South Australian Cooper Basin Operators

Environmental impact report: geophysical operations

Prepared for

South Australian Cooper Basin Operators June 2006

1

Prepared by: Operations Geophysics Santos Ltd 91 King William Street, Adelaide GPO Box 2319, Adelaide, SA, 5001 Phone +61 8 8224 7200 Fax +61 8 8224 7636

2 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

CONTENTS 1 SUMMARY ...... 6 2 INTRODUCTION ...... 7 2.1 Cooper Basin Operators ...... 7 2.2 Location...... 7 2.3 Petroleum resource rationale...... 7 2.4 Legislative outline...... 9 3 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK...... 10 3.1 Petroleum Act and Regulations 2000 ...... 10 3.2 Legislative requirements ...... 11 3.3 Environmental impact report ...... 11 3.4 Assessment and approval...... 13 4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 14 4.1 Climate ...... 14 4.2 Biophysical environment ...... 14 4.2.1 Dune fields ...... 15 4.2.1.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 15 4.2.1.2 Hydrology...... 15 4.2.1.3 Flora...... 15 4.2.1.4 Fauna...... 16 4.2.2 Floodplains...... 16 4.2.2.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 16 4.2.2.2 Hydrology...... 16 4.2.2.3 Flora...... 18 4.2.2.4 Fauna...... 18 4.2.3 Wetlands ...... 19 4.2.3.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 19 4.2.3.2 Hydrology...... 19 4.2.3.3 Flora...... 19 4.2.3.4 Fauna...... 19 4.2.4 Gibber plains ...... 20 4.2.4.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 20 4.2.4.2 Hydrology...... 20 4.2.4.3 Flora...... 20 4.2.4.4 Fauna...... 20 4.2.5 Tablelands...... 21 4.2.5.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 21 4.2.5.2 Hydrology...... 21 4.2.5.3 Flora...... 21 4.2.5.4 Fauna...... 21 4.2.6 Salt lakes...... 21 4.2.6.1 Geology, soils and landform ...... 21 4.2.6.2 Hydrology...... 22 4.2.6.3 Flora...... 22 4.2.6.4 Fauna...... 22 4.3 Social environment...... 22 4.3.1 Aboriginal cultural heritage ...... 22 4.3.2 Non-Aboriginal cultural heritage...... 24 4.3.3 Land use ...... 25 4.3.3.1 Pastoral land use ...... 25

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4.3.3.2 Conservation...... 25 4.3.3.3 Oil and gas production...... 26 4.3.4 Socio-economic...... 26 5 DESCRIPTION OF GEOPHYSICAL OPERATIONS ...... 27 5.1 Overview ...... 27 5.2 Geophysical history...... 27 5.3 Description of seismic operations ...... 28 5.3.1 Seismic method...... 28 5.3.2 Planning ...... 29 5.3.3 Cultural heritage clearance ...... 31 5.3.4 Line and access track preparation ...... 31 5.3.5 Line surveying ...... 32 5.3.6 Recording...... 33 5.3.6.1 2D operations...... 33 5.3.6.2 3D operations...... 34 5.3.7 Camp sites and associated supplies...... 35 5.3.8 Uphole drilling and logging...... 36 5.3.9 Line/access track and campsite restoration...... 36 5.3.10 Post-survey monitoring and auditing...... 37 5.4 Other geophysical surveying operations...... 37 5.5 Current standard operating procedures used to minimise impacts ...... 38 5.5.1 Terrain...... 38 5.5.1.1 Wheel tracks ...... 38 5.5.1.2 Wheel ruts...... 38 5.5.1.3 Compaction...... 38 5.5.1.4 Erosion...... 38 5.5.1.5 Bulldust ...... 38 5.5.1.6 Visual Amenity ...... 38 5.5.1.7 Natural drainage ...... 38 5.5.2 Native vegetation ...... 39 5.5.3 Native fauna / habitat ...... 39 5.5.4 Pollution...... 39 5.5.5 Landholder infrastructure ...... 39 5.5.6 Petroleum infrastructure...... 39 5.5.7 Third party access...... 40 5.5.8 Cultural heritage...... 40 6 ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS AND CONSEQUENCES...... 41 6.1 Hazards...... 41 6.2 Consequences ...... 41 6.3 Hazards and consequences by activity...... 42 6.4 Access track preparation ...... 43 6.4.1 Movement of heavy vehicles...... 43 6.4.2 Vegetation clearance ...... 44 7 ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ...... 45 7.1 Risk assessment and management...... 45 7.1.1 Environmental hazards and consequences...... 45 7.1.1.1 Assessment of severity...... 46 7.1.1.2 Assessment of likelihood ...... 46 7.1.2 Environmental risk assessment ...... 47 7.2 Management of environmental risks...... 50 7.2.1 Management systems...... 50

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7.2.2 Emergency response and contingency planning ...... 51 7.2.3 Environmental monitoring and audits...... 51 7.2.4 Incident management and recording ...... 51 7.2.5 Reporting...... 51 7.2.6 Inspection and maintenance activities ...... 52 7.2.7 Pest plant and animal control...... 52 7.2.8 Continuous improvement ...... 52 8 CONSULTATION CHECKLIST ...... 53 APPENDIXES...... 54 Appendix A Overview of stakeholder consultation process...... 54 Appendix B Stakeholder comments and responses...... 55 Appendix C List of relevant legislation...... 66 Appendix D List of relevant land owners ...... 67 Appendix E Common species names and scientific equivalents ...... 69 Appendix F Threatened flora and fauna species in the Cooper Basin...... 71

FIGURES Figure 1 Locality map for the Cooper and Eromanga basins in South Australia showing reserves and parks within the area of interest to which this EIR is applicable...... 8 Figure 2 Land systems in the Cooper Basin area to which this EIR is applicable...... 12 Figure 3 Annual flow volumes of Cooper Creek, Cullyamurra Gauge Station, 1973–97 (source: Puckridge et al. 1999) ...... 17 Figure 4 The principle of the seismic method ...... 29 Figure 5 3D seismic base map...... 30 Figure 6 Framework for environmental risk assessment ...... 45

TABLES Table 1 Cooper Creek flood classes, volumes and frequency ...... 18 Table 2 Land types and Aboriginal artefacts...... 23 Table 3 Seismic activity 1958–2005 in the area of interest ...... 28 Table 4 Line preparation activity by landform ...... 32 Table 5 Hazard and consequence classifications for seismic activities...... 42 Table 7 Severity of consequences...... 46 Table 8 Likelihood of consequences...... 46 Table 9 Risk matrix ...... 47 Table 10 Summary of impacts and risk levels for seismic operations ...... 48 Table 1: Flora and fauna species listed in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and occurring in northeast South Australia and/or South West Queensland ...... 71

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1 SUMMARY An environmental impact report (EIR) for geophysical operations in the South Australian region of the Cooper Basin has been prepared in accordance with current legislative requirements. The EIR provides information on the South Australian Cooper Basin’s physical, biophysical and social environment, together with a basic description of how geophysical operations are conducted in the region.

Geophysical operations carry inherent low environmental risks. An environmental risk assessment has been conducted for the various activities to establish the level of risk and consequence of these activities. These risks, together with the corresponding risk-minimisation strategies, are detailed for the various activities that occur during geophysical operations. These strategies are designed to be employed from the planning phase right through to the eventual post-operational rehabilitation of the areas impacted by these activities.

Based on this risk assessment, a list of environmental objectives has been compiled. This list will form the basis of the statement of environmental objectives (SEO).

The information contained in this document has been compiled from numerous data-sets, experience of prior operations in the region and ongoing environmental monitoring of these earlier operations. Also included are references to scientific studies undertaken on the specific aspects of the effects of geophysical operations on flora and fauna.

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2 INTRODUCTION This chapter provides a context for site location and outlines operations covered by this EIR.

2.1 Cooper Basin Operators Oil and gas were first discovered in the South Australian section of the Cooper Basin in the 1960s and the area has developed into one of Australia’s major oil and gas producing provinces. During 1957–2005, 87 700 km of 2D seismic and 7200 km2 of 3D seismic have been recorded in the area that this EIR applies to. The South Australian Cooper Basin currently meets over one-third of the demand for domestic gas in Australia, as well as producing significant quantities of crude oil and petroleum liquids for both Australian and overseas markets.

Until 1999 the South Australian Cooper Basin Joint Venture, operated by Santos Ltd, held Petroleum Exploration Licences (PELs) 5 and 6 covering the northeast of the state and surrounding the Moomba processing facility. PELs 5 and 6 expired in 1999, and exploration acreage in the Cooper Basin has been released to new explorers as well as Santos.

The Cooper Basin is a mature petroleum basin environment and the likelihood of finding large prospects in the future is considered low. In addition, the likelihood of large area 3D seismic surveys is also low, with projected work programs over the next five years indicating that geophysical surveying programs will be made up of numerous small surveys.

Note: References to the activities within the Cooper Basin or the Cooper and Eromanga Basins throughout this document refer to the area of interest indicated in Figure 1.

2.2 Location The Cooper and Eromanga oil and gas producing basins are located in central Australia and encompass most of the northeast of South Australia (Fig. 1). The basins occur at variable depths. In 2005 there were 27 separate PELs and 27 geothermal exploration licences (GELs) held by various operators and 199 petroleum production licences in the South Australian sector of these basins.

Exploration operations are permitted in PELs under Primary Industries and Resources South Australia (PIRSA) licensing conditions, while exploration and production operations are permitted in petroleum production licences.

Associated surface operations are located in the Strzelecki Desert. The Moomba processing plant (operated by Santos), located ~800 km northeast of Adelaide, processes oil and gas that is obtained by drilling into the oil and gas bearing reservoirs of the Cooper and Eromanga basins. Gas is distributed via underground pipelines to South Australia, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria. The crude oil and gas liquids (condensate and liquefied petroleum gases) are piped to Port Bonython, 659 km away on the Spencer Gulf, near Whyalla, where they are separated into various products for sale to domestic and international markets.

2.3 Petroleum resource rationale Natural gas produced from the Cooper Basin has been used to produce a variety of goods, packaging, industrial processes and fuels across a range of sectors. Total gas reserves in exploration and production acreage of the Cooper and Eromanga basins in South Australia are estimated at 1126 PJ. Gas is considered a ‘cleaner’ hydrocarbon fuel source and is an important transitional fuel as society moves from a high carbon fuel source(s) (i.e. coal) towards more sustainable energy production and consumption.

Additional exploration and drilling in the region aims to help meet increasing demand for gas and oil in South Australia and interstate. PIRSA is the government body responsible for the regulation of geophysical operations to ensure that they occur in an environmentally responsible manner.

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Figure 1 Locality map for the Cooper and Eromanga basins in South Australia showing reserves and parks within the area of interest to which this EIR is applicable.

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2.4 Legislative outline This document fulfils the requirements of an EIR for geophysical operations and has been prepared in accordance with current legislative requirements, in particular, with section 97 of the South Australian Petroleum Act 2000 and Regulation 10 of the Petroleum Regulations 2000. Additionally, the Act and Regulations require the development and implementation of a statement of environmental objectives (SEO). An SEO has been produced in conjunction with this document (Santos 2006b). This EIR and the SEO were subject to a review through an appropriate consultation process (App. A). The comments and responses are addressed in Appendix B (EIR and SEO).

The Coongie Lakes National Park and Controlled Access Areas are excluded from this EIR and the SEO for geophysical operations.

Relevant legislation is listed in Appendix C.

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3 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK This chapter briefly describes the legislative framework that currently applies to petroleum licensing in South Australia.

This EIR has been compiled in accordance with the Petroleum Act, Petroleum Regulations and in consultation with PIRSA.

3.1 Petroleum Act and Regulations 2000 The legislation governing onshore petroleum exploration and production in South Australia is the Petroleum Act and Petroleum Regulations, proclaimed on 25 September 2000. Key objectives of the legislation are: • to protect the natural, cultural, heritage and social aspects of the environment from risks associated with activities governed by the Act • to provide for constructive consultation with stakeholders, including effective reporting of industry performance to other stakeholders, and • to provide security of title for petroleum, geothermal energy, and other resources governed by the Act and pipeline licences.

The Act and Regulations are objective-based rather than prescriptive (McDonough 1999). An objective-based regulatory approach principally seeks to ensure that industry effectively manages its activities by complying with performance standards that are cooperatively developed by the licensee, the regulatory authority and the community. This contrasts with prescriptive regulation where detailed management strategies for particular risks are stipulated in legislation.

Regulated resources, as defined in Part 1 of the Act, are: • a naturally occurring underground accumulation of a regulated substance • a source of geothermal energy, or • a natural reservoir.

A reference in the Act to petroleum or another regulated substance extends to a mixture of substances of which petroleum or the other relevant substance is a constituent part. Regulated substances as defined in Part 1 of the Act are: • petroleum • hydrogen sulphide • nitrogen • helium • carbon dioxide, and • any substance declared by regulation to be a substance to which the Act applies.

Regulated activities, as defined in section 10 of the Act, are: • exploration for petroleum or another regulated resource • operations to establish the nature and extent of a discovery of petroleum or another regulated resource, and to establish the commercial feasibility of production and the appropriate production techniques • production of petroleum or another regulated substance • utilisation of a natural reservoir to store petroleum or another regulated substance • production of geothermal energy • construction of a transmission pipeline for carrying petroleum or another regulated substance, or • operation of a transmission pipeline for carrying petroleum or another regulated substance.

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As a requirement of Part 12 of the Act, a regulated activity can only be conducted if an approved SEO has been developed. The SEO outlines the environmental objectives that the regulated activity is required to achieve and the criteria upon which the objectives are to be assessed. The SEO is developed on the basis of information provided in an EIR. The EIR is provided by the licensee and contains an assessment of the potential impacts of an activity on the environment.

PIRSA, Ecos and Santos have developed generic SEOs for the following regulated activities. • Statement of environmental objectives for seismic operations in the Otway Basin, South Australia (Cockshell and Langley, 2001). • Statement of environmental objectives for pipeline preliminary survey activities in South Australia (Ecos Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd 2001). • South Australian Cooper Basins operators. Statement of environmental objectives: drilling and well operations (Santos 2003a), and • Statement of environmental objectives for seismic operations in the Cooper and Eromanga Basins, South Australia (Cockshell, 1998).

3.2 Legislative requirements As a requirement of the enacted Petroleum Act and Petroleum Regulations, the operators in the Cooper Basin were required to review the existing SEO for seismic operations in the Cooper and Eromanga basins in 2003. This EIR has been prepared in accordance with section 97 of the Act and Regulation 10 as part of this review. This document relates only to geophysical operations carried out in exploration and production licences in the South Australian Cooper and Eromanga basins (Fig. 2).

The following section outlines specific requirements of the EIR as outlined within the Act and Regulations.

3.3 Environmental impact report In accordance with section 97 of the Petroleum Act, the South Australian Cooper Basin Operators’ environmental impact report must: • take into account cultural, amenity and other values of Aboriginal and other Australians insofar as those values are relevant to the assessment • take into account risks to the health and safety of the public inherent in the regulated activities, and • contain sufficient information to make possible an informed assessment of the likely impact of the activities on the environment.

As per Regulation 10 of the Petroleum Regulations 2000, the EIR must include: • a description of the regulated activities to be carried out under the licence (including their location) • a description of the specific features of the environment that can reasonably be expected to be affected by the activities, with particular reference to the physical and biological aspects of the environment and existing land uses • an assessment of the cultural values of Aboriginal and other Australians which could reasonably be foreseen to be affected by the activities in the area of the licence, and the public health and safety risks inherent in those activities (insofar as these matters are relevant in the particular circumstances) • if required by the minister — a prudential assessment of the security of natural gas supply • a description of the reasonably foreseeable events associated with the activity that could pose a threat to the relevant environment, including information on: − events during the construction stage (if any), the operational stage and the abandonment stage − events due to atypical circumstances (including human error, equipment failure or emissions, or discharges above normal operating levels)

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Figure 2 Land systems in the Cooper Basin area to which this EIR is applicable.

