Cumberland Ecology PO Box 2474, Carlingford Court 2118

FLORA AND FAUNA IMPACT ASSSESSMENT FOR COOKS COVE

Detailed Design Stage Development Application

For:

ROCKDALE COUNCIL

July 2010

Final Report

Cumberland Ecology PO Box 2474, Carlingford Court 2118

Report No. 5006RP13

The preparation of this report has been in accordance with the brief provided by the Client and has relied upon the data and results collected at or under the times and conditions specified in the report. All findings, conclusions or recommendations contained within the report are based only on the aforementioned circumstances. The report has been prepared for use by the Client and no responsibility for its use by other parties is accepted by Cumberland Ecology.

Approved by: David Robertson

Position: Project Director

Signed:

Date: 28 June, 2010

FINAL REPORT i 28 JUNE 2010

Table Of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Purpose 1.1

1.2 Terminology 1.1

1.3 Background 1.2

1.4 Site Description 1.2

1.5 Proposal 1.3

1.6 Approval of the Stage 1 DA 1.3

1.7 Development Consent and Plans of Management 1.4

2. METHODS 2.1 Literature Review 2.1

2.2 Flora Surveys 2.2

2.2.1 Vegetation mapping 2.2

2.2.2 Pre-Clearance Vegetation Surveys 2.2

2.3 Fauna Surveys 2.3

2.3.1 Birds 2.3

2.3.2 Bats 2.4

2.3.3 Other Mammals 2.4

2.3.4 Amphibians 2.5

2.3.5 Fish 2.7

3. RESULTS 3.1 Literature Review 3.1

3.2 Vegetation Surveys and Mapping 3.1

3.2.2 Closed to Open Saltmarsh 3.1

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Table Of Contents

3.2.3 Closed to Open Reedland 3.4

3.2.4 Mangroves 3.5

3.2.5 Disturbed/ Artificial Woodland 3.5

3.2.6 Exotic Grassland 3.7

3.2.7 Conservation Significance 3.7

3.2.8 Threatened Flora 3.8

3.3 Fauna 3.8

3.3.1 Fauna Recorded on the Subject Site 3.8

3.3.2 Potential Fauna Habitat 3.10

3.3.3 Threatened and Significant Species 3.12

4. IMPACT ASSESSMENT 4.1 Impacts on Endangered Ecological Communities 4.1

4.1.1 Saltmarsh and reedland communities 4.1

4.2 Impacts on Other Vegetation 4.3

4.2.1 Mangroves 4.3

4.2.2 Artificial Woodland 4.4

4.3 Impacts on Threatened Fauna 4.4

4.3.1 Migratory Waders 4.4

4.3.2 Green and Golden Bell Frog 4.6

4.3.3 Woodland and Golf Course Habitat 4.7

4.4 Other Impacts 4.8

4.4.1 Spring Street Wetland 4.8

4.4.2 Nutrients and Run-off 4.8

4.4.3 Cooks River and Muddy Creek 4.9

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Table Of Contents

5. MITIGATION MEASURES 5.1 Mitigation Measures 5.1

5.1.1 Endangered Ecological Communities 5.1

5.1.2 Spring Street Wetland 5.3

5.1.3 Long-term Monitoring and Management of the Wetlands 5.3

5.1.4 Cooks River and New Riparian Zone 5.4

5.1.5 Muddy Creek 5.4

5.1.6 Other Vegetation 5.4

5.1.7 Threatened Fauna 5.7

5.1.8 Minimising Impacts on Local Community Groups 5.8

5.2 Variations in areas of compensatory habitat from the previous Flora 5.8 and Fauna Impact Assessment

5.3 Assessments of Significance 5.9

6. CONCLUSION

List of Figures

1.1 THE SUBJECT SITE 1.5

3.1 VEGETATION ON THE SUBJECT SITE 3.3

4.1 WETLAND VEGETATION TO BE IMPACTED BY THE DEVELOPMENT 4.2

5.1 NEW WETLAND AREAS ON THE SITE 5.6

5.2 NO CONSTRUCTION ZONE AROUND LANDING LIGHTS WETLAND 5.10

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List of Photographs

3.1 SALTMARSH AT LANDING LIGHTS WETLAND 3.4

3.2 PLANTED NATIVE VEGETATION COMMUNITY AT SPRING STREET WETLAND 3.7

Table Of Appendices

A. THREATENED FLORA AND FAUNA AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON THE SUBJECT SITE B. FAUNA LISTS C. FLORA IDENTIFIED ON THE SUBJECT SITE D. ASSESSMENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE E. ASSUMED CONCURRENCE CONDITIONS OF CONSENT

List of Tables

5.1 CHANGES MADE TO COMPENSATORY HABITAT AREAS 5.9

A.1 THREATENED PLANTS AND THEIR LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON THE SUBJECT SITE A.2

A.2 THREATENED FAUNA IN ROCKDALE LGA AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON SUBJECT SITE A.4

B.1 FAUNA SPECIES RECORDED DURING VARIOUS STUDIES AND RECORDS FROM THE DEC ATLAS OF NSW WILDLIFE IN THE LOCALITY B.2

C.1 FLORA IDENTIFIED ON THE SUBJECT SITE 6.1

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Executive Summary

INTRODUCTION

The developer is proposing to relocate parts of Kogarah golf course immediately south of its current location and to reconfigure the site. The site for the proposed golf course consists of a number of man-made/heavily altered wetland areas. The wetland towards the southern end of the site known as ‘Landing Lights’ wetland forms a saltmarsh complex, which is categorised under the TSC Act as an Endangered Ecological Community. This wetland provides important habitat for migratory waders, including, on occasion, species such as the Sanderling, Latham’s Snipe and the Terek Sandpiper.

To the west of the Landing Lights wetland a complex of freshwater reeds occurs. This community is a variation of Sydney Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains, which is also an endangered ecological community (EEC).

Spring Street wetland is a mangrove wetland that has become heavily degraded, suffering from leachate infiltration and rubbish dumping, as well as sedimentation which has led to the northern end of the wetland becoming anaerobic. This wetland is not considered to provide habitat for any threatened species.

To the east of these wetlands isolated complexes of reedland/exotic species occur, which remain largely dry throughout the year, becoming wetter after periods of heavy or prolonged rain. These areas are dominated by Phragmites in the damper central areas and by exotics elsewhere. Whilst they are considered to be a variation of the Sydney Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains EEC, because of the high influence of exotic species these areas are not considered to be of high ecological value. Due to their predominant dryness, they do not provide primary habitat for wetland-dependent fauna species.

The Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea), which is listed as Endangered under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (TSC Act, 1994) and Vulnerable under the Environment Protection and Biological Conservation Act ( EPBC Act, 1999), is known to utilise parts of the current golf course.

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PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to provide an update to the original Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment that was prepared for the Stage 1 Development Application for the Cooks Cove site. The Stage 1 Development Application (DA) and associated management plans (including the Wetlands Environmental Management Plan and a Plan of Management for the Green and Golden Bell Frog) were approved in December 2006 with conditions of consent attached.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review and database search for threatened species that have been recorded within the study area was conducted (in 2005 and updated in 2010) as well as a series of comprehensive field surveys for threatened flora and fauna species. Surveys were conducted by Cumberland Ecology in 2005, with additional survey work being carried out in wetland areas in 2007. Surveys included targeted searches for threatened flora and fauna and vegetation mapping. Additional amphibian surveys were also conducted in 2009. Numerous previous surveys have also been conducted on the site and the information from these was also utilised to assess potential fauna habitat and use of the site by fauna over a number of years.

RESULTS

Vegetation Surveys and Mapping

Five plant communities were recorded on the subject site:

 Closed to Open Saltmarsh;

 Closed to Open Reedland;

 Mangroves;

 Disturbed/artificial woodland; and

 Exotic Grassland.

These are described in the main body of the report.

Conservation Significance

The saltmarsh community identified at a part of the site called “Landing Lights wetlands” conforms to the Final Determination for the endangered ecological community (EEC)

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“Coastal saltmarsh in the NSW North Coast Sydney Basin & South East Corner Bioregions” (NSW Scientific Committee 2004a).

The reedland to the west of the Landing Lights forms a variation of the EEC “Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains in the NSW North Coast Sydney Basin & South East Corner Bioregions” EEC (NSW Scientific Committee 2004b). Patches of reedland to the north-east of Landing Lights would also conform to this EEC, although it is noted that a high proportion of exotic species occur in these areas and that they are in poor condition

No threatened plant species listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 or Environmental Protection & Biodiversity Protection Act 1999 were recorded on the subject site. Nor was any habitat on the subject site deemed suitable to support threatened flora species.

Threatened and Significant Fauna

Threatened species that exist on the site or have the potential to use the site include:

 The Green and Golden Bell Frog (found on the Kogarah Golf Course);

 The Eastern Bent-wing Bat (may have been detected during bat surveys, however, there is minimal suitable habitat in the area for this species and it is more likely to have been a more common species such as the Southern Forest Bat);

 Grey-headed Flying-fox (not detected, but it is possible that it forages occasionally on the subject site);

 Glossy Black-cockatoo, Swift Parrot, Superb Fruit-dove and Regent Honeyeater (recorded in the locality although have not been detected on the subject site. There is no known breeding habitat. The vegetation within the golf course and the wetlands provides potential secondary foraging habitat for these species);

 The Black-faced Monarch has been recorded within 2km of the subject site but not on the site itself; and

 Wading birds: a number of wading birds (many of which are listed as migratory) have been detected in the study area either by Cumberland Ecology or previous studies. These include the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Black-winged Stilt, Latham’s Snipe, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Terek Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone, Common Sandpiper, Great Knot, Sanderling, Curlew Sandpiper, Lesser Sand Plover, Greater Sand Plover; and Black-tailed Godwit. Potential habitat occurs on site for a number of other threatened wetland birds.

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Impacts and Ameliorative Measures

Development of the golf course is not likely to cause a significant impact on either of the Marsh Street or Eve Street wetlands, which lie outside of the subject site. Spring Street wetland will be impacted upon, with the temporary removal of artificial woodland along its eastern edge (to accommodate for the driving range) and the removal of individual mangroves where required, in order to insert a cut-off wall to seal off the adjacent landfill site. However, the ecological value of this wetland is low - it is polluted, overgrown and receives limited tidal flushing from the canal at present. The ameliorative measures that will be put in place to rehabilitate this wetland (including increasing tidal flushing and sealing off the adjacent landfill site so that leachate does not seep into the water-course) will greatly improve the ecological value of this wetland for aquatic fauna. Some artificial woodland is also being removed from the northern to accommodate the driving range and south-western ends of the wetland to make way for the 16th hole. These areas do not offer any significant habitat for fauna and their removal is unlikely to impact on the wetland itself. Woodland habitat is being planted throughout the golf course and along the Cooks River.

There will be an impact on the Landing Lights wetland, with the removal of some saltmarsh and reedland along the southern and western sides. Certainly in the short-term this will be significant and will reduce the amount of habitat available to wading birds, particularly until the newly created areas have become established. Construction around the wetland will be timed so that it does not coincide with the season for migratory waders in order to minimise disturbance. With the creation of new areas of saltmarsh, in the future the site will offer a larger area of EEC habitat available to waders. Currently the saltmarsh is open to the public and not protected in any way. Incorporating these habitats into the golf course will provide an enhanced level of protection from disturbance, dumping and trampling.

There will be an impact on the foraging habitat of the Green and Golden Bell Frog during the construction phase of the development, although now that further mitigation measures have been implemented, this is unlikely to be significant. Their current breeding ponds will not be affected. A plan for the management of GGBFs during construction was submitted to DECCW in August 2008 (and updated in June 2010) and their comments have been incorporated into the plan where appropriate. The plan includes measures to reduce impacts on the frogs’ foraging habitat by developing the golf course land in a series of stages to allow continued access to foraging habitat throughout the construction period, and by carrying out pre-clearance surveys in each area prior to construction. The new golf course will provide large areas of new breeding habitat both north and south of the SWSOOS, as well as providing additional freshwater foraging ponds and shelter sites. Vegetated corridors throughout the site will improve connectivity between breeding and foraging areas. Thus the habitat available to this population of Green and Golden Bell Frogs will be dramatically enhanced and exist over a much wider area. This should allow the population to expand into these areas in the future.

Assessments of Significance have been undertaken for the relevant threatened species and communities.

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The ecological value of the Cooks River will be improved, with mangroves and a riparian habitat corridor being planted along the river bank. Water quality entering the Cooks River and Muddy Creek will be improved over time through the ameliorative measures put in place to minimise and treat run-off from the site.

