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Attachment 7B - Fauna and Flora Assessment_NoosaLandfill_NorthernSection_Revision3
FAUNA AND FLORA ASSESSMENT
Noosa Landfill & Resource Recovery Centre,
Doonan - Northern Section
For Noosa Council
Native Foresters
Natural Resource Management Consultants
Email: [email protected]
Mob: 0407 757 872
Document No: 200112-FF-Revision 3
Date: 26th June 2023
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Native Foresters DISCLAIMER The authors do not accept any form of liability, be it contractual, tortious, or otherwise, for the contents of this document or for any consequences arising from its use or any reliance placed upon it. This report has been compiled on the basis of existing literature, information, and a targeted survey. Native Foresters does not undertake responsibility arising in any way to any persons in respect of the data, errors, or omissions arising, through misinterpretation of information, negligence or otherwise, however caused. Native Foresters is an independent consulting company undertaking projects in Natural Resource Management. All work conducted as part of this survey was conducted under the EHP Scientific Purposes Permit number WQA 0035991 and DEEDI Animal Ethics Committee number CA 2020/08/1398 and in accordance with the relevant regulations. STUDY TEAM Simon McVerry (BASc – NRM) - Project Director, Fieldwork, Reporting Vanessa Moscato (BSc) – Fieldwork – Flora & Fauna, GIS mapping and Reporting Pru McIntyre (BEnvSc) – Fieldwork, GIS Mapping and Reporting DOCUMENT CONTROL Project: Landfill Extension, Noosa Landfill Document: Fauna and Flora Assessment Document No.: 200112 –FF – Revision 3 Revisions: Revision 3 – 27th June 2023 Client: Noosa Council Project Manager: Cody Johnston Noosa Landfill & RRC - Northern Section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 2
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Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................5
1.1 Objectives of the report ......................................................................................5
1.2 Site description...................................................................................................5
1.3 Legislative requirements ....................................................................................6
1.4 Proposed works .................................................................................................7
1.5 Impacts on fauna habitat ....................................................................................7
2.0 METHODOLOGY ..................................................................................................9
2.1 Desktop review...................................................................................................9
2.2 Field assessment ...............................................................................................9
2.2.1 Flora survey ................................................................................................9
2.2.2 Fauna survey ............................................................................................10
2.2.3 Breeding places and fauna habitat assessment ........................................11
2.2.4 Justification of survey timing and weather conditions ................................12
2.2.5 Survey limitations ......................................................................................13
3.1 Desktop review.................................................................................................14
3.1.1 Regulated Vegetation Management map ..................................................14
3.1.2 Regional Ecosystem mapping ...................................................................14
3.1.3 Essential Habitat designation ....................................................................14
3.1.4 WildNET search ........................................................................................14
3.1.5 EPBC Protected Matters ...........................................................................15
3.1.6 Protected Plants Flora Survey Trigger map ...............................................15
3.1.7 Vegetation legislation ................................................................................15
3.1.8 Koala legislation ........................................................................................18
3.1.9 Wetlands and Watercourses .....................................................................19
3.2 Matters of State Environmental Significance ....................................................19
3.2 Flora assessment .............................................................................................20
3.2.1 Vegetation within the survey area .............................................................20
3.2.2 Vegetation within 100 metre buffer ............................................................23
3.3 Fauna assessment ...........................................................................................23
3.4 Assessment of breeding places and fauna habitat quality ................................24
4.0 SIGNIFICANT SPECIES .....................................................................................27
4.1 Swamp crayfish (Tenuibranchiurus glypticus) ...............................................27
5.0 ASSESSMENT – NOOSA PLAN .........................................................................28
5.1 Proposed Offset Plan .......................................................................................38
6.0 SUMMARY ..........................................................................................................39