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○ information on the estimated frequency of these events ○ an explanation of the basis on which these events and frequencies have been predicted, and • an assessment of the potential consequences of these events on the environment, including; ○ information on − the extent to which these consequences can be managed or addressed − the action proposed to be taken to manage or address these consequences − the anticipated duration of these consequences ○ an explanation of the basis on which these consequences have been predicted ○ a list of all owners of the relevant land (App. D) ○ information on any consultation that has occurred with the owner of the relevant land, any Aboriginal groups or representatives, any agency or instrumentality of the Crown, or any other interested person or parties, including specific details about relevant issues that have been raised and any response to those issues, but not including confidential information.

3.4 Assessment and approval Once the EIR and SEO are submitted, an assessment is made by PIRSA to determine whether the activities are to be classified as ‘low’, ‘medium’ or ‘high’ impact. This in turn determines the level of consultation PIRSA will be required to undertake prior to final approval of the SEO. • Low impact activities are subjected to a process of internal government consultation on the EIR and SEO prior to approval. • For medium impact activities, the EIR and proposed SEO are subject to a public consultation process, with comment sought for a period of at least 30 business days, and • High impact activities are required to undergo an environmental impact assessment under the provisions of the Development Act 1993.

The level of impact of a particular activity is assessed on the basis of the predictability and manageability of the impacts on the environment. Where the environmental impacts are predictable and readily managed, the impact of the activity is considered low. Where the environmental impacts are less predictable and are difficult to manage, the impact of the activity is potentially high.

Once the approval process is complete, all documentation (including this EIR and its associated SEO) must be entered on an environmental register. This public Environmental Register is accessible to the community from the PIRSA website.

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4 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT The Cooper and Eromanga Basins cover an area of greater than 1 000 000 km2 across South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland (Fig. 1). The Cooper Basin covers a total area of 130 000 km2 of which ~50 000 km2 lies within northeast South Australia. Cooper Basin operators’ licence areas in the South Australian region of the Cooper Basin (Fig. 2) can generally be described as arid with a uniform climate. They contain a wide diversity of land systems that are defined by geological, geomorphologic and hydrological influences.

This section provides an outline for the operations area of regional climatic conditions, biophysical and social environments, including Indigenous heritage and land use.

It should be noted that the collection and documentation of flora and fauna in northeast South Australia has been patchy and sparse. Consequently, status and habitat requirements for some species within the area are poorly understood (SEA 2000). Appendix E lists flora and fauna species occurring in the Cooper Basin by common and scientific name. Appendix F lists flora and fauna species listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) that are likely to occur in the Cooper Basin region.

4.1 Climate The climate in the Cooper Basin is generally characterised by hot dry summers and mild dry winters. In summer, average daily maximum temperatures exceed 34 °C and the average minimum is 22 °C (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997). Average daily temperatures in winter range from 7 °C to 20 °C (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997). Both seasonal and diurnal temperature ranges vary considerably, with the Bureau of Meteorology recording a maximum temperature of 49.1 °C and minimum temperature of –1.4 °C.

Rainfall variability in the Cooper Basin is amongst the highest in Australia, while average annual totals are amongst the lowest. Mean annual rainfall is ~150 mm, with no distinct seasonal pattern (Laut et al. 1977). Northwest monsoons weakly affect the northern region in summer and moist tropical air occasionally penetrates further south producing intense, but relatively short-lived, thunderstorms (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997).

Average seasonal evaporation rates are in the order of 550 mm/month in summer and 150 mm/month in winter. Average annual evaporation is extremely high at around 3800 mm (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997).

The most common wind direction throughout the year is from the southeast, however wind direction is more southerly in the south of the basin and more easterly in the north. Light winds (<20 kph) are most common from May to July, while the greatest frequencies of strong winds (41–61 kph) occur from September to January.

4.2 Biophysical environment The six major land systems contained within the Cooper Basin are: • dune fields • floodplains • wetlands • gibber plains • tablelands, and • salt lakes.

The sensitivity of each system to disturbance depends upon its basic characteristics: geology, landform, soils, hydrology, flora and fauna. Each land system is discussed with respect to these characteristics.

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4.2.1 Dune fields The dune fields of the Tirari, Simpson and Strzelecki deserts dominate the Cooper Basin (Fig. 2).

4.2.1.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM The development of the dune fields commenced ~18 000 years ago when a combination of low lake levels and extremely dry windy conditions created large, mobile dunes of lakebed and floodplain material (Twidale and Wopfner 1990). The process of dune development and migration continues today with sediment from river channels, floodplains and salt lakes being transported by the wind and shaped into dunes.

The Cooper Basin dune fields are characterised by parallel dunes of red, yellow or white aeolian sands of the Simpson Sand (Drexel and Preiss 1995), dominated by single-crested linear sand ridges. Dunes are separated by flat interdune corridors (swales), which usually consist of claypans (Twidale and Wopfner 1990; Santos 1997a). Dunes range in height from 5 to 35 m and trend approximately northeast (Twidale and Wopfner 1990). Sand cover rarely exceeds 30 m and a stony base is usually exposed in interdune areas.

Sand dunes have the potential to be affected by wind erosion as a result of disturbances brought about by geophysical operations and, in particular, the preparation of seismic lines. In sandy desert areas, the potential for wind erosion to effect soils disturbed by operations (particularly earthworks) poses a significant environmental hazard. Red dunes are generally considered to be more susceptible to wind erosion than grey/brown sand dunes.

Water erosion is less likely on dunes as rainfall generally infiltrates rapidly into the sands before creating enough force to cause surface erosion. However, where there is a fairly high proportion of clay in the sand, as for example at the base (or toe) of a dune, rilling and sheet erosion can occur (Santos 1997a).

In those parts of the Cooper Basin where salt lakes and distributary channels occur in interdune corridors, the soils between dunes are dominantly grey and brown clays. Elsewhere, the common interdune soils are solonised brown soils, calcareous red earths and earthy sands (Wright et al. 1990).

4.2.1.2 HYDROLOGY The dune fields are extremely arid and lack any permanent surface water. Good quality groundwater can be found at shallow depths in dune field areas adjacent to major watercourses (e.g, the Strzelecki, Diamantina and Cooper creeks). This water is non-artesian and contained within unconfined aquifers that are primarily recharged from surface stream flows.

4.2.1.3 FLORA Vegetation types alternate between the upper slopes and crests of dunes and interdune areas. Dune crests are often sparsely vegetated (depending on seasonal conditions) with tussock grassland species (e.g., canegrass), needlebush, herbs and ephemeral forbs (Santos 1997a). Dune flanks are characterised by: • tussock grasses in the Tirari Desert • lobed spinifex grassland in the Strzelecki Desert • shrubland consisting of sand hill wattle in all dune field areas, and • shrubland species such as whitewood and narrow-leafed hopbush more commonly in the Strzelecki Desert dune fields.

Vegetation in interdune areas depends largely on dune spacing. Narrowly spaced areas contain similar vegetation to dune flanks. Widely spaced dune areas, where gibber or floodplain soils are exposed, may contain low

15 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. shrubland of saltbush or bluebush (Santos 1997a). In general, inter-dune vegetation may consist of hummock grassland, chenopod shrubland, open shrubland or low open woodland.

4.2.1.4 FAUNA Despite the lack of free-water, dune fields provide important habitat for a range of wildlife including a variety of small mammals, reptiles and birds.

Thirteen species of mammals, including exotic species, have been recorded in the dune fields in northeast South Australia. Common wildlife species include the fat-tailed dunnart, striped-faced dunnart, white-winged wren, white- backed swallow, Richards’s pipit and the brown falcon. Common reptiles include geckos, skinks, dragons, blind snakes, elapid snakes and pythons (Tyler et al. 1990).

The dusky hopping-mouse is a nationally vulnerable species (EPBC Act) and occurs primarily in sand dunes along Strzelecki Creek in the vicinity of Lake Blanche (Morton et al. 1995).

The entire known range of the Eyrean grass wren is circumscribed by the limits of the Simpson, Tirari and Strzelecki deserts. The species habitat requirements are tied to sand hill canegrass, which it uses for food, shelter and nesting (Reid et al. 1990).

4.2.2 Floodplains The Cooper Creek floodplain is a major feature of the South Australian section of the Cooper Basin. It covers the central third of the Cooper Basin and includes the Coongie Lakes system to the north and the Strzelecki Creek floodplain that feeds Lake Blanche in the south (Fig. 2). The Cooper Creek floodplain occurs in close association with the dune fields of the basin. In the Eromanga Basin to the west, similar floodplains occur, such as the Diamantina River, Warburton Creek and Neales River systems.

4.2.2.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM The floodplains consist of intricately braided channels, swamps and extensive outwash plains. Floodplain topography is relatively flat and consists of an extensive and extremely variable system of rivers and creeks (Blackley et al. 1996). Soils are characterised by deep, grey, self-mulching clays, which are derived from fluvial mudstone and siltstone, and occasional fluvial sand and conglomerates in river and creek beds.

Geological units include undifferentiated fluvial and lacustrine sands of the Eurinilla Formation, clays and fine sands of the Tingana Clay, clays of the Milyera Formation and fluviatile sands of the Yandruwantha Sand (Drexel and Preiss 1995).

4.2.2.2 HYDROLOGY The floodplains of the Cooper and Eromanga basins are typified by the Cooper Creek drainage system. The Cooper Creek originates in the moister catchments of South-West Queensland and channels water through the basin to Lake Eyre. Cooper Creek still has the hydrologic character of an unregulated arid zone river with an extremely variable flow regime. The Cooper Creek flows every year, although several months often pass without flow (Puckridge et al. 1999). Annual flow volumes for the Cooper Creek are presented in Figure 3 and are based on readings from the Cullyamurra gauging station near Innamincka ~140 km upstream from Coongie Lakes).

Puckridge et al. (1999) have developed nine flood classes for the lower Cooper Basin floodplain based on the 25 year Cullyamurra record. Table 1 provides expected frequencies and volumes for each of these flood classes. The area inundated by each flood class is presented in Table 1. The predicted extent of flooding for each class is based on satellite imagery of previous flood events in the Cooper and Eromanga region (Puckridge et al. 1999).

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Upper catchments of the Cooper Creek provide 87% of all flows to the South Australian section of the Cooper Basin floodplain, with local rainfall making only a 13% contribution (Puckridge et al. 1999). Data from the Cullyamurra gauging station therefore provides flow data that is representative of total flows in the lower Cooper Basin floodplain.

Figure 3 Annual flow volumes of Cooper Creek, Cullyamurra Gauge Station, 1973–97 (source: Puckridge et al. 1999)

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Table 1 Cooper Creek flood classes, volumes and frequency

Flood Daily flow volume Total volume Frequency Comment class (ML/d) (ML) (y)

1 600–1200 14 000 – 40 000 Annual Since 1973 there have been Class 1 floods, or larger, every year. All water flows into the northwest branch of Cooper Creek.

2 1200–2500 40 000 – 1–2 Most water flows into the northwest branch, but a proportion flows into 130 000 the main branch of Cooper Creek.

3 2500 – 5400 130 000 – 1–2 Significant part flows into the main branch as far as Embarka Swamp. 220 000

4 5 400 – 18 000 220 000 – 2 Significant flow enters the main branch, to the lower main branch and 400 000 the lower Cooper Creek.

5 18 000 – 40 000 400 000 – 2–5 Significant flow occurs out of Coongie Lakes into the lower Cooper 1 400 000 Creek as far as Lake Hope.

6 40 000 – 100 000 1 400 000 – 5 Results in flows into Wilpinnie Creek. Flow into this area can disrupt 2 400 000 gasfield installations.

7 100 000 – 180 000 2 400 000 – 10 Results in flows into Strzelecki Creek but not as far as Lake Blanche. 4 500 000 Flows occur along the lower Cooper Creek.

8 180 000 – 450 000 4 500 000 – 20 Flows into Lake Eyre North and fills Lake Blanche. Class 8 flood was 10 750 000 the largest flood in 1990.

9 >450 000 > 10 750 000 100 A Class 9 flood occurred in 1974, but no satellite images are available to determine flood extent. Source: Puckridge et al. (1999)

4.2.2.3 FLORA Woodland, often with a tall shrub layer, is characteristic of the major intermittent watercourses in the Cooper Basin. Woodlands of river red gum, coolibah, gidgee and Queensland bean tree fringe floodplains, channels and semi- permanent waterholes (Santos 1997a). Groundcover on floodplains has a high ephemeral component, with very rapid growth after flooding.

In frequently flooded areas, open coolibah woodland with a shrub or ephemeral understorey is common. Further out onto floodplains, tall shrubland consists of Broughton willow or prickly wattle. Old man saltbush and scattered coolibah may be considered the main cover of tributary streams. Shrubland of lignum, old man saltbush or Queensland bluebush may also extend into the coolibah woodlands, but tends to be characteristic of outer floodplains (Santos 1997a).

4.2.2.4 FAUNA Within the arid zone, the most vital and important environmental areas are those connected with sites of permanent water. They provide permanent habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, and are especially important as a refuge during drought conditions. For example, the Cooper drainage system is thought to be an important refuge for the long-hair rat during particularly dry conditions (Morton et al. 1995; Kemper 1990).

Generally, watercourse habitat supports more mammal species than other habitat types in the basin. Thirty-five species of native mammal have been recorded from the floodplain areas of the greater northeast region of South Australia. Notable species in South Australia include Forrest’s mouse and the yellow-bellied sheath-tailed bat (Kemper 1990).

Birdlife along major watercourses is prolific, especially in river red gum woodlands of the upper Cooper Creek to which the barking owl and endemic mallee ringneck are restricted. Floodplains support a highly significant population of raptors. Breeding densities, calculated along Strzelecki Creek, are among the highest in the world.

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Especially significant is the occurrence of the grey falcon, black-breasted buzzard and letter winged kite. Aside from the terrestrial avifauna, floodplain areas also support varied and abundant waterbird populations. The Cooper floodplain and associated wetlands are a preferred breeding area for the freckled duck, black-tailed native-hen, and red-necked avocet, all of which are endemic to Australia (Reid et al. 1990).

The Cooper Creek wetlands support the richest amphibian fauna within the South Australian Cooper Basin. However, less than 3% of the known frog fauna of Australia occurs in the region (Brandle and Hutchinson 1997).

4.2.3 Wetlands Despite its aridity, the Cooper Basin contains an array of wetlands. The Coongie Lakes and the Strzelecki wetland systems are included in the directory of nationally important wetlands. The Coongie Lake system is also listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance to waterfowl (Morton et al. 1995; Blackley et al. 1996).

4.2.3.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM Wetlands in the South Australian section of the basin most commonly occur within floodplain and dune field land systems. These include ephemeral shallow lakes, waterholes, swamps, flooded woodlands and grasslands, deep permanent channel reaches and samphire claypans. Soils generally consist of deep, cracking clays and occasional siliceous sands and conglomerates.

Geological units include undifferentiated fluvial and lacustrine sands of the Eurinilla Formation, clays and fine sands of the Tingana Clay, clays of the Milyera Formation and fluviatile sands of the Yandruwantha Sand (Drexel and Preiss 1995).

4.2.3.2 HYDROLOGY Wetlands may be perennial or ephemeral and are considered to contain water more often, or be subjected to more frequent inundation, than surrounding areas of floodplain (Santos 1997a).

The Cooper Creek and Diamantina River intermittently discharge into a vast area of swamps, lakes and overflows (Morton et al. 1995). Most wetlands in the basin receive flows from this system which carries floodwaters throughout the basin and occasionally, during major flooding events, to Lake Eyre. Heavy rainfalls also fill wetlands intermittently. Flooding is considered to be the most crucial factor in the recharge of many wetlands in the basin area.

4.2.3.3 FLORA The presence of water in an otherwise arid environment has allowed the development of a diversity of plant habitats and communities (Reid et al. 1990). The close association between floodplains and wetlands results in similar flora being present in both systems. Woodlands of river red gum, coolibah, gidgee and bean tree often border the margins of wetland areas. The aquatic environment consists of several macrophyte species including Ludwigia peploides, Azolla filiculoides and Myriophyllum verrucosum (Blackley et al. 1996).

4.2.3.4 FAUNA The wetlands associated with the northwest branch of the Cooper Creek, including Coongie Lakes, are recognised as a region of exceptional ecological value. The aquatic invertebrate fauna is abundant and diverse and includes an array of insects, crustaceans and gastropods (Reid and Puckridge 1990). Aquatic vertebrates include the water rat and Cooper Creek short-necked tortoise.