Changes to Impacts/Ameliorative Measures since submission of the previous DA

Since the approval of the previous development application, the assessment of impacts to threatened species and communities has not altered. Changes that have been made between submission of the previous flora and fauna impact assessment and this one have been necessitated by the detailed design and in response to DECCW’s comments. These are:

 The removal of artificial woodland along the eastern side of Spring Street wetland in order to insert a retaining wall that prevents leachate from entering wetland areas. This will be re-planted with woodland species once the site remediation measures have been completed;

 The removal of artificial woodland from the northern end of Spring Street wetland (to accommodate for the Driving Range);

 The removal of an additional 90m2 of mangroves, based on canopy cover (corresponds to mangrove removal for the Open Space DA. An additional 415m2 will be removed on SACL land under a separate DA Application. 9,055m2 of existing mangroves will be retained on the site).

 An adjustment to the public cycle path route, which involves some additional construction works to the banks of the Cooks River; and

 Areas of compensatory habitat have been modified to take into account engineering requirements, flood modelling etc. and to maximise the amount of compensatory habitat that is provided. This has resulted in an increase in all compensatory habitat areas, as follows:

Table 1 Changes made to compensatory habitat areas

Habitat Type Compensatory Compensatory Change (m2) Habitat Stage 1 Habitat Proposed Approved DA (m2) DA (m2)

Saltmarsh 13,210 13,210 0

Reedland 5,533 5,883 +350

GGBF Breeding Ponds 5,821 6,367 +546

Primary Foraging Ponds 6,480 7,516 +1,036 (freshwater)

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Table 1 Changes made to compensatory habitat areas

Habitat Type Compensatory Compensatory Change (m2) Habitat Stage 1 Habitat Proposed Approved DA (m2) DA (m2)

Secondary Foraging Ponds 3,341 6,956 +3,615 (brackish or saline)

Mangroves 2,640 2,754 +114

Total 37,025 42,686 +5,661

CONCLUSION

Currently the Cooks Cove site consists of a number of man-made/heavily altered wetland areas that have been constructed, or in the case of the Landing Lights wetland, incidentally formed next to a waste dumping site. None of these areas are actively managed at present.

In the short-term, significant impacts have been predicted on some TSC and EPBC listed species and endangered ecological communities. However, the creation of new saltmarsh and reedland areas and the creation of a covenant that will conserve Landing Lights wetland in-perpetuity will conserve and enhance habitat for threatened species and communities in the long-term.

It is recommended that a formal agreement is signed by the Golf Club and developer to ensure that they are fully aware of their long-term ecological responsibilities on the site.

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Chapter 1

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide an update to the original Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment that was prepared for the Stage 1 Development Application for the Cooks Cove site (CE 2006). The development principles and concepts remain unchanged, however detailed designs for various aspects of the development have now been produced, which allow further investigation of the ecological impacts to be made.

The objectives of this report are:

 To describe vegetation communities and fauna habitats on site;

 To summarise the previous flora and fauna impact assessment findings and provide further information that has been gathered during subsequent detailed survey work;

 To assess the likelihood of whether threatened flora and fauna would be impacted by the development; and

 To formally assess the impacts of the proposed development on threatened flora, fauna and ecological communities in terms of Section 5A of the EP&A Act (the seven part test).

1.2 Terminology

This report uses the following terminology:

 Subject site means the area of Cooks Cove within which the development application (DA) physical works are proposed (i.e. the affected areas);

 Study area is the subject site (directly affected areas) and any additional areas that are likely to be affected by the proposal, either directly or indirectly. This includes Kogarah Golf Course, Eve Street wetland, Marsh Street wetland, Spring Street wetland, Landing Lights wetland and adjoining areas of the Cooks River and Muddy Creek.

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 Locality is the area within a 5km radius of the subject site;

 Subject species means those threatened species, populations and ecological communities that are listed in either the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (EPBC), the NSW Fisheries Management Act 1994 or the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and are known to occur, or considered likely to occur in the study area.

 GGBF means Green and Golden Bell Frog

1.3 Background

The Cooks Cove site is located in the suburb of Arncliffe in the Local Government Area of Rockdale City Council. The proposed development is to take place within land that has been rezoned as part of an approved Sydney Regional Environmental Plan 33 (SREP 33). SREP33 delineates the development and conservation areas across the site and also requires the preparation of a suite of environmental management plans. The environmental management plans include plans for the management for the wetlands (Wetlands Environmental Management Plan - WEMP) and a separate plan of management for the Green and Golden Bell Frog (Green and Golden Bell Frog Management Plan – GGBFMP) which have been prepared. SREP33 is supplemented by the Cooks Cove Masterplan which provides design criteria and detailed provisions relating to both the development zone and the environmental areas.

The Stage 1 Development Application (DA) and associated management plans were approved on 6th December 2006 with conditions attached. This Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment has been prepared for the Detailed Design Stage DA.

1.4 Site Description

The subject site is located to the west of Cooks River and Sydney Airport, and is approximately 100 hectares (ha) in size. It is bounded by Cooks River and Muddy Creek to the east, Marsh Street to the north, West Botany Street to the west and Bestic Street to the south.

The Kogarah Golf Course is located within the northern portion of the subject site. The subject site also contains the South Western Sydney Sewerage Ocean Outflow System (SWSOOS). The site for the proposed golf course (which mostly lies to the south of its current location) consists of constructed wetlands, filled land and recreational space. Figure 1.1 shows a diagram of the subject site and the main features within it.

The Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea), which is listed as Endangered under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (TSC Act, 1994) and Vulnerable under the

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Environment Protection and Biological Conservation Act ( EPBC Act, 1999), is known to utilise parts of the golf course.

The southern section of the site consists of playing fields and several wetlands of varying quality and size. The wetland towards the southern end of the site known as ‘Landing Lights’ wetland forms a saltmarsh complex, which is categorised under the TSC Act as an Endangered Ecological Community. This wetland provides important habitat for migratory waders, including, on occasion, species such as the Sanderling, Latham’s Snipe and the Terek Sandpiper.

1.5 Proposal

Bank of Scotland International (BOSI) is proposing to create an advanced technology precinct in an area of land located immediately to the west of the Cooks River and Sydney Airport, at the current location of Kogarah Golf Course. This includes relocation of the golf course and two sports grounds, as well as environmental rehabilitation works.

Stage 1 of the Development Application, which has been approved, provided concept details for the trade and technology zone, the new golf course, the open space, for remediation work, and for works along the Cooks River.

The detailed design DA relates to the Open Space aspects of the development only, i.e everything except works for the Trade and Technology Zone, which will be the subject of a separate DA.

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1.6 Approval of the Stage 1 DA

In December 2006, the Stage 1 Development Application (which included a Wetlands Environmental Management Plan, a Green and Golden Bell Frog Management Plan, a Soil and Water Management Plan and an Open Space Plan of Management) was approved with Conditions of Consent attached.

The management plans submitted with the development application outlined how the site would be managed both during construction activities and in the longer term, determining broad concepts and management regimes for different environmental aspects of the development, including environmental targets and performance indicators that the development was committed to achieving.

The detailed designs for the development, which are being submitted as part of this DA, have been drawn up to correspond to the provisions within those plans. The designs outline how the concepts in the management plans will be achieved.

1.7 Development Consent and Plans of Management

In circumstances where detailed consideration of the impacts of future development on threatened flora and fauna and ecological communities has already occurred, such as through the preparation of an environmental planning instrument, the Director General of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) has the power under the TSC Act to waive the need for preparation of a SIS, provided that the Department is satisfied that sufficient conservation outcomes and safeguards have been provided. This process is known as the issue of “Assumed Concurrence”.

In the case of Cooks Cove, flora and fauna investigations were conducted to support the gazettal of SREP 33 and the adoption of the Cook Cove Master Plan. Consequently SREP 33 contains provisions to ensure significant conservation outcomes will occur that will protect wetland flora and fauna and the habitats of threatened species. The SREP 33 requires the preparation of a Wetlands Environmental Management Plan and a Green and Golden Bell Frog Management Plan to the satisfaction of DECC (Now DECCW). These were submitted as part of the Stage 1 Development Application. Following a number of meetings and updates to the plans, DECCW provided Assumed Concurrence for the development, providing approval for the management plans with two Assumed Concurrence conditions of consent attached (refer to Appendix E for details). These included that:

 that the wetlands on site are protected in the long-term, either under a Planning Agreement, 88B Instrument or Deed of Agreement; and

 that more detailed surveys were undertaken to inform re-vegetation works, that re- vegetation commences at the earliest possible stage of development, and that rehabilitation works are undertaken by a specialist wetland ecologist.

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Figure 1.1 Cooks Cove Project Area Project Cove 1.1 Cooks Figure Golf Course Boundary Golf Course CoveCooks Area Project 100 0 100 Coordinate System: MGA System: Zone 94) Coordinate 56(GDA 200 300 400 m

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 1.1.pdf Grid North

Chapter 2

2. Methods

2.1 Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review and database search for threatened species that have been recorded within the study area were conducted for the original flora and fauna impact assessment in 2005. The information that was reviewed included:

 Rockdale City Council commissioned reports (Clouston 2000, Biosphere Environmental Consultants 2000, Land Systems Pty Ltd 1989),

 Consultancy reports including reports on Cooks Cove specifically and the greater area of Rockdale (Hassell 2001a). (Hassell 2001b, Hassell 2001c, Hill PDA 2001, Benson et al. 1999, ERM 2001)

 NSW National Parks & Wildlife Services database – all threatened flora and fauna records (including ROTAP records) within 5km radius of the subject site;

 Cumberland Bird Observers Club – targeting bird searches in the wetlands and also within a 2km radius of Cooks Cove; and

 BioNet search tool – targeting birds recorded in the Kogarah Council area.

This was supplemented by field surveys carried out by Cumberland Ecology (CE 2006), ERM (ERM 2003) and by several other studies of the area.

In June 2010, updated database searches of both Bionet and the EPBC Protected Matters search tool were carried out to ascertain whether there had been any new records of threatened species that were relevant to the study area since the 2005 literature review had been undertaken.

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2.2 Flora Surveys

2.2.1 Vegetation mapping

In 2005, vegetation surveys were conducted by Cumberland Ecology (CE 2006) to identify the vegetation communities on the subject site and to verify and update existing mapping by Biosphere (Biosphere Environmental Consultants 2000), Biosis (Biosis Research 2001) and ERM (2003; unpublished data). The site was traversed by a botanist and an ecologist, with special emphasis on the wetland communities. Habitat assessments were also conducted to assess the likelihood of threatened flora species occurring.

i. Targeted Threatened Species

Seven threatened species were targeted during the flora survey:

o Acacia pubescens (Downy Wattle)

o Acacia terminalis ssp terminalis (Sunshine Wattle)

o Caladenia tessellata (Tessellated Spider Orchid)

o Melaleuca deanei (Deane’s Paperbark)

o Syzygium paniculatum (Magenta Cherry)

o Tetratheca juncea (Black-eyed Susan)

o Thesium australe (Austral Toadflax)

(Source: EPBC Protected Matters Report & DECC Bionet Search – Rockdale)

The threatened plant Wilsonia backhousei was also searched for in the saltmarsh areas.

2.2.2 Pre-Clearance Vegetation Surveys

Pre-clearance vegetation surveys were conducted in all saltmarsh and reedland areas in the mid-late summer of 2007 in accordance with the conditions of consent for the development as part of the Assumed Concurrence. This included conducting surveys in all saltmarsh and reedland areas that are required to be cleared, in order to establish precisely the species of native vascular plants and vertebrate fauna that make use of these areas. These are described below, along with other survey work undertaken on the site.

The pre-clearance surveys were restricted to the areas of saltmarsh and reedland that are to be cleared for the development, in line with the relevant Assumed Concurrence conditions of consent. The surveys are intended to provide additional information

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specifically on species composition and utilisation of the areas of saltmarsh and reedland that are to be cleared for the development.

2.3 Fauna Surveys

2.3.1 Birds

Bird surveys were undertaken by ornithologist Tony Saunders of Merops Services together with Cumberland Ecology staff across the subject site in early March 2005. Cumberland Ecology staff conducted a further 4 bird surveys at Eve Street, Spring Street and Landing Lights wetlands in the following week targeting waders/shorebirds.