7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS .......................................................................................40
REFERENCES...............................................................................................................41
APPENDIX A – NOOSA LANDFILL MASTERPLAN .......................................................42
APPENDIX B – DATABASE AND MAP SEARCHES USED FOR DESKTOP REVIEW OF
SITE ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES.................................................................................43
APPENDIX C: CERTIFICATION OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED PERSON FOR FLORA
SURVEY ........................................................................................................................44
APPENDIX D: JUSTIFICATION OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED
PERSON FOR FAUNA BREEDING PLACE SURVEY ...................................................45
APPENDIX E: MSES MAPPING ....................................................................................46
APPENDIX F: FLORA SPECIES LIST ...........................................................................49
APPENDIX G: AERIAL IMAGERY .................................................................................51
APPENDIX H: FAUNA SPECIES LIST ...........................................................................53
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Native Foresters Figures FIGURE 1: Locality map ...................................................................................................8 FIGURE 2: Vegetation Management supporting map .....................................................16 FIGURE 3: Protected Plants Flora Survey Trigger map ................................................177 FIGURE 4: Melaleuca wetland with Cheese tree and Monkey Rope Vine ......................20 FIGURE 5: Melaleuca wetland on eastern edge of the survey area ................................21 FIGURE 6: Parts of survey area have been cleared or disturbed ...................................21 FIGURE 7: Singapore Daisy infestation extends approximately 50-80 m north east of survey area. ...................................................................................................................32 FIGURE 8: Fauna and Fauna Habitat in survey area……………………………………….25 FIGURE 9: Swamp crayfish in Melaleuca wetland adjacent to landfill ............................27 FIGURE 10: Biodiversity Overlay………………………………………………………………28 FIGURE 11: Proposed Offset Area……………………………………………………………38 Tables TABLE 1: Regional ecosystems mapped over survey site ………………………………..14 TABLE 2: Listed species identified by desktop research within 1 km of survey area......15 TABLE 3: Results of Timed meander surveys ……………………………………………...23 TABLE 4: Habitat assessment and likelihood of occurrence for listed species …….......26 TABLE 5: Assessment of Biodiversity, Waterway and Wetlands Overlay Code…………29 Noosa Landfill & RRC - Northern Section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 4
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Native Foresters has been commissioned by Noosa Council to conduct a flora and fauna
survey and habitat assessment of a section of vegetation situated east of the Cleanaway
Depot at 561 Eumundi Noosa Road, Doonan within Lot 77 SP298776.
This report assesses the fauna and flora which are present; the ecological condition of the
subject site, and the presence of breeding habitat for native fauna. Recommendations
relating to mitigating the potential impacts on fauna and flora species of conservation
significance are made where considered relevant to proposed works.
1.1 Objectives of the report
The objectives of the report are as follows:
• To provide the results of the Flora Survey undertaken in compliance with the
requirements of the Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants (Nature Conservation
Act 1992);
▪ To provide the results of the Breeding Places Assessment undertaken in compliance
with the DES Species Management Program Requirements for tampering with a
protected animal breeding place, the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Nature
Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006.
▪ To comment on the potential impacts of proposed works on native flora and fauna,
including State and/or Commonwealth listed species and their breeding habitat.
▪ To undertake a Code Assessment of works against the Noosa Plan (2020) –
Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetland Code.
1.2 Site description
The subject site is a Melaleuca wetland (approximately 0.9 hectares) that is situated on
Lot 77 SP298776, northwest of the Noosa Council Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre
and east of the Cleanaway depot. The subject site adjoins a drainage line with remnant
vegetation to the north, and existing landfill infrastructure to the east and south consisting
of access tracks, mown grass areas, a constructed sediment basin and a vegetated pond.
An additional 100m buffer area was surveyed for EVNT-listed flora species and is referred
to as the total clearing impact area. The 100 metre buffer was also contained within Lot 77
SP298776 and the total clearing impact area for the site is approximately 9 hectares. Refer
to Figure 1 for a Survey area map.
Underlying geology has been described by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines
and Energy (DNRME) and Sattler and Williams (1999) with two land zones occurring in Lot
77 SP298776 as follows:
• Land Zone 3: Quaternary alluvial systems, including floodplains, terraces, levees,
alluvial fans, swamps, channels, closed depressions and fine textured paleo-estuarine
deposits. This land zone covers the central section through to the northern boundary
of survey area.
