protocols to minimise the likelihood of introduction and spread of environmental, agricultural and declared weeds. During Construction Ensure all construction personnel and subcontractors are inducted onto site. Specifically personnel are to be introduced to the weed species known to occur on site and the general intent of the Weed Management Plan. All vehicles and plant are to have certification that they are weed-free prior to their initial commencement of works. Equipment brought on to site is to be visibly inspected material that may harbour viable weed seeds. Post Construction Monitoring of weed infestations within disturbed areas is to occur throughout the operations and maintenance period of the transportable radar. Appropriate weed control measures are to be applied post monitoring.
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13.0 Fauna
13.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts 13.1.1 Habitat Vegetation and landforms within and immediately surrounding the access track and site exhibited a relatively consistent habitat type, typically comprising of open woody forests with a sparse understory of native shrubs and a mixture of exotic pastoral and native grasses. Outcropping areas of granite were common within the region. There is the potential for most of the EVNT fauna species identified by desktop databases to occur within the broader region given the high level of connectivity to large tracks of remnant vegetation in proximity to the site and access track. Outcropping granite habitats are likely to provide habitat for some terrestrial EVNT species such as the northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) and Mareeba rock wallaby (Petrogale Mareeba), although these species were not observed on site. 13.1.2 EVNT Species A review of the PMST and Wildlife Online databases was undertaken to identify EVNT terrestrial fauna species which: potentially occur; have habitat; or have been recorded within the buffer area searched (Appendix B and Appendix C). EVNT terrestrial fauna species identified within this desktop assessment have been assessed for their likelihood to occur and the potential for works to impact them. This analysis is presented in Appendix D, and was used to inform opportunistic fauna surveys and habitat assessments. Desktop findings were subsequently refined by comparing habitat preferences, known geographic range, records of species occurrences in the region and habitats found on site. This refinement reduced this number of species that are known to, likely to or have the potential to occur within (or fly over) the site or access track to 16 EVNT species. No EVNT, migratory or marine species were observed within the proposed access track or site, this however, does not preclude EVNT fauna from occurring. A significant impact assessment of the 16 EVNT fauna species identified in the likelihood assessment is provided in Appendix F. The desktop and habitat assessments indicate that the northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) could potentially be impacted by the proposed works. This is based on suitable microhabitat in the vicinity of the site, its known geographic range and records in the broader region. The proposed works have the potential to impact on individuals of this species through the destruction of suitable denning and breeding habitat. No denning sites were observed during the site assessment. Clearing is also considered unlikely to impact movement of this species given the location of the site and access track being proximate to existing impacts which, should any individuals reside in the immediately locality, have been habituated to. Works may, however, still result in impacts to individuals of this species, particularly during breeding and rearing periods which occurs from May to early June (DoE, 2014). Young are weaned after approximately 6 months occurring between November to early December (DoE, 2014). Undertaking clearing works during breeding (May to June) and rearing periods (November to early December) increases the risk of impacting denning sites or their immediate surrounds that could result in the abandonment or mortality of young. This risk of can be avoided if clearing works are timed to avoid these times. The invasive plant species, Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) is also identified as a key threat to the northern quoll (DSEWPaC, 2011), and has been identified onsite (see Section 12.1.4). The construction and operation of the project has the potential to increase the spread of this species, and weed management measures, such as vehicle hygiene, will be required to avoid impacts associated with this threat. Should no northern quoll individuals reside within the site (i.e. no physical displacement occurs), the proposed impacts to this species are considered to be negligible. This low level impact can be attributed to: - the relatively small size of the proposed footprint in relation to the abundance of suitable - high quality habitat in the broader region - short term nature of construction works (operation is highly unlikely to impact the species)
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- impacts being recoverable through rehabilitation once the temporary operations have ceased (including remediation measures to replace habitat such as boulder, log and debris relocation where practicable). Construction and operational phases are unlikely to significantly exceed the life cycle (2-3 years – DoE, 2014) of individuals residing in the broader region and should no denning sites be disturbed it is likely any individuals residing within the immediate area will habituate to the site over time. 13.1.3 Least Concern and Common Species During site inspections general fauna observations were low; however, this may be reflective of the weather conditions during site inspections coupled with seasonality, vegetation flowering/fruiting cycles, dense grass coverage and personnel present on site. The relatively limited time spent on site and the inherent variety of surveys being conducted concurrently, meant only brief observation and active searches could be undertaken. The proposed site and access track fall within a large tract of remnant vegetation typically restricted to higher, steeper reliefs and larger riparian habitats. These large areas of intact remnant vegetation generally provide a high quality, connective habitat matrix which allows for a high level of faunal diversity and movement. This is restricted to those species which are not reliant on low land habitats or more robust generalist and generalist species. Relatively good quality habitat was observed within the bounds of the site and access track; however, it was heavily impacted by weed incursion, creating dense ground cover which may restrict movement or exclude some species, conversely it may also provide suitable foraging or sheltering for other species. Migratory or highly mobile fauna which may move through the region (e.g. migratory birds) are unlikely to be impeded by the existing facilities and access road due to their relatively small and isolated context within the region. Further, species likely to migrate or move locally through the area are highly mobile and are unlikely to be impeded by the proposed impacts associated with the proposed site and access track. A full list of species detected during site inspections is presented in Appendix D. 13.1.4 Pest Species Background searches were performed using the PMST and Wildlife Online database to identify pest fauna with the potential to occur within the region, site and access track and are provided in Appendix D. The PMST has identified 17 vertebrate pest species as potentially occurring within the searched buffer area with the Wildlife Online indicating that 6 pest vertebrate species have been recorded from the searched buffer area, both of which have been identified within the PMST. Of the 17 vertebrate pest species identified by database searches 6 are identified as class 2 pest animals by the LP Act. During site inspections the cane toad (Rhinella marina) was observed in low densities. It is, however, likely that all species identified by the PMST occur within the region4.
13.2 Recommendations EVNT The proposed works are likely to involve low levels of vegetation clearing and disturbance of land which is unlikely to restrict the movement of EVNT fauna species given the small and isolated nature of the work. Further, secondary impacts are considered low, short term and recoverable through rehabilitation. Initial clearing activities may result in removal of hollow bearing trees and rocky outcrops which provide suitable foraging, denning or roosting microhabitats for EVNT species. Of the species identified as potentially occurring within the site and access track, individuals of those which are reliant on these microhabitats (specifically hollows and outcropping rock) for denning or sheltering are potentially at risk of being directly impacted by the proposed works. The highest risk to EVNT species which may potentially occur within the site or access track during works is the destruction of breeding, roosting or denning habitat loss, crushing, injury, displacement or vehicular/plant strike. The proposed works will increase the risk of vehicular traffic using the access road over a short period of time during the clearing and construction phases. Mitigation measures can, however, significantly reduce the likelihood of vehicular strike causing injury or mortality.
4 A number of species identified as pest vertebrate species by the PMST occur within the region as domestic animals or are present through animal husbandry practices such as cattle, horses, pigs, cats and dogs.
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A pre-clearance inspection by a suitably qualified ecologist or fauna spotter catcher will reduce the likelihood of impacts to identified microhabitats and subsequently fauna that may be potentially residing within. Such an inspection would involve flagging any potential microhabitats that require avoidance, species-specific clearing techniques. Habitat features such as hollow limbs, hollow trees or tree ferns can be salvaged during the clearing phase and re-located into adjacent habitats, further reducing the overall impact to the ecosystem. Mitigation measures for impacts to northern quoll should be implemented prior to and during construction to avoid any potential impacts to this species. Measures may include (but are not limited to): - Conducting works between late December through to late April, to avoid breeding and rearing seasons and prior to the dispersal of young. - Detailed pre-clearance surveys by a suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher to inspect potential denning habitats (the use of boroscopes, camera traps and cage traps may be necessary to detect and/or relocated individuals). - The reduction of grass density through mechanical means to assist in clear visibility for both pre-clearance surveys and initial earthworks/clearing. - Works are to be monitored and guided by a suitable qualified fauna spotter catcher. Should the detection of a northern quoll occur, works are to cease until the individual(s) have either been captured for relocation or safely vacated the site of their own volition. The movement of this individual(s) should be closely monitored to ensure it is not in any further danger from the works. DoE and EHP are to be notified immediately. - Relocation of large felled trees into remnant habitats adjacent to the site. - Relocation of larger boulders into remnant habitats adjacent to site. - Remediation of the site post operational works. In its unmitigated form, the project has potential to impact on suitable habitat for the northern quoll. However, with implementation of appropriate design considerations and suitable mitigation measures, impacts on northern quoll and its habitat are not expected to be significant and the project would likely be deemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’ by the DoE. Therefore the project, with mitigation measures implemented, does not warrant referral under the EPBC Act. The proposed works are unlikely to significantly impact other populations of EVNT within the region or adjacent to the site and access track; however minor direct impacts resulting from clearing and construction works such as mortality from vehicular/plant strike, crushing, displacement or the transfer of pest species to the environment may occur. Common Species The habitats supported on the site and along the access road are highly abundant throughout the region. The proposed works are unlikely to have a significant impact on least concern species given the small and isolated nature of the site. Further, the levels of weed incursion already occurring in habitats immediately surrounding the proposed site, proposed access track and existing infrastructure may exclude some fauna species and increase the ability for pest species to occur. Works may result loss of a number of hollow bearing trees, small areas of outcropping rock and tree ferns. It is recommended that a suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher be present prior to, during and at the end of clearing activities. Further, the re-location of hollow bearing limbs, trees and logs into adjacent habitats should be considered as a mitigation measure. Impacts are likely to be recoverable through remediation works at the end of the transportable radar operation, reducing longer term impacts.
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14.0 Bushfire
14.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts Due to the inherent nature of radar surveillance systems requiring very high altitudinal locations, they are generally sited away from other developed infrastructures atop high steep mountain ridge lines or escarpments. Due to this, and the rugged nature of these locations, most sites are likely be surrounded by remnant vegetation supported on steep slope, which typically results in the assets being constructed and operating in areas with a high to very high bushfire risk. A review of the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP) State Planning Policy (SPP) Interactive Mapping System has identified that the site and access track fall within Very High Bushfire Hazard Area mapping. This mapping layer typically blankets the larger remnant tract of vegetation supported on Hann Tableland and is typically enveloped by High Bushfire Hazard Area mapping. A subsequent review of the Natural Disaster – Bushfire Overlay Mapping, contained with the Mareeba Shire Planning Scheme (2005) has identified the site and access track as falling within areas identified as Medium bushfire hazard. Evidence of recent low intensity bushfire was observed in areas adjacent to the access track and site with 1 m high fire scars obvious on many trees. Bushfires in the region are likely to be frequent due to the dry nature of the climate through winter periods and high levels of grass and shrub vegetation growth through the wet season. Bushfires are likely to be caused in the region can be attributed but not limited to the following: - Hazard reduction carried out by Queensland Fire and Rescue Service; Queensland Parks and Wildlife or the State Emergency Service - Lightning strike - Hazard reduction carried out by adjacent land owners to: reduce rank grasses; encourage new growth for cattle; clear access to new paddocks; or reduce pest vegetation and cattle tick levels - Cigarette butts inappropriately discarded by landholders and asset maintenance crews - Heat sources on dry vegetation or fuel loads (e.g. hot exhaust manifolds coming in contact with dry grass, vegetation management machinery, sparks from machines or rock frictions) - Powerlines arcing into vegetation or woody debris. The construction phase of this project has the potential to cause fire through the introduction of new sources of heat and/or fuels to the area. These potential sources are summarised in Table 4.
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Table 4 Potential causes of fire during construction phase of the Project
Fire Component Potential Sources During Construction
Heat - Welding - Metal cutting - Soldering - Grinding - Drilling - Cigarette butts - Vehicles - Generator set Fuel - Vehicle fuel - Flammable liquids - Cleared vegetation (grass etc.) - Garbage - Waste packaging Sparks or Friction - Electricity sparks - Electricity arcing - Grinding - Lawn maintenance - Grading - Excavation
Additional sources of heat and fuel are expected to be introduced to the area during construction. However, pre- construction clearing of vegetation and maintenance of appropriate safety buffers between the radar site and surrounding vegetation communities will minimise the likelihood of fire spreading. Therefore, the risk of fire being generated by the project remains low. The primary fire risk during operation of the radar site will stem from the potential for an electrical fault to spark dry vegetation. This occurrence would require dry vegetation, susceptible to combustion, being in close proximity to an electrical fault. The risk of this occurring is considered low as radar site layout and proposed safety buffers between vegetation communities will ensure that sources of heat and fuel are separated. Depending on the nature of maintenance required on the transportable radar, any number of the possible sources of heat and fuel listed in Table 4 may be temporarily introduced to the area.
14.2 Recommendations 14.2.1 Planning The proposed transportable radar facility will include design principles to ensure appropriate bushfire immunity is achieved. These design principles include: - Ensuring that the development maintains the safety of people and adjacent property by mitigating risk through: Locating assets appropriately Providing adequate setbacks between structures and vegetation Maintaining adequate road access for emergency vehicles and safe evacuation Providing an adequate and accessible water supply for fire-fighting purposes - Ensuring that public safety and the environment are not adversely affected by the detrimental impact of bushfire on any hazardous materials stored on the site - Ensuring, wherever practicable, that the infrastructure is located and designed to function effectively during and immediately after a bushfire event.