19 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

The fish community of the northwest Cooper Creek system is one of the most significant in South Australia as it is close to its original composition, with only two exotic species present (Reid and Puckridge 1990).

The Coongie Lakes system supports enormous numbers and diversity of waterbirds. These wetlands have been recognised as internationally significant under the Ramsar Convention, providing a feeding, resting and breeding site for large numbers of migratory and nomadic birds. The lakes also support a great variety of aquatic fauna, including Desert Rainbow Fish, shrimp, the Cooper Creek tortoise and a diverse frog population.

4.2.4 Gibber plains Throughout the Cooper Basin, there are vast expanses of flat to gently undulating gibber covered plains and downs, such as the Sturt Stony Desert and the Innamincka or Wadi Wadi Dome (Santos 1997a).

4.2.4.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM Gibber plains are extremely flat to undulating plains that were formed during the breakdown and gradual recession of former tablelands. Soils typically consist of red and brown clays that are mantled by stone or gibber (Brandle 1994–1997). As stated above, gibbers are recent deposits of silcrete pebbles on sandy soils, gypsiferous soils or Callabonna Clay. Gibbers form a stable pavement that protects underlying soil from erosion. Gibber plains commonly contain low surface relief structures or gilgai.

While gibber plains are generally considered to be a stable environment, disturbance or removal of the surface layer of stones (gibbers) and the exposure of clay soils, can result in significant erosion by either wind or water. Even in gently sloping areas, water can gather enough force to cause erosion gullies in exposed soils (Santos 1997a). The erosive potential of these soils is clearly evident in areas where grading or removal of gibber has resulted in severe erosion and long-term scarring on the landscape. For example, creation of windrows during seismic activities can remove the protective layer of gibber and result in gully and sheet erosion.

4.2.4.2 HYDROLOGY Permanent surface water sources are generally lacking, but temporary pools of water often form after rain in low depressions or gilgai. Minor drainage channels occur throughout lowland plain areas.

4.2.4.3 FLORA There is a range of vegetation throughout gibber country. On the southern and southwestern margins, relatively dense low open shrubland of bladder saltbush, low bluebush and cotton bush are common. Further north, much of the area is naturally bare (or removed by grazing of sheep and/or cattle), but Mitchell grass tussock grasslands become more frequent. In other gibber areas, the main cover may be short-lived copper burrs and ephemeral grasses. There is still further variation caused by hills and drop-offs where small trees or tall shrubs, particularly emu bushes, may form a tall open shrubland.

4.2.4.4 FAUNA Gibber plains have a poor fauna assemblage compared to other land systems in the region.

Only a minority of the bird assemblage of the South Australian portion of the Cooper Basin is considered to be resident (Brandle and Reid 1997). Gibber areas are an important habitat for a number of bird species including the chestnut-breasted white face, the inland dotterel and the gibber chat. The chestnut-breasted whiteface is unusual amongst birds in being endemic to the gibber plain area (Reid et al. 1990).

Common mammal species include the stripe-faced dunnart, fat-tailed dunnart, dingo and Forrest’s mouse. Less common species include the fawn hopping mouse and Giles’ planigale. Giles’ planigale is common in habitats with

20 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. cracking clay soils. The kowari is endemic to the stony deserts and considered vulnerable to extinction. It appears to be restricted to the northeast region of South Australia (Brandle 1997b).

4.2.5 Tablelands Tableland areas are commonly known as dissected residuals or breakaways. They are characterised by a silcrete surface that has been eroded to form low but steep escarpments, mesas, buttes and extensive gibber covered foot slopes (Santos 1997a).

4.2.5.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM Uplift in the Lake Eyre Basin has led to erosion and dissection of the silcrete surface and formation of low steep escarpments, small mesas and extensive gibber covered foot slopes. Tableland areas generally have moderately deep clay rich soils of aeolian origin, and a fine crystalline gypsum-rich horizon.

Geological units present in tableland areas include gibber surfaces, which consist of ‘recent deposits of silcrete pebbles on sandy soils, gypsiferous soils or Callabonna Clay’, plus Tertiary age fluviatile sands and shales of the Eyre Formation and Cretaceous age Winton Formation (Drexel and Preiss 1995). The Eyre Formation is generally silicified, as are portions of the Winton Formation.

4.2.5.2 HYDROLOGY Permanent surface water is scarce in elevated areas of tablelands. Minor drainage channels occur in lowland plains and can contain permanent waterholes.

4.2.5.3 FLORA Landforms that dominate the tablelands support a variety of low open woodlands, shrublands and low open chenopod shrublands (Santos 1997b). Areas of relatively high relief support low acacia woodlands, and occasionally on calcareous soils an uncommon Eucalyptus socialis mallee formation (Brandle 1997a). The most heavily wooded areas occur along drainage lines with river red gums and coolibahs fringing more permanent waterholes.

4.2.5.4 FAUNA Due to close association and similar environmental characteristics, tableland and gibber plain fauna is very similar.

4.2.6 Salt lakes The basin is dotted with numerous salinas, or salt lakes and saltpans, of varying sizes (referred to as dry lakes). In these lakes, excess evaporation in interior basins leads to the concentration of soluble salts as a surface crust. The salts themselves are derived from the weathering of rock and are transported to the lakes via the movement of surface water (e.g., rivers and streams). The larger salt lakes in the licence areas include Lake Blanche, Lake Hope, Lake Gregory, Lake Etamunbanie and Lake Uloowaranie (Santos 1997a).

4.2.6.1 GEOLOGY, SOILS AND LANDFORM Salt lakes usually have a low topography and dry surface covered with a gypsum (salt) crust. Lunettes are found along parts of the eastern shores of lakes. Little is known about the physical attributes of many salt lakes.

21 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

4.2.6.2 HYDROLOGY Salt lakes are predominantly dry, but are occasionally filled by floodwaters from the major river systems. During flooding, water may remain fresh and can support abundant fish populations. Lakes become increasingly saline as they dry. The frequency of flooding and inundation is highly variable.

4.2.6.3 FLORA Although the surface of salt lakes is devoid of vegetation, the immediate surrounds are usually fringed with samphire and occasional nitre bush shrubland. Samphire eventually grades to low open chenopod shrubland in the outer surrounds (Reid et al. 1990).

4.2.6.4 FAUNA Dry salt lakes form a harsh environment with a complete absence of surface water and extremes in daily temperature. Consequently, they support relatively few fauna.

Salt lakes are particularly depauperate with regard to bird species. Salt lakes in the region constitute highly ephemeral aquatic habitat for birds and, as such, no species is restricted to salt lakes alone (Reid et al. 1990). Surrounding chenopod shrublands support common species such as the Orange Chat and Richard’s Pipit.

While birds are almost entirely absent from the lakebed when dry, during flooding fish populations can flourish and consequently a variety of waterbirds (such as pelicans, terns and cormorants) can be found.

4.3 Social environment The Cooper Basin area has broad Indigenous cultural and European historical significance. There is a range of current land uses throughout the area including conservation, tourism, oil and gas production and pastoral activities. While the regional population has decreased with time, tourist numbers are consistent. The region remains generally undeveloped in terms of infrastructure and roads.

4.3.1 Aboriginal cultural heritage The northeast desert region historically sustained a significant Aboriginal population, particularly in the area surrounding Cooper Creek and its many channels (Santos 1998a).

The traditional landowners of the Cooper Basin currently have limited direct involvement with, or connection to, the land in the region (A Lance pers. comm., 2001). There is however, direct contact and use of the land in some areas and the Aboriginal peoples have a very strong spiritual connection to many areas. Aboriginal ancestral ownership can be traced prior to European settlement. A joint management arrangement exists for the Witjira National Park between the Irrwanyere Aboriginal Corporation and the Department for Environment and Heritage. There are ~15 Aboriginal heritage committees and organisations that represent traditional owners in the Cooper and Eromanga region. There are also approximately nine native title claims over the Cooper and Eromanga area.

Aboriginal sites can still be identified throughout the region and include features of spiritual importance and archaeological sites: for example, middens, artefact scatters, rock engravings, scarred trees, arrangement sites, burial sites and quarries (Blackley et al. 1996). These are summarised in Table 2. All personnel are to be made aware of the law and restrictions associated with the South Australian Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988.

22 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Table 2 Land types and Aboriginal artefacts

Land types Artefacts and sites Location of sites

Sand dunes Burial sites: common Often in eroding sand dunes

Stone artefact scatters Often in eroding sand dunes

Near sources of permanent water such as Cooper Creek and Shell middens: common Coongie Lakes

Floodplains Burial sites Isolated dunes and sandy rises

Campsites Isolated dunes and sandy rises

Shell middens Near lakes and rivers

Tree scars: rare Along rivers and creeks

Stone artefact scatters Near lakes and rivers

Gibber plains/ Cleared pathways Near stone arrangements

Tablelands Stone tool quarries Mesa caps

Stone arrangements Gibber country

Rock art Near lakes and rivers

Quarry workshop and stone arrangements

Sand dunes often contain the largest and most important archaeological sites within the Cooper Basin region. Any stone found on a sand dune is likely to have been brought there by Aboriginal people. Burial sites are relatively common and are often found in eroding sand dunes. Shell middens are another common feature, particularly near sources of permanent water such as the Cooper Creek and Coongie Lakes.

23 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Clay covered floodplains contain small numbers of Aboriginal sites. Campsites and burial sites are often found on sandy rises and isolated dunes in floodplains, while stone artefact scatters and shell middens are found near lakes and rivers (particularly Cooper Creek). Scars made by Aboriginal people can be found on large, old river red gums and box trees along rivers and creeks, and boomerang scars on smaller trees of various types including eucalypts and acacias. Scarred trees are relatively uncommon.

Large numbers of Aboriginal sites are found in the pebble-covered gibber country. The dense bands of stone that cap mesas were often extensively quarried for making stone tools. Stone arrangements can be recognised from the combination of regular patterns of larger rocks in lines, circles and cairns. Cleared pathways near these stone arrangements are also common. Rock art can be found in tableland escarpments and along rivers and lake edges.

The Cooper Creek region has been proclaimed a State Heritage Reserve because of its association with Aboriginal and European history as well as its environmental significance. The area encompasses Innamincka and a 1 km strip either side of Cooper Creek, totalling 120 km2. It is rich in Aboriginal relics, campsites, quarries and engravings with several unique designs located around Cullyamurra waterhole.

4.3.2 Non-Aboriginal cultural heritage Europeans commenced exploration of the region during the 1840s. Pastoral development rapidly followed exploration and by the mid 1880s all available pastoral leases in the region had been taken up.

Rapid pastoral expansion was due in part to the presence of Afghan cameleers who are thought to have advanced the opening up and development of the region by 50 to 60 years. Afghan cameleers first arrived in the northeast desert region in the 1860s. They were employed on survey expeditions into the arid interior and transported supplies from the railhead to remote settler areas. From 1884, Marree was the hub of a vast pack-camel transportation network.

Camel train carrying supplies to Cordillo Station at Innamincka c1926 (Tolcher 1986)

There are numerous historical sites scattered throughout the region, many of which are listed on the National Heritage Register. Most sites are associated with exploration and the expansion of pastoralism throughout the northeast deserts.

Historical sites in the far northeast of South Australia listed on the National Heritage Register (2001) as registered or indicative include: • Blanchewater Homestead on the Strzelecki Track • Wills Monument and Blazed Tree

24 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

• Burke’s Memorial • Grays Tree • Horse Capstan Pump and Well • Tinga Tingana Homestead Ruin • Cordillo Downs Homestead and Woolshed • Australian Inland Mission Nursing Home (former), and • Cadelga Outstation Ruin

Toolachee ruins

4.3.3 Land use The primary land uses in the basin are pastoralism, oil and gas exploration and production, conservation and tourism (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997). The majority of the region is used for pastoral production while a substantial amount of the remainder is within regional reserves.

4.3.3.1 PASTORAL LAND USE The main pastoral enterprise in the region is beef cattle production on native pasture. A number of properties have either obtained a level of certification or are in the process of conversion to NASAA Organic Beef Export. These include Bollards Lagoon, Merty Merty, Mungeranie and Cordillo Downs. The export guidelines identify the maximum levels of chemicals (including metals and hydrocarbons) allowable in soil, consistent with allowing organic certification for beef exports.

In addition most landholders are certified under the Cattle Care Quality Assurance system. Cattle Care is an initiative of the Cattle Council of Australia and places emphasis on minimising the risk of chemical contamination, bruising and hide damage and ensuring that herds are effectively managed and improved. In particular, the contamination of property and livestock by organochlorins and other persistent chemicals must be minimised, and contaminated cattle identified. Prevention of bruising and hide damage puts the onus on landholders to manage the property carefully and reduce the risk of damage from third parties and other land users.

4.3.3.2 CONSERVATION The region contains some of South Australia’s largest conservation reserves dedicated under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. The main reserves are Innamincka, Strzelecki, Simpson Desert and Lake Frome. These are

25 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. regional reserves and account for over 2 million hectares of land within the Cooper Basin region. Regional reserves are areas proclaimed for the purpose of conserving wildlife, natural or historical features while allowing responsible use of the areas natural resources. Pastoralism and oil and gas production and processing can occur within regional reserve areas. There is no petroleum access to areas proclaimed as conservation parks.

In 1987, part of the Cooper Creek system was proclaimed as the Coongie Lakes Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar wetland is defined by Lake Moorayepe to the north, the Queensland border at the crossing of Cooper Creek to the east and Marion Hill, southwest of Lake Hope. It is estimated that the Coongie Lakes Wetlands Ramsar area covers 30% of the known oil and gas resources within the South Australian portion of the Cooper Basin (Department for Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs 1999). Coongie Lakes and the adjacent area, and the Cooper Creek floodplain are registered on the National Heritage Register. The Coongie Lakes National Park and associated restricted access areas was proclaimed in 2005 by the South Australian Parliament.

4.3.3.3 OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION The area of land utilised for gas production is small, but the supporting infrastructure extends throughout much of the central and northeast portion of the Cooper Basin in South Australia (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997). Producing oil and gas fields are spread through pastoral lands, regional reserves and the Ramsar wetlands.

There are many oil and gas fields in the Permian Cooper Basin, and oilfields in the overlying Mesozoic Eromanga Basin (Fig. 1). The total discovered reserves to date are 229 x 109 m3 (8.2 tcf) of gas and 17 500 ML (110 mmbbl) of oil. Market rates for these resources are variable, but at approximate market rates of A$2.50/GJ of gas and A$100/bbl of oil, this represents a resource worth $31 billion.

Using standard empirical methods of predicting undiscovered reserves, it is estimated that between 12 to 228 x 109 m3 of gas and between 2000 to14 000 ML of oil remain to be discovered in the Cooper Basin area.

The Cooper Basin supplies a large proportion of the gas requirements of South Australia, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and the majority of those of Queensland. South Australia is particularly reliant on gas for its energy needs. Hence, natural gas is of national strategic importance. Additional discoveries are necessary to maintain supply in the medium term. Natural gas is the least carbon dioxide polluting fossil fuel, and therefore, its continued use in preference to coal and oil reduces greenhouse impacts.

4.3.4 Socio-economic There has been a substantial reduction in numbers of people living and working in the Cooper Basin region over the last 40 years. The present Cooper Basin region population is small with 250-300 residents working in the pastoral industry and a further 600 petroleum industry workers at the Santos plant at Moomba and the facilities located at other petroleum operators’ production areas (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997). However, between 40 000 and 50 000 tourists are estimated to visit the Cooper Basin region annually. The Strzelecki Track, Innamincka Regional Reserve and Coongie Lakes wetlands are major tourist attractions in the region.

Infrastructure in the region is minimal. Unsealed roads service the district, with the Strzelecki and Birdsville tracks being the major routes through the region. Moomba and Innamincka are the main population centres in the Cooper Basin region (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997).

The gross value of pastoral production in the Cooper Basin region is estimated to be around $37 million per year (Marree Soil Conservation Board 1997).

26 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

5 DESCRIPTION OF GEOPHYSICAL OPERATIONS 5.1 Overview The Cooper Basin operators have obligations for all geophysical operations conducted pursuant to the South Australian Petroleum Act 2000 within all petroleum tenements in the Cooper and Eromanga basins.

Section 5.4 of this report provides a technical description of specific components of typical seismic operations that are covered by this EIR and the accompanying SEO including line preparation, surveying, recording, uphole drilling/logging and restoration (Santos 2004a,b).