Due to the time of year that the surveys were carried out they did not coincide with a high likelihood of encountering waders as some migratory species may have already have left the area by March. However, extensive database records already exist for birds that utilise the wetlands in the area and these records have been collected over a number of years by Cumberland Bird Observers Club. Therefore the aim of the Cumberland Ecology surveys was to supplement the existing database records.

Field surveys were conducted at varying times to capture the variation caused by the tidal nature of the wetlands. Active diurnal searches were undertaken at all sites, concentrating on potentially suitable habitat for any of the target threatened or rare bird species. Field personnel undertook meandering transects observing the following areas associated with water bodies:

 Surrounding areas of land, particularly areas of saltmarsh;

 Water margin and shallow water areas;

 Emergent vegetation, and adjoining reed swamps; and

 Open water bodies and tidal channels.

All birds seen or heard were recorded. Behavioural information such as roosting, breeding, feeding and flight behaviour was recorded. Temperatures ranged between 16.8- 29.6oC and on two survey days it rained lightly.

Bird Data recorded during previous monitoring surveys carried out by Biosphere (Biosphere Environmental Consultants 2000), Biosis (Biosis Research 2001) and ERM (2003; unpublished data) were also noted.

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i. Additional survey work in 2007

As part of the pre-clearance survey work required by the conditions of consent (refer to 2.2.2 above) further bird surveys were conducted in January and February 2007 in all saltmarsh and reedland areas to be cleared.

Meandering transects around the wetlands and through the areas to be cleared were conducted by an ornithologist. Surveys were undertaken at dawn for 2 hours, one day per week over three weeks (31st January, 6th February and 13th February 2007). These surveys were repeated at dusk on the same days for between 1.5 and 2 hours per survey. All bird species detected by sight or call were recorded for each area as a measure of abundance. Only those species observed in or using the air space over the wetlands for foraging were recorded.

2.3.2 Bats

Surveys were conducted for threatened microchiropteran bats using Anabat II ZCAIM bat detector units between the 15th to the 31st of March 2005. The temperatures for the four nights ranged from a maximum of 29.6ºC to 14.8ºC. The weather was mostly clear with little wind although there was light rain on one night. Hand-held bat detection was conducted at night for approximately an hour before dusk and several hours after. This type of sampling targets bats that may be roosting on the site or nearby and emerge at or near dusk, or individuals utilising the water bodies for early foraging. Walking transects were conducted through, or adjacent to, potential habitat at each site

Surveys were conduced at the following locations in the study area:

 Eve Street wetland;

 Marsh Street;

 Spring Street wetland;

 Landing Lights wetland; and

 Kogarah Golf Course.

Bat calls were identified by Greg Ford, a recognised bat specialist.

2.3.3 Other Mammals

As part of the pre-clearance survey work required by the conditions of consent (refer to 2.2.2 above) surveys for ground-dwelling mammals were conducted in February 2007 in all saltmarsh and reedland areas to be cleared. Saltmarsh and reedland areas do not provide ideal habitat for land-dwelling mammals, however mammal surveys were conducted by ecologists in the areas of the site to be cleared using hair-tube traps to provide additional information for fauna species lists.

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Three hair-tube transects, each 100m long, were laid in the areas to be cleared using Faunatech funnel hair tubes. Hair tubes were laid approximately 10m apart where possible and placed in areas where small mammals were most likely to frequent (i.e. along potential runways in vegetation, or where cover was densest). Bait-types were alternated between standard bait mix (oat, honey and peanut butter) and sardines. Traps were laid on the 21st February 2007 and left out for seven days. Hair tube analysis was conducted by Georgeanna Story of ‘Scats About’.

2.3.4 Amphibians

GGBF surveys were carried out by Cumberland Ecology staff on the 15th, 16th, 30th and 31st of March 2005 across the subject site. A total of 46 hours of survey effort was undertaken surveying for the GGBFs, with 12 hours of survey effort undertaken during each of the four separate survey periods. Surveys were carried out after rainfall where possible (30th and 31st March) and conducted in accordance with the Draft Recovery Plan’s Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines.

The Surveys comprised two minutes of call playback followed by two to three minutes quiet listening. The AMG coordinates of any frogs caught were recorded with a GPS. The sex of frogs was noted if individuals were caught. Waterbodies were inspected for tadpoles and Mosquito Fish (Gambusia holbrooki) using a visual assessment in ponds with shallow clear water. Visual encounter surveys using spotlighting targeted foraging individuals.

Night time surveys of waterbodies and emergent vegetation were completed using spotlights to target foraging individuals. These were conducted for a minimum of 2 hours per 200m of water as per the Draft Threatened Species Survey and Assessment Guidelines (DEC (NSW) 2004). Terrestrial areas within 10 metres of the edge of waterbodies were also surveyed for dispersing and foraging frogs. This survey was undertaken by Cumberland Ecology staff and by Dr Arthur White. Dr White is a recognised amphibian expert who is currently managing the RTA GGBF breeding ponds at the southern end of the Kogarah Golf Course. The surveys carried out by Cumberland Ecology in 2005 augment data gathered during the 2003 breeding season by ERM (unpublished report).

i. Additional survey work in 2007

As part of the pre-clearance survey work required by the conditions of consent (refer to 2.2.2 above) further amphibian and reptile surveys were conducted in February 2007 in all saltmarsh and reedland areas to be cleared, as well as the surrounding grassland and woodland areas.

Herpetological surveys were largely weather dependent, with frog survey conditions requiring rain or recent rainfall and reptile surveys requiring warm and sunny conditions.

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Surveys were carried out by Cumberland Ecology in conjunction with herpetologist, Dr. Arthur White, who has conducted numerous surveys of the site over a number of years.

The scarcity of rain during the summer greatly determined when the frog surveys could be conducted. Initial frog surveys took place on the nights of the 1st and 2nd of February 2007. These nights were chosen as this was when the first light rain fell in almost five weeks. Light showers commenced on the afternoon of the 11th of February and these led to heavier thunderstorms on the 12th of February, with a total of almost 60mm of rain falling in these two days. The rain began clearing on the 13th of February and by the next day it was again fine and sunny. Further frog surveys were carried out over three nights of the 12th, 13th and 14th of February.

Reptile surveys were carried out on sunny, warm mornings on the 8th, 15th and 19th of February 2007.

Amphibian surveys consisted of walked transects around the edges of each of the waterbodies and connecting waterways in the survey site and included the wetlands, open drains and ephemeral ponds. At each site all calling frogs were noted, and the position and number of calling frogs at each site was recorded on a site sheet. Non-calling frogs were detected using headlamps. These were caught, identified and immediately released.

A tadpole survey was conducted in the wetland areas on the 19th of February 2007. Tadpoles that were large enough to be identified were recorded and released. No attempt was made to quantify the number of tadpoles in each pond.

Reptile surveys concentrated on the areas that contained the most ground shelter cover in the form of rocks, concrete or brick structures, logs, fallen timber and refuse piles. This included the boundaries of Spring Creek Canal, Landing Lights Wetland and other bushy areas around the site. These areas were surveyed from 8.30-9 am until 11am - 12 noon when it became too hot for reptiles to continue to bask. The site was traversed on foot, ground cover materials such as timber, large rocks and refuse were overturned and sheltering reptiles were caught, identified and released. Reptiles that were already active and moving about were often identified without the need to catch them. Smaller lizards needed to be caught to ensure correct identification. All captured reptiles were released at the site of capture. The identification of reptiles is based on Cogger (2000).

ii. Additional survey work 2009

A further eight surveys were conducted, using the same methods as described above, in the 2008/2009 breeding season. Surveys were conducted between the beginning of January and mid February and comprised 50.5 hours of survey effort, including pond dipping for tadpoles and auditory, call playback and spotlight searches at night. Surveys concentrated on the golf course, SWSOOS, underpass, Marsh Street and the area to the south of this, to gather further information on GGBF use of the golf course and dispersal from the RTA ponds south of the SWSOOS.

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2.3.5 Fish

The aquatic habitats in the canal and the wetlands were surveyed in 2004 to determine whether the wetlands provide nursery habitat for juvenile fish. A seine net was used in areas of sufficient water depth (e.g. the canal adjacent to the Landing Light wetland) to sample the biota as a seine net is considered to be the best method of sampling a range of fish. Two replicate hauls were used at each sampling point on two occasions at high tide. In areas where water depth and access were limited (e.g. Spring Street, Landing Lights and Marsh Street wetlands) a combination of fish traps (box traps) and scoop nets were used, although it is acknowledged that these methods only have the potential to sample a certain section of the fish population.

All specimens caught were identified where possible to species and the total number recorded. Large specimens were weighed and measured and then released alive. Smaller specimens were euthanased and preserved for processing in the laboratory. Very large samples were sub-sampled.

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Chapter 3

3. Results

3.1 Literature Review

The results from the literature review and database study can be found in Appendix A. Seven threatened plants (refer to section 2.2.1) and a number of threatened fauna have been previously recorded in the locality (either within 5 km or within Rockdale LGA). Threatened fauna that occur, or are likely to occur on site, include the Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea), Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus), Southern Myotis (Myotis macropus) and several migratory waders (refer to Appendix A).

3.2 Vegetation Surveys and Mapping

Five distinct plant communities were recorded on the subject site. A map showing the location of the different plant communities can be found in 4.1 below. A full list of plant species identified on site in previous surveys and the detailed wetland surveys carried out in 2007 can be found in Appendix C. The five plant communities are described below:

a. Closed to Open Saltmarsh;

b. Closed to Open Reedland;

c. Mangroves;

d. Disturbed/artificial woodland; and

e. Exotic Grassland.

3.2.2 Closed to Open Saltmarsh

Sarcocornia quinqueflora – Suaeda australis +/- Atriplex prostrata – Juncus acutus

Distribution

This vegetation type occurs in relatively low-lying sites subject to tidal inundation. Where this community adjoins areas of reedland, a transitional community occurs.

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Structure and floristics

This vegetation type typically consists of a low ground layer composed primarily of chenopods, with occasional emergent reed, rush and sedge species, to 0.2-0.5m high, with a range of smaller rush, sedge and herb species in more open and/or disturbed areas.

Common chenopod species are Samphire Sarcocornia quinqueflora and Austral Seablite Suaeda australis, with species such as Orache *Atriplex prostrata, Sharp Rush *Juncus acutus and Prickly Couch Zoysia macrantha occurring on slightly higher ground (*denotes exotic/introduced species). In general, the larger patches of saltmarsh feature more structural (if not floristic) diversity, and are less susceptible to disturbance (from tracks, scalds or placement of fill) and weed invasion. Sharp Rush Juncus acutus occurs in all saltmarsh patches inspected, while exotic shrub, grass and herb species are common where fill has been placed around saltmarsh. In less disturbed sites, occasional native reed, sedge and herb species include Native Reed Phragmites australis, Bare Twig Rush Baumea juncea, Knobby Club Rush Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) and Warrigal Cabbage Tetragonia tetragonoides.

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Figure 1.3 Vegetation Communities Vegetation Communities Exotic Grasses andsedge mosaic Melaleuca seiberi Reed Bed Exotic Native Planting Saltmarsh Mangrove Boundary Golf Course CoveCooks Area Project 100 0 100 Coordinate System: MGA System: Zone 94) Coordinate 56(GDA 200 300 400 m

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 1.3.pdf Grid North

Photograph 3.1 Saltmarsh at Landing Lights wetland

3.2.3 Closed to Open Reedland

Phragmites australis +/- Juncus spp

Distribution

This vegetation type occurs in low-lying swampy areas and as a narrow fringing band around areas of open water or adjacent to areas of saltmarsh. Where this vegetation type adjoins areas of saltmarsh, a transitional community occurs. In drier, more disturbed areas, this vegetation type occurs as a complex of reedland and exotic vegetation.

Structure and floristics

This vegetation type typically consists of a dense layer of emergent reed species, to 0.5- 2m high, often with a patchy distribution of smaller rush, sedge and herb species in more open and/ or disturbed areas. On hummocks and areas of higher ground are occasional patches of shrub and tree species. Exotic species are also common, especially along the edges of reedland areas where fill has been placed and particularly in the reedland areas north-east of Landing Lights wetland, which contain high proportions of exotic species.

Native Reed Phragmites australis characterises this community, and is typically present in dense stands in central, damper areas. Other occasional native sedge species are Bare

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Twig Rush Baumea juncea and Sea Rush Juncus kraussii, with herb and grass species including Scurvy Weed Commelina cyanea and Prickly Couch Zoysia macrantha. Sharp Rush Juncus acutus is also common in some locations.