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Bushfire risk can be mitigated, and the safety of property and people maintained, by: - designing the transportable radar surveillance system to provide adequate setbacks from vegetation in accordance with Australian Standards, ASA design principles and radar operational requirements - designing the transportable radar surveillance system to allow adequate access to emergency response crews. If hazard reduction burns are considered necessary, Queensland Rural Fire Service should be consulted and engaged to conduct the burn on behalf of Airservices. Reference to fauna management during hazard reduction burns should be included in the Fauna Management Plan (or similar) prepared for the project. 14.2.2 Construction As the site will be a temporary facility, construction activities will be confined to a small area of remnant vegetation and require the use of plant and other tree felling machinery. It is however, considered unlikely that works will result in bushfire. These activities however align with the following recommendations to reduce the likelihood of bushfire: - The necessary safety and operational clearances between mature vegetation and the site will be maintained or managed where necessary (pruning and/or under-scrubbing to maintain appropriate buffers). - If it is necessary to start a fire on-site, ensure that the appropriate approval is obtained from the local Fire Warden in advance5. - Fire hazard warnings associated with weather patterns and fire risk are issued both by the Bureau of Meteorology and the Queensland Rural Fire Service. Daily checking of the fire hazard warnings is recommended and construction crews should be aware of the fire warnings. Further, regular observations from a high point to detect any signs of bushfire such as smoke should be undertaken throughout the day. - Flammable and combustible liquids (e.g. fuel) will be stored in facilities designed to AS1940-2004 ‘The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids’. - A project-specific Emergency Response Plan, with consideration for the risk of fire, should be prepared and implemented. This plan should be reviewed regularly to consider on-site nuance’s as the site is highly isolated and remote. 14.2.3 Operation and Maintenance Once the construction phase has ceased, the site will return to its operation and maintenance phase which will require minor actions to maintain safe bushfire risk levels including: - The management of adjacent remnant vegetation and the established buffer areas to reduce the impacts of bushfire to the site. - Management works should be undertaken on an as needs basis determined by maintenance staff to ensure that appropriate levels of vegetation growth are maintained. If hazard reduction burns are considered necessary, Queensland Rural Fire Service should be consulted and engaged to conduct the burn on behalf of Airservices.
5 The site is bound by three Fire Warden Districts being: Fassio Road FWD (4093 2123); Paddy’s Green FWD (9 480 761); and Mareeba FWD (4092 1044).
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15.0 Noise
15.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts Noise and vibration, in addition to that already experienced in the area, will be generated during activities associated with constructing, maintaining, operating and decommissioning the transportable radar. However, the closest sensitive receptor is a residence situated approximately 8 km south of the site. Given the significant separation distance, the project is not expected to result in an increased level of measureable noise at the closest sensitive receptors. The impacts of construction noise on fauna will be intermittent and short-term.
15.2 Recommendations This project is not expected to result in an increased level of measureable noise at the closest sensitive receptor. However, works on site should be restricted to daylight hours (approximately 0700 to 1800). The CEMP will document general measures for reducing the levels of noise generated during site activities. These control measures should be implemented.
16.0 Landscape Character
16.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts A radar is required to be free of obstruction at 0.25° incline from antenna-height for 15 km radius. As a consequence, radars are required to be located on topographical high points. The Hann Tableland transportable radar site will be situated on the second highest point of this section of the Hann Tableland range, with the highest point being the existing radar facilities. Due to its elevation and the need to clear/lop trees within 500 m radius of the antenna, the transportable radar is expected to be visible from the base of the Hann Tableland. Although it will be visible atop the range, the transportable radar will only be a temporary facility and will be co- located on the same section of range as the existing Airservices radar and Ergon communications towers, and associated overhead feeders. Both of these existing towers are taller than the proposed transportable radar tower will be. Therefore, the temporary establishment of a transportable radar site on top of this section of the Hann Tableland is not expected to significantly impact of the character of the surrounding landscape.
16.2 Recommendations The extent of vegetation cleared to establish the transportable radar site and associated infrastructure should be restricted to that which is necessary. Where practicable, consideration should be given to the use of neutral colours for buildings and structures that are established as part of this project.
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17.0 Non Indigenous Cultural heritage
17.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts Searches of the following sources were conducted (Appendix E): - Australian Heritage Places Inventory, comprising the National Heritage List (NHL), World Heritage List (WHL), Commonwealth Heritage List (CHL), Queensland Heritage Register (QHR) and Register of the National Estate (RNE) - Mareeba Shire Planning Scheme 2004. No recorded places of historic significance were identified.
17.2 Recommendations This review did not identify any places of historic cultural heritage significance close to or within the project site. Therefore it is unlikely that any place or site of heritage significance will be directly affected during the construction, operation or decommissioning phases of the project. On this basis it is considered that no further historic cultural heritage assessment is required for the project. However, should there be any items of potential heritage significance discovered during the construction phase, work around the object should cease and an appropriately qualified heritage assessor be contacted to provide an opinion on the significance of the item and recommend appropriate management measures.
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18.0 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage
18.1 Existing Environment and Potential Impacts A search has been conducted of the DATSIMA Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Database and Register for the area in which the transportable radar site is proposed to be situated (Appendix E). The search indicated that no Aboriginal cultural heritage is currently recorded in the area. It is probable that the absence of recorded Aboriginal cultural heritage places reflects a lack of previous cultural heritage surveys of the area. Therefore, DEHP’s records are not likely to reflect a true picture of the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the area. There is currently no registered Cultural Heritage body for the region. The Aboriginal party for the 170CP887723 area is: QC98/38 DET - Q6208/98 Muluridji People North Queensland Land Council Aboriginal Corporation 61 Anderson Street MANUNDA QLD 4870 Ph (07) 4042 7000 Fax (07) 4031 9489
The presence of an existing access road and facilities show that land on top of this Hann Tableland has previously been subjected to significant ground surface disturbance. However, the radar site itself is proposed to be located on previously undisturbed land. Therefore, the potential exists for previously undisturbed items of Aboriginal cultural heritage to be present in close proximity to the radar site. Hence, in accordance with the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act Duty of Care Guidelines (the guidelines), the proposed works will likely constitute a combination of Category 4 and Category 5 activities. Category 4 and Category 5 Activities In accordance with the guidelines prepared under Section 28 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 (ACH Act), it is recognised that Aboriginal cultural heritage is unlikely to be harmed where: a) The current or proposed activity is on an area previously subject to significant ground disturbance and the activity will impact only on the area subject to the previous disturbance. b) The impact of the current or proposed activity is unlikely to cause any additional harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage than that which has already occurred. The presence of an existing access road and facilities suggests that some of the project area has previously been subjected to significant ground surface disturbance. Development in these areas may be classed a Category 4 activity. Where development would require disturbance of previously undisturbed land, or works at a depth below the level of previous disturbance, the work would constitute a Category 5 activity under the Duty of Care Guidelines. Native Title A search of the National Native Title Tribunal on 30 September 2014 indicates that the Study Area is adjacent to a series of land parcels for which the Muluridji People have been granted Native Title (Table 5). Although the Study Area is not within the area of Native Title, it is within the area over which the Muluridji people hold a series of Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUA) (Table 6). Under the advice of the Townsville Regional Cultural Heritage Coordinator, the representatives of the Muluridji people, the North Queensland Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (NQLC), were contacted regarding the HTTR on November 4. Given the existing Native Title interests, the NQLC advised that the proposed works require a notification under the Section 24KA of the Native Title Act 1993 (Chris Harris, NQLC, 4/11/2014 pers. comm.). This notice should be issued to the NQLC, who will forward the document to the relevant Aboriginal group(s). Any Aboriginal group(s) with interests in the area then have 28 days to make comment.
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Table 5 Native Title determinations adjacent to the Study Area (National Native Title Tribunal) Determination Application Name Federal Court file Tribunal file Determination Date Native title exists in the Muluridji People 15/11/2012 QUD6208/1998 QCD2011/008 entire determination area
Table 6 ILUA covering the Study Area (National Native Title Tribunal)
ILUA Name ILUA Type Tribunal File Date Registered Muluridji People and Tablelands Regional Council ILUA Area Agreement QI2011/058 16/03/2012 Muluridji People and Ergon Energy ILUA Area Agreement QI2011/043 20/01/2012 Muluridji Protected Areas ILUA Area Agreement QI2011/044 20/01/2012 Muluridji People Small Scale Mining & Exploration Area Agreement QI2006/049 23/02/2007 Activities ILUA
18.2 Recommendations Given that the proposed works will include vegetation clearance and ground disturbance for the purposes of construction and access, it has been assessed as a Category 5 activity under the Aboriginal Cultural Duty of Care guidelines. That is, as an activity that has the potential to impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage values. As the project site is located in an area over which the Muluridji people have native title interests, the Muluridji must be notified about the project before any ground breaking works commence. This notification should be managed under the processes outlined in Section 24KA of the Native Title Act 1993.
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19.0 Approvals and Conditions
19.1 Commonwealth Legislation The EPBC Act is the Australian Government’s central piece of environmental legislation. It provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places — defined in the EPBC Act as MNES. Where a proposal has potential to result in a significant impact to MNES, the proposal may require (following referral to DoE) approval under the EPBC Act. A high-level assessment of this proposal against the significance impact assessment criteria contained in DoE’s ‘Significant Impact Guideline 1.1: Matters of national environmental significance’ and ‘Significant Impact Guideline 1.2: Actions on or impacting upon, Commonwealth land and Actions by Commonwealth Agencies’ is presented in Appendix F. The ecological assessment undertaken to inform this EAR did not positively identify any EPBC Act MNES. No threatened plant species protected under EPBC were identified as occurring across the project site. In its unmitigated form, the project has potential to impact on suitable habitat for the northern quoll. However, with implementation of appropriate design considerations and suitable mitigation measures, impacts on northern quoll and its habitat are not expected to be significant and the project would likely be deemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’ by the DoE. Therefore the project, with mitigation measures implemented, does not warrant referral under the EPBC Act. The proposed works are unlikely to significantly impact other populations of Commonwealth-listed EVNT within the region or adjacent to the site and access track.
19.2 State Legislation and Permit Requirements Table 7 provides a summary of the approvals and legislative obligations that have potential to apply to the proposed works, in relation to components assessed in Sections 4- 18. A review of the legislative requirements is recommended once the design and construction methodology has been finalised. It is recommended that this review be undertaken by Airservices, with consideration for exemptions that are afforded to it, and its contractors, under Commonwealth legislation.
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Table 7 Permits and approvals potentially required for the proposed development
Approval Legislation Relevant Agency Trigger Necessary Waterway Barrier Works Sustainable Department of The Fisheries Act 1994 requires ? (Operational Works) unless Planning Act 2009 Agriculture, Fisheries and development approval, under the works comply with the Code for Forestry (Qld) Sustainable Planning Act 2009, for any The need to obtain a development approval and Self-assessable Development: works within a waterway which could impede for waterway barrier works will hinge on: Minor Waterway Barrier Works. Fisheries Act 1994 fish passage. This can include physical a) If any upgrade works for creek structures, such as causeways, culverts and crossings will be proposed; and bed-level crossings. Where those works are of a ‘Minor’ nature, the proponent can The ability of the contractor to comply with 7 undertake the works as ‘self-assessable’ the self-assessable code . development if they comply with the relevant self-assessable code6. Where the proposal cannot comply with the relevant self- assessable code for minor waterway barrier works, an application is required to be lodged for development approval.
Waterway Barrier Works Sustainable Department of The Fisheries Act 1994 also requires ? (Operational Works) unless Planning Act 2009 Agriculture, Fisheries and consideration to be given to ‘temporary’ works comply with the Code for Forestry (Qld) waterway barriers. Temporary barriers are The need to obtain a development approval and Self-assessable Development: those that are required for a short period of for waterway barrier works will hinge on: Temporary Waterway Barrier Fisheries Act 1994 time to enable development, but will then be a) If upgrade works will be proposed to Works. removed once construction activities have any of the existing creek crossing; and been completed. Where the proposal cannot comply with the self-assessable code for The ability of the contractor to comply with 7 temporary waterway barrier works, a the self-assessable code . development approval may be required.
6 Self-assessable codes for fisheries development: http://www daff.qld.gov au/28 9109.htm 7 The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) have classified and mapped watercourses across Queensland based on the presence and abundance of fish, the amount of available habitat, flow regime and the geographical location of the waterway (e.g. climate, elevation, distance along a stream, slope).
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Approval Legislation Relevant Agency Trigger Necessary Riverine Protection Permit Water Act 2000 Department of Natural A riverine protection permit, in accordance ? Resources and Mines with the Water Act 2000, is required to be The need to obtain a riverine protection (Qld) obtained from the Department of Natural permit will hinge on if any upgrade works are Resources and Mines to destroy vegetation, proposed for the existing creek crossings excavate, or place fill within a watercourse, and if works can be conducted in lake or spring. accordance with the DNRM guideline ‘Riverine protection permit exemption requirements’ (WSS/2013/726). Water Licence Water Act 2000 Department of Natural Under the provisions of the Water Act 2000 ? Resources and Mines (s206), a Water Licence is required to The need to obtain a water licence will hinge (Qld) extract water, for use during construction, on the contractor’s plans for obtaining water from watercourses and groundwater. for use on site.
Development approval for Sustainable Department of Natural Clearing of native Remnant or High Value clearing of remnant vegetation Planning Act 2009 Resources and Mines Regrowth vegetation. (Qld) It is understood that Airservices have and ‘immunity’ from State and Territory land use Vegetation laws, under S19 of the Air Services Act Management Act 1995.‘land use law’ means a law of a State 1999 or Territory, to the extent that the law relates to: a) The use or proposed use of land or premises; or b) The environmental consequences of the use of land or premises. Therefore Airservices are understood to have exemption from requirement to obtain development approval for clearing of remnant vegetation.