Other geophysical operations are generally much less intensive than seismic operations and involve much smaller crews and little line preparation. However, key aspects are still the traversing of ground by vehicles, personnel and equipment.

This EIR and SEO apply only to activities relating to geophysical operations. Activities associated with the geophysical operations are as follows: ƒ Line and access track preparation (starts after cultural heritage clearance has been completed) ƒ Line surveying (starts just after line preparation) ƒ Recording (seismic, gravimetric, ground magnetic, electromagnetic and others) ƒ Campsites and associated supplies ƒ Uphole drilling and logging (during or after recording phase, as and when required) ƒ Monitoring and auditing of selected locations (pre and post line preparation and post restoration) ƒ Line access track and camp site restoration where required (after completion of recording and uphole drilling/logging).

5.2 Geophysical history Since 1957, over 85 000 km of 2D seismic and 7200 km2 of 3D seismic have been recorded in the area covered by this EIR. This work has involved the preparation of more than 130 000 km of seismic access lines.

3D seismic surveying commenced in earnest in1992 though a trial 3D was conducted at Cuttapirrie in 1981. A total of 38 3D surveys had been completed between 1992 and 2005 varying in size from 16 km2 to over 1038 km2.

Additionally, several gravimetric surveys were run in the 1950s-70s, using both vehicle and helicopter transport. Few ground magnetic traverses have been recorded in the region, although there is regional aeromagnetic coverage.

Electromagnetic and electrical exploration trials have been undertaken over various parts of the Cooper and Eromanga basins, although more use of these techniques have been applied for water or mineral search than petroleum.

27 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Table 3 Seismic activity 1958–2005 in the area of interest

Total line Total line Year 2D (km) 3D (km2) prepared Year 2D (km) 3D (km2) prepared (km) (km)

1957 36 — 36 1982 5310 5310

1958 297 — 297 1983 4342 — 4342

1959 — — — 1984 4774 — 4774

1960 200 — 200 1985 6730 — 6730

1961 443 — 443 1986 2243 — 2243

1962 1860 — 1860 1987 3112 — 3112

1963 2062 — 2062 1988 2613 — 2613

1964 1826 — 1826 1989 1615 — 1615

1965 1747 — 1747 1990 1883 — 1883

1966 787 — 787 1991 2009 — 2009

1967 1018 — 1018 1992 2345 211 4299

1968 688 — 688 1993 1960 210 3682

1969 2538 — 2538 1994 2867 91 3491

1970 2172 — 2172 1995 3531 141 4485

1971 658 — 658 1996 3568 72 4078

1972 166 — 166 1997 2703 1860 14521

1973 797 — 797 1998 351 531 4106

1974 — — — 1999 — — —

1975 1082 — 1082 2000 167 803 5230

1976 1556 — 1556 2001 — 1852 12289

1977 1030 — 1030 2002 2048 347 4377

1978 1420 — 1420 2003 724 401 3330

1979 1346 — 1346 2004 2272 78 2824

1980 2763 — 2763 2005 1270 580 5089

1981 2700 69 3142 TOTAL 87629 7246 136066

5.3 Description of seismic operations 5.3.1 Seismic method Seismic acquisition provides the explorer with the ability to ‘image’ below the surface and identify areas where oil and gas may have accumulated. The seismic method uses energy sources such as vibrator trucks or buried explosive charges. The energy source causes sound waves, which travel into the earth and are then reflected from subsurface geological structures (Fig. 4). The returning reflections are recorded in a digital format and sent to a seismic data processing centre to produce a ‘cross-section’ of the layers of the earth’s crust. The following sections explain the field procedures for recording seismic data.

28 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

5.3.2 Planning Once the exploration team of an exploration company have proposed a seismic program, the seismic program is plotted onto detailed topographic and/or satellite images (Fig. 5). There are two basic types of seismic survey. • A 2D survey records data along a single line of traverse, giving a cross-sectional ‘picture’ of the subsurface. 2D seismic lines are normally 10–50 km long and spaced 500–5000 m apart, and • A 3D survey records data over a ‘grid’ of lines simultaneously, giving a three-dimensional view of the subsurface, beneath an area generally covering 15–1500 km2.

Figure 4 The principle of the seismic method

29 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Line preparation showing weaving and minimal cutting

Figure 5 3D seismic base map

30 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

The surveys may have energy source lines at right angles to the geophone lines and have a closer line spacing of 200–400 m. Seismic lines are usually 4 m wide. The seismic lines are carefully laid out to avoid sensitive environmental sites as well as cultural features such as buildings, dams, water wells and known Aboriginal heritage sites.

The key aspect of field acquisition is to get equipment (usually vehicular based) and personnel along the planned seismic lines and acquire sufficient data to adequately ‘image’ the subsurface. The safety of field personnel is a key consideration of any field seismic operation. This involves compromise between what is logistically, environmentally and economically possible.

5.3.3 Cultural heritage clearance The following procedure is one possible process employed to provide native cultural clearance. It is by no means the only method.

Whilst this is the first field activity to occur on a seismic survey, it is considered to be part of the planning process for the survey and is not covered by the Petroleum Act 2000. Clearance logistics vary from project to project. The best method for the project in hand is decided during early discussions between representatives of explorer and native title claimants/traditional owners. Normally an archaeologist (or anthropologist) will be employed to identify and protect Aboriginal heritage sites and work closely with a group of Aboriginal monitors supplied by the representative body. The archaeologist will be the link between the field clearance operation and the Aboriginal representative body and will be responsible for field logistics. The operator usually employs a field liaison officer who will be the link between the field clearance operation and operator. He/she will work closely with the Aboriginal group and will provide survey support to the group. In broad outline, the clearance team(s) on a 2D project travel the planned seismic line positions using GPS receivers pre-programmed with the key line coordinates. Any cultural heritage sites encountered would be clearly flagged off and a detour route located and flagged around the site. On 3D projects, there is more of an areal clearance concept where all routes including selection of samples of the programmed source or receiver line positions, existing tracks, old seismic lines or creek courses can be used to investigate the 3D project area. There is more of a selective approach with high-risk areas selected for detailed investigation while those considered to be of low risk are given less scrutiny. As for 2D surveys, any identified sites are flagged off and a detour route marked around the site.

The personnel and vehicle requirements vary from project to project. Light 4WD vehicles are normally used and generally any of the vehicles pass only once over a given section of ground, although in the vicinity of identified sites and detours, some backtracking may occur. Existing tracks or old seismic lines are used when possible to gain access into the program areas. The clearance crew personnel generally swag out in order to maximise working hours or camp at existing nearby facilities. Generally eight personnel and three vehicles are utilised in this process.

5.3.4 Line and access track preparation Once the line positions for an entire project have been cleared by the cultural heritage group(s), the line preparation crew can commence work. This team operates from a central campsite. This site may be moved every few days in 2D mode but could remain static for up to two months on large 3D programs. The camp, on average, accommodates 13 personnel (including surveyors) for 2D surveys and 17 for 3D surveys. The camp units are trailer mounted for easy mobility. Campsites are set up where possible on sites previously used or in areas naturally devoid of vegetation and always adjacent to any existing tracks to minimise impact on the terrain between the camp and tracks. Camp members may also be accommodated at existing nearby facilities such as Moomba.

The line preparation crew usually operate simultaneously on different lines, characteristically using two D6 or D7 bulldozers for 2D surveys and four in 3D surveys. Daily production of prepared line is ~30 km and 60 km respectively (i.e. 15 km/dozer), though this varies with terrain. The dozers will simply walk with the blade up in easily traversable terrain, with the marks of the tracks being sufficient for the surveyors to follow. The line position,

31 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. plus tolerances for weaving the line around vegetation etc, are pre-programmed into GPS units housed in the dozers. These GPS units are kinematic dual frequency units that allow the dozer operators to get real time position fixes. These are plotted on a pilot display that also indicates the weaving tolerances for the dozer operators. The dozers weave around vegetation stands and on open ground the machines weave every 75–100 m to reduce visual impact.

Blade work is kept to a minimum and generally restricted to sand dunes and floodplain crabhole country. Grader work is likewise kept to a minimum. Graders are mainly used in floodplain crabhole country to smooth the tracks. A method successfully used has been the ‘rill kill’ attachment (coiled wire rope) fitted to the blades to minimise windrow development.

All machine operators are given environmental inductions at regular intervals and receive cultural heritage training. Dozer operators are required to keep a very close watch for cultural heritage sites that may have been missed during the clearance survey. Any additional sites discovered are flagged and detoured as above.

Any sensitive environmental features such as wetlands and salt lakes are prepared without the use of heavy machinery. Light brush cutting or slashing is used in the thick vegetation zones of wetland areas to prepare 1–1.5 m wide Brush cutting line preparation lines for foot or small vehicle access only. through thick vegetation

A matrix of machinery use for the various landforms is shown below on a scale of 0–5, where 0 represents zero application and 5 represents more or less constant blading or slashing.

Access tracks are prepared to the same specification as the seismic lines.

Table 4 Line preparation activity by landform

Brush cutters/ Landform Dozer blading Grader work slashing

Gibber plain 0 0 0

Dunes 5 2 0

Dune corridors 1 1 0

Floodplain crabhole 5 5 1

Tableland 0 0 0

Ramsar wetlands 0 0 4

Clay pans 0 0 0

Salt lakes 0 0 0

Creek crossing 2 2 1

5.3.5 Line surveying Surveying commences shortly after line preparation. The field surveyors use real time kinematic GPS receivers to position source and receiver points for 3D surveys and receiver points only for 2D surveys. Surveyors insert metal pins with numbered plastic tags to indicate the points. Selected points are marked by a wooden stake. Markers protrude about 0.3 m above ground level. All of these markers are removed on completion of the recording phase. Line detours are often marked with biodegradable flagging, which is also removed. Each survey team (one surveyor in a light 4WD vehicle) generally makes only one pass over any given section of line. Back tracking

32 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. possibly occurs in areas where vehicle access routes have deviated from the true line position and markers have to be inserted on foot.

5.3.6 Recording Recording usually commences 1–3 weeks after the start of line preparation depending on whether the survey is 2D or 3D. This operation is the largest part of the seismic operation in terms of personnel and vehicles. A recording crew’s strength would normally be: • For 2D operations: 34 personnel and 16 vehicles. • For 3D operations: 42 personnel and 20 vehicles.

These figures vary with recording technique, terrain and season.

5.3.6.1 2D OPERATIONS Work commences with the laying of cable and deployment of geophone bundles from light 4WD vehicles. Geophone strings normally consist of 12 interconnected geophones and are dropped off at each receiver station. These strings are looped onto metal hangers for ease of handling. The geophones are then pulled off the hanger and planted in the ground by personnel on foot. Once planted, the string (typically 30 or 37.5 m in length to match the distance between receiver points) is connected to a ‘take out’ on the recording cable.

The recording cable is spooled out from the side of the vehicle and offset to one side of the line to prevent damage from following vehicles.

Recording in 2D mode would normally commence when ~8 km of cable and geophones have been laid. This layout is termed ‘the spread’ and a pre-selected ‘live’ section of it picks up the acoustic energy reflected from subsurface layers, converts it to electrical energy and transmits it to the instrument recording truck.

The instrument recording truck that collects, decodes and amplifies these signals, sets up at a suitable location ~100 m from the spread and connects to it. Once the instruments and spread have been satisfactorily tested, recording is ready to commence.

The acoustic energy source is normally an array of three or four truck-mounted vibrator units electronically synchronised to vibrate in phase with each other. They line up along a source line, a few metres apart, centred on a source point. Each unit, on command from the instrument truck, inputs one or more frequency sweeps into the ground at each source point. Each sweep lasts for only a few seconds. Generally 4 s of reflected Laying cables for geophones data is recorded. The source points are typically 30 or 37.5 m apart. On completion of one source point the set of vibrators quickly move to the next source point.

The live section of spread is ~4.5 km in length. This is the only part of the spread where signal is recorded for any given source position. The live spread is moved (controlled by the recording truck operator) as the vibrators move up. As spread becomes redundant behind the vibrators (back end of line) it is picked up and transported to the front end of the line. This cycle continues until the line is completed. The recording truck may move once or twice during the day to keep pace with the spread.

33 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

All operational vehicles stay on the prepared line. The exceptions being parked vehicles, spare vibrators, vibrator service truck and instrument truck, all of which have to park off line to avoid causing noise on the spread and interference with line traffic.

Along any single line the following vehicle passes can be expected to occur during normal operations: Vibrators 1 pass for each truck Instrument truck 1 pass Light vehicles 15–20 passes in total Vibrator service truck 1 pass.

5.3.6.2 3D OPERATIONS For 3D surveys, the major differences from 2D operations are that the vibrators vibrate on separate source lines to the cable/geophone lines (now termed receiver lines). Source lines are often designed to be orthogonal to the receiver lines, but other orientations may be employed. The vibrators and associated equipment use the receiver lines for access from one source line to the next, so the amount of traffic on a receiver line will be very similar to a 2D line (as above). However, the source lines carry limited traffic i.e. the vibrators and their associated equipment plus any supervisory 4WD vehicle passes. Also vibrator marks will only be left on the Vibrators and recorder truck source lines.

Typically receiver points are 40 m apart on the receiver lines and source points and 80 m apart on the source lines. Successive receiver lines are 320 m apart as are the source lines. On occasions receiver point intervals may be as low as 35 m or as high as 50 m. This means 280 m and 400 m source and receiver line separations, respectively. Instead of having one receiver line in 2D surveys there are now generally eight or more receiver lines recording at any time, with a further two redundant (one being picked up and moved to the front, and one at the front ready for use).

Recording in 3D mode would normally commence when about 45–50 km of cable and geophones have been laid. Despite around 70 km of spread being on the ground at any time, the receiver line impact is no more than encountered in 2D mode.

Along any single line the following vehicle passes can be expected to occur during normal operations: Vibrators (3 or 4 on line plus spare) 1 pass for each truck (source lines) Vibrator service truck 1 pass (source lines) Instrument truck 1 pass (receiver lines) Light vehicles 15–20 passes in total (receiver lines)

In areas that are not accessible by heavy machinery, such as salt lakes and densely vegetated floodplains, shallow shot holes are drilled using hand held augers. Small explosive charges are used as the seismic source in place of the vibrators.

34 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Source shot hole pair: left , before firing: right, 13 months after

5.3.7 Camp sites and associated supplies There are generally only two campsites in operation: line preparation/survey camp and main camp. The former is briefly explained in the line preparation section. The main camp houses the recording crew, crew management team and the recording and mechanical back up teams. Campsites are sited on ground conducive to camping, but never on clay pans or salt lakes. Camps are located as near as practical to existing tracks or roads to avoid the need for clearance of native vegetation and subsequent disturbance to animal habitats. The campsite is located on a previously disturbed area wherever possible.

2D projects result in frequent camp moves but with tenure lasting only a few days. The larger 3D surveys can result in the main camp being static for up to two months. This camp can often house up to 60 personnel and contain more than 20 trailers and about 36 vehicles. As the majority of these vehicles transit from camp to adjacent road and back at least once per day, and some several times, the routes from camp are clearly defined to restrict wheel track impact.

Some campsites may require multiple access routes to minimise the potential of bull dust creation. Vehicles are restricted to the Typical main camp perimeter of the camp and parking areas are also defined.

Wastewater from laundry, showers and kitchen is piped to an evaporation sump about 50 m outside the camp. Waste paper, cardboard and food scraps are burnt in a metal incinerator set up outside the camp area. Recyclable materials are segregated on camp and regularly transported to a designated licensed landfill site such as at Moomba.

Chemically degraded toilet waste is transported from camp and voided in higher ground areas well away from watercourses or infrastructure when in remote areas. In areas close to waste disposal facilities, the toilet waste is collected and transported to the disposal point by sewage suction truck. Tyres are deposited at Moomba for transport to Adelaide for recycling.

Drip trays are positioned at the refuelling bowser and mechanical workshop to eliminate fuel and oil ground contamination. Any uncontained spillage is chemically treated and the ground ripped. Once the campsite has been vacated rehabilitation is undertaken, including ensuring no rubbish or any man made items are left in situ and,

35 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations. when necessary and terrain permitting, the area is tyne ripped to remove compaction and wheel tracks. Shoulders of adjacent formed tracks are reinstated. No ripping is conducted on gibber plain.