Typical exotic shrub and groundcover species occurring on higher ground and particularly within the reedland patches north-east of Landing Lights wetland include Kurnell Curse Hydrocotyle bonariensis, Golden Wreath Wattle Acacia saligna, Crested Wattle Paraserianthes lophantha, Black Berry Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Paddys Lucerne Sida rhombifolia, Castor Oil Plant Ricinus communis, Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum, Asparagus Fern Protosparagus aethiopicus, Fleabanes Conyza spp., and Plantain Plantago lanceolata.

3.2.4 Mangroves

Avicennia marina +/- Phragmites australis – Juncus spp.

Distribution

This vegetation type occurs in Spring Street wetland and in low-lying sites along the fringes of reedland and saltmarsh, generally in the southern part of Landing Lights wetland. Scattered mangroves also occur along the banks of Spring Street canal.

Structure and floristics

This vegetation type typically consists of a continuous canopy layer of mangroves to 4-8m tall, with patches of reed, rush, saltmarsh and sedge species to 0.5-2m high along its edges. A range of smaller sedge and herb species occurs in more open and/ or disturbed areas, often mixed with a range of exotic species.

Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina is dominant throughout: Groundcover species include rush, reed, herb and sedge species such as Native Reed Phragmites australis, Bare Twig Rush Baumea juncea, Samphire Sarcocornia quinqueflora, Austral Seablite Suaeda australis, Prickly Couch Zoysia macrantha and Warrigal Cabbage Tetragonia tetragonoides.

Typical introduced shrub and groundcover species include Black Berry Nightshade Solanum nigrum, Paddys Lucerne Sida rhombifolia, Castor Oil Plant Ricinus communis, Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum, Asparagus Fern Protosparagus aethiopicus, Fleabanes Conyza spp., Plantain Plantago lanceolata and African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum.

3.2.5 Disturbed/ Artificial Woodland

Distribution

This vegetation type occurs on the higher banks surrounding Spring Street wetland and as a stand along the northern side of Spring Street canal.

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Structure and floristics

The vegetation in this area consists of a range of introduced native species comprising upper canopy, mid-canopy, shrub layer and groundcover layer species; these were planted more than 15 years ago, although there appears to have been some natural recruitment of a number of tree and shrub species from naturally-occurring species in adjacent sites. Trees are generally semi-mature or juvenile forms, to a maximum height of 10-12m, with an upper canopy projected foliage cover of up to 25%. The mid-canopy layer and shrub strata are largely patchy, to 3m tall. The groundcover layer consists of a mixture of both native and exotic species (the latter more common on more open sites where disturbance is ongoing), to 0.2-1m high.

Upper species are Tallowwood Eucalyptus micocrorys, Swamp Oak Casuarina glauca, River Oak Casuarina cunninghamiana, Bangalay Eucalyptus botryoides, Swamp Mahogany Eucalyptus robusta, Mugga Ironbark Eucalyptus sideroxylon and Sydney Blue Gum Eucalyptus saligna.

Typical mid-canopy species are Coast Myall Acacia binervia, Cootamundra Wattle Acacia baileyana, Western Australian Willow Myrtle Agonis flexuosa, Bracelet Honey-myrtle Melaleuca armillaris, Prickly-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca styphelioides and Broad-leaved Paperbark Melaleuca quinquenervia.

Typical groundcover species include Mat Rush Lomandra longifolia, with a range of introduced species such as Paddys Lucerne Sida rhombifolia, Cobblers Pegs Bidens pilosa, Panic Veldt Grass Ehrharta erecta, Morning Glory Ipomoea indica and Moth Vine Araujia sericiflora.

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Photograph 3.2 Planted native vegetation community at Spring Street wetland

3.2.6 Exotic Grassland

The remainder of the subject site consists of various disturbed/man-made landscapes. Much of the area has been cleared of native vegetation and re-established with exotic grassland or allowed to remain bare or colonised by weeds. Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu) and Cynodon dactylon (Couch Grass) are the main ground covers south of the SWSOOS, with areas of fill, imported soil and other material being colonised by a range of exotic shrub species. Parts of the site have been planted out with a limited range of native tree and shrub species.

3.2.7 Conservation Significance

The saltmarsh community identified at Landing Lights wetlands conforms to the Final Determination for the endangered ecological community (EEC) “Coastal saltmarsh in the NSW North Coast Sydney Basin & South East Corner Bioregions” (NSW Scientific Committee 2004a).

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north-east of Landing Lights would also conform to this EEC, although it is noted that a high proportion of exotic species occur in these areas and that they are in poor condition.

3.2.8 Threatened Flora

Despite targeted searches for threatened flora known to occur in the locality, no threatened plant species listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 or Environmental Protection & Biodiversity Protection Act 1999 were recorded on the subject site. Nor was any habitat on the subject site deemed suitable to support threatened flora species.

3.3 Fauna

3.3.1 Fauna Recorded on the Subject Site

i. The Golf Course

The Common Eastern Froglet (Crinia signifera), Striped Marsh Frog (Limnodynastes peronii), Peron’s Tree Frog (Litoria peronii) and the threatened Green and Golden Bell Frog have been detected on the Kogarah Golf Course (CE 2005a, CE 2009). The predatory Mosquito Fish has also been observed in the ponds. Predation by this species is listed as a Key Threatening Process under the TSC Act. It is known to predate upon the eggs and tadpoles of the Green and Golden Bell Frog (NSW Scientific Committee 2004c).

The GGBF population has been subject to ongoing monitoring and management by Dr. Arthur White since the construction of the M5 motorway, which involved building two GGBF breeding ponds adjacent to the golf course. Recent records suggest that the population now centres around the artificial RTA ponds, which are used for breeding, whilst foraging occurs across parts of the golf course and in the Marsh Street wetland (A. White pers comm.) which lies just south of the SWSOOS outside of the development zone.

Green and Golden Bell Frogs are generally restricted to the ditches and ponds in the southern and south-western portion of the golf course. In the 2009 survey, an amplexing pair were detected in a pond close to the RTA ponds.

The shorebirds recorded on the golf course include the Little Pied Cormorant (Phalacrocorax melanoleucos) and the Little Black Cormorant (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris). Water birds included the Wood Duck (Chenonetta jubata), Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa) and Dusky Moorhen (Gallinula tenebrosa) and woodland birds included thornbills (Acanthiza spp.), honeyeaters (various genera) and wattlebirds (Anthochaera spp.) (CE 2006). All birds recorded were common species; amongst them were several

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common exotic species such as the Common Myna (Acroridotheres tristis), Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) and Spotted Turtle Dove (Streptopelia chinensis).

Very few bat calls were recorded on the subject site (CE 2006). Partial calls were identified as either the Southern Forest Bat (Vespadelus regulus) or Eastern Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) on the golf course. There are no DECCW records of the latter species on the subject site (DEC (NSW) 2005a) and no available roosting sites. ii. South of the SWSOOS

Only one species of frog was detected south of the SWSOOS in the Cumberland Ecology (2005) surveys; the Striped Marsh Frog, which was detected in the reedland east of the Landing Lights wetland and in the detention basins under the M5 adjacent to Eve Street wetland.

During pre-clearance surveys carried out by Dr. Arthur White and Cumberland Ecology in 2007 (CE 2008) the Striped Marsh Frog and several other common frog species were detected in reedland and grassy areas adjacent to Landing Lights wetland. Again, no GGBFs were detected on the subject site south of the SWSOOS during these surveys. Earlier surveys have indicated that while this species was previously known from the Spring Street and near Eve Street wetlands, in more recent years it seldom occurs there (Biosphere Environmental Consultants 2000, Biosis Research 2001). One previous GGBF record exists for the mangrove wetland at Spring Street, which was recorded in 2001 (Biosis Research 2001).

In the 2009 surveys, one GGBF was recorded outside of the subject site south of the SWSOOS in reedland occurring between Marsh Street and Eve Street wetlands.

It is likely that the GGBF rarely utilises the area south of the SWSOOS on the subject site, with foraging largely confined to areas in and around Marsh Street wetland which occurs outside of the development zone boundary.

Other than at Landing Lights wetland, the birds recorded south of the SWSOOS were similar to what would be expected from disturbed vegetation in an urban area, including the Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina), Australian Raven (Corvus coronoides) and Magpie Lark (Grallina cyanoleuca). Several exotic species were also detected including the Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus), Common Starling and the Common Myna (CE 2005, 2007). The bushland patches south of Eve Street and around Spring Street Wetlands contained a few common bushland birds such as Silvereye (Zosterops lateralis), finches (various genera), thornbills and wattlebirds (see Appendix B).

Migratory waders were present at Landing Lights Wetland. Species included Black- winged Stilts (Himantopus himantopus) and Sharp-tailed Sandpipers (Calidris acuminata) which were foraging on the mudflats in the centre of the wetland. A Latham’s Snipe Gallinago hardwickii was also seen in the reedland adjacent to Landing Lights wetland during the 2007 survey. The more abundant species detected in this area included

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Chestnut Teal Anas castanea, Superb Fairy-wren Malurus cyaneus and Clamorous Reed- Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus.

Very few bat species were recorded south of the SWSOOS. Gould’s Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii) was the only bat species that was recorded as being definitely present on the subject site. Partial calls were identified as possibly either the Southern Forest Bat (Vespadelus. regulus) or Eastern Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis). There are no DECC records of the latter species on the subject site (DEC (NSW) 2005a).

Six species of fish were caught within the seine netting and box trapping in the canal that leads off the Cooks River in the 2005 surveys (CE 2005). These were the Common Toadfish (Tetractenos hamiltoni), Sand Mullet (Myxus elongates), Port Jackson Perchlet (Ambassis jacksoniensis), Mosquito Fish (Gambusia holbrooki), Southern Blue Eye (Pseudomugil signifier), and Flat Tail Mullet (Liza argentea). The Port Jackson Perchlet and the Mosquito Fish were the most abundant. Both species of mullet were represented by juveniles.

Only Mosquito Fish were caught in the traps in Landing Lights wetland. Mosquito Fish, Southern Blue Eye, Flat Tail Mullet and Port Jackson Perchlet were caught in the Spring Street Wetland. Crabs were seen in the canal and caught in box traps in the Landing Lights and Spring Street Wetlands.

3.3.2 Potential Fauna Habitat i. Kogarah Golf Course a. Aquatic habitats

The ponds on the golf course are permanent water bodies that have been artificially created as part of the golf course design. The water quality of many of these ponds is relatively low due to nutrient run-off from the golf course greens and little flushing. Salinity ranges from freshwater to brackish. These ponds support fringing vegetation such as Cumbungi (Typha spp.), sedges and Phragmites australis. This makes them suitable habitat for several frog species. The presence of Mosquito Fish and Striped Marsh Frogs may impinge on the value of the golf course ponds as breeding habitat for the GGBF.

The ponds also provide suitable habitat for common water fowl.

b. Terrestrial and arboreal habitats

The birds found on the golf course were generally typical urban, coastal birds with a few bushland birds utilising the strips of Melaleuca sp and Acacia trees between the fairways.

The patchy woodland and small ponds on the golf course provide some foraging habitat for bats, however this is unlikely to represent substantial habitat in the locality. It is

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possible that some of the flowering trees such as the Melaleucas could provide some foraging habitat for flying foxes and the tree canopy and water surfaces could provide some foraging habitat for microchiropteran bats. There were no flying fox camps observed on site and the trees were too young to contain hollows that could constitute roosting habitat for hollow-dwelling microbat species.

The golf course and small patchy woodland areas provide little if any suitable habitat for native ground-dwelling or arboreal mammals. Exotic species such as rats, foxes and rabbits may occupy some habitat on and surrounding the golf course. ii. South of the SWSOOS a. Aquatic habitats

In general the habitat for frogs south of the SWSOOS is limited. The wetlands on the subject site (Spring Street and Landing Lights) are saline in nature. Spring Street wetland is predominantly a mangrove wetland, whilst Landing Lights wetland largely consists of saltmarsh with some reedland occurring around the outskirts of saltmarsh areas. Outside of the subject site, another saline wetland known as Eve Street occurs, as well as Marsh Street wetland, which is the only freshwater wetland south of the SWSOOS. This wetland lies adjacent to the southern side of the SWSOOS and provides suitable habitat for GGBFs. Repeated surveys of the site have only found one GGBF record on the subject site south of the SWSOOS, which was recorded in 2001, near Spring Street wetland.

Coastal wetlands can provide habitat for a number of seabirds, water fowl and wading birds. Landing Lights wetland offers foraging habitat for some species of migratory waders. The gentle slope of the edges and the general shallowness of the water allow the birds to walk and feed in the sediment. It is unlikely, however, that Landing Lights offers any substantial breeding or roosting habitat for wading birds particularly as it is located in an urban area that is frequented by dogs, cats and probably foxes.