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Approval Legislation Relevant Agency Trigger Necessary Clearing permit for protected Nature Department of In Queensland, all plants that are native to plants Conservation Act Environment and Australia are “protected plants” under the 1992 Heritage Protection (Qld) Nature Conservation Act 1992. DEHP A targeted flora survey has been conducted. Permit and Licence administer this Act to ensure that protected This survey found no EVNT flora species in and Management Unit. plants and their parts are not illegally proximity to the proposed transportable Nature removed from the wild. A clearing permit radar site. Findings are documented in detail Conservation may authorise the legitimate destruction or in the Environmental Impact Assessment (Wildlife) “taking” of endangered, vulnerable, near (AECOM, 2014). Regulation 2006 threatened and least concern plants in the wild, except where an exemption applies.
Permit to Light Fire Fire and Rescue Queensland Rural Fire Lighting of fires on site. Service Act 1990 Service (Department of Cleared vegetation should be retained on Community Safety) site for use in site rehabilitation. Other waste Fire Wardens: materials should be disposed of appropriately at an off-site facility. Cairns: 07 4042 5468
Clarification from the local Aboriginal Cultural Department of Aboriginal Category 3 – Activity within a developed Cultural Heritage body on the Heritage Act 2003 and Torres Strait Islander area and is generally unlikely that the activity category of activity (4 or 5) and Multicultural Affairs will harm Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and The proposed works should not proceed under the Aboriginal Cultural (Qld) the activity will comply with these guidelines. without notifying the regional cultural Heritage Act Duty of Care heritage body under the processes outlined Category 5 – Activity causing additional Guidelines. in Section 24KA of the Native Title Act 1993: surface disturbance in an area with a generally high risk that it could harm QC98/38 DET - Q6208/98 Aboriginal cultural heritage. Muluridji People North Queensland Land Council Aboriginal Corporation 61 Anderson Street MANUNDA QLD 4870 Ph (07) 4042 7000 Fax (07) 4031 9489
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19.3 Local Government Planning Mareeba Shire Council maintains and implements local laws and subordinate local laws. Of relevance for the current project are Tablelands Regional Council Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2011. Council has a responsibility to ensure legislation protecting the environment is upheld and the community is educated on the impacts they have on natural resource management. Plans and policies are put in place for the protection of vegetation, waterways and natural resources including how to eradicate, reduce or contain pests. All local laws for Mareeba Shire Council can be found on the DSDIP website. It is recommended that the suite of local laws is assessed prior to the commencement of works to verify that the finalised scope of works does not trigger any of these laws.
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20.0 Summary This assessment has identified no reason why the proposed development should not and cannot proceed on this site. However, the relevant permits and approvals discussed in Section 19.0 must first be obtained. This section summarises recommendations made throughout this EAR for each component of the assessment.
Table 8 Summary of EAR recommendations
EAR Component Recommendations
Topography and The intention for this development should be to achieve a net balance of cut and fill Geology across the extent of works. Soils Prepare and implement a site-specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
Land Contamination If contaminated material is thought to have been encountered, based on visual or olfactory indicators, works in the vicinity of potential contamination should cease until the nature of contamination is properly assessed by an appropriately qualified professional. An Emergency Response Plan should be prepared prior to construction and implemented for the duration of construction, operation and decommissioning. The Emergency Response Plan should, amongst other issues, give consideration to appropriate response to spillages of hazardous and/or contaminating materials. Climate Where possible, activities on site involving ground disturbance and exposure of soils (i.e. vegetation clearing, site levelling, decommissioning works etc.) should be scheduled to occur outside of the wet season. If construction works are scheduled to occur in cyclone season, the Bureau of Meteorology’s ‘Tropical Cyclone Outlook’ should be consulted every three days (three day outlook provided) to gauge the probability of a cyclone impacting the region. All infrastructures should be designed and installed, in accordance with specifications, to withstand cyclone conditions. Air Quality Adhere to the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan. Implementation of measures specified in the CEMP.
Water Resources If works around creeks are required, refer to Section 19.2 for a summary of permits and approvals that may be required for this project. Adhere to all conditions appended to any approval or permit obtained for the works. Adhere to the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan. Scheduling works around this watercourse to occur outside periods of peak flow (i.e. outside of the wet season). Waste Develop and implement a Waste Management Plan for the project that gives consideration to the Waste Management Hierarchy. All regulated waste should be handled, transported and disposed of by a licensed waste disposal contractor. Sensitive Environmental No recommendations specific to sensitive environmental areas for this project. Areas Flora No EVNT species have been identified in the area immediately surrounding the proposed transportable radar site. Refer to the Environmental Impact Assessment (AECOM, 2014) for more detail on floristic values of the site and potential impacts.
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EAR Component Recommendations
Fauna Further fauna survey works are not specifically required. Instead, a precautionary approach can be adopted (i.e. assume northern quoll are present in the vicinity of works) and implement suitable mitigation measures to eliminate or reduce the likelihood of impacts occurring. This should be prepared in the form of a fauna management plan. Bushfire The radar site should be designed to provide adequate setbacks from vegetation in accordance with Australian Standards, Airservices design principles and radar operational requirements. A project-specific Emergency Response Plan, with consideration for the risk of fire, should be prepared and implemented. Flammable and combustible liquids (i.e. fuel) will be stored in facilities designed to AS1940–2004 ‘The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids’. Noise Works on site should be restricted to daylight hours (approximately 0700 to 1800). Implementation of measures specified in the CEMP. Landscape Character The extent of vegetation cleared to establish the transportable radar site and associated infrastructure should be restricted to that which is necessary. Where practicable, consideration should be given to the use of neutral colours for buildings and structures that are established as part of this project. Non-Indigenous Cultural Should there be any items of potential heritage significance discovered during the Heritage construction phase, work around the object should cease and an appropriately qualified heritage assessor be contacted to provide an opinion on the significance of the item and recommend appropriate management measures. Aboriginal Cultural As the project site is located in an area over which the Muluridji people have native title Heritage interests, the Muluridji must be notified about the project before any ground breaking works commence. This notification should be managed under the processes outlined in Section 24KA of the Native Title Act 1993. Federal Approvals With the implementation of appropriate design considerations and suitable mitigation measures, impacts on northern quoll and its habitat are not expected to be significant and the project would likely be deemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’ by the DoE. Therefore the project, with mitigation measures implemented, does not warrant referral under the EPBC Act.
State Legislation Seek to obtain the permits/approvals identified in Section 19.2 prior to the commencement of works on site. A review of the legislative requirements is recommended once the design and construction methodology has been finalised. It is recommended that this review be undertaken by Airservices, with consideration for exemptions that are afforded to it under Commonwealth legislation. Local Government Consideration will need to be given to the local fire management plan. Planning
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O'Malley, C. (2006b). National Recovery Plan for the Gouldian Finch (Erythrura gouldiae). [Online]. National Gouldian Finch Recovery Team. Palmertson, NT Parks and Wildlife. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/e-gouldiae.html. Accessed Mon, 7 Apr 2014 Pavey, C.R and Kutt, S.A (2008). Large-eared Horseshoe-bat Rhinolophus philippinensis. In: Van Dyck, S., ed. Mammals of Australia 3rd Edition. Australian Museum. Pizzey, G. and Knight, F. (2012). The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia 9th Edition. Harper Collins, Sydney. Queensland CRA/RFA Steering Committee (1997). Forest taxa at risk, threats, conservation needs and recovery planning in south-east Queensland. Queensland Government & Commonwealth of Australia Queensland CRA/RFA Steering Committee (1998). Survey of Threatened Plant Species in South East Queensland Biogeographical Region. [Online]. Available from: http://www.daff.gov.au/rfa/regions/qld/environment/threatened-plant. Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management (Qld DERM) (2006). Queensland's Quolls. [Online]. Available from: http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/wildlife- ecosystems/wildlife/threatened_plants_and_animals/endangered/queenslands_quolls.html#spotted. Queensland Herbarium (2008b). Unpublished data. Queensland Herbarium 2008, HERBRECS, Queensland Herbarium, Brisbane Richardson, R. (2006). Draft Queensland Brigalow Belt Reptile Recovery Plan 2008 - 2012. [Online]. Report to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra. Brisbane, Queensland: WWF-Australia. Available from: http://www.qmdc.org.au/publications/download/52/fact-sheets-case-studies/reptile-recovery/draft-reptile-recovery- plan.pdf. Richardson, R. (2006). Queensland Brigalow Belt Reptile Recovery Plan 2008 – 2012. Report to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra. WWF-Australia, Brisbane. Read, M.A., J.D. Miller, I.P. Bell & A. Felton (2004). The distribution and abundance of the estuarine crocodile, Crocodylus porosus, in Queensland. Queensland. Wildlife Research. 31:527-534. Reardon, T.B., S.K.A. Robson, J.G. Parsons & T. Inkster (2010). Review of the threatened status of microchiropteran bat species on Cape York Peninsula. Rogers, D. (1995). A mystery with history: the Buff-breasted Button-quail. Wingspan. 5:26-31. RPS (2011). Fauna, Vegetation & Flora Assessment - Proposed Mt Emerald Wind Farm. Prepared by RPS Australia East Pty Ltd. Prepared for Transfield Services Pty Ltd. Schulz, M. & B. Thomson (2007). Recovery plan for the Bare-rumped Sheathtail Bat Saccolaimus saccolaimus nudicluniatus 2007-2011. [Online]. Report to Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra. Brisbane: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/s-nudicluniatus.html. Serventy, V.N. (ed.) (1982). The Wrens and Warblers of Australia. Angus and Robertson and the Australian Photographic Index of Australian Wildlife, Sydney. Squire, J.E. (1990). Some southern records and other observations of the Buff-breasted Button-quail Turnix olivii. Australian Bird Watcher. 13:149-152. Storr, G.M. (1977). Birds of the Northern Territory. Special Publications of the Western Australian Museum. 7:1- 130. Storr, G.M. (1980). Birds of the Kimberley Division, Western Australia. Special Publications of the Western Australian Museum, No. 11. 11:1-117. Perth, Western Australia: Western Australian Museum. Stevens,J.D., R.B. McAuley, C.A. Simpfendorfer & R.D. Pillans (2008). Spatial distribution and habitat utilisation of sawfish (Pristis spp) in relation to fishing in northern Australia. A report to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. [Online]. CSIRO and Western Australia Department of Fisheries. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/publications/pubs/sawfish-report.pdf. Tablelands regional Council, 2014. Fire Management Plan, viewed on 14 May 2014 under: http://www.trc.qld.gov.au/fire-management
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Taylor Ecological on behalf of 28 South Environmental, 2014. Ecological Assessment Hann Tableland Transportable Radar - En-Route Radar Replacement Program, Prepared by Taylor Ecological on behalf of 28 South Environmental (19/05/2014) Thornburn, D.C., S. Peverell, S. Stevens, J.D. Last & A.J. Rowland (2003). Status of Freshwater and Estuarine Elasmobranches in Northern Australia. Report to Natural Heritage Trust, Canberra, Australia. Tidemann, S.C. (1993b). Management of a threatened species - the Gouldian Finch example. In: Catterall, C.P., P.V. Driscoll, K. Hulsman, D. Muir, & A. Taplin, eds. Birds and Their Habitats: Status and Conservation in Queensland. Page(s) 123-131. Queensland Ornithological Society, St Lucia, Queensland. Tidemann, S.C. & J.C.Z. Woinarski (1994). Moult characteristics and breeding seasons of Gouldian Erythrura gouldiae, Masked Poephila personata and Long-tailed Finches P. acuticauda in savannah woodland in the Northern Territory. Emu. 94:46--52. Tidemann, S.C. (1996). Causes of the decline of the Gouldian Finch Erythrura gouldiae. Biological Conservation International. 6:49--61. Tidemann, S.C., C. Lawson, R. Elvish, J. Boyden & J. Elvish (1999). Breeding biology of the Gouldian Finch Erythrura gouldiae, an endangered finch of northern Australia. Emu. 99:191--199. Threatened Species Network (TSN) (2008b). Brigalow Belt bioregion: a biodiversity jewel. [Online]. WWF- Australia. Available from: http://www.wwf.org.au/publications/reptiles-brigalo-belt.pdf. Van Dyck, S. and Strahan, R. (2008). The Mammals of Australia, 3rd Edition. Reed New Holland, Sydney. Webb, G.J.W., G.C. Sack, R. Buckworth & S.C. Manolis (1983f). An Examination of Crocodylus porosus Nests in Two Northern Australia Freshwater Swamps, with an Analysis of Embryo Mortality. Australian Wildlife Research. 10:571-605. Webb, G.J.W., R. Buckworth & S.C. Manolis (1983a). Crocodylus johnstoni in the McKinlay River Area, N.T. III Growth, movement and the population age structure. Australian Wildlife Research. 10:383-401. Webb, GJW, Whitehead, PJ and Manolis, SC (1987) Crocodile management in the Northern Territory of Australia. In: Webb, GJW, Manolis, SC and Whitehead, PJ (eds) Wildlife Management: Crocodiles and Alligators, pp. 107- 124, Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney. White, H.L. (1922b). Description of nest and eggs of Turnix olivii (Robinson). Emu. 22:99-116. Whitty, J.M., D.L. Morgan, D.C. Thorburn, T. Fazeldean & S.C. Peverell (2008). Tracking the movements of Freshwater Sawfish (Pristis microdon) and Northern River Sharks (Glyphis sp. C) in the Fitzroy River. Whitty, J.M., N.M. Phillips, D.L. Morgan, J.A. Chaplin, D.C. Thorburn & S.C. Peverell, eds. Habitat associations of Freshwater Sawfish (Pristis microdon) and Northern River Sharks (Glyphis sp. C): including genetic analysis of P. microdon across northern Australia. [Online]. Centre for Fish & Fisheries Research (Murdoch University) report to the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Australian Government. Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/coasts/publications/pubs/freshwater-sawfish-northern-river-shark.pdf. Whitaker A.J., Champion, D.C., Sweet, I.P., Kilgour, P., Connolly, D.P., 2007, Surface geology of Australia 1:1,000,000 scale, Queensland - 2nd edition [Digital Dataset), Canberra: The Commonwealth of Australia, Geoscience Australia.http:/www.ga.gov.au Wieneke, J. (1989). Birds of Townsville and Where to Find Them. Townsville: Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland. Williams, S.E. & J-M. Hero (1998). Rainforest frogs of the Australian Wet Tropics: guild classification and the ecological similarity of declining species. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London B. 265:597-602. Williams, S.E. & J-M. Hero (2001). Multiple Determinants of Australian Tropical Frog Biodiversity. Biological Conservation. 98:1-10. Williams, S.E. & J-M. Hero (1998). Rainforest frogs of the Australian Wet Tropics: guild classification and the ecological similarity of declining species. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London B. 265:597-602. Williams, S.E. & J-M. Hero (2001). Multiple Determinants of Australian Tropical Frog Biodiversity. Biological Conservation. 98:1-10.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program 52 Environmental Assessment Report
Wilson, S.K. & D.G. Knowles (1988). Australia's Reptiles: A Photographic Reference to the Terrestrial Reptiles of Australia. Australia: Collins Publishers. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) (2003). TSN - Community Grants Examples, Queensland: Abating threats to spectacled flying foxes and Mabi habitat. Viewed 14th March 2006. [Online]. Available from: http://www.wwf.org.au/ourwork/species/tsngrantsexamples/. Woinarski, J.C.Z. & S.C. Tidemann (1991). The bird fauna of a deciduous woodland in the wet-dry tropics of northern Australia. Wildlife Research. 18:479--500.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix A
Vegetation Management Act 1999 Mapping
AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix B
Nature Conservation Act 1992, WildNet Search Results
AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix C
EPBC Act 1999, Protected Matters Search Tool Results
EPBC Act Protected Matters Report
This report provides general guidance on matters of national environmental significance and other matters protected by the EPBC Act in the area you have selected.