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• Land Zone 5: Tertiary-early Quaternary extensive, uniform near level or gently
undulating plains with sandy or loamy soils. This land zone covers a thin band around
the east, south and west boundaries of the survey area.
Vegetation in the survey area is mapped as ‘Least concern’ Regional Ecosystem (RE)
12.3.13 - Closed heathland on seasonally waterlogged alluvial plains usually near the
coast, and ‘Endangered’ RE 12.5.3 - Scribbly gum (Eucalyptus racemosa subsp.
racemosa) woodland on remnant Tertiary surfaces.
Topography across the survey area is approximately 10 metres above sea level and is
generally flat with small depressions and drainage lines that run in a northerly direction. A
larger drainage line and constructed sediment basin lie on the western side of the survey
site.
Existing impacts on the site include:
i) Historical clearing for access tracks/rural land uses;
ii) Modification of drainage lines;
iii) Adjacent industrial uses (landfill and depot) – litter incursion;
iv) Ongoing slashing and maintenance along two sides;
v) Presence of weed/non-native species including Singapore Daisy
(Sphagneticola trilobata), Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora), Lantana
(Lantana spp.), and Setaria Grass (Setaria sphacelata);
vi) Edge effects (increased light, wind, dust and noise) along three boundary lines;
1.3 Legislative requirements
To evaluate the habitat values on the site for State and Commonwealth listed flora and
fauna species the following legislation was reviewed:
Commonwealth:
• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)
State:
• Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act)
o Nature Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020
o Nature Conservation (Plants) Regulation 2020
• Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2017
o Nature Conservation and Other Legislation (Koala Protection) Amendment
Regulation
• Planning Act 2016 and Planning Regulation 2017
• Vegetation Management Act 1999 (VMA)
• Biosecurity Act 2016 and Biosecurity Regulation 2016
• Environmental Offsets Act 2014 and Environmental Offsets Regulation 2014
• Fisheries Act 1994 and Fisheries Regulation 2008
• Environmental Protection (Wetland and Water Biodiversity) Policy 2019
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1.4 Proposed works
The proposed works involve the clearing of approximately 0.9 hectares of vegetation for
expansion of landfill infrastructure.
Noosa Council has not yet finalised the specific timing and duration of proposed works.
Appendix A shows the existing Master Plan for the Noosa Landfill.
1.5 Impacts on fauna habitat
Potential direct and indirect impacts to existing flora and fauna habitat from the proposed
clearing works include:
• Loss of approximately 0.9 hectares of mapped remnant vegetation (Least
Concern RE 12.3.13 and Endangered RE 12.5.3) which is designated Essential
Habitat for Vulnerable-listed Wallum froglet, Wallum rocketfrog, Koala and
Eastern Ground parrot.
• Loss of 0.9 hectares of wetland habitat that is currently being used by
Endangered Swamp crayfish for foraging and/or breeding.
• Loss of mature native trees of the Lophostemon, Melaleuca, and Eucalyptus
genera with median diameter at breast height (dbh) of 100 mm and 10-12
metres tall, all potential Koala habitat/refuge trees.
• Removal of ground cover species, and associated disturbance to soil, leaf litter
and debris, will cause loss and/or disturbance of habitat, including breeding
habitat, for reptiles, amphibians and small mammals.
• Potential for introduction and dispersal of weeds by machinery/personnel.
• Compaction of soil and destruction of depressions/burrows used by native
fauna.
• Disturbance of habitat through stockpiling of cleared vegetation, soil and
construction materials.
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Native Foresters FIGURE 1: Noosa Landfill Expansion – northern section Noosa Landfill & RRC - Northern Section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 8
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2.0 METHODOLOGY
2.1 Desktop review
A desktop review was undertaken to assist in determining the site’s environmental values. The
review consisted of searches of local, state and commonwealth government planning instruments
and databases, as well as relevant academic literature. Multiple databases were utilised to
determine species, communities, and areas of conservation significance with potential relevance
to the works impact area. Sources of information are listed below and further described in
Appendix B.