5.3.8 Uphole drilling and logging This component of seismic surveys consists of truck mounted uphole drilling rig(s) and logging vehicle(s), plus support water tanker trucks when mud drilling. The support camp may house six trailers or more. The rig normally drills 4¾“ diameter holes that vary in depth from project to project. Most holes are in the 30–90 m range. Holes are drilled using mud, air or water injection as required.

Distance between upholes can vary considerably depending on operator requirements, but are normally at 1–5 km spacing along lines. The large amount of uphole drilling/logging done over the years, particularly in the Cooper Basin, have been captured into an open file database by PIRSA, which now minimises the need for new upholes in previously explored areas.

Immediately a hole is drilled the drill rig moves off and a logging vehicle moves in to record seismic measurements in the hole. This involves the lowering of a probe (down hole geophone) to the bottom of the hole and triggering a heavy weight that drops from the back of the truck to produce an acoustic impulse. The time it takes this impulse to Uphole drill rig & LVL recording truck reach the probe is recorded on a set of electronic instruments housed in the logging vehicle (usually a 4WD light vehicle). This process is repeated as the probe is gradually moved up the hole. A picture is thus built up of successive travel times through the near surface layers that provide information on their thickness and velocity - vital information for correcting the Vibroseis™ seismic data.

On completion of logging the drill cuttings are returned to the hole and the hole is capped. Surplus cuttings are then either spread to minimise visual impact or removed in the case of sensitive areas. In some areas, the colour of the cuttings is markedly different from the ground surface and spreading of cuttings exacerbates visual impact rather than minimise it. Removal of cuttings reduces this impact, but trials of adding colouring agent to the drilling mud may assist in this regard, particularly in gibber terrains.

5.3.9 Line/access track and campsite restoration The majority of seismic lines, access tracks and camp sites do not require restoration work as one of the main objectives is to prepare and utilise them in a way that will facilitate rapid natural recovery. However, instances that can give rise to restoration are: • wheel ruts caused after wet periods • windrows not fully removed by grader rill kill • windrows removed at intersection of lines and public tracks • compaction of top soil at camp sites • public access tracks to be reshouldered where necessary • heavily trafficked routes between camp sites and nearest public track • access tracks that have turned to bulldust due to extensive seismic traffic, and • water course channel infill and or natural flow restriction.

36 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Normally a single dozer or grader, or one of each, is all that is required to carry out the restoration work. Methods used for rehabilitation include: • ripping of compacted areas with bulldozer rear tynes • windrow material pushed onto line and smoothed • public road windrows reinstated • wheel rut material used to infill affected areas, and • affected water course channels and creek banks reinstated.

5.3.10 Post-survey monitoring and auditing Prior to, during and subsequent to geophysical operations, assessments (some voluntary) are to ensure that operations have been conducted in compliance with the SEO and any other regulatory requirements. These assessments can be implemented in a number of different ways.

The following briefly describes the method utilised successfully by Santos in recent years.

Prior to the commencement of any survey a number of environmental monitoring points are selected to give a balanced representation of the various landform and vegetation type encountered. The location of these points is subject to ground conditions such as flooded or restricted wetlands and salt lakes that cannot be accessed.

These points are coordinated and marked with star droppers prior to the start of line preparation. Photographs are taken at these locations along the proposed line direction to give a view of the terrain prior to line-preparation. All photographs are optimally taken with a 50 mm lens for consistent comparison. The process is repeated after line preparation and again after recording. These environmental monitoring points are then photo monitored over the ensuing four-year period (minimum) to give a visual representation of the recovery process. The revisit intervals are generally one year, two years and four years (eight years if further visits are deemed necessary).

Goal attainment scaling audits, as defined and described in the SEO, are a mandatory requirement of the SEO and are conducted after recording on representative sections of line and at the environmental monitoring point locations. Both of these activities are normally done by one person and one 4WD light vehicle.

Dune cut after recording and four years after recording

5.4 Other geophysical surveying operations Other geophysical surveys do not have the same extent of operations as seismic surveying. Most use 4WD vehicles or are done on foot and involve taking some measurement along traverses (like 2D seismic traverses) but more like activities involved in ‘Line surveying’ (Section 5.3.5 above). Measurements can be of a passive nature, such as measurement of gravity, magnetic or electromagnetic fields, or involve input of some signal into the earth, such as small electrical or electromagnetic signals.

37 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

5.5 Current standard operating procedures used to minimise impacts In order to mitigate the risks and potential impacts of geophysical operations detailed in this EIR and to achieve the objectives of the SEO, the following recommended procedures are detailed.

5.5.1 Terrain 5.5.1.1 WHEEL TRACKS • Where possible, existing tracks, roads or seismic lines are used for access. • Off line driving for the main crew is banned. No bush bashing or short cuts are permitted. • Campsites are positioned close to existing roads where possible.

5.5.1.2 WHEEL RUTS • Operations are shut down during wet weather or flooding and only restarted once potential for extensive damage has passed. Unavoidable damage is reported and reinstated on completion of work. • No vehicles are allowed on salt lakes other than specialised low-pressure wide profile tyre vehicles.

5.5.1.3 COMPACTION • Following in previous off-line wheel tracks is banned. • Unavoidable compaction is reported and, in other than gibber areas, ripped on completion of work. • As few campsites as possible are used — the aim is to share existing sites if possible. • Camp sites, other than in gibber areas are ripped if necessary on completion of work.

5.5.1.4 EROSION • Blade work is banned on gibber, tablelands, claypans or flat easy terrain. • Minimal blade work is permitted elsewhere e.g. sand dunes and crabhole floodplains. • All windrows are removed either during or on completion of work. • Dune side cuts are minimised. • Removed sand is ramped to the side of dune cuts, as opposed to the base of the dune. • Creek bank vegetation is left intact and detours sought if too dense to pass through.

5.5.1.5 BULLDUST • Susceptible tracks are avoided. If not possible then track is reinstated after rain.

5.5.1.6 VISUAL AMENITY • Lines are prepared to a single blade width (only ~4–5 m). • Lines are smoothly weaved at least every 75–100 m about the general line of traverse and stands of vegetation. • Lines are doglegged at road and track crossings, preferably around vegetation. • Dozers are walked with blade up wherever possible. • Cuts are minimised at dune crests and base of dunes. • Dune side cuts are minimised. • No cutting is done on dunes adjacent to public roads.

5.5.1.7 NATURAL DRAINAGE • Creek bank vegetation is left intact and detours sought if too dense to pass through. • Creek crossings are boxed and filled to original bed level when hard fill required. • Any windrows or other disturbance to drainage patterns are removed from creek bed crossings and swales.

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• Camps should not be established near major watercourses, creeks or surface water bodies. • No campsite shall be located within 1 km of any stock watering place. • All windrows are removed either during or on completion of work. • No blading in gibber.

5.5.2 Native vegetation • Off line driving is banned. No bush bashing or short cuts are permitted. • Vegetation is removed only when absolutely necessary and is avoided by weaving lines through vegetated areas. • Root stock, topsoil and seeds are left on line during line preparation. • Creek bank vegetation is left intact and detours located if dense. • All vehicles are thoroughly cleaned to prevent the introduction of weeds into the survey area.

5.5.3 Native fauna / habitat • Upholes are capped and backfilled to prevent injury or death to wildlife. • No heavy line preparation machinery is used in wetlands areas. • Natural drainage channels are left clear at line crossings. • Creek bank vegetation is left intact and detours located if dense. • All vehicles are thoroughly cleaned to prevent the introduction of weeds into the survey area.

5.5.4 Pollution • Fuel and oil spills are reported, chemically treated or bio-remediated and the ground ripped. • Camp wastewater is disposed of by drainage channels and seepage pits. • Rubbish is burnt or otherwise transported to recognised dumps. • Mobile chemical toilets are used on all camps. • There is a zero tolerance rule with regard to markers and litter left in work area after completion. • Drill cuttings are returned to hole or removed for dump disposal. • Vehicles travel at slow speed in the vicinity of homesteads.

5.5.5 Landholder infrastructure • Lines are planned in the office or deviated in the field to avoid homesteads, associated buildings, stockyards, airstrips, dams, bores and tanks. • Gates are left as found. • Fences are not laid down unless the landholder has given specific permission. • Water is drawn only from authorised sources. • No camp is set up within 1 km of a stock watering point. • Work is scheduled to fit in with stock locations and the mustering schedule. • Waste management policies are enforced.

5.5.6 Petroleum infrastructure • Below ground pipelines are only crossed at existing or authorised crossing points. • Above ground pipelines are detoured rather than ramped. • No seismic energy source is used within 30 m of pipelines or wellheads. • Lines are deviated to miss wellheads by 30 m. • Other production plant is avoided and proposed activities discussed with plant operator.

39 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

5.5.7 Third party access • No line preparation is carried out on dunes adjacent to public roads. • Lines are doglegged at road and track crossings preferably using existing vegetation as a screen. • Windrows/shoulders on public tracks are reinstated on completion of work. • Lines adjacent to public roads may also be blocked with timber as an access deterrent.

5.5.8 Cultural heritage • Lines are cleared by appropriate representatives prior to commencement of line preparation. • Sites of cultural significance are flagged and lines deviated around them. • Receiver lines may be laid out only by foot through some sites and all vehicles are excluded. • All line preparation personnel and crew supervisors receive cultural heritage training prior to work.

40 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

6 ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS AND CONSEQUENCES This chapter identifies and assesses potential environmental hazards and their consequences resulting from geophysical operations in the Cooper Basin. These are identified to enable assessment of environmental risks and as regulatory and management requirements (Section 7).

A hazard is considered to be any source of potential environmental harm, or a situation or event with potential to cause loss (Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004, Risk management). To identify hazards, the various activities associated with each stage of the seismic operation were considered along with the events that could lead to a hazardous situation. The possible consequences of such events were also identified and assessed. Hazards from other geophysical operations can be viewed as a subset of the seismic set.

Where possible, environmental hazards and potential consequences have been identified and assessed on the basis of existing information on the magnitude (e.g., quantity of waste) and/or frequency of activities associated with geophysical operations. However, this information is not available with regard to all activities and associated hazards. Where this is the case, environmental hazards and subsequent consequences have been identified on the basis of the experience of petroleum industry personnel.

6.1 Hazards Based on available information, environmental hazards that have potential to result in the most prominent environmental consequences are identified as: • earthworks associated with line and access track preparation and reparation • vehicle movement • seismic source activation • spills or leaks associated with storage of oil, fuels and chemicals, refuelling operations and high pressure hydraulic systems • disposal of domestic and chemical waste, and • uphole drilling.

6.2 Consequences Key potential environmental consequences associated with the above hazards are: • visual impact • contamination of soil, groundwater and/or water courses • disturbance to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultural heritage sites • loss of native vegetation and habitat • soil erosion and disturbance to natural drainage patterns • soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, wheel ruts, bulldust generation, noise generation, airborne dust • disturbance, injury or death to native fauna • disturbance, injury or death to livestock • introduction and or spread of weeds, pest plants, animals and pathogens • damage to landholder infrastructure • damage to petroleum infrastructure • third-party access to seismic lines, and • loss of organic beef certification.

41 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

6.3 Hazards and consequences by activity The various seismic activities are tabulated in Table 5 indicating hazard and consequence classifications associated with each.

Table 5 Hazard and consequence classifications for seismic activities

Seismic activity Hazard Potential consequences

Line and access track Earthworks, vehicle Contamination of soil preparation movement, spills, Site disturbance excavations Loss of vegetation and habitat Soil erosion/ disturbed drainage patterns Soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, dust, noise Damage to cultural sites Disturbance to native fauna Disturbance to stock Spread of weeds Visual impact Damage to landholder infrastructure Damage to petroleum infrastructure Facilitation of third party access Loss of organic beef certification Line surveying Vehicle movement Disturbance to native fauna Disturbance to stock Spread of weeds Risk to third parties Recording Vehicle movement, Contamination of soil vibrator movement, spills Soil erosion/ disturbed drainage patterns Soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, dust, noise Disturbance to native fauna Disturbance to stock Spread of weeds Visual impact Damage to landholder infrastructure Damage to petroleum infrastructure Campsites and associated Vehicle movement, spills, Contamination of soil supplies waste disposal, fire Loss of vegetation and habitat Soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, dust, noise Soil erosion/ disturbed drainage patterns Visual impact Fire destruction of vegetation and habitat Uphole drilling and logging Spills, waste disposal, Contamination of soil uphole drilling activity Soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, dust, noise Disturbance to native fauna Disturbance to stock Spread of weeds Visual impact Damage to landholder infrastructure Damage to petroleum infrastructure Uncontrolled discharge or contamination of aquifers Line and access track Earthworks, vehicle Contamination of soil restoration. movement, spills Disturbance to native fauna Disturbance to stock Spread of weeds Visual impact Damage to landholder infrastructure Damage to petroleum infrastructure Monitoring of selected Vehicle movement Soil compaction/disruption/deflation, wheel tracks, dust, noise locations Damage to landholder infrastructure Damage to petroleum infrastructure

42 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

6.4 Access track preparation Unlike the drilling and well operations and production and processing operations, the preparation of access tracks is not a normal practice for seismic operations. Access routes may be required in areas of no existing roads or previous seismic, well or production activity, but this normally does not require the same degree of preparation as for drilling operations.

Environmental hazards associated with access track preparation include movement of heavy vehicles, earthworks, vegetation clearance, spills associated with fuel storage and waste disposal. Moss and Low (1996) identified the following potential consequences resulting from hazards associated with access track preparation: • erosion • compaction of soils • changes to the land profile • water diversion • visual impact • fauna impacts • noise and dust • spread of pest plants • damage or loss of vegetation and habitat • waste disposal, and • site contamination.

These hazards and their associated potential consequences are discussed below.

6.4.1 Movement of heavy vehicles Movement of heavy vehicles (e.g., trucks, graders and bulldozers) during preparation of the access tracks is an environmental hazard as there is a possibility that vehicles may inadvertently damage vegetation, generate dust and/or compact soil other than that which is required operationally if not appropriately managed.

The type and severity of potential impacts of preparation of access tracks and survey lines is dependent to a certain extent on the land system in which the activities are being carried out. Disturbance to soils in some land systems, such as gibber plains and tablelands, can lead to substantial erosion by water (Fatchen and Woodburn 2000) while other systems, such as dune fields, are generally more resilient and less likely to suffer any long-term impacts from soil disturbance. Following an examination of 35 seismic lines that traversed dune fields in the Cooper Basin, SEA (1999) concluded that natural rates of erosion on dunes were not accelerated as a result of disturbance to the soil surface. Any sensitive environmental regions such as wetlands or salt lakes are prepared without the use of heavy machinery. Due to their instability and erosion potential when disturbed, the steeper slopes and escarpments of tableland land systems are avoided. The potential impacts of specific earthwork activities on different land systems in the Cooper Basin are summarised in Table 6.

Table 6 Impacts associated with line/access track preparation in various Cooper Basin land systems

Land system Preparation of survey lines/access tracks

Wetlands Not applicable (wetlands are avoided where possible due to environmental sensitivity)

Floodplains • Vegetation clearance • Soil erosion (wind and water) • Soil compaction • Disturbance of natural drainage systems • Disturbance to cultural heritage sites (generally low density of sites in floodplains)

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Gibber plains Not applicable (grading should not occur on gibber plains)

Tablelands Not applicable (grading should not occur on steeper slopes)

Dunefields • Vegetation clearance • Soil erosion (wind and water erosion) • Disturbance to cultural heritage sites (dune fields near waterholes are typically of high cultural significance)

Salt lakes Not applicable (grading should not occur on salt lakes)

6.4.2 Vegetation clearance The clearance of vegetation during access track preparation cannot be entirely avoided. Such activity can result in loss of vegetation and fauna habitat, siltation of natural drainage lines and watercourses, destabilisation of creek crossings, weed invasion and damage to cultural heritage sites. Vegetation clearance may also impede the movement of fauna, particularly small mammals or reptiles across cleared areas. However, this is considered unlikely in most land systems due to the presence of naturally bare or unsheltered locations (Moss and Low 1996).

During the preparation of survey lines and access tracks, particular care should be taken to ensure that minimal vegetation is cleared in heavily wooded areas, such as coolibah woodland, Fatchen and Woodburn (2000) suggested that vegetation is likely to need active assistance to recolonise. Campsites should be located at the nearest available naturally clear area.