Information on the coverage of this report and qualifications on data supporting this report are contained in the caveat at the end of the report.
Information is available about Environment Assessments and the EPBC Act including significance guidelines, forms and application process details.
Report created: 05/09/13 11:53:50
Summary Details Matters of NES Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act Extra Information Caveat Acknowledgements
This map may contain data which are ©Commonwealth of Australia (Geoscience Australia), ©PSMA 2010
Coordinates Buffer: 20.0Km Summary
Matters of National Environmental Significance
This part of the report summarises the matters of national environmental significance that may occur in, or may relate to, the area you nominated. Further information is available in the detail part of the report, which can be accessed by scrolling or following the links below. If you are proposing to undertake an activity that may have a significant impact on one or more matters of national environmental significance then you should consider the Administrative Guidelines on Significance.
World Heritage Properties: None National Heritage Places: None Wetlands of International Importance: None Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: None Commonwealth Marine Areas: None Listed Threatened Ecological Communities: None Listed Threatened Species: 32 Listed Migratory Species: 16
Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act
This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated. Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment anywhere.
The EPBC Act protects the environment on Commonwealth land, the environment from the actions taken on Commonwealth land, and the environment from actions taken by Commonwealth agencies. As heritage values of a place are part of the 'environment', these aspects of the EPBC Act protect the Commonwealth Heritage values of a Commonwealth Heritage place and the heritage values of a place on the Register of the National Estate.
This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated. Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land, when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment anywhere.
A permit may be required for activities in or on a Commonwealth area that may affect a member of a listed threatened species or ecological community, a member of a listed migratory species, whales and other cetaceans, or a member of a listed marine species.
Commonwealth Land: None Commonwealth Heritage Places: None Listed Marine Species: 17 Whales and Other Cetaceans: None Critical Habitats: None Commonwealth Reserves: None Extra Information
This part of the report provides information that may also be relevant to the area you have nominated.
Place on the RNE: 2 State and Territory Reserves: 1 Regional Forest Agreements: None Invasive Species: 29 Nationally Important Wetlands: None Key Ecological Features (Marine) None
Details
Matters of National Environmental Significance
Listed Threatened Species [ Resource Information ] Name Status Type of Presence Birds Erythrotriorchis radiatus Red Goshawk [942] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area Erythrura gouldiae Gouldian Finch [413] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area Geophaps scripta scripta Squatter Pigeon (southern) [64440] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Neochmia ruficauda ruficauda Star Finch (eastern), Star Finch (southern) [26027] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe [77037] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Turnix olivii Buff-breasted Button-quail [59293] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Tyto novaehollandiae kimberli Masked Owl (northern) [26048] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Frogs Litoria myola Kuranda Tree Frog [82063] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Litoria nannotis Waterfall Frog, Torrent Tree Frog [1817] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Name Status Type of Presence Litoria rheocola Common Mistfrog [1802] Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Nyctimystes dayi Lace-eyed Tree Frog, Australian Lacelid [1813] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Mammals Conilurus penicillatus Brush-tailed Rabbit-rat, Brush-tailed Tree-rat, Vulnerable Species or species Pakooma [132] habitat may occur within area Dasyurus hallucatus Northern Quoll [331] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area Dasyurus maculatus gracilis Spotted-tailed Quoll or Yarri (North Queensland Endangered Species or species subspecies) [64475] habitat likely to occur within area Hipposideros semoni Semon's Leaf-nosed Bat, Greater Wart-nosed Endangered Species or species Horseshoe-bat [180] habitat may occur within area Phascolarctos cinereus (combined populations of Qld, NSW and the ACT) Koala (combined populations of Queensland, New Vulnerable Species or species South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory) habitat may occur within [85104] area Pteropus conspicillatus Spectacled Flying-fox [185] Vulnerable Species or species habitat known to occur within area Rhinolophus philippinensis (large form) Greater Large-eared Horseshoe Bat [66890] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area Saccolaimus saccolaimus nudicluniatus Bare-rumped Sheathtail Bat [66889] Critically Endangered Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Xeromys myoides Water Mouse, False Water Rat, Yirrkoo [66] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Plants Cajanus mareebensis [8635] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area Chamaesyce carissoides [67187] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Dendrobium bigibbum Cooktown Orchid [10306] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Dendrobium johannis [13585] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Phaius australis Lesser Swamp-orchid [5872] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Phaius tancarvilleae Swamp Lily, Greater Swamp-orchid [2104] Endangered Species or species habitat may occur within area Streblus pendulinus Siah's Backbone, Sia's Backbone, Isaac Wood Endangered Species or species [21618] habitat likely to occur Name Status Type of Presence within area Taeniophyllum muelleri Minute Orchid, Ribbon-root Orchid [10771] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Tropilis callitrophilis Thin Feather Orchid [82771] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Vappodes phalaenopsis Cooktown Orchid [78894] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Reptiles Egernia rugosa Yakka Skink [1420] Vulnerable Species or species habitat may occur within area Sharks Pristis microdon Freshwater Sawfish [66182] Vulnerable Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Listed Migratory Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Migratory Marine Birds Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Migratory Marine Species Crocodylus porosus Salt-water Crocodile, Estuarine Crocodile [1774] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Migratory Terrestrial Species Erythrura gouldiae Gouldian Finch [413] Endangered Species or species habitat known to occur within area Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail [682] Species or species habitat may occur within area Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow [662] Species or species habitat may occur within area Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species habitat may occur within area Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Monarcha trivirgatus Spectacled Monarch [610] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher [612] Breeding known to occur within area Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species habitat known to occur Name Threatened Type of Presence within area Migratory Wetlands Species Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret [59541] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Ardea ibis Cattle Egret [59542] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species habitat may occur within area Grus antigone Sarus Crane [904] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato) Painted Snipe [889] Endangered* Species or species habitat likely to occur within area
Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act
Listed Marine Species [ Resource Information ] * Species is listed under a different scientific name on the EPBC Act - Threatened Species list. Name Threatened Type of Presence Birds Anseranas semipalmata Magpie Goose [978] Species or species habitat may occur within area Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret [59541] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Ardea ibis Cattle Egret [59542] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species habitat may occur within area Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail [682] Species or species habitat may occur within area Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow [662] Species or species habitat may occur within area Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species habitat may occur within area Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species habitat known to occur Name Threatened Type of Presence within area Monarcha trivirgatus Spectacled Monarch [610] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher [612] Breeding known to occur within area Pandion haliaetus Osprey [952] Breeding known to occur within area Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species habitat known to occur within area Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato) Painted Snipe [889] Endangered* Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Reptiles Crocodylus johnstoni Freshwater Crocodile, Johnston's Crocodile, Species or species Johnston's River Crocodile [1773] habitat may occur within area Crocodylus porosus Salt-water Crocodile, Estuarine Crocodile [1774] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area
Extra Information
Places on the RNE [ Resource Information ] Note that not all Indigenous sites may be listed. Name State Status Natural Brydes Granite Gorge Beetle Site QLD Indicative Place Wet Tropical Forests of North Queensland QLD Interim List
State and Territory Reserves [ Resource Information ] Name State Hann Tableland QLD
Invasive Species [ Resource Information ] Weeds reported here are the 20 species of national significance (WoNS), along with other introduced plants that are considered by the States and Territories to pose a particularly significant threat to biodiversity. The following feral animals are reported: Goat, Red Fox, Cat, Rabbit, Pig, Water Buffalo and Cane Toad. Maps from Landscape Health Project, National Land and Water Resouces Audit, 2001. Name Status Type of Presence Birds Acridotheres tristis Common Myna, Indian Myna [387] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Anas platyrhynchos Mallard [974] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Columba livia Rock Pigeon, Rock Dove, Domestic Pigeon [803] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Name Status Type of Presence Lonchura punctulata Nutmeg Mannikin [399] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Passer domesticus House Sparrow [405] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Turtle-Dove [780] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Sturnus vulgaris Common Starling [389] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Frogs Bufo marinus Cane Toad [1772] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Rhinella marina Cane Toad [83218] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Mammals Canis lupus familiaris Domestic Dog [82654] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Felis catus Cat, House Cat, Domestic Cat [19] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Mus musculus House Mouse [120] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit, European Rabbit [128] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Rattus norvegicus Brown Rat, Norway Rat [83] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Rattus rattus Black Rat, Ship Rat [84] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Sus scrofa Pig [6] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Plants Acacia nilotica subsp. indica Prickly Acacia [6196] Species or species habitat may occur within area Andropogon gayanus Gamba Grass [66895] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Cabomba caroliniana Cabomba, Fanwort, Carolina Watershield, Fish Species or species Grass, Washington Grass, Watershield, Carolina habitat likely to occur Fanwort, Common Cabomba [5171] within area Cryptostegia grandiflora Rubber Vine, Rubbervine, India Rubber Vine, India Species or species Rubbervine, Palay Rubbervine, Purple Allamanda habitat likely to occur [18913] within area Dolichandra unguis-cati Cat's Claw Vine, Yellow Trumpet Vine, Cat's Claw Species or species Name Status Type of Presence Creeper, Funnel Creeper [85119] habitat likely to occur within area Eichhornia crassipes Water Hyacinth, Water Orchid, Nile Lily [13466] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Hymenachne amplexicaulis Hymenachne, Olive Hymenachne, Water Stargrass, Species or species West Indian Grass, West Indian Marsh Grass habitat likely to occur [31754] within area Jatropha gossypifolia Cotton-leaved Physic-Nut, Bellyache Bush, Species or species Cotton-leaf Physic Nut, Cotton-leaf Jatropha, habitat likely to occur Black Physic Nut [7507] within area Lantana camara Lantana, Common Lantana, Kamara Lantana, Species or species Large-leaf Lantana, Pink Flowered Lantana, Red habitat likely to occur Flowered Lantana, Red-Flowered Sage, White within area Sage, Wild Sage [10892] Parthenium hysterophorus Parthenium Weed, Bitter Weed, Carrot Grass, False Species or species Ragweed [19566] habitat likely to occur within area Salvinia molesta Salvinia, Giant Salvinia, Aquarium Watermoss, Species or species Kariba Weed [13665] habitat likely to occur within area Reptiles Hemidactylus frenatus Asian House Gecko [1708] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Lepidodactylus lugubris Mourning Gecko [1712] Species or species habitat likely to occur within area Acknowledgements This database has been compiled from a range of data sources. The department acknowledges the following custodians who have contributed valuable data and advice: -Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, New South Wales -Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria -Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Tasmania -Department of Environment and Natural Resources, South Australia -Parks and Wildlife Service NT, NT Dept of Natural Resources, Environment and the Arts -Environmental and Resource Management, Queensland -Department of Environment and Conservation, Western Australia -Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water -Birds Australia -Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme -Australian National Wildlife Collection -Natural history museums of Australia -Museum Victoria -Australian Museum -SA Museum -Queensland Museum -Online Zoological Collections of Australian Museums -Queensland Herbarium -National Herbarium of NSW -Royal Botanic Gardens and National Herbarium of Victoria -Tasmanian Herbarium -State Herbarium of South Australia -Northern Territory Herbarium -Western Australian Herbarium -Australian National Herbarium, Atherton and Canberra -University of New England -Ocean Biogeographic Information System -Australian Government, Department of Defence -State Forests of NSW -Geoscience Australia -CSIRO -Other groups and individuals
The Department is extremely grateful to the many organisations and individuals who provided expert advice and information on numerous draft distributions.