Commonwealth:
a) EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool (DCCEEW, 2023), which includes:
o Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES)
o Other matters protected by the EPBC Act
State:
a) Vegetation Management Property Report (Queensland Government, 2023a), which
includes:
o Regulated vegetation management map
o Vegetation management supporting map
o Essential habitat table and map
o Protected plants flora survey trigger map, and
o Koala priority area, koala habitat area and identifies koala broad-hectare area map.
b) WildNet Report (Queensland Government, 2023b).
c) Matters of State Environmental Significance (Queensland Government, 2023c), which
includes:
o Sate conservation areas
o Wetlands and waterways
o Threatened wildlife and special least concern animals
o Koala habitat area, and
o Regulated vegetation.
d) Queensland Waterways for Waterway Barrier Works spatial data layer and guideline
(Queensland Globe, 2023 and DAF, 2021).
2.2 Field assessment
2.2.1 Flora survey
An experienced botanist undertook a systematic botanical analysis on the 12 th December 2019 in
order to assess the vegetation communities occurring within and around the survey area. A further
survey was conducted on the 12 th January 2021 and the 27th June 2023. The survey was
consistent with the Flora Survey Guideline – Protected Plants (NCA 1992). The extent of the flora
survey is indicated in Figure 1.
Certification by the suitably qualified person who led and coordinated the flora survey is provided
in Appendix C. The suitably qualified person has been previously approved by DES for the
Nambour Landfill Expansion survey, April 2017.
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Two timed meander surveys were conducted in the vegetation communities present around the
survey area in order to determine the presence of EVNT (Endangered, Vulnerable, Near
threatened) flora species within the site’s 100 metre buffer zone as shown in Figure 1. The
following methodology was used to conduct the timed meander survey:
• The location of the start point of the surveys was determined by the botanist in order to
maximise the possibility of locating EVNT species (if such species are present).
• The surveys were conducted in a random manner for a period of 30 minutes with the identities
of any EVNT plant species recorded and specimens of any unknown species collected.
• A record of the time was taken every two to five minutes. If the survey was interrupted, then
this time was not recorded in the survey results.
• The search was continued until no new EVNT species were recorded for 30 minutes or when
the entire area of habitat type had been surveyed.
• Where multiple habitat types or vegetation communities were present within a clearing impact
area, a timed meander assessment was undertaken within each of these areas.
2.2.2 Fauna survey
A fauna assessment was conducted on the 12th December 2019 to identify the presence of fauna
including reptiles, bats, amphibians, and arboreal mammals by an experienced fauna specialist.
A further survey was conducted on the 12 th January 2021 and the 27th June 2023. The following
methods were used in the conduct of the fauna survey:
• Active search - searching for fauna under logs, rocks, leaf litter and decorticating bark.
• Passive search - identifying species both visually and aurally whenever the opportunity
arises while onsite.
• Tracks and scats – signs of an animal's presence, such as scats and tracks, are
interpreted. This procedure was generally opportunistic and used whenever specimens
were located.
• Aural survey and/or call playback - where recorded calls of the listed frog species are
played to determine their presence.
• Binoculars were used to identify arboreal species.
• A hand-held torch was used for inspecting hollows where accessible.
Targeted surveys (crepuscular and nocturnal) for EVNT-listed Wallum frogs and Swamp crayfish
(Tenuibranchiurus glypticus) were conducted under suitably wet conditions on the 6 th and 11th
February 2020 and the 12th January 2021. The following methods were used in the conduct of
these surveys:
• Aural survey and/or call playback - where recorded calls of the listed frog species are
played to determine their presence.
• Opportunistic dip-net surveys - where repeated sweeps with a fine mesh, long-handled
triangular dip net are used to sample representative aquatic habitats for crayfish and
tadpoles. All fauna captured are released unharmed.