44 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

7 ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 7.1 Risk assessment and management An environmental risk is the chance that an environmental consequence will occur as a result of a hazardous situation or event (refer Section6). Given appropriate management measures (i.e. those identified in Section 5), most risks can be avoided or reduced to a level that is as low as reasonably practical. This is a risk of something happening that is considered to have a minimal impact and which will recover. These parameters are defined within the goal attainment scaling system (defined in the SEO). However, in some cases there may still be 'residual' risks that remain after management measures have been implemented.

Environmental risk assessment evaluates the level of environmental risk associated with various operations and activities and provides a framework for assessing risk management priorities and options based on the level of each assessed risk.

The main components of the environmental risk assessment process are illustrated Figure 6.

IDENTIFY HAZARDS AND CONSEQUENCES

What can happen? What are the potential impacts?

ANALYSE RISK

Determine Existing Controls

Determine Likelihood of Determine Severity of Consequences Consequences

Establish Level of Risk

RISK MANAGEMENT OPTIONS

Identify Existing Controls Identify Management Priorities and Requirements

Figure 6 Framework for environmental risk assessment

Risk assessment may be undertaken to various degrees of refinement depending upon the information and data available. Where possible, the frequency and severity of potential environmental consequences have been assessed on the basis of existing information. However, this information is not available with regard to all activities and associated consequences. Therefore a qualitative (i.e. descriptive) risk assessment process was considered to be the most appropriate method to adopt. This approach uses descriptive scales to describe the likelihood of consequences (i.e. virtually certain to virtually impossible) and their severity (i.e. negligible to disastrous) and has been derived from Stoklosa (1999) and the AS/NZS 4360:20004 Standard for risk management.

Each phase of the risk assessment process is further discussed in the following sections.

7.1.1 Environmental hazards and consequences Primary environmental hazards and the key potential environmental consequences associated with geophysical operations in the South Australian Cooper Basin are identified in Sections 6.2 and 6.3.

45 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

To determine the level of risk associated with various hazards and potential consequences, both the likelihood and severity of hazards, and their associated consequences, have to be considered. Categories of likelihood and severity have been determined using subjective estimates of whether or not a particular event or outcome will occur. Seismic and other geophysical surveying has been undertaken in the Cooper and Eromanga basins for many years. Hence, environmental hazards and existing management measures are well understood and, as such, both likelihood and severity of consequences can be confidently predicted based on operating experience and professional judgement (e.g., Fatchen and Woodburn 2000).

Both the likelihood and severity of consequences have been assessed in the context of the management practices that are currently applied to reduce the level of risk associated with identified hazards and potential consequences.

7.1.1.1 ASSESSMENT OF SEVERITY Environmental consequences can be categorised from negligible to disastrous using the qualitative methodology described by Stoklosa (1999; Table 7). These consequences are based upon definitions contained in AS/NZS 4360:2004, but have been expanded to incorporate impacts to environmental values such as flora, fauna and biomass.

Table 7 Severity of consequences

Severity Qualitative description of environmental consequences

Negligible Possible incidental impacts to flora and fauna in a locally affected land system but without ecological consequence.

Minor Changes to the abundance or biomass of biota, and existing soil and/or water quality in the affected land system, but no changes to biodiversity or ecological function. Land system has a small amount of change but no long-term impact that will alter the terrain surface.

Major Changes to the abundance or biomass of biota, and existing soil and/or water quality in the affected land system, with local changes to biodiversity but no loss of ecological function. Land system surface has changes that may cause long-term impacts.

Severe Substantial changes to the abundance or biomass of biota, existing soil and/or water quality in the affected land system with significant change to biodiversity and change of ecological function. Eventual recovery of ecosystem possible, but not necessarily to the same pre-incident conditions. Substantial changes to terrain surface that will alter the terrain surface and drainage patterns.

Disastrous Irreversible and irrecoverable changes to abundance/biomass or aquifers in the affected area. Loss of biodiversity on a regional scale. Loss of ecological functioning with little prospect of recovery to pre-incident conditions. Widespread impact upon the terrain surface and drainage patterns.

7.1.1.2 ASSESSMENT OF LIKELIHOOD The likelihood of potential environmental consequences occurring was qualitatively assessed and categorised according to the criteria outlined in Table 8.

Operation lifetime is relative to the geophysical operations. Companies are responsible for each geophysical program. For due diligence purposes, the life of a geophysical program for this report will be 10 years.

The distinction between temporary and long-term impact depends on many factors, but is ultimately a value- judgement based on scientific evaluation and the level of community acceptance. These factors are generally related to climatic events, differing terrain units, vegetation units and timing of operations. Dependent on these factors, a general guideline is that the community should expect recovery from seismic impacts in the northeast of South Australia after about five to ten years when current techniques are employed. Impacts that are irreversible or are expected to take significantly longer to recover are defined as ‘long-term impacts’.

Table 8 Likelihood of consequences

46 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Likelihood of occurrence Qualitative description of exposure

Virtually impossible Has almost never occurred, but conceivably could

Rare Has occurred a few times worldwide

Unlikely Not likely during operation lifetime

Likely Likely to occur during operation lifetime

Virtually certain Includes continuous emissions

7.1.2 Environmental risk assessment Severity and likelihood of consequences are combined to produce a level of risk for any given hazard. Table 9 shows an environmental risk assessment matrix that compares likelihood and severity of environmental consequences arising from the operations. The severity of consequence is dependent on the receiving environment. However, in most cases this does not alter the risk matrix outcome.

The risk assessment described and detailed takes into account the mitigation methods and practice described earlier within this EIR.

Table 9 Risk matrix

LIKELIHOOD OF CONSEQUENCE 1 2 3 4 5 Virtually Rare Unlikely Likely Virtually Impossible Certain

Negligible LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW E Effect

Minor LOW LOW MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM D Effect

Major MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM, MEDIUM HIGH C Effect

Severe MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH HIGH B Effect SEVERITY OF CONSEQUENCE SEVERITY OF CONSEQUENCE

Disastrous MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH A Effect

The objective of the risk assessment process is to separate the minor acceptable risks from the major risks and to provide data to assist in the evaluation and management of risks.

Detailed risk assessment and management measures are outlined in Appendix A.

47 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Table 10 Summary of impacts and risk levels for seismic operations

Activity Hazard Potential consequence Severity Likelihood Risk

Line and access Earthworks Loss of native vegetation and habitat Negligible Unlikely Low track preparation

Soil erosion and disturbance to natural Minor Rare Low drainage patterns

Noise generation, airborne dust Negligible Unlikely Low

Disturbance to native fauna Minor Rare Low

Disturbance to stock Minor Rare Low

Introduction and spread of weeds Major Rare Medium

Visual Impact Minor Likely Medium

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Unlikely Medium sites

Third-party access resulting in third parties Minor Rare Low getting lost

Vehicle Introduction and spread of weeds Major Rare Medium movements

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Disturbance to stock Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Airborne dust Negligible Likely Low

Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Spills and leaks Minor Rare Low courses

Line Surveying Vehicle Introduction and spread of weeds etc. Major Rare Medium movements

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Unlikely Medium sites

Airborne dust Negligible Likely Low

Vehicle Recording Introduction and spread of weeds etc Major Rare Medium movements

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Wheel tracks, wheel ruts, bulldust generation, Negligible Likely Low airborne dust

Visual impact Minor Unlikely Medium

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

Vibrator Soil compaction, wheel tracks, wheel ruts, Negligible Likely Low Operations noise generation, airborne dust

Disturbance to native fauna Minor Likely Medium

Disturbance to stock Negligible Rare Low

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Activity Hazard Potential consequence Severity Likelihood Risk

Introduction and spread of weeds etc Major Rare Medium

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Spills and leaks Minor Rare Low courses

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Campsites and Wheel tracks, wheel ruts, bulldust generation, Vehicle associated supply soil compaction, noise generation, airborne Negligible Likely Low movements logistics dust, visual impact

Impact upon Loss of vegetation, damage to tree root vegetation and Minor Rare Low structures habitat

Fire damage to vegetation and habitat Minor Rare Low

Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Spills and leaks Minor Rare Low courses

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Disposal of Contamination of soil, groundwater, water domestic and Minor Rare Low courses chemical waste

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

Uphole drilling and Disposal of Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Minor Rare Low logging chemical waste courses

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Spills and leaks Minor Rare Low courses

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Low Up Hole Drilling Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Minor Rare activity courses

Uncontrolled discharge of artesian aquifer Minor Rare Low

Injury to/loss of native fauna Minor Rare Low

Injury to/loss of stock Negligible Rare Low

Visual impact, noise generation, airborne dust Negligible Likely Low

49 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Activity Hazard Potential consequence Severity Likelihood Risk

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

Vehicle Introduction and spread of weeds etc Major Rare Medium movements

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Wheel tracks, wheel ruts, bulldust generation, Negligible Likely Low airborne dust

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

Line and access Earthworks Noise generation Negligible Unlikely Low track restoration

Disturbance to native fauna Minor Rare Low

Disturbance to stock Negligible Rare Low

Introduction and spread of weeds Major Rare Medium

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Unlikely Medium sites

Vehicle Introduction and spread of weeds etc Minor Major Medium movements

Damage to landholder infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Unlikely Medium sites

Airborne dust Negligible Likely Low

Contamination of soil, groundwater, water Spills and leaks Minor Rare Low courses

Virtually Loss of organic beef certification Major Medium impossible

Monitoring/ Vehicle Damage to landholder infrastructure Negligible Rare Low Auditing movements

Damage to petroleum infrastructure Minor Rare Low

Impact and/or damage to significant Aboriginal Major Rare Medium sites

7.2 Management of environmental risks 7.2.1 Management systems Management systems should be a key tool in the management of operators’ environmental responsibilities, issues and risks in the Cooper Basin. Management systems provide a framework for the coordinated and consistent management of environmental issues by ensuring the: • establishment of an environmental policy • identification of environmental risks and legal and other requirements relevant to geophysical operations • setting of appropriate environmental objectives and targets

50 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

• establishment of a structure and program to implement the environmental policy and achieve objectives and targets, including the development of procedures and guidelines for specific activities and education and induction programs, and • facilitation of planning, control monitoring, corrective action, auditing and review of activities to ensure that the requirements and aspirations of the environmental policy are achieved.

The operators’ geophysical operating standards should follow or lead accepted best practice and industry-accepted standards. Ongoing audits of systems should be regularly conducted using a risk-based approach to ensure that systems are maintained and operations are undertaken in accordance with industry-accepted practices.

7.2.2 Emergency response and contingency planning In the course of normal operations, there is always the potential for environmental incidents and accidents to occur. It is therefore important that all operators within the South Australian Cooper Basin have developed emergency response plans to guide actions to be taken to minimise the impacts of accidents and incidents. Emergency response drills should be undertaken at least annually to ensure that personnel are familiar with the plans and the types of emergencies to which it applies, and that there will be a rapid and effective response in the event of a real emergency occurring. Emergency response plans must be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to incorporate new information arising from any incidents, near misses and hazards and emergency response simulation training sessions. These plans would also include the facilitation of fire danger season restrictions and requirements.

7.2.3 Environmental monitoring and audits Ongoing monitoring and auditing of geophysical operations is necessary to determine whether significant environmental risks are being managed, minimised and where reasonably possible, eliminated.

Monitoring programs are designed to assess: • compliance with regulatory requirements • visual impact of the operations • impact upon flora and fauna and general biodiversity • site contamination • site revegetation following program completion and any restoration activity, and • potential future problems.

7.2.4 Incident management and recording Operators must have systems in place to record environmental incidents, near misses and hazards, track the implementation and close out of corrective actions, and allow analysis of such incidents to identify areas requiring improvement. Such review should be undertaken at least annually. The system should also provide a mechanism for recording ‘reportable’ incidents, as defined under the Petroleum Act 2000 and associated regulations.

7.2.5 Reporting Operators must implement internal and external reporting procedures to ensure that environmental issues and/or incidents are appropriately responded to.

Internal reporting should cover: • number, severity and close out status of incidents • monthly summaries of incidents • progress against key performance indicators • audit schedule and findings • works in progress

51 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

• site and task force meetings, and • external meetings and/or liaison with key stakeholders (i.e. PIRSA).

7.2.6 Inspection and maintenance activities All operational equipment should be inspected and maintained in accordance with industry-accepted standards and product operational requirements.

Contracting companies will also have their own inspection and maintenance procedures.

7.2.7 Pest plant and animal control Pest plant and animal control is considered to be a significant land management issue in the South Australian Cooper Basin. While the region is considered to be relatively free of pest plant species, the operators have the potential to introduce weed species into the region as a result of movement of vehicles and equipment. Therefore, it is essential that: • where relevant, weed management strategies are developed by operators to ensure that vehicles and equipment are washed down if moving from areas of known weed infestations • operators consult with relevant authorities, and • weed control measures are implemented as required.

Pest animals identified in recent surveys include rabbits, feral cats, pigs, donkey and camels.

7.2.8 Continuous improvement Continual improvement is driven by auditing and monitoring results. Management systems should be used to drive the process of continuous improvement.

52 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

8 CONSULTATION CHECKLIST The following checklist is a guide to the various parties who must be consulted for their consent to conduct the operations for any given survey within the Cooper Basin. • State government departments (PIRSA and Department for Environment and Heritage). • National Parks and Wildlife for regional reserves. • Representatives of native title claimants. • Landholders whose property will be entered during the course of the survey. • Pipeline authorities whose pipelines will be crossed during the course of the survey, and • Other petroleum tenement holders if their tenements are proposed to be crossed during the course of the survey.

53 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

APPENDIXES Appendix A Overview of stakeholder consultation process Santos, on behalf of companies operating petroleum licences in the Cooper Basin, produced a draft SEO and EIR to cover geophysical operations in the Cooper Basin.

Initial consultation and comments were requested from other South Australia Cooper Basin operators. Comments were assessed and responded to prior to public consultation.

To ensure a transparent and open process, PIRSA released the South Australia Cooper Basin operators’ regulatory documents for public comment. Records of all consultations must be retained.

All stakeholder comments received were addressed and responses are listed in Appendix B.

54 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Appendix B Stakeholder comments and responses

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DEH P1 Para 1. Both documents are in need of editorial revision EIR & SEO To be reviewed by editor

P1 Para 2 Cover with insufficient depth most environmental aspects associated with EIR & SEO No specific details provided. Subsequent changes should address this. geophysical activity in the Cooper Basin

P1 Para 2 The EIR appears to be written for a readership that is assumed by the author to EIR Document is definitely for the industry (as per the requirements of the Petroleum have knowledge of the petroleum geophysics industry, operating in the Cooper Act) and not the general public - although it is available to the public. and Eromanga Basins

P1 Para 4 The use of editorial revision would hopefully achieve a document that; EIR & SEO Format is consistent with previously accepted industry EIR and SEO documents. is logically set out Does not contradict itself Uses consistent meanings for terms and concepts.

P1 Specific The document is not clear as to whether it is dealing with the Eromanga Basin, EIR sec.1&2 The document deals with a particular geographical area (Fig. 2.1 on p. 7 and Fig. comment 1 Cooper Basin or both. 4.1 on p. 12) which contains the SA portion of the Cooper Basin overlain by the much more widespread Eromanga Basin.

P1 Specific "Existing environment" describes only Cooper Basin. EIR sec.4 Clarified the "area of interest" throughout the document. comment 2

P1 Specific The "Special Management Area/Zone" needs to be described with one EIR Fig. 2.1 & Corrected naming & consistency throughout the document. comment 3 consistent term. sec.2.4

P1 Specific SACB Operators - the acronym SACB needs to be expanded. EIR sec.3.3 Long version and abbreviated version used when first mentioned in Section 1. comment 4

P1 Specific Further clarification is required on how the report addresses the requirements EIR sec.3 No details are described in the comment and section 3 describes the requirements comment 5 under the Petroleum Act and Regulations 2000. without repeating the Act or Regulations.

P2 Specific 4.2 - within this section the documents and research that are referenced are out EIR sec.4.2 References used are current, unaware of more recent reports. More recent comment 6 of date or have been superseded by more up to date material. references were not quoted by stakeholder.