Please feel free to provide feedback via the Contact Us page.
© Commonwealth of Australia Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities GPO Box 787 Canberra ACT 2601 Australia +61 2 6274 1111 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix D
Flora and Fauna Desktop Assessment Tables
AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-5 Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix D Flora and Fauna Desktop Assessment Tables
Family Name Botanical Name Common Name Status^ Mimosaceae Acacia flavescens Yellow Wattle LC Mimosaceae Acacia polystachya Spike Wattle LC Adiantaceae Adiantum hispidulum Rough Maidenhair Fern LC Johnsoniaceae Ageratum conyzoides ssp. conyzoides Goatweed * Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina torulosa Forest She-oak LC Rhamnaceae Alphitonia excelsa Soap Tree LC Zingiberaceae Alpinia caerulea Wild Ginger LC Apocynaceae Alyxia ilicifolia Chainfruit LC Amaranthaceae Amaranthus sp. Amaranth * Loranthaceae Amyema congener ssp. rotundifolia Round-leaved Mistletoe LC Poaceae Andropogon gayanus Gamba Grass * WONS Class 2 Apocynaceae Asclepias curvassica Red-headed Cotton-bush * Aspleniaceae Asplenium australasicum Crow’s Nest Fern LC Asteraceae Bidens pilosa Cobbler’s Pegs * Acanthaceae Brunoniella acaulis Kidney Weed LC Orchidaceae Cadetia taylori Smooth Burr-orchid LC Fabaceae Clitoria ternatea Butterfly Pea * Cochlospermaceae Cochlospermum gillvraei Kapok Tree LC Myrtaceae Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood LC Fabaceae Crotalaria lanceolata ssp. lanceolata Lance-leaved Rattlepod * Apocynaceae Cryptostegia grandiflora Rubber Vine * WONS Class 2 Sapindaceae Cupaniopsis anacardioides Tuckeroo LC Orchidaceae Cymbidium madidum Giant Boat-lip Orchid LC Orchidaceae Dendrobium canaliculatum Brown Tea-tree Orchid LC Orchidaceae Dendrobium smillieae Bottle-brush Orchid LC Fabaceae Desmodium sp. Tick trefoil LC Hemerocallidaceae Dianella caerulea v. vannata Blue Flax-lily LC Hemerocallidaceae Dianella nervosa Flax-lily LC Gleicheniaceae Dicranopteris linearis Forked Fern LC Orchidaceae Dockrillia teretifolia Rat’s Tail Orchid LC Polypodiaceae Drynaria rigidula Basket Fern LC Asteraceae Emilia sonchifolia Emilies * Poaceae Eragrostis brownii Brown’s Lovegrass LC
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-6 Environmental Assessment Report
Family Name Botanical Name Common Name Status^ Myrtaceae Eucalyptus drepanophylla Narrow-leaved Ironbark LC Myrtaceae Eucalyptus tereticornis Queensland Blue Gum LC Anacardiaceae Euroschinus falcata Ribbonwood LC Laxmanniaceae Eustrephus latifolius Wombat Berry LC Moraceae Ficus obliqua Small-leaved Fig LC Moraceae Ficus opposita Sandpaper Fig LC Cyperaceae Gahnia aspera Sawsedge LC Hemerocallidaceae Geitonoplesium cymosum Scrambling Lily LC Phyllanthaceae Glochidion sumatranum Umbrella Cheese Tree LC Fabaceae Hardenbergia violacea Purple Coral-pea LC Apocynaceae Hoya australis Common Wayflower LC Araliaceae Hydrocotyle grammacarpa Pennywort LC Poaceae Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass LC Verbenaceae Lantana camara Common Lantana * WONS Class 3 Laxmanniaceae Lomandra longifolia Long-leaved Matrush LC Myrtaceae Lophostemon suaveolens Swamp Box LC Fabaceae Macroptilium atropurpureum Siratro * Euphorbiaceae Mallotus philippensis Red Kamala Poaceae Megathrysus maximus v. maximus Guinea Grass * Melastomaceae Melastoma malabathricum ssp. Nunyi-um LC malabathricum Meliaceae Melia azedarach White Cedar LC Poaceae Melinis repens Red Natal Grass * Poaceae Micraira subulifolia Mountain Couch Grass LC Rubiaceae Morinda citrifolia Great Morinda LC Apocynaceae Parsonsia velutina Hairy Silkpod LC Poaceae Paspalum scrobiculatum Ditch Millet * Thymelaeaceae Pimelea sericostachya ssp. sericostachya Riceflower LC Polypodiaceae Platycerium hillii Northern Elk Horn LC Lamiaceae Plectranthus apreptus Cockspur Flower LC Dennistaediaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken LC Polypodiaceae Pyrrosia lanceolata Basket Fern LC Araliaceae Schefflera actinophylla Umbrella Tree LC Poaceae Setaria surgens Annual Pigeon Grass LC Malvaceae Sida cordifolia Flannel Weed * Smilacaceae Smilax australis Austral Sarsaparilla LC Solanaceae Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco *
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-7 Environmental Assessment Report
Family Name Botanical Name Common Name Status^ Solanaceae Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade * Poaceae Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass LC Asteraceae Tricoryne anceps Rush Lily LC Poaceae Urochloa mosambicensis Sabi Grass * Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea johnsonii Forest Grasstree LC Asteraceae Xerochrysum bracteatum Golden Everlasting Daisy LC Curcurbitaceae Zehneria mucronata Cucumber LC ^ Status: LC = Least Concern under the NC Act, * = non-native species, WONS = Weed of National Significance, Class 2 / Class 3 = Declared Plant of Queensland under the LP Act.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-8 Environmental Assessment Report
Fauna EVNT Habitat Assessment and Likelihood of Occurrence
Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts NC Act EPBC Act
Amphibians
Litoria myola Kuranda tree E - This species occurs in rainforest habitats surrounding Kuranda, QLD Unlikely Occurrence – This species is highly restricted in its range and is frog (Tyler and Knight, 2011). Specifically, the species is known from 12 unlikely to occur within the site. The site does not support suitable breeding aggregations in the lower sections of streams entering the rainforest or stream habitat. Barron River between the localities of Kuranda, Myola, Mantaka, Unlikely Impacted – It is unlkely that this species will be impacted by the Kowrowa and Oak Forest (Conservation advice DoE 2014d). proposed works on site as there is not suitable habitat for this species both within and immediately downstream of the site. Further, the site falls within a different catchment to this species known range.
Litoria nannotis waterfallfrog E - TheWaterfallFrogisastreamdwellingspeciesthatisendemictothe Unlikely Occurrence – This species is restricted to flowing rocky streams Wet Tropics Bioregion (Hodgkison & Hero 2001; Williams & Hero in rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest where there are cascades and 1998, 2001). It is restricted to rocky stream habitats in rainforest or waterfalls. It is unlikely to occur within the site or immediately surrounding wet sclerophyll forest where there is fast flowing water, waterfalls and environments given the habitats observed. cascades (Liem 1974; McDonald 1992) (DoE, 2014t). Unlikely Impacted – It is unlkely that this species will be impacted by the proposed works on site as there is not suitable habitat for this species both within and immediately downstream of the site. It is likely that this species does not occur within the immediate catchment of the site.
Litoria rheocola common E E The Common Mistfrog is a rainforest specialist, endemic to the Wet Unlikely Occurrence – This species is restricted to flowing rocky streams mistfrog Tropics Bioregion (Williams & Hero 1998, 2001). The species is in rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest. It is unl kely to occur within the site restricted to fast flowing rocky creeks and streams in rainforest as well or immediately surrounding environments given the habitats observed. as wet sclerophyll forest (Liem 1974; McDonald 1992). Within these Unlikely Impacted – It is unlkely that this species will be impacted by the streams this species are often found in the slower more open proposed works on site as there is not suitable habitat for this species both sections, away from waterfalls (Hodgkison & Hero 2002). Individuals within and immediately downstream of the site. It is likely that this species can be found on rocks, logs and vegetation in or adjacent to streams does not occur within the immediate catchment of the site. (Hero & Fickling 1994) (DoE, 2014u).
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-9 Environmental Assessment Report
Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Nyctimystes dayi lace-eyedfrog E E Thisspeciesisrestrictednorth-eastQLDandoccursinrockystreams Unlikely Occurrence – this species is restricted to rocky streams or rock in rainforest habitats (Tyler and Knight, 2011). In montane areas the outcrops along watercourses in rainforest habitats. This habitat is not species prefers fast-flowing rocky streams although they also frequent present within the site and are unl kely to occur in the immediate slower watercourses where ample vegetation exists along the downstream areas. margins. At low elevations, the Lace-eyed Tree Frog favours rock Unlikely Impacted – This species is unlikely to occur within the site or soaks, narrow ephemeral streams and rock outcrops in larger habitats immediately downstream of the site. No rainforest habitats were watercourses. It may also be found on rocks, boulders and vegetation noted in areas immediately downstream of the site and it is unlikely that the in or adjacent to streams (Czechura et al. 1987) (DoE, 2014s). proposed works will impact this species.
Avifauna (Migratory Species are excluded unless the species is listed as EVNT)
Aerodramus Australian - NT The Australian swiftlet occurs in coastal ranges, gorges, islands, Potential Occurrence – This species is likely to overfly and forage within terraereginae swiftlet woodlands to 1000 m in altitude in both Qld and northern NSW. This habitats proximate to and within the site. It is unl kely that habitats within species utilises cave like crevices and limestone caves in ranges to the site provide suitable nesting habitat for this species given their very create nesting sites (Morcombe, 2013). small and low nature.
Unlikely Impact – Although this species may overfly or forage within habitats proximate to and within the site it is highly unl kely that this mobile and typically aerial species would be impacted. Further, no suitable breeding habitat will be impacted as a result of the proposed works on site.
Ephippiorhynchus black-necked - NT The black-necked stork prefers swamps associated with river systems Unlikely Occurrence - No suitable swamp or wetland habitat occurs within asiaticus stork and large permanent pools. Can sometimes occur in estuaries and the site. coastal habitats (Blakers, Davies and Reilly 1986). Unlikely Impacted - No impact to this species are likely to result from the proposed actions as this species is not likely to be present within the site or immediate surrounds.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-10 Environmental Assessment Report
Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Erythrotriorchis redgoshawk V E Thisspeciesprefersforestandwoodlandhabitatswithamosaicof Potential Occurrence - Records of this species occur within the buffered radiatus vegetation types, large prey populations (birds), and permanent water. search area. It is likely that this species may forage or over-fly this site. The vegetation types include eucalypt woodland, open forest, tall open Unlikely Impacted – It is unlkely that this species will be impacted by the forest, gallery rainforest, swamp sclerophyll forest and rainforest proposed works. The proposed works will result in a minor amount of margins (DoE 2014j). This species has a home range between 50 and potential foraging habitat being impacted. These areas are unlikely to 220 km (DoE 2014k). afford Significant portions of this species foraging habitat and fall adjacent Fragmentation may have occurred in the more heavily settled and to historically cleared habitats. It is likely that this species should it forage cleared regions of the species' range, such as in the coastal lowlands within the area to have become habituated too these impacts. Habitats of eastern Queensland (DoE 2014j). present on site were also observed to support low densities of suitable prey species (passerines) during site inspections. No raptor nests were observed within or adjacent to the site.
Erythryra gouldiae GouldianFinch E E TheGouldianFinchinhabitsopenwoodlandsthataredominatedby Unlikely Occurrence – This species has been recorded in the broader Eucalyptus trees and support a ground cover of Sorghum and other region; however, these records are all associated with lower plains grasses (Boekel 1980b; Ford 1978; McKean 1985; Tidemann 1987, proximate to permanent water sources. It is unlikely that the site forms a 1993a; Tidemann & Woinarski 1994; Woinarski & Tidemann 1991). part of this species foraging or breeding habitat given its altitude, lack of The Gouldian Finch drinks regularly (Evans et al. 1985; O'Malley 2006; preferred forage species and distance to water. Tidemann 1987) (DoE, 2014l). Unlikely Impact – It is unlkely that this species will be impacted by the The critical components of suitable core habitat for the Gouldian Finch proposed works. The proposed works are minor and isolated to habitats appear to be the presence of favoured annual and perennial grasses which not favourable for this species for forage or breeding given the sites (especially Sorghum), a nearby source of surface water and, in the locality, its proximity to water, lack of foraging resources and its altitude. breeding season, unburnt hollow-bearing Eucalyptus trees (especially E. tintinnans, E. brevifolia and E. leucophloia) (Higgins et al. 2006a; O'Malley 2006; Tidemann 1996; Tidemann et al. 1999) (DoE, 2014l). Its breeding habitat is usually confined to ridges and rocky foothills, but the tendency to nest in these upland areas is probably due to the presence of Sorghum grasses rather than to the actual topography of the landscape (Higgins et al. 2006a; O'Malley 2006; Tidemann 1996) (DoE, 2014l). Morcombe (Morcombe, 2013) describes suitable breeding habitat to be low, stony ridges.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-11 Environmental Assessment Report
Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Geophaps scripta squatter pigeon V V Squatterpigeon(southern)iscommonlyfoundinthegrassy Unlikely Occurrence – It is lkely that the northern form of this species scripta (southern) understorey of eucalypt, wattle and angophora woodlands, usually with Geophaps scripta peninsulae (northern) occurs in the broader region. ready access to water. It generally feeds on seed (specifically grass Further, habitats found on site do not reflect preferable habitat for this seeds and legumes) and has been noted foraging on introduced species as ground covers are typically tall rank exotic grasses of granitic pasture plants seed (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Sandy areas outcrops. dissected by gravel ridges are preferred and burnt areas are Unlikely Impacts - The proposed works are unl kely to impact this frequented (DoE 2014m). Birds may occasionally feed in sown species as the site falls outside of this sub-species range. Further, the site grasslands and pastures. This species is commonly noted in non- does not typically support suitable habitat for this species nor is it remnant areas such as cleared grazing lands or road verges (DoE proximate to permanent water. 2014n).