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The findings of targeted fauna surveys conducted during March and April 2019 under flooding
conditions as part of an assessment of impacts of landfill expansion on adjacent groundwater
dependent ecosystems have been incorporated into this report where considered relevant (Native
Foresters, 2019).
2.2.3 Breeding places and fauna habitat assessment
A fauna habitat assessment was undertaken during the field investigations. This assessment was
based on the habitats present, the listed threatened species known to occur or potentially
occurring within the locality, and the occurrence of specific breeding places or breeding habitat
for these species.
For the purposes of this report, the definition of “breeding places” follows that provided in s332 of
the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. For species such as Koala and
native frogs, who do not use a habitual breeding place, the term ‘breeding habitat’ is used in lieu
of ‘breeding place’. The fauna habitat assessment is important in determining species that may
be in the area but whose presence was not able to be detected.
Habitat features that were considered significant for assessing the presence of breeding places
and/or habitation value for native fauna, include but are not limited to:
i. Presence of hollow-bearing trees: These may be used by birds, reptiles or arboreal
mammals to incubate or rear offspring;
ii. Presence of bowers, nests, dreys: These structures are commonly used by birds or
mammals to incubate or rear offspring;
iii. Presence of caves, mounds, burrows, ground hollows and/or coarse woody debris: These
structures are commonly used by birds, mammals, reptiles or amphibians to incubate or
rear offspring;
iv. Presence of permanent water, ephemeral ponding, depressions and/or, seasonally
inundated areas: Waterbodies may be used for breeding by aquatic species or
amphibians, or that may provide intermittent breeding habitat for opportunistic species;
v. Presence of large trees: Large trees can be a dominant feature of native vegetation and
are difficult to replace once lost. Their influence for wide-ranging species can extend over
a considerable distance from their location.
vi. Canopy cover: The uppermost stratum of woody vegetation that forms the canopy
functions as habitat for birds and arboreal mammals, provides food and resources, and
determines the degree of light penetration and heat reaching the lower strata and ground
detrital layer.
vii. Weed cover: Weeds can dominate and suppress native plant growth which affects the
diversity of food sources; they can change the fuel or litter characteristics of a site, thereby
altering the fire regime, and also prevent recruitment and succession of native vegetation .
viii. Understorey components: The shrub and herb strata generally contain the greatest plant
species richness and can be a useful indicator of disturbance and changes in condition.
ix. Organic litter, fallen timber and rocks: Litter cover can be indicative of the degree of
disturbance of a site, and can be an important determinant of species recruitment. It will
influence soil microclimates, structure and composition, and provide refugia for
invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians and ground dwelling mammals.
x. Recruitment: Recruitment of plant species, particularly woody perennials, within all strata
reflects the site’s long-term viability.
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xi. Landscape context: The size of a patch, its connectivity and distance to a core area of
vegetation (i.e. greater than 50 hectares) can affect both its regenerative capacity and
long-term viability. Species–area relationships suggest that large areas support more
species and populations than smaller ones thus retaining greater genetic variability and
providing refuge for species susceptible to disturbances.
A statement to justify the suitability and qualifications of the person undertaking the animal
breeding place survey is provided in Appendix D.
For each listed species that was identified in Essential Habitat Mapping or Wildlife Online, a
likelihood of occurrence rating was assigned based on the following:
• Known - species positively recorded by this survey or other survey by qualified
ecologists during past 30 years;
• Likely - based on the presence of suitable habitat and recent database records from
study area or proximity;
• Possible - suitable habitat present for the species, but no recent database records from
the study area or proximity; and
• Unlikely - based on a lack of suitable habitat and lack of proximate records.
2.2.4 Justification of survey timing and weather conditions
Field surveys were conducted in summer under the following conditions:
• 12/12/2019 - fine, dry conditions with temperatures ranging from 23 to 30 degrees Celsius;
relative humidity of 65 to 70% and 10 mm of rain in the preceding two weeks.
• 06/02/2020 – warm, wet conditions following a series of storms with temperatures ranging
from 21 to 26.4 degrees Celsius, relative humidity of 94 to 100% with 112 mm of rain in
the preceding 24 hours.