Spring Street wetland may once also have offered some habitat for wading birds yet the significant encroachment of mangroves in the wetland has dramatically altered its habitat characteristics. The Spring Street wetland may be used by the occasional coot or heron but in general it has low habitat value.

There is very limited habitat for Grey-headed Flying-foxes or microchiropteran bats south of the SWSOOS. The wetlands may provide some foraging habitat for fishing species and the patches of forest may provide some foraging habitat for insectivorous species. Flowering plants occur such as banksias and Swamp Mahogany that would produce food for the Grey-headed Flying-fox, however there are no Grey-headed Flying-fox camps on the subject site, nor tree hollows or caves that would provide essential roosting habitat for microchiropteran bat species. There are, however, structures such as the M5 and the sports stadiums that may offer some habitat for bats that shelter in buildings and bridges. Overall, although there may be some minor habitat features for bats, it is of low value and would not support populations of these species.

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The presence of juvenile fish in the Spring Street wetland indicates that it may act as a nursery to some estuarine fish. Spring Street wetland vegetation is now dominated by mangroves and receives tidal flushing through pipes leading into the canal. Its role as a fish nursery is likely to be minor considering the poor quality of the water, the restricted tidal influx and the low abundance of fish using the canal.

3.3.3 Threatened and Significant Species i. Amphibians

The Green and Golden Bell Frog was found on the Kogarah Golf Course and is listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 as endangered and vulnerable under the Environmental Protection & Biodiversity Protection Act 1999. ii. Mammals

The Eastern Bent-wing Bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis) that is listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 as vulnerable may have been detected during bat surveys, however, there is minimal suitable habitat in the area for this species and it is more likely to have been a more common species such as the Southern Forest Bat (Vespadelus regulus). Although not detected, it is possible that the Grey-headed Flying- fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) and Southern Myotis (Myotis macropus) forage occasionally on the subject site. iii. Birds a. Woodland birds

Glossy Black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) and Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) have been recorded in the locality although have not been detected on the subject site. There is no known breeding habitat for the Glossy Black-cockatoo or the Swift Parrot on the site because there are no known hollows. The vegetation within the golf course and the wetlands provides potential foraging habitat for these species.

Potential habitat for the Glossy Black-cockatoo includes the planted Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) surrounding the wetlands. However, the primary food-source for this species is the seeds of Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa), Drooping She-oak (A. verticillata) and Black She-oak (A. littoralis) in drier forest types on low nutrient soils. The Swamp Oaks surrounding the wetlands are not likely to provide significant foraging habitat for this species. While the proposal includes removal of some of these trees, more individuals will be planted as part of the proposed rehabilitation and landscaping.

The Swift Parrot breeds only in Tasmania. Potential foraging habitat for the Swift Parrot includes insects and nectar associated with tree and shrub plantings within the golf

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course. While some of this vegetation will be removed, trees and shrubs will be planted within the new golf course. Consequently, there is not likely to be an overall loss of foraging habitat for this species.

The Superb Fruit-dove (Ptilinopus superbus) and Regent Honeyeater (Xanthomyza phrygia) have been recorded in the locality although have not been detected on the subject site and the site is not likely to represent significant habitat for these species. No breeding habitat for these species is present on the site. Potential foraging habitat includes tree and shrub planting within the golf course and mangroves near the wetlands.

The Black-faced Monarch (Monarcha melanopis) is a summer breeding migrant to coastal New South Wales. It has been recorded within 2km of the subject site. b. Wading birds

During bird surveys of the subject site by Cumberland Ecology in 2005 one migratory wader listed in the CAMBA agreement and the EPBC Act; the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, was detected in Landing Lights Wetland. This species has also been recorded in the Cumberland Bird Observers database and other survey work carried out across the site. A Latham’s Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) was recorded in the reedland adjacent to Landing Lights wetland in 2007 surveys (CE 2008).

Extensive data exists on the birds of the Kogarah area, mainly due to the presence of large wetlands nearby, particularly at Towra Point and Rockdale, which are actively managed and protected conservation areas, studied by interest and research groups. Towra Point is an important breeding area for a high diversity of bird species and is of particular importance to migratory waders. For this reason there are a large number of birds of conservation significance in the locality.

Records from previous studies that included the subject site also indicate that listed migratory waders have utilised Spring Street, Landing Lights and Eve Street wetlands in the past. However these habitats have become less suitable or unsuitable due to weed invasion, the encroachment of mangroves (in the case of Spring Street wetland), planted vegetation at the perimeters and the presence of M5 motorway (in the case of Eve Street wetland).

The following EPBC listed migratory waders have been recorded on the subject site during past studies, but may no longer occur due to the lack of recent records (Cumberland Bird Observers Club Database, 2005):

 Broad-billed Sandpiper (Limicola falcinellus);

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 Terek Sandpiper (Xenus cinereus);

 Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres);

 Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos);

 Great Knot (Calidris tenuirostris);

 Sanderling (Calidris alba);

 Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea);

 Lesser Sand Plover (Charadrius mongulus);

 Greater Sand Plover (Charadrius leschenaultii); and

 Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa).

The following wading birds listed by the TSC Act but not the EPBC Act were recorded on the subject site in 1999 (Biosphere Environmental Consultants 2000) but have not been recorded since:

 Australasian Bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus);

 Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris); and

 Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fulingosis).

Potential habitat may occur for these wading birds in Landing Lights wetlands.

No species listed under the Fisheries Management Act were detected.

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Chapter 4

4. Impact Assessment

4.1 Impacts on Endangered Ecological Communities

4.1.1 Saltmarsh and reedland communities

The saltmarsh and reedland communities around Landing Lights wetland form a mosaic of habitats, with saltmarsh occurring in the central hyper-saline areas of the wetland and a complex of saltmarsh, reedland and exotic species occurring on the outer edges that are fed by both fresh and saline water. These have been categorised into 4 main habitat types, which are saltmarsh, reedland, saltmarsh/reedland complex, and reedland/exotic complex where a high proportion of exotics occur (refer to vegetation descriptions in previous chapter).

The Saltmarsh and Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains EECs in and surrounding Landing Lights Wetland will be impacted by the proposal, with the removal of the southern and western edges of the wetland, which will become part of the golf course under the proposed development. The southern section of Landing Lights wetland is currently being encroached by mangroves, which would otherwise have required selective removal under a saltmarsh management plan to prevent the mangroves from becoming dominant. The reedland to the west of Landing Lights wetland is considered to be of high conservation significance, despite the large number of exotics occurring on higher patches of ground. This area also provides habitat for migratory waders during the summer months. The central area of the wetland, which is the main foraging area for waders, will not be affected by the development and will be extended to the east where compensatory saltmarsh habitat is being planted.

There will be an impact on saltmarsh and reedland communities during the construction and re-planting period. However, currently the wetlands are unmanaged and suffer from weed invasion, rubbish dumping and unrestricted access. The re-planting of wetland areas across the site and their long-term management and protection will mitigate these impacts in the long term. Additional environmental mitigation measures are also being undertaken, such as site remediation and the improvement of water quality. These are discussed in the following chapter.

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Figure 4.1.Golf Course Existing WaterBodies Plan

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 4.1.pdf Grid North

The reedland/exotic complexes to the east of Landing Lights wetland will be removed. These are not considered to be of high conservation value in their current form because of their predominant dryness and the extensive exotic and woody species that occur in all but the slightly damper areas. These patches of reedland and exotics have been found to be utilised by common wetland and bushland birds and other common fauna species. A mosaic of habitats is being created across the site including reedland, saltmarsh, grassland, shrubland and woodland, which will provide an array of habitat for common fauna. As noted above, extensive environmental improvements are taking place across the site. As well as compensatory habitat, reeds and sedges will be planted throughout the site in swales and golf course ponds.

The approved Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment that was submitted as part of the concept plan in 2006 noted that 266m2 of saltmarsh, 2,171m2 of saltmarsh/reedland complex and 14,476m2 of reedland/exotic complex would be removed as part of the development, totalling 16,913m2 of total wetland habitat. This was to be replaced by 18,743m2 of managed saltmarsh and reedland habitats. The total area of compensatory saltmarsh and reedland habitat now being created on site has increased to 19,093m2, of which 13,210m2 will be saltmarsh and 5,883m2 will be reedland. Table 6.1 in the following chapter shows the new size of compensatory habitat areas compared to the original ones submitted in the previous flora and fauna impact assessment for comparison.

Detailed survey work has been carried out on the hydrology of Landing Lights wetland and modelling undertaken to ensure that the hydrological patterns that occur within the wetland will be similar before and after the development.

The Saltmarsh EEC at Eve Street Wetland lies outside of the development proposal and will not be affected by the proposed development. The ‘rough’ areas of grass surrounding the fairways on the new golf course will lie adjacent to the fringing vegetation around Eve Street Wetland and will be planted with the same native species that already occur around the wetland. Strict guidelines on the use of fertilisers and herbicides across the golf course will ensure that nutrient run-off from the golf course is kept to a minimum.

4.2 Impacts on Other Vegetation

4.2.1 Mangroves

Mangroves are being removed along the southern section of Landing Lights wetland as noted above and continued mangrove removal will form part of the ongoing management plan for Landing Lights wetland. As noted in the previous Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment, 2,258m2 of mangroves (measured by canopy cover) will be removed from the southern end of Landing Lights wetland.

Patches of mangroves are also being removed in other parts of the site (they have naturally grown around existing golf course ponds and other ditches), including an additional 505m2 on and adjacent to SACL land, of which 90m2 (based on canopy cover)

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forms part of this DA Application (the remaining 415m2 to be removed will be subject to a separate application).

New areas for mangrove colonisation are being built along the Cooks River as part of the riparian corridor that is being created. This includes setting aside an area of 2,754m2 (previously 2,640m2) for mangrove colonisation, which represents an estimated canopy cover of 3,672m2 (based on the assumption that canopy width would cover approximately 1/3 more ground space than the actual area of land that has been set aside for colonisation). Some pruning of mangroves will be required in Spring Street wetland. A licence will be applied for at the appropriate time for this action.

The installation of a cut-off wall adjacent to Spring Street wetland to prevent contamination from entering the wetland (see below) is likely to necessitate the removal of individual mangroves. Again, a licence will be applied for at the appropriate time.

4.2.2 Artificial Woodland

Detailed land contamination tests have found that extensive contamination occurs throughout the southern portion of the site. As part of the development, prior to construction, extensive remediation works will be carried out across the site. This includes capping the central portion of the site and running a retaining wall along the eastern side of Spring Street wetland in order to contain leachate which is currently entering the waterways through the groundwater. Contamination extends right up to the boundary of the wetland. Therefore, a strip of artificial woodland approximately 100m long by 12m wide needs to be removed in order to drop the retaining wall in and contain the contamination. After the work has been carried out (which is estimated to take a couple of months) woodland will be re-planted in this area. Therefore there are not considered to be any long term impacts on the artificial woodland resulting from this. During construction, best practice measures to prevent siltation and run-off will be employed.

Some artificial woodland is also being removed from the northern (to accommodate for the Driving Range) and south-western ends (to accommodate for the 16th hole) of the wetland as well as planted trees adjacent to this at the entrance of the current driving range. These areas do not offer any significant habitat for fauna and their removal is unlikely to impact on the wetland or any threatened fauna species. Woodland habitat is being planted throughout the golf course and along the Cooks River.

Small, isolated patches of planted and regenerating trees will also be removed under this DA. These are not considered to have any significant value for flora and fauna and would only serve as occasional foraging habitat for urban-adapted birds and reptiles. Extensive areas of woodland are being planted across the golf course and Open Space land and the removal of any current plantings is not likely to cause any impact on threatened or native flora and fauna.

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4.3 Impacts on Threatened Fauna

4.3.1 Migratory Waders

Migratory waders are likely to be impacted by the proposal, due to the modification of Landing Lights wetland. This wetland currently provides foraging areas for migratory waders, and limited breeding habitat for non-migratory species, but is subject to urban run- off and disturbance from dogs and does not offer any primary roosting/nesting habitat. The main foraging areas around the mud flats will not be affected by the development. The removal of mangroves and establishment of low ground cover (i.e. golf course and ‘rough’ areas) is likely to increase the use of saltmarsh by wading birds in the longer term.

To minimise impacts to waders, construction in the vicinity of Landing Lights wetland will only occur outside of the main migratory wader season (i.e. from April to mid August).