Neochima star finch E E The Star Finch (eastern) occurs mainly in grasslands and grassy Unlikely Occurrence - The site does not support suitable habitat for this ruficauda (eastern and woodlands that are located close to bodies of fresh water (Garnett species. Larger riparian areas associated with the East Hodgkinson River ruficauda southern) 1993; Gould 1865; Holmes 1996). It also occurs in cleared or suburban and Leadingham Creek may provide habitat for this species; however, the areas such as along roadsides and in towns (Baldwin 1975; Cayley paucity of recent records of the species in the region suggests is highly 1932; Holmes 1996, 1998; Marshall 1932). Studies at nine former sites unlikely to occur proximate to the site. of the Star Finch (eastern) found that the habitat consisted mainly of Unlikely Impacted – It is unlkely that the proposed works will impact this woodland. These habitats are dominated by trees that are typically species. This species is highly mobile and unl kely to occur within the site. associated with permanent water or areas that are regularly inundated; the most common species are Eucalyptus coolabah, E. tereticornis, E. tessellaris, Melaleuca leucadendra, E. camaldulensis and Casuarina cunninghamii (Holmes 1996). (DoE 2014y).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Nettapus cotton pygmy- - NT Thecottonpygmy-gooseinhabitscoastalwetlands, prederringdeep Unlikely Occurrence – No suitable habitat such as lakes, dams, swamps coromandelianus goose permanent pools and sqamps with abundant aquatic grasses. This or pools occur within or proximate to the site. species nests in hollow bearing trees near water (Morcombe, 2013). Unlikely Impacted – This species is heavily reliant on wetland habitat and is highly unl kely to occur within or proximate to the site and therefore unlikely to be impacted by the proposed works.
Numenius eastern curlew - NT This species uses mudflats, sand spits of estuaries, mangroves, lake Unlikely Occurrence – This species typically occurs in coastal madagascariensis shores and ocean beaches (Morcombe, 2013). environments; however, can occur in sub-coastal lakes and wetlands. No suitable habitat for this species occurs within or proximate to the site.
Unlikely Impacted – As this species is typically a coastal wader species it is unlikely to occur in habitats proximate to or within the site and therefore unlikely to impacted by the proposed works.
Rostratula Australian V V The Australian paintedsnipe generallyinhabitsshallowterrestrial Unlikely Occurrence - It is unlikely that this species occurs within australis painted snipe freshwater (occasionally brackish) wetlands, including temporary and habitats found within the site or in areas immediately proximate to them. permanent lakes, swamps, gilgai and claypans. They also use This species may occur in the broader region where wetland and inundated or waterlogged grassland or saltmarsh, dams, rice crops, floodplain habitats area present. sewage farms and bore drains (DoE 2014ad). Unlikely Impacted - It is unlikely that this species or populations of this species will be impacted by the proposed works as there is no suitable habitat impacted by the proposed works nor is this species expected to occur within the site.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Tadorna radjah radjah shelduck - NT Typically inhabits mangrove-lined river channels, tidal mudflats and Unlikely Occurrence - It is unlikely that this species occurs within - 20 beaches, or remains inland on permanent lagoons (Morcombe, 2013). habitats found within the site or in areas immediately proximate to them. This species may occur in the broader region where wetland and floodplain habitats area present.
Unlikely Impacted - It is unlikely that this species or populations of this species will be impacted by the proposed works as there is no suitable habitat impacted by the proposed works nor is this species expected to occur within the site.
Turnix olivii buff-breasted E V The buff-breasted button-quail occurs in patches of short and sparse Unlikely Occurrence – The site does not support suitable habitat for this button-quail 20 20 grassland, on a terrain of small stones (often on the lower slopes of species such as short and sparse grasslands or terrain with small stones. hills and ridges), and sometimes in open glades amongst Melaleuca, Habitats further down slope may provide marginal habitat for this species Acacia, Alphitonia or Tristania, in rainforest or open Eucalyptus or where rainforest occurs in gullies throughout the region. woodland (Garnett & Crowley 2000; Nielsen 2007, pers. comm.; Unlikely Impact – It is unl kely that this species occurs within or Rogers 1995; Squire 1990; White 1922b). It has also been recorded on proximate to the site and it is therefore unlikely that this species will be burnt patches of habitat (Rogers 1995). (DoE, 2014aj). impacted by the proposed activities.
Tyto masked owl V V In northern Australia, the Masked Owl has been recorded from riparian Potential Occurrence – This species potentially occurs within habitats novaehollandiae (northern) 20/5/1 - forest, rainforest, open forest, Melaleuca swamps and the edges of proximate to and within the site. Despite the presence of hollows in large kimberli mangroves, as well as along the margins of sugar cane fields (Higgins eucalypts on and adjacent to site, no preferential breeding habitat is likely 1999; Nielsen 1996; Storr 1977, 1980). to occur given its preference to utilise habitats in heavy forest near open Nests are usually a cavernous hollow in the trunk or a main limb of a country were preferable foraging resources occur. This habitat is present large tree in heavy forest, but often near open country over which the in abundance within the broader region with the majority of lower altitude owls hunt. (DoE, 2014ak). habitats being cleared for agricultural pursuits. Further, large portions of this agricultural land abuts significant tracks of remnant vegetation associated with higher ranges and tablelands with the potential to support heavier forests.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Unlikely Impacted – This species may potentially move through the site; however, given the lack of preferred foraging and breeding habitat it is unlikely that the proposed works will impact this species.
Mammals
Conilurus brush-tailed V - The brush-tailed rabbit-rat inhabits moist areas with dense grassy Unlikely Occurrence – This species has not been recorded within the penicillatus rabbit-rat 20/5 - understorey within coastal she-oak woodlands, sclerophyll forest, region or Queensland since 1963. Further, this species is typically and pandanus thickets. (Menkhorst and Knight, 2011). restricted to those areas proximate to coastal environments from the In Queensland, the only record of the species was made in 1963 Kimberly (WA) through to the QLD and NT boarder in the Gulf of from Bentinck Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, and there have been Carpentaria and nearby coastal islands. Given the paucity of recent no subsequent records, surveys or studies (R.S.C. Firth 2007, pers. records in QLD and records within the region surrounding the site, it is comm., cited in TSSC 2008aea) (DoE, 2014f). unlikely that this species occurs within habitats proximate to the site.
Unlikely Impact – It is unl kely that the proposed works on site will impact this species. The lack of recent records in QLD and lack of records in the region surrounding the site it is unl kely that this species occurs within the site or surrounding habitats.
Dasyurus northern quoll E LC Northern quoll inhabit a large variety of habitats and are found in Potential Occurrence – The site and its immediate surrounds do not hallucatus 20/5/1 20 rocky areas, eucalypt forest and woodlands, rainforests, sandy support larger riparian systems or permanent water due to the steep lowlands and beaches, scrublands, grasslands and desert. Recent topography. This does not necessary preclude the northern quoll from surveys in Queensland suggest northern quoll inhabits regions in occurring; however, it may reduce densities of occurrence due to high relief areas that have shallower soils, greater cover of boulders, available recourses. Upper ephemeral streams and pools potentially less fire impact and are closer to permanent water (DoE 2014h). occur at higher relief within incised gullies supporting impervious rocks or In rocky habitats both sexes have longer life spans, with animals of historical cattle grazing dams. Lower level streams occur downslope of both sexes often living to two years and occasionally three. They the site, which, during field inspections were noted to have standing or also grow to a larger size than animals in savanna habitats flowing water. (Braithwaite & Begg 1995)) (DoE, 2014h).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Potentially Impacted – The proposed works have the potential to impact on individuals of this species through the destruction of suitable denning and breeding habitat. The proposed impacts are however, considered to be minor in terms of the level of foraging habitat subjected to potential clearing. Clearing is also considered unlikely to impact movement of this species given the location of the site and access track being proximate to existing impacts which, should any individuals reside in the immediately locality, have been habituated to.
Works may, however, still result in impacts to individuals of this species, particularly during breeding and rearing periods which occurs from May to early June (DoE, 2014). Young are weaned after approximately 6 months occurring between November to early December (DoE, 2014). Should works occur during this time, impacts to any denning sites or their immediate surrounds may result in the abandonment or mortality of young, thus, significant impacts to the northern quoll may potentially be resultant.
Dasyurus spotted-tail quoll E - The subspecies is mostly confined to the relatively cool, wet and Unlikely Occurrence – This species typically occurs in moist close forest maculatus gracilis 20 - climatically equable upland closed-forests (mostly above 900 m in mountain ranges along the eastern escarpment of northern QLD. The altitude) that occur in the upper catchments of rivers draining east site supports a drier open sclerophyll forest without any complex vine-fern and west of the Eastern Escarpment in the Wet Tropics bioregion of thickets. Further, the lack of records of this species within the database north-eastern Queensland (Burnett 2001, cited in Long & Nelson buffer areas interrogated, indicates the lack of suitable habitat and 2010a). Maxwell and colleagues (1996) also suggest the species occurrence of this species. occurs in lower altitude notophyll, mesophyll and wet sclerophyll Unlikely Impacted – This species is unlikely to occur within the site or forests in lesser numbers. Vegetation types typical of this habitat are surrounding habitats and therefore unlikely to impacted by the proposed simple and complex notophyll vine forest, simple microphyll vine-fern works. forest and simple microphyll vine-fern thicket (Long & Nelson 2010a). (DoE, 2014i).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
The subspecies utilises dens for resting and for raising young. Dens have been found in tree hollows, logs, rock crevasses and even among building materials. Maternal dens often have long entrances (Qld DERM 2006). (DoE, 2014i).
Hipposideros Semon’s leaf- E E Semon's leaf-nosed bat is found in tropical rainforest, monsoon Unlikely Occurrence – although the site supports hollow bearing trees semoni nosed bat 20/5/1 - forest, wet sclerophyll forest and open savannah woodland. and very small, low level and shallow crevices, this species is more This species does not have an obligatory requirement for cave heavily associated with moister forests or open savannah woodland which roosts. Daytime roost sites include tree hollows, deserted buildings is not present within or surrounding the site. in rainforest, road culverts and shallow caves amongst granite Unlikely Impacted – It is unlikely that this species is present within the boulders or in fissures (Churchill 1998, 2009; de Oliveira & Schulz site and therefore unl kely that the proposed works will impact this 1997; Hall & Richards 1979; Hall 2002). They appear to prefer species. A fauna spotter catcher should be present during the clearing of rainforest and are more likely to be tree-dwelling than cave-dwelling all hollow bearing trees and inspect each for presence of fauna. Although (S.K. Churchill pers. comm. in Thomson et al. 2001). (DoE, 2014p). this species is unlikely to be present, fauna spotter catchers should identify any microbat species encountered and inform relevant government agencies should any EVNT species be present.
Hipposideros diadem leaf- - NT This species typically occurs in lowland rainforest, Melaleuca forest, Potential Occurrence – This species has the potential for forage within diadema reginae nosed bat - 20 eucalypt woodland, deciduous vine thicket and open woodland site and surrounding habitats; however, no suitable roosting habitat is (Churchill, 2009). present within or immediately surrounding the site. Diadem leaf-nosed bats are most commonly found in caves and Unlikely Impacted- The proposed works are considered to be relatively disused mines, but also in buildings and road culverts. They show a small with relation to the surrounding environment which provides an preference for large caves with large chambers and multiple abundance of foraging habitat for this species. This species is highly entrances (Churchill, 2009). mobile and the loss of vegetation associated with the proposed clearing is unlikely to impact their foraging opportunities should they forage within the area. Further, the site and immediate surrounds do not support suitable roosting habitat.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Petrogale Mareeba rock- - NT This species occurs in the ranges west of Cairns from near Mt Potential Occurrence – Suitable habitat for this species is highly mareeba wallaby - 20 Garnett in the north to the Mitchell River and Mt Carbine, inland to abundant throughout the region. This species is likely to occur throughout Mungana (Morkhorst and Knight, 2011). the broader tablelands and within habitat both surrounding and within the site. This species was not observed during site inspections; however, naturally this species is cryptic and if present, would have likely vacated site due to the number of field staff present and nature of staff access the site.
Unlikely Impacted – The proposed works are considered to be minor in relation to the abundance of suitable habitat for this species within the broader region. This species is highly mobile and likely to vacate the site should it be present during the proposed works. The density of exotic grasses and lantana surrounding the small rocky outcrops on site potentially reduce the suitability of the site as habitat for this species; however, the maintained lawn/grassy areas proximate to the existing access track, Hann Tableland radar surveillance system, Ergon communications tower and helipad potentially provide good quality forage for this species.