P2 Specific As mentioned previously, land systems that cover the Eromanga Basin, beyond EIR sec.4 Systems are described but area reference incorrectly assigned - corrected. comment 6 the Cooper Basin are not described.

P2 Specific Page 25, first paragraph, the "point" south west of Lake Hope is "Marion Hill". EIR p.25 "point" replaced with "Marion Hill" comment 7

P2 Specific 4.3.4 uses out of date information, the Rangelands Natural Resource EIR sec.4.3.4 This Plan covers a much larger area than that covered by the EIR/SEO and figures comment 8 Management Plan is most recent document to carry information on the outputs for the latter cannot be extracted from it. of the region.

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P2 Specific 5.3.2 Clarification is required on the type of "crabhole country" that is being EIR sec.5.3.2 Clarified. comment 9 referred to, gibber, gilgai or floodplain crabholes?

P2 Specific 5.3.2 refers to "any sensitive areas such as wetlands and salt lakes", additional EIR sec.5.3.2 Examples of sensitive areas quoted but not confined to these two landforms. comment 10 detail needs to be supplied that elaborates as to what defines a sensitive area, if Sensitive regions are described within various texts and references. it is not a wetland or salt lake.

P2 Specific 5.3.7 is written in a clumsy manner. The restoration of Line/Access Tracks and EIR sec.5.3.7 Conditions that require restoration are listed. Methods of restoration have been comment 11 Campsites is glossed over and should be dealt with in greater detail. added.

P2 Specific 5.3.8 uses the expression "virgin terrain" the use of the word "virgin" is not EIR sec.5.3.8 Altered the use of "virgin" to "prior to line-preparation". comment 12 appropriate in this context

P2 Specific The opening paragraph in 5.4 makes little sense and is grammatically incorrect. EIR sec.5.4 Edited to be less cumbersome. comment 13

P2 Specific 5.4.x - all subsections need to refer to the established guidelines & procedures EIR sec.5.4.x These new/updated documents (EIR & SEO) ARE the established guidelines and comment 14 that are used by the Cooper Basin Operators. procedures used by Cooper Basin Operators.

P2 Specific 5.4.4, it is understood that SANTOS uses bio-remediation to deal with EIR sec.5.4.4 Chemicals such as Enretek are used for the in-situ treatment of small spills comment 15 hydrocarbon spills, how is the new method of "chemical treatment" different whereas bio-remediation involves carting sludge or larger volumes of affected soil from bio-remediation? to "farms" near Moomba. Any spills involved on a seismic crew are small and therefore bio-remediation is not required.

P2 Specific 5.4.8, does the standard operating procedure align with the Aboriginal Heritage EIR sec.5.4.8 Yes. comment 16 Act?

P2 Specific Throughout section 6, reference is made to "accidental spills"; whatever the EIR sec.6 The word "accidental" has been removed. comment 17 cause of the spill, any spill should be dealt with in the appropriate manner.

P2 Specific Section 6 needs to make reference to established guidelines, standard EIR sec.6 These references are these documents (EIR & SEO) with appropriate explanation comment 18 operating procedures and inductions that are used. on induction.

P2 Specific 6.3 is duplicated. EIR sec.6.3 Renumber of second one to 6.4 comment 19

P2 Specific 6.3, Movement of Heavy Vehicles refers to the "resilience" of land systems. EIR sec.6.4 No alternative wording provided. Although not technically correct the dictionary comment 20 Technically, this is inaccurate; the dynamic nature of dune land systems and definition of resilient as "resuming original form after stretching, bending, etc" other dynamic land systems, covers or obscures the impact. This should not be seems to convey the appropriate meaning. construed as resilience;

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P2 Specific Section 7.1, first paragraph makes reference to risks that are reduced to a level EIR sec.7.1 Expanded upon the explanation of an acceptable risk. comment 21 that is acceptable. Clarification is required as to whom the reduced level of risk is acceptable to.

P2 Specific Page 44, "biomass of biota" is a tautology. EIR p.44 Corrected. comment 22

P2 penultimate The treatment of Campsites & Associated Supplies (5.3.5) by both documents is EIR & SEO Campsites represent a very small impact compared to the preparation and use of paragraph not as thorough as that for the treatment of on ground operations. seismic lines. In addition, as seismic and other activity has been ongoing in the area for several decades, most seismic camps these days are established on previously occupied areas.

P2 last paragraph Whilst it is acknowledged that campsites are sited on ground that is "conducive EIR & SEO Impacts of campsites are localised and, as stated in the documents, rehabilitation to P3 first two to camping" (clear of vegetation), the documents ignore that there are a range of of the impacts are sometimes required. Referenced and covered in EIR sections paragraphs impacts associated with camps as described in the EIR. 5.3.5, 5.3.7, 5.4, 6 and 7. Housing up to 60 personnel More than 20 trailers About 36 vehicles Majority of vehicles transiting to adjacent road and back each day, some several times; Main camp static for up to two months Some camps may require multiple access routes to minimise the potential for bulldust creation The above points could potentially contribute to intense point impacts associated with the campsite. Such impacts include the destruction of any vegetation present that is not an established tree, the pulverising of the soil surface, and compaction of soil. From the photograph provided in the document there is clearly visible evidence of multiple tracks and of vehicles parked under trees.

P3 third Table 7-4, Summary of Impacts and Risk Levels for Seismic Operations does EIR Table 7-4 Points 2 & 3 are covered in vehicle movements. Points 1 & 4 have been added to paragraph not reflect the severity of the potential impacts associated with Campsites and the table. Associated Supply Logistics: loss of vegetation (1) compaction of soil (2) disturbance of soil surface crust (3) disturbance of roots (vehicles under trees) (4)

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Document — Stakeholder Stakeholder comment relevant Response/comment section/page As a consequence, the GAS criteria will not be appropriate and potentially the campsite will not be remediated to an appropriate standard

Camatta Page 1 Comment 1 - I note in the EIR that under Appendix A, my clients (the EIR These groups have now been added. Lempens Wangkangurru/Yarluyandi and the Dieri People) are not included. Both groups need to be added.

P1 Comment 2 I note that objective 4 of the SEO recognises the importance of avoiding SEO Objective 4, No suggestions as to additional guidelines have been proposed. We believe that disturbances to sites of cultural significance. However, the guide as to how EIR sec.5.3.1 the procedures are appropriately reflected in this document but should be read in these objectives can be achieved and the comments are not sufficient. Whilst conjunction with handbooks/posters/procedures used in the field (e.g. paragraph 5.3.1 of the EIR sets out procedures for the cultural clearance, I do Environmental Procedures for Management of Aboriginal Heritage sites - not believe this is adequately reflected in the guide. referenced in EIR)

P1 Comment 2 I suggest that objective 4 of the SEO be amended to make it a requirement that SEO Objective 4; The suggestion actually proposes a possible process by which objective 4 can be part 2 a cultural heritage clearance be carried out with representatives of the Native EIR sec 5.3.1 achieved. As these documents are meant to be Objective based it is preferable not Title Claimants. I should point out that at the present time, cultural heritage to incorporate prescriptive requirements into the objectives (Objective 4 states: clearances as outlined in paragraph 5.3.1 are not being carried out by any "Avoid disturbance to sites of cultural and heritage significance") explorer or producer in the area except those who have negotiated agreement with the Native Title Claimants. This is unsatisfactory as it significantly increases the risk of damage to sites of significance.

P2 Comment 3 The comment that the traditional Aboriginal People have limited direct EIR sec.4.3.1 Acknowledged and corrected. involvement with or connection with the land attributed to Mr A Lance, may be his opinion but in fact is wrong. The Native Title Claimants, in many cases, do have a direct involvement with the land and all of them would say they have a direct connection with the land. They are able to trace their ancestral ownership of the land to well before the settlement by Europeans in South Australia and to them, the land remains their land and anything that happens upon that land impacts directly upon them.

P2 Comment 3 Over 100,000 kilometres of seismic work has been undertaken in the area, EIR sec.4.3.1 The EIR is a document for current & future activities, not past practices. Previous part 2 much of it without Aboriginal cultural clearance. The claimants are aware of this reports, posters and publications have acknowledged the permanent impact of the fact and the scars upon the land are seen as a matter of great anguish. I older and outdated seismic practices. The EIR and SEO recognise the need to suggest that paragraph 4.3.1 be changed to reflect this fact. avoid such impacts in future.

P2 Comment 3 I should also point out to you that Aboriginal sites are not merely archaeological EIR sec.4.3.1 Spiritual (cultural) sites are acknowledged in section 4.3.1, third paragraph, first part 3 sites but also are spiritual and cultural sites which are not easily identified by sentence. carrying out an inspection of the land. It does require consultation with the Aboriginal people.

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P2 Comment 3 The rights of Aboriginal People in the matter are outlined in the State Aboriginal SEO & EIR SA Act acknowledged in EIR Appendix F. Commonwealth Act added. part 4 Heritage Act 1988 and the Commonwealth Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984. I believe both these acts should be mentioned in your legislative requirements.

P3 Comment 4 Whilst I note that section 7 of the EIR acknowledges as an environmental EIR sec.7.1.3 Added risk analysis to Table 7-4. However, if appropriate cultural heritage consequence in 7.1.2, the disturbance of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, it has clearance is carried out the potential of damaging an Aboriginal site is considered not been included in table 7-4. I believe that under most of the activities that to be low in terms of likelihood. involve access to the land (you) should list the potential consequence of damage to Aboriginal sites as major in severity, high in likelihood but low in risk if an appropriate and proper cultural heritage clearance has been carried out.

P3 paragraphs 3 Further, any activities on the land that impact on my clients' Aboriginal Native and 4 Title rights are of significance. This is a fact that is now well recognised by most of the new explorers with whom we have an excellent relationship. It is however important to ensure that all explorers and producers ensure that Aboriginal heritage sites are protected, for the good of the petroleum industry.

SATC The South Australian Tourism Commission has reviewed the EIR and SEO & EIR Statement and has not identified specific issues for tourism that have not already been addressed in the report and statement.

P1 paragraphs 3 However the SATC has an interest in improving basic infrastructure along the Comments noted. to 5 Strzelecki track to support visitors to this remote and sometimes inhospitable region. From a tourism perspective it is regrettable that Moomba, the main population centre of the area presently does not provide any services to the visitor. We therefore encourage any steps to co-locate basic services in the vicinity of Moomba where infrastructure already exists. This could help address growing waste management issues and minimise environmental waste and impact. We also encourage closer cooperation between stakeholders in the region to improve public infrastructure and waste management, especially at areas that are experiencing increased visitor impact, for example at Strzelecki Creek Crossing near to the Strzelecki Regional Reserve.

59 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

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CFS Include a statement as part of the objectives relating to ensuring Fire SEO & EIR Added to Objective 3 in SEO and sec 6.3, Table 7-4 and sec 7-2-2 in EIR Restrictions during the Fire Danger Season are complied with and personnel operating in rural areas are aware of the restrictions and requirements.

Acknowledges the requirement for companies to undertake Emergency Response and Contingency Planning.

SADAARE We would encourage you to stress the following aspects of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 ("the Act") in all appropriate documentation:-

P1 Point 1 Under s23 of the Act, a person must not without the authority of the Minister for EIR Act emphasised in 4.3.1 - Reference Santos (1998a) Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, damage and disturbance or interfere with any Aboriginal site or damage any Aboriginal object. Regardless of whether development approval has been granted (or is required), any activity that will damage, disturb, or interfere with an Aboriginal site or object must first be authorised under s23 of the Act.

P1 Point 2 2. A search of the Register of Aboriginal Sites and Objects maintained by the EIR Detailed in the Act and associated reference Santos (1998a) Minister has identified Aboriginal sites in the Cooper Basin area, and authorisation must be obtained from the Minister for any activity which will disturb the site. Authorisation to damage or disturb or interfere with any registered site can be applied for under s23 of the Act. If a reported site is likely to be damaged or disturbed, an application requiring determination under s12 of the Act is required in the first instance. The proponent may subsequently, if required, seek authorisation of the Minister to damage, disturb of interfere with a site under s23 of the Act.

DWBLC In general the documents are considered comprehensive and thorough. There are, however, some specific concerns and these are listed below:-

P1 bullet 1 Generally through out the EIR there is a lack of information with regards to EIR Suggestion has now been included in sec.5.3.7, 5.4, 6.3 and 6.4 Also, restrictions protection of the bed and banks of drainage channels/watercourses by such and rehabilitation included in GAS criteria. activities as line and access tracks.

P1 bullet 2 Within Table 6-1 "Impacts Associated with Line/Access Track Preparation in EIR Table sec.6.3 Difficult to introduce another separate Land System for water courses/or drainage various Cooper Basin Land Systems" it would be appropriate to introduce paths/channels as such features occur within Land Systems. another Land System for water courses/or drainage path/channel.

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P1 bullet 3 Wetlands and permanent pools function as ecological refuge areas and are key EIR Additional points have been inserted in 5.4.1 "Current standard operating environmental assets within rangeland ecosystems. There is little reference to procedures used to avoid impacts" section on Natural drainage. or detail in the management of these areas (e.g. 6.3 Access track preparation; table 6.1 "Wetlands are avoided where possible"). Issues may include: camping activity next to these areas; pumping water for activities, water supply; waste water, cleaning, washing, detergents; and bird breeding habitat disturbance.

P2 bullet 1 Throughout chapter 4 there is little or no mention or description of neither EIR sec.4 SEO Objective 7 addresses aquifer & groundwater intersection. Shallow aquifers potential aquifers, shallow or deep, nor groundwater conditions that may be are very rarely encountered. intersected whilst drilling an uphole or shallow drill hole. A brief comment has been in the section on dune fields, but only with regards to aquifers adjacent to major water courses.

P2 bullet 2 A major concern is how pollution risk is poorly addressed. Unlike other risks EIR Spills associated with seismic activities are small due to the small volumes there is no discussion (or even mention) of pollution risks to water courses or maintained during operations and therefore assessed as minor in severity. wetland until the Risk Assessment section where the risks are quite possibly downplayed. In the Risk Matrix against every Activity the relevant hazard is Accidental spills and leaks. I can accept the assessment of the Likelihood being Rare but not the Severity being Minor. This would assume very good knowledge about the eco-toxicology of all the fuels and chemicals used and also how these materials behave in the environment and partition between soils, water, etc. It would be a Major Severity rating (or worse) and so a Medium risk. This raises the bigger issue of how they do risk assessments where there is little understanding about ecosystem function.

P2 bullet 3 It is considered that there is a fundamental flaw in the risk assessment process EIR As can be seen in Table 7-1 there is not a significant distinction between "minor" where it mixes socio-economic impacts with environmental when all the Severity and "major". Given the small volumes of chemicals and fuels used on a seismic criteria are about environmental consequences. Both should be assessed but crew a "minor" impact on the environment could nevertheless have a "major" mixing the two can create confusion and inconsistencies. How the impact of impact on organic beef accreditation. accidental spills and leaks on Loss of organic beef production can be assessed as Major compared with a Minor rating for Contamination of soil, groundwater, water courses when the latter is what will lead to the former is confusing.

P2 bullet 4 Chapter 6, there are 2 sections numbered 6.3 EIR Corrected.

P2 bullet 5 Section 6.3, p40, Uphole drilling and logging - a potential consequence to be EIR sec.6.3 Modified existing consequence. added is the "Contamination of shallow aquifers"

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P2 bullet 6 There is no mention of the impact of seismic activities (explosives or Vibroseis™ EIR The rationale is that minimising impacts to the land surface and vegetation will lead trucks) on the small mammals and birds, particularly if they are breeding or to minimising the impact on small mammals and birds. nesting. It may not be an issue or nothing may be known about this issue but it should be mentioned.

P2 bullet 7 In Chapter 6 there is no discussion on the environmental hazards and their EIR 6.4 Line and access Track Preparation is recognised as having the greatest potential consequences of any activities other than Access Track Preparation. for impact due to the fact that previously undisturbed ground is being accessed

P2 bullet 8 I don't know if this is required in an EIR (or SEO) but some mention of how good EIR Legislation, policy (SEO) and procedures (EIR) are detailed in conjunction with policy and procedures are actually enforced in the field with staff and inductions EIR sec.7.2 and SEO Objective 5. contractors would inspire confidence.