It is not envisaged that use of the fairway by golfers would increase disturbance levels at the wetland, which is currently impacted by constant intermittent noise from overhead aircraft and members of the public walking their dogs. The fairway and surrounding rough areas will form a vegetated buffer around the wetland.

i. SACL submission

A submission from SACL (Sydney Airport Corporation Limited) in response to the Stage 1 Development Application noted that the following measures should be taken on the site to discourage birds from inhabiting it:

 The entire development area should only be planted with non-bird attracting plant species;

 Bird habitats should be actively discouraged and all ponds and detention basins netted;

 All rubbish bin receptacles should be designed to discourage vermin and birds.

The first two points are directly opposed to DECCW’s conditions of consent and the intent of SREP 33 to ensure the long term management of the environmental values of the site. Neither the wetlands on site nor the current golf course ponds are netted at present. Moving the golf course slightly south of its current location is unlikely to have any effect either way on the types and numbers of birds that forage across it, as all are common species (such as Australian Ibis, Indian Myna) and forage widely across urban areas.

The creation of new saltmarsh and reedland areas on the site may cause a slight change in the composition or number of wetland birds on site but this is unlikely to alter any current threats of bird strike to planes. The site does not function as breeding habitat for wetland birds at present and it is unlikely to do so in the future whilst nearby areas such as Towra Point offer extensive protected breeding grounds. Therefore bird traffic is not likely

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to change significantly from the current situation. Netting of the wetlands would have a significant impact on the birds that currently use it as foraging habitat.

Rubbish receptacles on site are being designed to discourage vermin and birds.

4.3.2 Green and Golden Bell Frog

The RTA ponds which are used by the Green and Golden Bell Frog for breeding lie outside the development zone and will not be directly affected by the development. Some indirect impacts will occur during construction when a part of the golf course will be fenced off for construction purposes. The Section below describes the management of GGBFs during construction in more detail. No long-term impact is expected to occur on GGBFs and the population is expected to expand into the additional breeding and foraging areas that will be created for the frogs as part of the environmental outcomes of the development (refer to section 5.17 ii).

i. Construction activities

With regard to GGBF management during actual construction, the approved GGBF Plan of Management notes (in Section 6.1.1) that it provides general plans for the management of GGBFs but that a detailed management protocol and contingency plan (referred to here as the GGBF Construction Plan) will be produced at the detailed design phase of the project to deal with the detailed management of GGBFs prior to and during construction.

The GGBF Construction Plan adheres to the same general principles that are outlined in the approved GGBF Management Plan with regard to construction, including the erection of frog exclusion fencing, conducting pre-construction clearance surveys and ongoing surveys during construction. Some details have been altered to reflect updated staging plans, incorporate stage 1 conditions of consent or as a result of ongoing discussions with DECCW. These do not alter any assessment of impacts on GGBFs and the objectives of the approved Stage 1 GGBF Management Plan remain unchanged. The broad changes are noted below. Specific information concerning updated staging plans and timings for frog clearance are outlined in the GGBF Construction Plan:

 The approved GGBF Management Plan stated that tadpoles and spawn from Taronga Zoo (the zoo holds some captive frogs from the Arncliffe population) and/or the RTA ponds would be transferred to the new breeding ponds on the south of the site to ‘seed’ the ponds and that a captive breeding programme would also take place as a contingency plan. However, discussions with DECCW indicated that the transfer of spawn or tadpoles from the north of the site to the south, or from a captive population would not be a desired option as it may have unknown genetic consequences and the Dept. would prefer a “hands off” approach. Following DECCW’s comments, construction staging was altered to minimise impacts on GGBFs by using an approach that disturbed the frogs as little

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as possible. This made the need to create a contingency captive population redundant. Therefore this has been omitted from the Stage 2 plans. Seeding of the new ponds may be revisited with DECCW at a later date, depending on the results of ongoing monitoring.

 Similarly, the Stage 1 GGBF Plan of Management stated that the RTA ponds would be fenced in during construction and that any GGBFs found foraging on the golf course during pre-clearance surveys would be transferred back to the fenced RTA ponds. Following discussions with DECCW, the staging of construction was updated to incorporate the following mitigation measures to negate the need to fence the RTA ponds themselves:

 each construction area on the golf course would be fenced in rather than the RTA frog ponds, so that GGBFs had access to golf course foraging areas at all times. Any GGBFs found during pre-clearance surveys will now be placed outside the fenced construction area in similar habitat within the DA boundaries

 a small area adjacent to the RTA ponds has been brought forward to Stage 1 construction, so that when Stage 2 takes place, this area will have already been completed, allowing GGBF’s to have a wider access route to the rest of the golf course from the RTA ponds.

 The Stage 2 DA does not include construction of the Trade and Technology Zone, therefore a maximum of one third of the current golf course will be fenced off to GGBFs during construction (between April 2012 and October 2012, with pre- clearance frog surveys starting beginning of March) providing them with access to the rest of the site for foraging during this time.

The measures outlined above are considered to greatly reduce the potential impacts on GGBFs during construction.

4.3.3 Woodland and Golf Course Habitat

A small area of foraging habitat for threatened bat species; Eastern Bent-wing Bat, Grey- headed Flying-fox and Southern Myotis, will be removed by the Proposal. Foraging habitat for these bats does, however, occur throughout the locality, as they are highly mobile and opportunistic feeders. Foraging habitat will remain on the subject site and additional areas of habitat will be created through mitigation measures. Roosting/maternity habitat is not present on the subject site and these species are not likely to depend on the subject site for anything other than occasional foraging habitat.

No other threatened species associated with woodland/golf course habitats have been located on the subject site and any marginal potential habitat that may occur for woodland birds such as the Glossy Black-cockatoo will be replanted throughout the new golf course and the new riparian woodland.

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4.4 Other Impacts

4.4.1 Spring Street Wetland

As noted in Section 5.2.2, extensive contamination issues on site require the placement of a cut-off wall adjacent to Spring Street wetland to stop leachate in the groundwater from entering into waterways. Contaminants occur right up to the edge of the wetland and therefore, in order to carry out this process, the artificial woodland that has been planted on the eastern side will need to be removed and some excavation required in order to get the right machinery in place to drop in the cut-off wall.

No excavation will be carried out within the tidal extent of the wetland and the appropriate measures will be employed to prevent siltation and run-off into the wetland during construction activities.

Submerged groundwater-flows from the central section of the site generally run to the south and east and therefore the placement of the cut-off wall will have minimum impact on groundwater-flows into the wetland, particularly as groundwater tends to flow into Spring Street wetland from the north currently. After construction activities, a bio-retention swale will be constructed around the wetland (as with all significant water bodies) at the top of the slope to strip nutrients and chemicals from run-off before it enters wetland areas. This forms part of the pollution mitigation process across the site to improve the quality of water entering the waterways.

The construction process is likely to take a couple of months, after which the area will be re-planted with woodland species. Other than the temporary removal of habitat for common terrestrial fauna adjacent to the wetland, the impacts on the wetland itself and aquatic fauna within it are likely to be negligible. Freshwater inputs into the wetland are likely to increase marginally due to the swale draining into them, which will help to maintain aerobic activity in the wetland (the northern section is currently anaerobic). However, essentially Spring Street is a saline wetland and any marginal changes to groundwater inputs will be negligible, particularly with the measures proposed to increase tidal flushing into the wetland.

4.4.2 Nutrients and Run-off

The use of fertiliser and herbicide on the golf course will be restricted and used only in accordance with guidelines drawn up in the golf course maintenance manual (Appendix E of the Wetland Environmental Management Plan). These include limiting fertiliser use around wetlands and only using organic fertiliser products within 15m of wetland areas. No herbicides will be used within 5m of all wetland areas. Additional measures to reduce run-off across the site will mean that the current pollutant loads entering wetland areas will be substantially reduced.

The risk of tidal flows inundating the wetlands will remain the same as it currently stands (a 1 in 200 hundred year risk according to Rockdale City Council Flood Planning Levels).

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Tidal flows into and out of wetlands will not be altered with the exception of Spring Street wetland which will benefit from increased tidal flushing as discussed in the previous section.

4.4.3 Cooks River and Muddy Creek i. Foreshore Cycle Path Link

A new bridge is required for the Bay-to-Bay cycle path along the Cooks River foreshore at the location of the SWSOOS and M5 tunnel. This connection will require the use of RTA and SACL land. This DA does not include for any works on SACL land. This DA does include the approach paths on RTA/foreshore land and up to the boundary with SACL land.

There are two options for the SWSOOS crossing. These are nominated as Bridge 13 and Bridge 14.

Bridge 14 would be fully located within SACL land, and therefore fully subject to a separate application and approval. Impacts are likely to be minimal for Bridge 14 and involve the removal of exotic grass and some mangroves.

Bridge 13 would require the reconstruction of the existing sea wall structure to create an improved footing/embankment at the foreshore. The works associated with this option are primarily located in SACL land, and do not form part of this proposal. However a portion of the embankment would involve works below the high water line, in the Cooks River, and therefore subject to approval by the Department of Lands. As such, this portion of work is included in this Open Space DA, as it is a critical component of the project in terms of completing the overall bridge to bridge cycle path.

The proposed works within the river are expected to include the laying of a new rock and rip rap embankment. Options would include excavation and replacement, cement stabilisation, and placement of paralink over the silt. Further design and investigations (including embankment stability assessment as required) would be undertaken at the detailed design stage.

Potential impacts include sedimentation and erosion and exposure of acid sulphate soils. Specific control measures during construction will be undertaken in accordance with an erosion and sediment control plan. Issues such as acid sulphate soils are well documented for the site and all works will be undertaken in accordance with an acid sulphate soils management plan.

In terms of vegetation removal, the area of construction primarily consists of exotic grass and occasional mangroves and is not considered to be of ecological significance, particularly as other parts of the Cooks River will be designed to encourage mangrove colonisation and provide potential nursery habitat for fish.

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Therefore the main potential impacts are likely to be to aquatic ecology during the construction phase. However, as long as sediment and erosion control and acid sulphate soils plans are adhered to, impacts to aquatic ecology are likely to be minimal.

The ecological significance of the Cooks River will be improved due to the construction of inlets along its banks to allow mangroves to colonise. There will also be a planted riparian corridor running along the bank of the Cooks River behind the mangrove plantings, which will include native species such as Swamp Oak and Swamp Mahogany. This will vary between 15m-22m in width. Mangroves have naturally established along the banks of Muddy Creek and these will be retained under the proposed development. Therefore it is not envisaged that there will be a detrimental ecological impact on either of these water bodies. The quality of water draining into the Cooks River will improve due to the extensive remediation that is taking place across the site.

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Chapter 5

5. Mitigation Measures

5.1 Mitigation Measures

The approved Wetland Environmental Management Plan (CE 2006b) and Green and Golden Bell Frog Management Plan (CE 2006c) outline measures that will be taken to improve all wetland areas within Cooks Cove and habitat for the Green and Golden Bell Frog. For full details of management issues and long-term plans for monitoring and management of the site, please refer to the approved plans. The mitigation measures outlined in these plans are summarised below.

5.1.1 Endangered Ecological Communities

As noted in the previous section, some areas of Saltmarsh and Freshwater wetland EECs will be removed as part of the development. The saltmarsh and saltmarsh/reedland complex to be removed largely occurs along the southern end of the wetland, which is being encroached by mangroves and on higher ground by exotic species such as Ipomoea indica (Morning Glory). Reedland largely occurs to the west of Landing Lights between the central saline area and the adjacent market gardens. Patches of reedland/exotic species also occur to the east. The central, hyper-saline saltmarsh habitat that forms the main migratory wader foraging area is being preserved and extended to the east. Even in this central area, upper saltmarsh is dominated by the exotic Juncus acutus (Spiny Rush) which will be removed as part of an on-going weed removal and restoration programme. Landing Lights wetland is also being conserved in-perpetuity under a positive covenant.

i. Minimising Impacts on EECs

Prior to works around wetland areas, suitable construction fencing will be erected to ensure that areas of wetland to be preserved are not encroached upon by construction activities. Standard measures will also be implemented to protect waterways from siltation and run-off, as outlined in the Soil and Water Management Plan.