Phascolarctos koala V V (SEQ Koalas inhabit a range of temperate, sub-tropical and tropical forest, Potential Occurrence – Although the site occurs at an altitude greater cinereus 20/5/1 only) woodland and semi-arid communities dominated by species from the than 800 m, the presence and density of preferred food trees within the - genus Eucalyptus (including Angophora, Corymbia, Lophostemon site and broader region provides for abundant foraging resources which and Melaleuca) (Martin and Handasyde, 1999) as eucalypts are the may be used for occasional foraging or dispersal. primary food source. The distribution of koalas is also affected by Unlikely Impacted - The proposed works are unlikely to impact this altitude (limited to <800 m above sea level), temperature and, in the species or local populations as works occur at altitudes greater than 800 drier areas of their range, leaf moisture (Munks et. al., 1996). (DoE m; however there is still a potential for their presence given the 2014aa). abundance of preferred feed trees. It should be noted that the short term It is widely accepted that koalas will utilise non-remnant vegetation increase of vehicular movements along the existing access track and the and those habitats which may not support or be dominated by lopping and/or removal of habitat trees may result in injury or mortality of Eucalypt species such as rainforest. (DoE, 2014aa). individuals.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Potential impacts can be significantly reduced should mitigation measures be employed such as: - fauna awareness signage - slow speeds through habitats - all vehicles restricted to formed roads and access tracks - no domestic animals are brought to site - clearing to be supervised by a fauna spottercatcher - contractor toolboxes to raise awareness of koala presence - restrictions to nocturnal works - clearing to be undertaken in a manner reflective of those outlined in Table 6 of the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan (2006) and Koala Management Plan (2006 – 2016).
Pteropus spectacled V - The species was long assumed assumed to feed primarily on Unlikely Occurrence – This species typically favours foraging in conspicillatus flying-fox 20/5/1 20 rainforest species (Richards 1990) but individuals regularly feed on a rainforest habitats or sclerophyll forests adjacent to rainforest. The wide variety of non-rainforest species, including eucalypts species is highly mobile and there is a small potential that this species (Eucalyptus spp., Corymbia spp.) in tall open forests adjoining may at times foraging in within the marginal habitats found within the rainforest communities and in tropical woodland and savanna areas surrounding the site. These habitats are however, highly abundant ecosystems (Parsons et al. 2006). The Mabi Forest (Complex and common to the broader region. Notophyll Vine Forest 5b) is considered a key habitat for the It is unlikely that the site forms a Significant part of this species range or Spectacled Flying-fox (WWF 2003). foraging requirements. Any potential foraging within proximity of the site The foraging range of the species is less well understood and further would be specifically based on this species broader movements through research will provide a better understanding of the foraging the landscape and be heavily reliant on flowering which are not a reliable distribution of this bat. Telemetry and resource use results from the food resource for this species year round. Wet Tropics indicate that foraging individuals range widely across No camps were observed or are known to occur in the immediate the Wet Tropics bioregion and extensively into drier forests, including surrounds of the site. those to the west of the Wet Tropics Region (DoE, 2014ac).
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program D-19 Environmental Assessment Report
Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Unlikely Impacted – The habitats supported on site and within its immediate surrounds do not provide core habitat for this species and are not adjacent any prominent areas of rainforest. This species may occasionally over-fly or forage on sporadically flowering eucalyptus however, the impacts proposed are minor and will occur within a habitat that is common within the region and thus not Significantly impact this species or its foraging requirements.
Rhinolophus Greater large- E E The greater Large-eared Horseshoe Bat is found in lowland Unlikely Occurrence – The site and surrounding habitats do not support philippinensis eared horseshoe 20/5/1 - rainforest, along gallery forest-lined creeks within open eucalypt suitable foraging habitat for this species. Further, it is highly unlikely that bat forest, Melaleuca forest with rainforest understorey, open savannah the small granite outcrops occurring within the site provide suitable woodland and tall riparian woodland of Melaleuca, Forest Red Gum roosting habitat for this species. Suitable roosting habitat, may however, (E. tereticornis) and Moreton Bay Ash (E. tesselaris) (Churchill 2009; be present within the broader region. Pavey & Kutt 2008). (DoE, 2014ad. Unlikely Impacted – This species is unlikely to occur within the site. It is unlikely that the proposed works will impact this species as only minor areas of non-preferable foraging habitat or roosting habitat will be impacted.
Saccolaimus bare-rumped CE E The bare-rumped Sheathtail Bat occurs mostly in lowland areas, Unlikely Occurrence – Although this species is not well understood, the saccolaimus sheathtail bat 20/5/1 - typically in a range of woodland, forest and open environments majority of records for this species occur in lower attitudinal habitat, with nudicluniatus (Schulz & Thomson 2007; Reardon et al. 2010; Dennis 2012). prediction models suggesting this species is restricted to habitats within The bare-rumped sheathtail bat has been suggested to forage over proximity to coastal environments (~40 km from the coast - DoE, 2014). habitat edges such as the edge of rainforest and in forest clearings The site falls outside of this predicted zone, further, the site supports open (Churchill 1998). There is no information is available on foraging sclerophyll habitats over 1000 m above sea level. Given the paucity of habitat shifts between the dry and wet seasons. (DoE, 2014ag). records west of coastal ranges, the altitude of the site and the small The small number of confirmed roosts located in Australia have all nature of the proposed area for disturbance it is unlikely that this species been in tree hollows (Churchill 1998; Compton & Johnson 1983) occurs within the site. (DoE, 2014). In Queensland roosts sites have been associated with Eucalyptus platyphylla (poplar gum) (Churchill, 2008) (DoE, 2014ag).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Unlikely Impacted – It is unlikely that this species occurs within the site or immediately surrounding habitats. The proposed works are unlikely to impact this species given they are unlikely to occur within the site. A suitable qualified fauna spotter catcher should be present and monitor/direct clearing works where hollow bearing features are present. Should this species be encountered works should cease and DoE and EHP be immediately notified.
Xeromys myoides water mouse V V Although the Water Mouse had been documented in three distinct Unlikely Occurrence – This species is restricted to coastal areas of 20 - locations (Northern Territory, central south Queensland, south-east QLD, NT and WA. No habitat suitable for this species occur on site or in Queensland) they require similar habitat including mangroves and the immediately surrounding areas. the associated saltmarsh, sedgelands, clay pans, heathlands and Unlikely Impacted – No suitable habitat for this species will be impacted freshwater wetlands. The main habitat difference at each location is by the proposed works. the littoral, supralittoral and terrestrial vegetation which differs in structure and composition. These differences dictate the species' nesting behaviour. (DoE, 2014al).
Reptiles
Antaioserpens robust burrowing - NT Dry tropical forests and woodlands. A secretive burrower, dwelling Potential Occurrence – little literature is available for this species. The warro snake - 20 under embedded stumps, loose soil and thick leaf litter (Wilson and site and surrounding habitat provide suitable dry tropical forest and Swan, 2008). woodlands with small pockets of thick leaf litter and loose soil. This type of habitat is however, highly abundant habitats within the extensive surrounding environments.
Unlikely Impacted – This species can be associated with a wide variety of very common habitats within the region. There is a potential for this species to be present within the site and surrounding habitats; however, given the abundance of habitats, small and isolated impact area and short term nature of the impact, it is unlikely this species will be Significantly impacted.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Egernia rugosa yakkaskink V V The Yakka Skink is known to occur in open dry sclerophyll forest, Unlikely Occurrence – This species potentially occurs within the broader 20 woodland and scrub (Brigalow Belt Reptiles Workshop 2010; Cogger region; however, it is unlikely that this species occurs within the site and 2000; Wilson & Knowles 1988). The core habitat of this species is immediately surrounding habitats given the geology observed and its within the Mulga Lands and Brigalow Belt South Bioregions (TSN preference for less rocky substrates. 2008b) (DoE 2014q). This species is not generally found in trees or Unlikely Impacts - It is unlikely that any colonies of this species occur rocky habitats (Chapple 2003) and is known to occur in Land Zones within the site and surrounding areas as they do not support suitable 3, 4, 5, 7, 9 and 10 (DoE, 2014j). microhabitats (Chapple, 2003). The proposed works are unlikely to impact The Yakka Skink is commonly found in cavities under and between this species given the small and isolated nature of the impacts and these partly buried rocks, logs or tree stumps, root cavities and abandoned impacts occur outside of their preferred microhabitats. animal burrows (Brigalow Belt Reptiles Workshop 2010; TSN 2008a) (DoE 2014j). L ke many other Egernia species, Yakka Skinks defecate in a pile outside burrow entrances (Brigalow Belt Reptiles Workshop 2010; Wilson & Knowles 1988). A colony of Yakka Skinks may use several sites during the year with the occupied burrow identified by scat piles near the entrance (Ehmann 1992b) (DoE 2014j).
Sharks
Pristis microdon freshwater V - Juveniles and sub-adult Freshwater Sawfish predominantly occur in Unlikely Occurrence – The site does not support suitable freshwater, sawfish 20 - rivers and estuaries, while large mature animals tend to occur more river or estuarine habitats in which this species may persist. The site often in coastal and offshore waters up to 25 m depth (Giles et al. occurs at the head waters of a western flowing river systems and it is 2006; Stevens et al. 2005). A study on the movement patterns of unlikely that this species would occur within proximity to the site or other sawfish species, P. clavata and P. zijsron, showed that the surrounding habitats given the topography and lack of permanent water. species had a high fidelity to an area, with movements restricted to Unlikely Impacted – This species is unlikely to occur within the site or only a few square kilometres within the coastal fringe, and influenced habitats proximate to the site. Further, the site occurs at the upper by tides (Stevens et al. 2008). reaches of long western flowing river systems which have undergone In northern Australia, this species appears to be confined to significant impacts along their reaches including broad scale clearing, freshwater drainages and the upper reaches of estuaries, agricultural pursuits and cattle grazing. occasionally being found as far as 400 km from the sea (Thorburn et al. 2007; Whitty et al. 2008).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
There are few reports of adult individuals at sea, with only a few The proposed activities are unlikely to impact this species given the small records of fish greater than 3 m in total length from the Pilbara coast, and isolated area being impacted and the low levels of sedimentation and one individual from Cape Naturaliste (south-western Australia) l kely to be cause through its construction and operation. (Chidlow 2007 cited in Whitty et al. 2008). (DoE, 2014ab).
Migratory Terrestrial Species
Haliaeetus white-bellied MT, - This birdis foundincoastalhabitats (especially thoseclosetothe Potential occurrence - This species is l kely to overfly all habitat types leucogaster sea-eagle MS sea-shore) and around terrestrial wetlands in tropical and temperate within the broader region given the large riverine systems occurring. This regions of mainland Australia and its offshore islands. The habitats species may overfly the site. occupied by the white-bellied sea-eagle are characterised by the Unlikely Impacted - No raptor nests were observed within or adjacent to presence of large areas of open water (larger rivers, swamps, lakes, the site. As this species is highly mobile and no potential nesting sites will sea). Birds have been recorded in (or flying over) a variety of be impacted by the proposed works it is unl kely that the any Significant terrestrial habitats (Marchant and Higgins 1993). Large areas of impact on this species would result. open water (larger rivers, swamps, lakes, sea) are Essential Habitat features for this species (DoE 2014o). This species can be found in coastal regions however may utilise inland waterways and larger freshwater bodies (DoE 2014o).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Hirundapus white-throated MT, - This speciesarea northAsian migrant specieswhichspends the Potential occurrence - This species is l kely to overfly the site and other caudacutus needletail MS northern hemisphere winter in Australia. It is an aerial species which habitats within the broader region. This species is typically aerial and is occurs over most types of habitat; recorded most often above known to forage through all habitat types. wooded areas, including open forest and rainforest (DoE 2014p). Unlikely Impacted - Although this species is likely to over-fly the site, the They may also fly between trees or in clearings, below the canopy, proposed works are unlikely to impact this species as no breeding but may soar up to several hundred metres above the ground. This habitats will be impacted and no reduction in foraging habitat will be species does not breed within Australia, but is truly cosmopolitan, resultant as it is a truly cosmopolitan species foraging in all habitats. foraging over all habitat types throughout its distribution (DoE Further, works may potentially occur whilst this species is not present 2014w). within Australia.
Merops ornatus rainbow bee- MT, - The rainbow bee-eater occurs mainly in open forests and Potential Occurrence – This species forages in many habitats within its eater MS woodlands, shrublands, and in various cleared or semi-cleared known range and may potentially utilise habitats within and surround the habitats, including farmland and areas of human habitation (DoE site for foraging purposes. It is unlikely that this species breeds within or 2014v). It usually occurs in open, cleared or lightly-timbered areas in areas proximate to the site given the observed geology. that are often, but not always, located in close proximity to Unlikely impacted permanent water. It also occurs in inland and coastal sand dune This species is highly mobile and occurs in most habitat types, the systems, and in mangroves in northern Australia, and has been proposed works are unlikely to have an impact on the species. Given the recorded in various other habitat types including heathland, geology and vegetation observed within the site it is highly unl kely that sedgeland, vine forest and vine thicket, and on beaches (DoE this species would breed in areas of proposed works. It is unlikely this 2014v). species will be impacted by the proposed works.