P2 bullet 9 As the document is dated December 2004 there should be some reference to EIR Amended to refer to Coongie Lakes National Park & Controlled Access Areas Coongie Lakes National Park.

DWLBC - Native P11 of the EIR states that collection/documentation of flora/fauna in NE SA has EIR Whilst it is not in scope of the EIR or SEO to undertake further study but to rather Vegetation been patchy and sparse and consequently status and habitat requirements for draw on existing information; existing management systems make provision for Group some species within the area are poorly understood. Firstly, this may mean that further studies on basis of specific identified requirements. P2 paragraph 4 to achieve the above point relating to the conservation needs of particular species, further study may need to be undertaken before particular works are The documents are overarching in nature. The planning processes for specific undertaken in the vicinity of certain species. Secondly, an idea of the relative surveys include the accessing of other databases for the identification of floral conservation status of plants in the Lake Eyre region is better gained from species which may occur in the specific survey area. viewing the state legislation. The EIR only considers plants "of conservation significance" as being those that are listed under Commonwealth Legislation (EPBC Act 1999), and lists only one plant under this category for the area of works. Considering that mining activities are now considered under the Native Vegetation Act 1991, It would seem appropriate that the definition and recognition of species and associations of significance is extended to include those recognised under state legislation such as the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.

P2 paragraph 5 There are 79 species of state conservation significance found in the Lake Eyre Information from unpublished databases has not been included due to the inability Region (3 Endangered, 23 Vulnerable, 53 Rare) according to Lang, PJ & to access the data. Kraehenbuehl, DK "Plants of conservation significance in South Australia's The documents are overarching in nature. The planning processes for specific Agricultural Regions" unpublished database, Dept of Environment & Natural surveys include the accessing of other databases for the identification of floral Resources 2003 updated ratings. Several are likely to be encountered in the species which may occur in the specific survey area. Cooper Basin. Sixty-six species of regional conservation significance are found in the Lake Eyre region - once again some of these species are likely to be found in the Cooper Basin in areas where works are undertaken.

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P2 last paragraph Appendix B is said to list flora and fauna species occurring in the Cooper Basin Detailed understanding of the flora and fauna species occurring in the Cooper P3 first but this is by no means a complete list and is also not referenced. If possible, Basin is not within the scope of the EIR/SEO when the overall objective is to paragraph more complete flora and fauna lists for the region should be presented in the minimise disturbance to all flora and fauna. document and used to develop more detailed and accurate assessment criteria and methodology to achieving objectives. Standard planning procedures for specific surveys include the access to more complete databases. Note that references and further reading section includes DEH biological surveys etc

P3 second The Native Vegetation Group would be keen to see a more in-depth monitoring EIR Not in the scope or requirements of the SEO or EIR or Petroleum Act. However paragraph program developed to assess the impacts on native vegetation and assist in the provision for scientific investigations (e.g. Woodburn & Fatchen 2000 and Watts et refining of activities to greater fulfil the environmental objectives. al 2002) is made in company and PIRSA management systems (refer 7.2.8 of EIR - Continuous Improvement. Such a program suggested by NVC could well be undertaken by PIRSA

P3 paragraphs 4, The main type of monitoring that appears to have been undertaken in recent EIR & SEO Further studies have been carried out over the years to demonstrate that seismic 5 and 6 years is photo point monitoring in the form of the establishment of activity leads to no significant changes in the various land systems. These are "environmental monitoring points". The aim of EMPs appears to be to give an referenced. It has also been demonstrated that GAS audits and photo-monitoring idea of the various landform and vegetation types encountered and then track are good proxies for these more detailed studies and are therefore preferable as the recovery process visually over a four-year (minimum) period. It appears that they can be carried out more frequently and over a variety of different land GAS audits are carried out after completion of the activity to record the extent of systems. damage to specific tree and shrub species (those listed in Appendix 4). This monitoring program as proposed is only equipped to provide visual information As part of its management processes PIRSA carries out long term monitoring on regrowth cover. There is no allowance for recording changes to particular programs species distribution or abundance. It may be that there have been studies undertaken to show that for the types of works no significant changes is likely to occur within the different land systems. This is implied in the documents but not referenced. Auditing for compliance with the environmental objectives, as described on p9, is important and will form an important part of the overall monitoring program.

P4 bullet 1 The EIR is supposed to give detailed information on the extent to which the EIR EIR sec.7. potential consequences listed in the environmental risk assessment can be Management of disturbances and hazards is addressed on a case specific strategy managed including "information on their duration, size and scope". While information has been provided that relates to methods by which disturbances and hazards are to be prevented or minimised, little detail is given on management of disturbances and hazards should they occur.

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Document — Stakeholder Stakeholder comment relevant Response/comment section/page

EPA The EPA has reviewed the proposed South Australian Cooper Basin Operators' EIR and SEO for Geophysical Operations and has no additional comment.

EDO P1 Item 1 Table 7-4 - we disagree with the assessment of "severity" and "likelihood" of EIR The likelihood of consequence refers to the Cooper and Eromanga Basin seismic some impacts. Spread of weeds and exotic species cannot be classified as activities only. "rare" (has occurred a few times worldwide) rather classification of likely (likely to occur during operational lifetime) seems more appropriate. Reasoning: Experience is that there has never been any infestations recognised within the vehicles and equipment are only cleaned on entry to the Cooper Basin this Cooper Basin from any geophysical activities. Hence occurrence is rare assumes that there are no weeds or exotic species capable of spreading

existing already in the Cooper Basin area. Also assumes, cleaning of equipment is close to 100% effective.

P1 Item 1 Part 2 Agree that accidental spills and leaks that contaminate soil, groundwater and EIR Volumes retained on site are relatively small and location of camp refuelling etc. water courses is "minor" severity (no change to biodiversity or ecological minimises this impact to Minor. function). A spill of petroleum products into ground or surface water will cause at least "major" impacts (with local changes to biodiversity).

ALRM - Native Provided with a copy of Camatta Lempens (Mr Kenny's) comments and agree Title Unit with points 2, 3 and 4.

It is critical that operators take strong measures that heritage clearance be SEO & EIR Agreed performed by all operators who seek to carry out operations which will affect native title land.

In order to keep Native Title Claimants informed it is critical that operators also Agreed maintain a policy of providing notification of proposed activities to the Native Title Unit. Notifying the claimants direct or through their legal adviser is also important.

DWLBC - The Animal and Plant Control commission staff have reviewed the documents Animal and as they relate to feral animal and weed management. The documents are well Plant Control considered and thorough. Unit

App.2 Objective 6 The main weed issue would be seeds of annual weeds such as for consolidated All vehicles are washed down when required to eliminate weed infestation (EIR as caltrop or onion weed on vehicles. DWLBC sec.7.2.7).

The point about keeping records of detection of weeds is good. However, I as for consolidated Incorporated into 7.2.7 suggest adding a point to the effect that The Animal and Plant Control DWLBC consultant for the pastoral region to be consulted regarding the detection, recording and control of weeds or any other pest species by industry activities.

64 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Document — Stakeholder Stakeholder comment relevant Response/comment section/page

Regarding feral animals, it may be worth adding a point to avoid feeding wild as for consolidated SEO objective 3 is to minimise disturbance on native fauna - this objective dog and dingoes so they don't become habituated around human habitation. For DWLBC encapsulates the objective to not modify their behaviour. example: Food waste should be removed from camp sites and staff should not feed wild dogs or dingoes.

DTUP - EIA Unit We have reviewed the EIR and SEO documents and are satisfied with them.

PIRSA We have no comment to make on these documents.

Marine No comment received

Habitat No comment received

65 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Appendix C List of relevant legislation This is a list of legislation more pertinent to petroleum exploration, but not a comprehensive list of all applicable legislation.

Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 Environment and Heritage Legislation Amendment Act 1999

South Australia Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 Crown Lands Act 1929 Environment Protection Act 1993 Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 Heritage Places Act 1993 National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 National Trust of SA Act 1955 Native Title (South Australian) Act 1994 Native Vegetation Act 1991 Natural Resources Management Act 2004 Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Act 1986 Petroleum Act 2000 Water Resources Act 1997

66 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Appendix D List of relevant land owners

Bollards Lagoon Est R G Rieck Bollards Lagoon TIBOOBURRA NSW 2880

Clifton Hills Clifton Hills Pastoral Co Goyders Lagoon 283 Wakefield Street Kanowana ADELAIDE SA 5000 Pt Clifton Hills

Cordillo Downs Brook Props Cordillo Downs Station Via LEIGH CREEK SA 5731 Gidgealpa Attn Mr Darren Flew Doce Pty Ltd Level 29 91 King William Street ADELAIDE SA 5001 Innamincka Innamincka Pastoral Co Pty Ltd 183 Archer Street NORTH ADELAIDE SA 5006

Merty Merty Mrs Pam Rieck Merty Merty Station Via LEIGH CREEK SA 5731 Mulka Attn Mr Darren Flew Lake Hope Doce Pty Ltd Level 29 91 King William Street ADELAIDE SA 5001 Mungeranie Shilligan Pty. Ltd 685 South Road BLACK FOREST SA 5035

Murnpeowie Broschul Pty Ltd. Murnpeowie Station BIRDSVILLE QLD 4482 Pandie Pandie G V Morton Pandie Pandie Station Via PORT AUGUSTA SA 5710 Tinga Tingana K D & R P Ogilvy Lindon Lindon Station Via TIBOOBURRA NSW 2880

DEH Senior Environmental Officer — Mining NPWS GPO Box 1047 Adelaide SA 5001 The Regional Conservator— Outback Region GPO Box 78 Pt Augusta 5700

67 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Aboriginal Claimants Yandruwandha/Yawarrawarrka Mr M Steele, c/- Ward & Partners 12th Floor 26 Flinders St Adelaide SA 5000

Wangkangurru/Yarluyandi People Mr S Kenny, c/- Camatta Lempens Pty Ltd Lawyers 1st Floor, 345 King William St Adelaide SA 5000

Dieri People Mr S Kenny, c/- Camatta Lempens Pty Ltd Lawyers 1st Floor, 345 King William St Adelaide SA 5000

Native Title Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement Mr Parry Agius, Native Title Unit 345 King William Street Adelaide SA 5000

68 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Appendix E Common species names and scientific equivalents

Common name Scientific name

Plants

Myriophyllum sp. Myriophyllum verruccosum

Barley mitchell grass Astrebla pectinata

Beaked red mallee Eucalyptus socialis

Bladder saltbush Atriplex vesicaria

Broughton willow Acacia salicina

Coolabah Eucalyptus coolabah

Copperburrs Sclerolaena spp.

Cotton bush Maireana aphylla

Emu bush Eremophila sp.

Gidgee Acacia cambagei

Lignum Muehlenbeckia florulenta

Lobbed spinifex Triodia basedowii

Narrow-leafed hopbush Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima

Needlewood Hakea leucoptera

Nitrebush Nitraria billardierei

Old man saltbush Atriplex nummularia nummularia

Prickly wattle Acacia victoriae

Queensland Bean tree Lysiphyllum gilvum

Queensland bluebush Dichanthium sericeum

River red gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis

Sandhill canegrass Zygochloa paradoxa

Sandhill wattle Acacia ligulata

Swamp canegrass Eragrostis australasica

Water fern Azolla filiculoides

Water weed Ludwigia peploides

Whitewood Atalaya hemiglauca

Mammals

Dusky hopping-mouse Notomys fuscus

Yellow-bellied sheath-tailed bat Saccolaimus flaviventris

Fat-tailed dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata

Striped-faced dunnart Sminthopsis macroura

Long-haired rat Rattus villosissimus

Forrest's mouse Leggadina forresti

Water rat Hydromys chrysogaster

Dingo Canis lupus

Fawn hopping mouse Notomys cervinus

Gile's planigale Planigale gilesi

Kowari Dasycercus byrnei

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Common name Scientific name Birds

Eyrean grasswren Amytornis giyderi

White-winged wren Malurus leucopterus

White-backed swallows Cheramoeca leucosternum

Richard's pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae

Brown falcon Falco berigora

Barking owl Ninox connivens

Mallee ringneck Barnadius zonarius barnardi

Grey falcon Falco hypoleucos

Black-breasted buzzard Hamirostra melanosternon

Letter winged kite Elanus scriptus

Freckled duck Stictonetta naevosa

Black-tailed native hen Gallinula ventralis

Red-necked avocet Recurvirostra novaehollandiae

Orange chat Epthianura aurifrons

Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus

Gibberbird Ashbyia lovensis

Chestnut-breasted whiteface Aphelocephala pectoralis

Reptiles and Amphibians

Cooper Creek short-necked tortoise Emydura sp.

Fish

Desert rainbow fish Melanotaenia splendida

70 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Appendix F Threatened flora and fauna species in the Cooper Basin

Table 1: Flora and fauna species listed in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and occurring in northeast South Australia and/or South West Queensland

EPBC Common name Scientific name CAMBA JAMBA CMS Status Habitat Act

MAMMALS

Kowari Dasycercus byrnei V Rare mi, cl

Dusky hopping-mouse Notomys fuscus V Rare d

Plains mouse Pseudomys australis V Rare mi, cl, lw

Greater bilby Macrotis lagotis V ?extinct mi, gm

Greater stick-nest rat Leporillis conditor V ?extinct gh

Ghost bat Macroderma gigas V ?extinct gh

BIRDS

Northern shoveler Anas clypeata x x x vagrant cw, lw

Great egret Egretta alba x x common, b cw, lw

Cattle egret Egretta ibis x x vagrant cw, lw

Glossyibis Plegadis falcinellus x x uncommon, b cw, lw

White-bellied sea-eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster x rare, b cw

Plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus V ?rare mi, cl

Latham's snipe Gallinago lathami x x x rare, nb lw

Pacific golden plover Pluvialis fulva x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Lesser sand plover Charadrius mongolus x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Oriental plover Charadrius asiaticus x x rare, nb cl

Oriental pratincole Glareola maldivarum x x rare, nb cl

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus x x x rare, nb lw

Little curlew Numenius minutus x x x vagrant lw

Black-tailed godwit Limosa limosa x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Bar-tailed godwit Limosa lapponica x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Marsh sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis x x x uncommon, nb cw, lw

Common greenshank Tringa nebularia x x x uncommon, nb cw, lw

Wood sandpiper Tringa glareola x x x uncommon, nb cw, lw

Common sandpiper Tringa hypoleucos x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Ruddy turnstone Arenaria interpres x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Red-necked stint Calidris ruficollis x x x uncommon, nb cw, lw

Long-toed stint Calidris subminuta x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Sharp-tailed sandpiper Calidris acuminata x x x uncommon, nb cw, lw

Pectoral sandpiper Calidris melanotus x x rare, nb cw, lw

Curlew sandpiper Callidris ferruginea x x x rare, nb cw, lw

Painted snipe Rostratula benghalensis x rare, ?b cw, lw

White-winged black tern Chlidonias leucoptera x x rare, nb cw, lw

Caspian tern Hydropogne caspia x uncommon cw, lw

Fork-tailed swift Apus pacificus x x uncommon, nb aerial

71 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

Night parrot Pezoporus occidentalis E ?extinct d, mi, lw

Thick-billed grasswren Amytornis textilis modestus V ?rare, ?b gh

PLANTS

Sea-heath Frankenia plicata E ? cl EPBC Act: Schedules of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act: E = Endangered; V = Vulnerable JAMBA: x = Listed in Japan – Australia Migratory Birds Agreement CAMBA: x = Listed in China – Australia Migratory Birds Agreement CMS: x = Listed in Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of wild animals (Bonn Convention). Status: Probable status of listed species within the subject land ?extinct = probably extinct; vagrant = odd individuals recorded well outside of normal range; rare = sparsely distributed; uncommon = present in small numbers; nb = non-breeding visitor from outside of Australia; common = present in reasonable numbers, b = likely to breed in area (birds only) Habitat: mi = Mitchell grass stony downs; gh = gidgee – mulga low woodland on dissected residuals; gm = gidgee mulga low open woodland on stony downs; cl = sparsely vegetated claypans; lw = lignum – Qld bluebush shrubland on floodplains; cw = coolibah woodlands on floodplain (includes waterholes); d = dunefield NB: Schedules 7, 8 and 9 of the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act are lists of threatened species in South Australia. As of 2006, these lists are being reviewed.

72 South Australian Cooper Basin operators. Environmental impact report: geophysical operations.

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