Detailed hydrological studies have been carried out at Landing Lights wetland to model the way in which the wetland currently functions to ensure that a similar hydrological system can be replicated within the new development. Additionally, detailed mapping of the saltmarsh habitat has taken place and the information from the survey and modelling has

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been used to design the new areas of saltmarsh habitat that are being created. Based on this information, a trial saltmarsh area was created in September 2008 on the current golf course to pilot the design of new saltmarsh areas and to test different management and planting regimes. This has now been running for almost 2 years (with no maintenance for the past 18 months) and has been approved as being successful by the saltmarsh expert, Geoff Sainty, who will also supervise and advise on all reconstruction works on site. Further research will also be carried out on the trial to determine the exact preferential tidal levels for the different saltmarsh species. This information will provide further detail to inform the construction and planting of new saltmarsh areas across the site.

The trial saltmarsh area and the monitoring of it, was created in consultation with the Dept. of Primary Industries (Fisheries) and is currently (as at June 2010) waiting final approval from the Dept. ii. Ameliorative Measures

16,913m2 of saltmarsh, reedland and reedland/exotic complexes are being removed by the development, which will be replaced by 19,093m2 of compensatory saltmarsh and reedland habitat. Seeds from wetland plants have been collected from the site and are being propagated in a nursery ready to re-plant in the areas of compensatory habitat.

The existing wetland areas and the newly created ones will be subject to an ongoing monitoring, weed removal and management programme. The monitoring programme has been drawn-up in consultation with an independent wetland specialist and the Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries). Baseline wetland surveys began in 2008 and will continue in 2010 prior to construction taking place The monitoring plan includes Key Performance Indicators that need to be achieved (such as a minimum cover of native species and maximum cover of exotic species).

Some of the management issues that are currently impacting Landing Lights wetland include encroachment by mangroves and weeds, rubbish dumping (including asbestos at the southern end of the site) and unlimited access by members of the public and dogs. Ameliorative measures that will take place to improve the wetland are summarised below:

 Removal of mobile rubbish from the wetland;

 Improving the quality of water entering wetland areas through site remediation and pollution control activities;

 On-going removal of mangroves under a management licence;

 Limiting public access to the area and banning dogs from the golf course;

 Implementing a weed control programme;

 Erecting a low fence around the wetland and declaring it an out-of-play area to deter golfers from entering it;

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 Erecting environmental interpretation boards explaining the importance of the wetland area;

 Creating additional saltmarsh to the east of the Landing Lights wetland and in other areas around the subject site; and

 Implementing monitoring and maintenance of the wetland to ensure that the integrity of the saltmarsh is maintained.

5.1.2 Spring Street Wetland

Spring Street wetland is a mangrove wetland surrounded by artificial/planted woodland. In its current form it is polluted and has become anaerobic at its northern end. As such it is of little value in terms of conservation significance or as habitat for aquatic fauna. The vegetation communities and habitat value of the wetland have been discussed in previous sections of this report. Ameliorative measures for the site include rehabilitating this wetland by implementing actions to stop pollution. In summary, the ameliorative measures for Spring Street wetland include:

 The wetland and surrounding area will be cleared of mobile rubbish;

 A cut-off wall will be inserted along the eastern edge of the wetland to prevent leachate from the adjacent landfill site from entering the waterways;

 Woodland will be re-planted along the areas that are required to be cleared for insertion of the cut-off wall;

 A bio-retention swale will be constructed around the wetland at the top of the slope to strip excess nutrients from run-off before it enters the wetland;

 The concrete pipes feeding the wetland will be cleaned out to increase tidal flushing between the Cooks River and Spring Street wetland. This will aerate the wetland and improve the ability of the wetland to act as a nursery for juvenile fish; and

 The wetland will be subject to monitoring and management.

5.1.3 Long-term Monitoring and Management of the Wetlands

The rough areas around the wetlands and within the golf course will be managed by Kogarah Golf Club personnel on an on-going basis in accordance with the stipulations outlined in the maintenance manual. This includes provisions that stipulate the avoidance of herbicide/fertiliser near wetlands areas, mowing regulations, weed control and regular water quality testing.

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Management of wetland areas will be conducted by bush regeneration consultants for the first three years during the initial intensive monitoring and habitat establishment phase. In the longer-term, the golf club will be obliged to employ a suitably qualified and licensed member of staff to oversee the management of wetland areas on an ongoing basis.

5.1.4 Cooks River and New Riparian Zone

Currently, exotic grassland adjoins the western bank of the Cooks River in the majority of places within the site, with the bank itself consisting of a rock wall. This will be replaced by a riparian corridor, varying in width from 15-22m and the creation of mangrove inlets along parts of the river bank to provide additional fish nursery habitat and increase habitat diversity for a range of aquatic invertebrates. The native-woodland and shrubland planting along the corridor will provide additional fauna habitat for common species that are known to utilise the site and potentially for threatened, wide ranging bat species such as the Grey-headed Flying-fox as well as insectivorous species. The riparian corridor will also function as a pedestrian walk-way/cycle-way to allow members of the public to enjoy the recreational space.

5.1.5 Muddy Creek

Mangroves have naturally established along the banks of Muddy Creek and these will be retained under the proposed development. The quality of water draining into the Cooks River will improve over time due to the pollution control and water filtering mechanisms that will be constructed as part of the development.

5.1.6 Other Vegetation

The habitat corridors running throughout the golf course will be planted with local native vegetation. This will include incorporating species characteristic of Swamp Oak Forest, Dune Forest and native shrub and heath species across the new golf course. The design of the new golf course has incorporated ecological requirements wherever possible and out-of-play areas have been designed in conjunction with ecologists. This includes incorporating ecological principles within the design such as:

 Maximising the structural diversity of vegetation so it is suitable for a range of fauna species;

 Incorporating flowering trees and shrubs that provide food for species such as the Grey-headed Flying-fox;

 Planting lower-growing species in proximity to Landing Lights wetland to improve habitat conditions for migratory waders;

 Incorporating central, shallow pooled areas within the new saltmarsh zones, to increase foraging habitat for wading birds;

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 Constructing vegetated swales across the site to improve water quality entering wetlands and damp vegetated corridors to provide additional movement corridors for GGBFs; and

 Creating GGBF breeding and foraging ponds.

The Open Space Plan of Management provides detailed landscape plans for the entire site. Figure 5.1 below shows where the newly created wetland areas and GGBF breeding ponds will be located on the site.

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Figure 5.1. Golf Course Proposed Bodies Water PlanWater Bodies Proposed Course Golf 5.1. Figure

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 5.1.pdf Grid North

5.1.7 Threatened Fauna i. Migratory Waders a. Minimising impacts on migratory waders

Works in the vicinity of Landing Lights wetland will only be carried out during the winter months when migratory waders are not present at the site. A no-construction zone will be implemented around Landing Lights at other times, with light construction only allowed in the area immediately surrounding the no-construction zone (refer to 5.2). b. Ameliorative measures

Section 5.1.1 outlines the mitigation measures that will be implemented for saltmarsh and freshwater wetland EECs on site. The newly created areas of saltmarsh and reedland will provide new habitat areas for migratory waders. ii. Green and Golden Bell Frogs a. Minimising impacts on GGBFs

A large area of 6,367m2 has been set aside for GGBF breeding habitat on site, including breeding ponds both north and south of the SWSOOS, various foraging ponds, shelter habitat and movement corridors. It is expected that the GGBF will thrive in these conditions, and expand into these new areas, particularly as the breeding ponds will be managed specifically for the GGBF and herbicide and fertiliser application will be minimised near pond areas.

A plan for the management of GGBFs during construction (CE 2008) was prepared and submitted to DECCW for comments in August 2008. The plan has been updated to reflect current construction staging and timings. The aims of the plan are to minimise impacts to the frogs during the construction process by carrying out construction in a series of stages to allow GGBFs constant access to breeding, foraging and shelter habitat. Construction areas are to be fenced and pre-clearance surveys carried out to ensure that all frogs have been removed from construction areas before work begins. Cumberland Ecology has received comments from DECCW and incorporated them into the plan where feasible.

b. Ameliorative measures

Newly created golf course ponds will be planted with reeds and emergent vegetation to make them attractive to wildlife. 6,367m2 of new breeding ponds will be created as habitat for the GGBF. These ponds have been designed in line with specific guidelines provided by herpetologist Dr. Arthur White. Emergent and fringing vegetation will also be planted in

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other ponds around the golf course to provide extensive foraging habitat for the frogs. Additionally, the creation of vegetated swales across the site and damp habitat corridors will provide movement corridors for frogs and other wildlife. A maintenance manual has been drawn up that outlines environmental management practices for the golf course. This includes standards for minimising herbicide and fertiliser use close to pond areas (refer to the Golf Course Maintenance Manual prepared by Golf by Design). Long term monitoring of the GGBF on site, and management of GGBF ponds, will ensure that Key Threatening Processes such as the presence of Mosquito Fish, will be eliminated. The GGBF Management Plan (CE 2006c) provides further details on the long-term monitoring and management of GGBFs on the site.

5.1.8 Minimising Impacts on Local Community Groups

It is recognised that Landing Lights wetland is an important bird watching area for members of the public and the public will be allowed to continue to visit the wetland by arrangement with the golf club. Cumberland Bird Observers Club have been monitoring and recording bird activity in the area for some time and it is important to allow them access to continue to do so, whilst ensuring that safety considerations are paramount. To this end, a bird hide is being constructed at the northern end of Landing Lights wetland to allow bird watchers to safely observe the birds.

5.2 Variations in areas of compensatory habitat from the previous Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Since the approval of the previous development application, the impacts to threatened species and communities have not altered, other than mitigation measures introduced to further minimise impacts to GGBFs during construction (refer to Section 4.3.2.i). Changes that have been made between submission of the previous flora and fauna impact assessment and this one have been necessitated by detailed design investigations and as a result of feedback from DECCW. These are:

 The removal of artificial woodland along the northern section to accommodate the Driving Range and eastern side of Spring Street wetland and in order to insert a retaining wall that prevents leachate from entering wetland areas and waterways This will be re-planted with woodland species once the site remediation measures have been completed;

 An adjustment to the public cycle path route, which involves some additional construction works to the banks of the Cooks River;

FINAL REPORT 5.8 28 JUNE 2010

Table 5.1 Changes made to compensatory habitat areas

Habitat Type Compensatory Compensatory Change (m2) Habitat Stage 1 Habitat Proposed Approved DA (m2) DA (m2)

Saltmarsh 13,210 13,210 0

Reedland 5,533 5,883 +350

GGBF Breeding Ponds 5,821 6,367 +546

Primary Foraging Ponds 6,480 7,516 +1,036 (freshwater)

Secondary Foraging Ponds 3,341 6,956 +3,615 (brackish or saline)

Mangroves 2,640 2,754 +114

Total 37,025 42,686 +5,661

5.3 Assessments of Significance

Assessments of Significance have been carried out for Saltmarsh and Freshwater Wetland EECs and a range of threatened fauna species (refer to Appendix D). The Assessments of Significance conclude that in the short-term, significant impacts have been predicted on some TSC and EPBC listed species and endangered ecological communities. However, the ameliorative measures and long term monitoring and management that will be carried out across the site will conserve and enhance habitat for such species and communities in the long-term.

FINAL REPORT 5.9 28 JUNE 2010

Figure 5.2. Works during the migratory wader season wader migratory the during Works 5.2. Figure oWorks W No Light only working 25 0 25 Coordinate System: MGA System: Zone 94) Coordinate 56(GDA 50 75 100 m

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 5.2.pdf Grid North Figure 5.2. Works during the migratory wader season wader migratory the during Works 5.2. Figure oWorks W No Light only working 25 0 25 Coordinate System: MGA System: Zone 94) Coordinate 56(GDA 50 75 100 m

I:\...\5006\Figures\Figure 5.2.pdf Grid North

Chapter 6

6. Conclusion

Development of the golf course is not likely to cause a significant impact on either of the Marsh Street or Eve Street wetlands, which lie outside of the subject site. Spring Street wetland will be impacted upon, with the temporary removal of artificial woodland along its eastern edge and the removal of individual mangroves where required. However, the ecological value of this wetland is low - it is polluted, overgrown and receives limited tidal flushing from the canal at present. The ameliorative measures that will be put in place to rehabilitate this wetland (including increasing tidal flushing and sealing off the adjacent landfill site so that leachate does not seep into the water-course) will greatly improve the ecological value of this wetland for aquatic fauna. Some artificial woodland is also being removed from the northern and south-western ends of the wetland. These areas do not offer any significant habitat for fauna and their removal is unlikely to impact on the wetland itself. Woodland habitat is being planted throughout the golf course and along the Cooks River.