Monarcha black-faced MT, - The black-faced monarch is found in rainforests, eucalypt Potential Occurrence - This species is l kely to utilise habitats found melanopsis monarch MS woodlands, coastal scrub and damp gullies. It may be found in more within the site during migration; however, no suitable breeding or core open woodland when migrating. Moist (closed) forest types, moist habitat is present within the site. gullies and watercourses are most likely to support this species Unlikely Impacted - No suitable breeding or core habitat will be impacted (Morcombe, 2011). During the breeding season they move to by the proposed works. This species is highly mobile and may be secluded damp gullies and brush covered creek margin (Morcombe, potentially present during works; however, highly unlikely to be impacted 2011). by the propose works due to their minor nature and the species mobility.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Monarcha spectacled MT, - The spectacled monarch is found in habitats which support dense Potential Occurrence - This species is l kely to utilise habitats found trivirgatus (syn. monarch MS understorey within rainforests, wetter gullies and riparian vegetation. within the site during migration; however, no suitable breeding or core Symposiachrus This species is also known to inhabit mangroves communities as habitat is present within the site. trivirgatus) well (Morcombe 2011). Unlikely impacted - No suitable breeding or core habitat will be impacted by the proposed works. This species is highly mobile and may be potentially present during works; however, highly unlikely to be impacted by the propose works due to their minor nature and the species mobility.
Myiagra satin flycatcher MT, - Satin flycatchers mainly inhabit eucalypt forests, often near wetlands Potential Occurrence - This species is l kely to utilise habitats found cyanoleuca NS or watercourses. They generally occur in moister, taller forests than within the site during migration; however, no suitable breeding or core the leaden flycatcher (Myiagra rebecula), often occurring in gullies habitat is present within the site or access track. (Blakers et. al. 1984). They also occur in eucalypt woodlands with Unlikely Impacted - No suitable breeding habitat will be impacted by the open understorey and grass ground cover, and are generally absent proposed works. This species is highly mobile and may be potentially from rainforest (DoE 2014x). present during works; however, highly unl kely to be impacted by the propose works due to their minor nature and the species mobility.
Rhipidura rufifrons rufous fantail MT, - The rufous fantail is found in northern and eastern coastal Australia, Potential Occurrence - This species is l kely to utilise habitats found MS being more common in the north (Serventy 1982). The rufous fantail within the site and access track during migration; however, no suitable is found in rainforests, eucalypt woodlands, coastal scrub and damp breeding or core habitat is present within the site or access track. gullies. It may be found in more open woodland when migrating Unlikely Impacted (Serventy 1982). (DoE, 2014ae). No suitable breeding habitat will be impacted by the proposed works. This species is highly mobile and may be potentially present during works; however, highly unlikely to be impacted by the propose works due to their minor nature and the species mobility.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Migratory Wetland Species
Ardea ibis cattle egret MW, - This species predominantly occupies shallow, open and fresh Unlikely Occurrence - This species is unlikely to utilise habitats found MS wetlands including meadows and swamps with low emergent within or adjacent to the site. It is likely to occur down slope of the site in vegetation and abundant aquatic flora. The species often forages riparian and wetland habitats such as Leadingham Creek, East away from water on low-lying grasslands, improved pastures and Hodgkinson River and farm dams within the largely cleared plains to the croplands (DoE 2014a). east.
Unlikely Impacted - This species is highly mobile and it is unlikely that the proposed activities will impact this species. No rookeries were identified during site surveys.
Ardea modesta great egret MW, - This species is known to favour wetland habitats,both inland and Unlikely Occurrence - This species is unlikely to utilise habitats found (syn. alba) MS coastal. The species usually frequents shallow waters. This species within or adjacent to the site. It is likely to occur down slope of the site in usually breeds in shallow wetlands and lakes, typically in colonies riparian and wetland habitats such as Leadingham Creek, East during the summer months (November to early autumn) (DoE Hodgkinson River and farm dams within the largely cleared plains to the 2014b). east.
Unlikely Impacted - This species is highly mobile and it is unlikely that the proposed activities will impact this species. No rookeries were identified during site surveys.
Gallinago Latham's snipe MW, - Latham's snipe is anon-breedingmigrant toAustraliaoverlate Unlikely Occurrence - It is unlikely that this species occurs within hardwickii MS spring to early autumn and may occur within swamp and marsh habitats found within the site or in areas immediately proximate to them. margins and in wet pasture; freshwater wetlands on or near the This species may occur in the broader region where wetland and coast, generally among dense cover (DoE 2014m). They are found floodplain habitats area present. in any vegetation around wetlands, in sedges, grasses, lignum, Unlikely Impacted - This species is unlikely to occur on site and is highly reeds and rushes and also in saltmarsh and creek edges on mobile. It is unlikely that the proposed activities will impact this species. migration. They also use crops and pasture (DoE 2014m).
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Rostratula painted snipe V, - The painted snipe generally inhabits shallow terrestrial freshwater Unlikely Occurrence - It is unlikely that this species occurs within benghalensis s. MW, (occasionally brackish) wetlands, including temporary and habitats found within the site or in areas immediately proximate to them. lat. MS permanent lakes, swamps, gilgai and claypans. They also use This species may occur in the broader region where wetland and inundated or waterlogged grassland or saltmarsh, dams, rice crops, floodplain habitats area present. sewage farms and bore drains (DoE 2014af). Unlikely Impacted - This species is unlikely to occur on site and is highly mobile. It is unlikely that the proposed activities will impact this species.
Migratory Marine Species
Anseranas magpie goose MS - The magpie goose feeds in shallows of dams, irrigated crops and Unlikely Occurrence – It is unlikely that this species occurs in habitats semipalmata swampy margins of deeper waterways. This species breeds in large within or adjacent to the site. This species is l kely to occur on the broader colonies after summer rains that turn river floodplains into swampy plains to the east where wetland habitats and riparian corridors are nesting habitat (Morcombe 2011). common.
Unlikely Impacted – It is unlikely that this species occurs within the site or surrounding environments. It is therefore unlikely that this species will be impacted by the proposed works as no suitable habitat will be impacted.
Apus pacificus fork-tailedswift MS - ThisspeciesbreedsoutsideofAustraliaandisconsideredtobe Potential occurrence - This species is l kely to overfly the site and other cosmopolitan, occurring within many habitats within its known range. habitats within the broader region. This species is typically aerial and is The fo k-tailed swift is an aerial species mostly flying over dry or known to forage through all habitat types. open habitats, including riparian woodland and tea-tree swamps, low Unlikely Impacted - Although this species is likely to over-fly the site, the scrub, heathland or saltmarsh (DoE 2014d). They are also found proposed works are unlikely to impact this species as no breeding over treeless grassland and sand-plains covered with spinifex, open habitats will be impacted and no reduction in foraging habitat will be farmland and inland and coastal sand-dunes. They sometimes occur resultant as it is a truly cosmopolitan species foraging in all habitats. above rainforests, wet sclerophyll forest or open forest or plantations Further, works may potentially occur whilst this species is not present of pines (DoE 2014d). within Australia.
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Scientific Name Common Name Status Preferred Habitat Likelihood of Occurrence and Potential Impacts EPBC Act NC Act
Crocodylus freshwater MS - This species occurs in freshwater rivers and billabongs (Swan and Unlikely Occurrence – The site does not suitable habitat for this species johnstoni crocodile Wilson, 2008) with the gulf catchments of northern QLD. as it occurs at approximately 1000 m above sea level, has no suitable riverine or billabong habitats.
Unlikely Impacted – This species is unlikely to occur within the site or surrounding habitats. It is unlikely that the proposed works on the site will impact this species.
Crocodylus estuarine MM, V Studies from Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, found that Salt-water Unlikely Occurrence – The site does not support estuarine or marine porosus crocodile MS Crocodiles mostly occur in tidal rivers, coastal floodplains and habitats and it is unl kely this species will occur within or adjacent to the channels, billabongs and swamps (Webb et al. 1987) up to 150 km site as it is restricted to these coastal environments. inland from the coast (Webb et al. 1983f). Evaporation from isolated Unlikely Impacted - It is unlikely that this species or populations of this channels may lead to salinity levels in these inland channels being species will be impacted by the proposed works as there is no suitable twice that of seawater. The Salt-water Crocodile usually inhabits the habitat impacted by the proposed works nor is this species expected to lower reaches of rivers while the upper reaches are inhabited by occur within the site. Crocodylus johnstoni. Areas of shared distr bution may occur in some rivers (Webb et al. 1983a). In Queensland the species is usually restricted to coastal waterways and floodplain wetlands. Populations may also be found hundreds of kilometres upstream, such as in the Fitzroy River and the waterways of the southern Gulf of Carpentaria (Read et al. 2004) (DoE 2014g) Note: CE = Critically Endangered, E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, NT = Near Threatened, LC = Least Concern, MT = Migratory Terrestrial, MW = Migratory Wetland, MM = Migratory Marine, MS = listed Migratory Species
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix E
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п¹» î ±º î Barnett, Mark
From: Christy A Anderson
I refer to your application in which you requested advice on Aboriginal cultural heritage places recorded on the above location.
I wish to advise that no Aboriginal cultural heritage is recorded on the Cultural Heritage Database and Register in your specific search area, from the data provided by you. However, it is probable that the absence of recorded Aboriginal cultural heritage places reflects a lack of previous cultural heritage surveys of the area. Therefore, our records are not likely to reflect a true picture of the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the area.
All significant Aboriginal cultural heritage in Queensland is protected under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, and penalty provisions apply for any unauthorized harm. Under the legislation a person carrying out an activity must take all reasonable and practical measures to ensure the activity does not harm Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. This applies whether or not such places are recorded in an official register and whether or not they are located in, on or under private land.
Aboriginal cultural heritage, which may occur on the subject property, is protected under the terms of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 even if the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs has no records relating to it.
Please refer to our website www.datsima.qld.gov.au/atsis/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-peoples/indigenous-cultural- heritage for a copy of the gazetted Cultural Heritage duty of care guidelines, which set out reasonable and practical measures for meeting the duty of care.
There is currently no registered Cultural Heritage body for the 141DA457 and 500 metres around (-16.915641, 145.252228) areas.
There is currently no registered Aboriginal party for the 141DA457 and 500 metres around (-16.915641, 145.252228) areas.
For the 141DA457 and 500 metres around (-16.915641, 145.252228) area without a registered Aboriginal party, an appropriate contact can be identified by:
Leigh Preston Regional Cultural Heritage Coordinator North Region - Townsville Ph: 07 4799 7562 Mobile: 0427142 782
Should you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me on (07) 3405 3050.
1 Christy Anderson | Policy Officer Cultural Heritage | Community Participation Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs
6B Neville Bonner Building, 75 Williams Street, BRISBANE QLD 4001 T: 07 3247 6212 | Ext: 66212
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2 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix F
Significant Impact Assessment
AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program F-1 Environmental Assessment Report
Appendix F Significant Impact Assessment
Significant Impact Guideline 1.1: Matters of national environmental significance 1. Are there any matters of national environmental significance located in the area of the proposed action? Flora No MNES flora exists within the project footprint (Section 12.0). Fauna No EVNT, migratory or marine species were observed within the proposed access track or site, this however, does not preclude EVNT fauna from occurring, particularly within the wider and peripheral areas. Priority animal species which occur or may occur on the site are summarised and discussed in Section 13.0. Based on the habitats observed within and adjacent to the site and access track the following EVNT species may potentially reside, forage, move through, occur down-stream of or over-fly the access track and site: - Avifauna: red goshawk (Erythrotriorchis radiates) masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae kimberli) Australian swiftlet (Aerodramus terraereginae) folk-tailed swift (Apus pacificus) white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) white-throated needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) rainbow bee-eater (Merops ornatus) black-faced monarch (Monarcha melanopsis) spectacled monarch (Monarcha trivirgatus) satin flycatcher (Myiagra cyanoleuca) rufous fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons). - Herpetofauna: robust burrowing snake(Antaioserpens warro). - Mammalian: northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus) koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Mareeba rock wallaby (Petrogale mareeba) diadem leaf-nosed bat (Hipposideros diadema reginae). 2. Considering the proposed action at its broadest scope, is there potential for impacts on matters of national environmental significance? Flora NA Fauna The proposed works have the potential to impact on individual northern quoll through the destruction of suitable denning and breeding habitat. The proposed impacts are however, considered to be minor in terms of the level of foraging habitat subjected to potential clearing.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231 AECOM En Route Radar Replacement Program F-2 Environmental Assessment Report
Clearing is also considered unlikely to impact movement of this species given the location of the site and access track being proximate to existing impacts which, should any individuals reside in the immediately locality, have been habituated to. Works may, however, still result in impacts to individuals of this species, particularly during breeding and rearing periods which occurs from May to early June (DoE, 2014). Young are weaned after approximately 6 months occurring between November to early December (DoE, 2014). Should works occur during this time, impacts to any denning sites or their immediate surrounds may result in the abandonment or mortality of young, thus, significant impacts to the northern quoll may potentially be resultant. 3. Are there any proposed measures to avoid or reduce impacts on matters of national environmental significance? The transportable radar site location has been revised to reduce the total area of clearing required to establish the site. The transportable radar is also being co-located, as far as practicable, with existing facilities to avoid the need to establish new ancillary infrastructure and accesses. The height of the radar tower has been increased to reduce impacts on trees within the ‘Critical Radar Zone’. A fauna management plan and weed management plan will be prepared to guide the construction, operation and decommissioning of the site. Such measures included in the pre-clearance survey and use of a spotter catcher, clearing times to avoid northern quoll breeding and rearing periods and management of gamba grass. 4. Are any impacts of the proposed action on matters of national environmental significance likely to be significant impacts? Refer to table below for significant impact assessment. In its unmitigated form, the project has the potential to impact on suitable habitat for the northern quoll. However, with implementation of appropriate design considerations and suitable mitigation measures, impacts on the northern quoll and its habitat are not expected to be significant and the project would likely be deemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’ by the DoE.
Revision C – 12-Dec-2014 Prepared for – Indra Australia Pty Ltd – ABN: 28 091 92 231