2208-30467 SRA - Information request

                                                                                            2208-30467 SRA




            Action:
            Provide a response to State code 25 (SDAP version 3.0) in its entirety, identifying how the
            proposed development meets each performance outcome (PO).

            The latest version of State code 25 is available at:
            https://planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/planning-framework/state-assessment-and-
            referral-agency/state-development-assessment-provisions-sdap


PO1, PO2 and PO4 of State code 25 – Connectivity, fragmentation and safe koala movement
3.          Issue:
            The application does not demonstrate how the proposed development supports connectivity
            between highly connected patches of mapped KHA. Specifically, the application proposes
            to retain trees throughout the impact area; however, insufficient information has been
            provided to demonstrate that koalas will be able to move through the site around / under the
            proposed cabins and walkways.

            The application material includes proposed planting of native understorey vegetation to
            improve connectivity and fauna refuge opportunities; however, the Bushfire Hazard
            Assessment and Mitigation Plan requires understorey and groundcover vegetation to be
            managed on an ongoing basis, with groundcover kept to a maximum of 100mm.

            The application does not demonstrate how fragmentation of patches of mapped KHA will be
            prevented. Specifically, from the proposed location of the built infrastructure on site, it
            appears the development will fragment retained patches of KHA from one another and will
            fragment KHA north of the site from KHA south of the site.

            Although the application proposes to elevate buildings and walkways, insufficient
            information has been provided to demonstrate that safe koala movement will be supported
            (e.g., is there evidence in the literature that koalas can and will safely and easily move
            under elevated structures such as those proposed?).

            The application does not demonstrate that the proposed development will not compromise
            koala safety through impediments that restrict movements between highly connected
            patches of mapped KHA.

            Although the application proposes to retain individual trees throughout the site, the
            development footprint extends nearly the entire length and width of the site, with built
            infrastructure scattered throughout the area, significantly reducing the permeability of the
            landscape to koalas and interrupting connectivity between existing KHA north and south of
            the site.

            Action:
                 Provide a plan in digital format that identifies the location of all impacts on
                    connectivity between highly connected patches of mapped KHA; and the locations
                    of all measures proposed to support connectivity (e.g., koala friendly fencing, fauna
                    crossing measures, etc.).
                 Provide clarification regarding how planting of native understorey species will be of
                    benefit, considering the bushfire management report requires the understorey and
                    groundcover to be maintained on an ongoing basis.
                 Provide further information, prepared by a suitably qualified ecologist, which


State Assessment and Referral Agency                                                            Page 2 of 5