There will be an impact on the Landing Lights wetland, with the removal of some saltmarsh and reedland along the southern and western sides. Certainly in the short-term this will be significant and will reduce the amount of habitat available to wading birds, particularly until the newly created areas have grown in. Construction around the wetland will be timed so that it does not coincide with the season for migratory waders in order to minimise disturbance. With the creation of new areas of saltmarsh, in the future the site will offer a larger area of habitat available to waders. Currently the saltmarsh is open to the public and not protected in any way. Incorporating these habitats into the golf course will provide an enhanced level of protection from disturbance, dumping and trampling.

There will be an impact on the foraging habitat of the Green and Golden Bell Frog during the construction phase of the development, although their current breeding ponds will not be affected. A plan for the management of GGBFs during construction has been prepared. This includes measures to reduce impacts on the frogs’ foraging habitat by developing the golf course land in a series of stages to allow continued access to foraging habitat throughout the construction period, and by carrying out pre-clearance surveys in each area prior to construction. Additionally, this Stage 2 DA does not include construction of the Trade and Technology Zone and therefore the frogs will have access to

FINAL REPORT 6.1 28 JUNE 2010

the majority of the golf course at all times. The new golf course will provide large areas of new breeding habitat both north and south of the SWSOOS, as well as providing additional freshwater foraging ponds and shelter sites. Vegetated corridors throughout the site will improve connectivity between breeding and foraging areas. Thus the habitat available to this population of Green and Golden Bell Frogs will be dramatically enhanced and exist over a much wider area. This should allow the population to expand into these areas in the future.

The ecological value of the Cooks River will be improved, with mangroves and a riparian habitat corridor being planted along the river bank. Water quality entering the Cooks River and Muddy Creek will be improved through preventing leachate from seeping into the waterways and other ameliorative measures put in place to minimise and treat run-off from the site.

In the short-term, significant impacts have been predicted on TSC and EPBC listed species and endangered ecological communities (as demonstrated in Appendix D). However, the long term monitoring of GGBFs, the on-going management of GGBF breeding ponds and EEC wetlands, the creation of new saltmarsh and reedland areas and the creation of a covenant that will conserve Landing Lights wetland in-perpetuity, will conserve and enhance habitat for threatened species and communities in the long-term.

It is recommended that a formal agreement is signed by the Golf Club and developer to ensure that they are fully aware of their long-term ecological responsibilities.

FINAL REPORT 6.2 28 JUNE 2010

References

Benson, D., Ondinea, D., and Bear, V. (1999) Missing Jigsaw Pieces: The Bushplants of the Cooks Cove Valley. Royal Botanical Gardens, Sydney.

Biosis Research (2001) Natural and Cultural Heritage Issues and Constraints for the Cooks Cove Master Plan Prepared for Hassel Pty. Ltd. Biosis Research, Sydney.

Biosphere Environmental Consultants (2000) Rockdale Flora and Fauna Study Biosphere Environmental Consultants, Sydney.

CE (2006a) Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment. Prepared for Boyd Cook Cove. Cumberland Ecology.

CE (2006b) Wetlands Environmental Management Plan. Prepared for Boyd Cook Cove. Cumberland Ecology.

CE (2006c) Green and Golden Bell Frog Management Plan Prepared for Boyd Cook Cove. Cumberland Ecology.

CE (2008) Pre-clearance Survey Report. Prepared for Boyd Cook Cove. Cumberland Ecology.

CE (2009) Green and Golden Bell Frog Monitoring Programme Prepared for Boyd Cook Cove. Cumberland Ecology.

Clouston (2000) Rockdale Wetlands and Recreation Corridor Management Strategy: Review of Draft Rockdale Wetlands and Recreation Corridor, Plan of Management 1989 Prepared for Rockdale City Council. Clouston, Sydney.

DEC (NSW) (2004) Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Development and Activities. Working Draft. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Sydney.

DEC (NSW) (2005a) Atlas of NSW Wildlife http://wildlifeatlas.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/wildlifeatlas/watlas.jsp

DEC (NSW) (2005b) Draft Green and Golden Bell Frog Litoria aurea (Lesson 1829) Recovery Plan Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

ERM (2001) Cooks Cove: Eight Part Tests Prepared for Sydney Harbour Foreshore . ERM.

Hassell (2001a) Cooks Cove Master Plan: Volume 4 - Appendices Prepared for Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Hassell, Sydney.

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Hassell (2001b) Cooks Cove Master Plan: Volume 2 - Background Report Prepared for Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Hassell, Sydney.

Hassell (2001c) Cooks Cove Master Plan: Volume 3 - Traffic Management Plan Prepared for Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Hassell, Sydney.

Hill PDA (2001) Cooks Cover Master Plan "Airport City - Gateway Enterprise Zone' Prepared for Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. Hill PDA, Sydney.

Land Systems Pty Ltd (1989) Rockdale Wetlands and Recreational Corridor: Draft Plan of Management Prepared for Rockdale Municipal Council and the Department of Planning . Land Systems Pty Ltd, Woollahra, Sydney.

Lissimore, D., Lemon, M., Lank, D. B., Butler, R. W., and Ydenberg, R. C. (1999) Large and consistent body mass differences of migrant calidris sandpipers at adjacent stopover sites: phenomenon and possible explanations Wader Study Group Bulletin 88: 55-58.

NSW Scientific Committee (2004a) Coastal saltmarsh in the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions - endangered ecological community listing Department of Environment and Conservation, Hurstvile.

NSW Scientific Committee (2004b) Freshwater Wetlands on Coastal Floodplains of the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions - endangered ecological community listing Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee (2004c) Predation by the plague minnow (Gambusia holbrooki) - key threatening process declaration Department of Environment & Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

Pyke, G. H. and White, A. W. (1999) Dynamics of co-occurring frog species in three ponds utilised by the endangered green and golden bell frog Litoria aurea Australian Zoologist 31: 12-31.

FINAL REPORT 6.4 28 JUNE 2010

Appendix A A. Threatened Flora and Fauna and Likelihood of Occurrence on the Subject Site

FINAL REPORT 6.1 28 JUNE 2010

Table A.1 THREATENED PLANTS AND THEIR LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON THE SUBJECT SITE

Scientific Name Common Name EPBC Act TSC Count Habitat Requirements Likelihood of occurrence Legal Act (Rockdale Status Legal LGA) Status Acacia pubescens Downy Wattle V V 1 Occurs on alluviums, No suitable habitat within the shales and at the subject land. Not recorded intergrade between shales during flora survey. and sandstones. Occur in open woodland and forest, including Cooks River/Castlereagh Ironbark Forest, Shale/Gravel Transition Forest and Cumberland Plain Woodland. Acacia terminalis Sunshine Wattle E E1 1 Coastal scrub and dry No suitable habitat within the subsp. terminalis sclerophyll woodland on subject land. Not recorded sandy soils . Habitat is during flora survey. generally sparse and scattered. Very limited distribution between Botany Bay to the northern foreshore of Port Jackson. Caladenia tessellata Thick-lipped V E Generally found in grassy No suitable habitat within the Spider Orchid sclerophyll woodland on subject land. Not recorded clay loam or sandy soils, during flora survey. though the population near Braidwood is in low woodland with stony soil.

Melaleuca deanei Deane's V V 1 The species grows in No suitable habitat within the Paperbark heath on sandstone. subject land. Not recorded Occurs in two distinct during flora survey. areas, in the Ku-ring- gai/Berowra and Holsworthy/Wedderburn areas respectively. There are also more isolated occurrences at Springwood (in the Blue Mountains), Wollemi National Park, Yalwal ( Syzygium Magenta Lilly V V 1 On the south coast the No suitable habitat within the paniculatum Pilly Magenta Lilly Pilly occurs subject land. Not recorded on grey soils over during flora survey. sandstone, restricted mainly to remnant stands of littoral (coastal) rainforest. Tetratheca juncea Black-eyed V V 2 Low open forest/woodland No suitable habitat within the Susan with a mixed shrub subject land. Not recorded understorey during flora survey. Thesium australe Austral Toadflax V V Occurs in grassland or No suitable habitat within the grassy woodland. subject land. Not recorded Often found in damp sites during flora survey. in association with Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis).A root parasite that takes water and some nutrient from other plants, especially Kangaroo Grass. Note: 1. None of the above threatened species were identified during the flora survey on the subject site

Table A.2 THREATENED FAUNA IN ROCKDALE LGA AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON SUBJECT SITE

Likelihood of Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat requirements Occurrence

Endangered Freshwater marshes, dams TSC Act; or streams with Typha Green and Golden Vulnerable (bullrushes) or Eliocharis Occurs on Litoria aurea Bell Frog EPBC Act (spikerushes) site Acid paperbark swamps Vulnerable and sedge swamps of the Crinia tinnula Wallum Froglet TSC Act coastal ‘wallum’ country Low Vulnerable Heleioporus Giant Burrowing TSC and Heath, woodland and open australiacus Frog EPBC Acts forest with sandy soils Low Sheltered sandy or muddy beaches or estuaries with Charadrius Greater Sand Vulnerable large intertidal mudflats or leschenaultii Plover TSC Act sandbanks Possible Beaches of sheltered bays, Charadrius Lesser Sand Vulnerable harbours and estuaries with mongolus Plover TSC Act large intertidal sand/mudflats Possible Calidris Vulnerable Intertidal mudflats or tenuirostris Great Knot TSC Act sandflats Possible Coastal mudflats, lagoons, creeks. Favours Vulnerable mud/sandbanks located near Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper TSC Act mangroves Possible Estuarine sandflats and Limicola Broad-billed Vulnerable mudflats, harbours, lagoons, falcinellus sandpiper TSC Act saltmarshes Low Sheltered bays, estuaries and Black-tailed Vulnerable lagoons with large intertidal Limosa limosa Godwit TSC Act mudflats Low Prefers fringes of swamps, Endangered dams and nearby marshy TSC Act; areas where there is a cover Rostratula Australian Painted Vulnerable of grasses, lignum, low scrub australis Snipe EPBC Act or open timber Low Botaurus Australasian Vulnerable Permanent freshwater poiciloptilus Bittern TSC Act wetlands with tall, dense Possible

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Table A.2 THREATENED FAUNA IN ROCKDALE LGA AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON SUBJECT SITE

Likelihood of Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat requirements Occurrence

vegetation, particularly bulrushes and spikerushes Rocky headlands, rocky shelves, exposed reefs with Haematopus Sooty Vulnerable rock pools, beaches and fuliginosus Oystercatcher TSC Act muddy estuaries Low Intertidal flats of inlets and Haematopus Pied Vulnerable bays, open beaches and longirostris Oystercatcher TSC Act sandbanks Low Coastal, prefers sheltered Endangered environments; nests in Sterna albifrons Little Tern TSC Act colonies in low dunes Low Vulnerable Coastal, near reefs and Calidris alba Sanderling TSC Act inlets, along tidal mudflats Low Areas where eucalypts are Endangered flowering profusely or where TSC Act there are abundant lerp. Lathamus and EPBC Favoured feed trees include discolor Swift Parrot Act winter flowering species Low Generally found south of NSW in saltmarshes Endangered dominated by Beaded TSC Act; Glasswort, Southern Critically Seaheath and Shrubby Neophema Orange-bellied Endangered Glasswort. Breeds in chrysogaster Parrot EPBC Act Tasmania. Low Dry open forest and woodland, particularly Box- Endangered Ironbark woodland, and Xanthomyza Regent TSC and riparian forests of River phrygia Honeyeater EPBC Acts Sheoak Low Vulnerable Pteropus Grey-headed TSC and Feed on nectar and pollen of poliocephalus Flying-fox EPBC Acts native trees and also fruit Possible Roosts in caves and crevices in cliffs frequenting low to Vulnerable mid-elevation dry open forest Chalinolobus Large-eared Pied TSC and and woodland close to these dwyeri Bat EPBC Acts features Low Myotis adversus Southern Myotis Vulnerable Roost in groups of 10 - 15 Low

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Table A.2 THREATENED FAUNA IN ROCKDALE LGA AND LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ON SUBJECT SITE

Likelihood of Scientific Name Common Name Status Habitat requirements Occurrence

TSC Act close to water in caves, hollow-bearing trees, dense foliage Range of habitats, roosts in hollows and buildings, Scoteanax Greater Broad- Vulnerable forages along creek and river rueppellii nosed Bat TSC Act corridors Possible Endangered TSC Act; Shelters in rock crevices and Hoplocephalus Broad-headed Vulnerable under flat sandstone rocks on bungaroides Snake EPBC Act exposed cliff edges Low

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Appendix B B. Fauna Lists

FINAL REPORT B.1 28 JUNE 2010