• 11/02/2020 – warm, wet conditions with temperatures ranging from 21.8 to 30.6 degrees
Celsius; relative humidity of 93 to100% and 124.2 mm of rain in the preceding five days.
• 12/01/2021 - warm, wet conditions with temperature reaching 28 degrees Celsius and 93
mm of rain in the preceding five days.
• 27/06/2023 – mild, cool and dry conditions with no rain in the preceding weeks
The timing of the flora survey is considered suitable for detecting the target EVNT-listed plant
species, which is not deciduous: Acacia attenuata.
The timing of the fauna surveys are considered suitable for detecting the target Vulnerable-listed
Wallum frogs (Wallum froglet, Wallum rocketfrog and Wallum sedgefrog) and the Endangered
Swamp crayfish, with widespread ephemeral ponding and localised flooding in the first two weeks
of February and local populations of Wallum froglet heard chorusing on both survey nights further
along the Noosa Eumundi Road. Ephemeral ponding was also present during the January 2021
survey.
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2.2.5 Survey limitations
Emphasis is placed on surveying listed threatened ecological communities, populations and/or
species that are considered likely to occur within the survey area. With respect to opportunistic
observations, the possibility exists that certain species may not have been detected during field
investigations due to:
• seasonal inactivity during field survey;
• species present within microhabitats not surveyed;
• species that occur at very low abundance or in very small populations;
• cryptic species able to avoid detection;
• transient wide-ranging species not present during survey period;
• absence of reproductive material for flora identification; or
• drought induced leaf fall or senescence.
The lack of observational data on some species should therefore not be taken as necessarily
indicating that a species is absent from the site.
The field assessment for fauna employed passive techniques only (ie. no live trapping) and the
habitat assessment was limited to contracted timeframes.
The precautionary principle was applied in estimating the likelihood of Commonwealth and State
listed species based on habitats identified within the subject site.
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3.0 RESULTS
3.1 Desktop review
3.1.1 Regulated Vegetation Management map
The Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy (DNRME) presents the Regulated
Vegetation Management Mapping (RVMM) as gazetted under the Vegetation Management Act
(1999) (VMA). Analysis of RVMM shows that the survey area contains mapped Regulated
Vegetation – Category B i.e. Remnant Vegetation.
3.1.2 Regional Ecosystem mapping
DNRME presents a Vegetation Management Supporting map which shows the location of
Regional Ecosystems (RE) as gazetted under the VMA (1999). Analysis of this map shows that
the vegetation in the centre of the subject site is mapped as Least Concern RE 12.3.13 and the
vegetation around the edges is mapped as Endangered RE 12.5.3. These REs are described in
Table 1 and their location is shown in Figure 2.
TABLE 1: Regional Ecosystems mapped over survey area
RE VMA status Biodiversity Description
status
12.3.13 Least No concern at Closed heathland on seasonally waterlogged alluvial
Concern present plains usually near coast
12.5.3 Endangered Endangered Eucalyptus racemosa subsp. racemosa woodland on
Tertiary surfaces
3.1.3 Essential Habitat designation
Essential Habitat is a vegetation ecotype that is considered by DES to form potential habitat for a
species that is listed as Endangered, Vulnerable, Rare or Near Threatened under Schedules 2-5
of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation (2006). Essential Habitat mapping is provided in
conjunction with Regulated Vegetation Management mapping (DNRME 2019) as gazetted under
the VMA (1999). The vegetation within and adjacent to Lot 77 SP298776 is designated as
Essential Habitat for the fauna and flora species listed in Table 2.
3.1.4 WildNET search
DES has compiled a database of wildlife sightings and listings for all flora and fauna species within
a designated area. A database search was conducted for all listed species that have been
identified within one kilometre of the survey area. One EVNT-listed fauna species and one flora
species were listed on WildNET as shown in Table 2.
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TABLE 2: Listed species identified by desktop research within 1 km of survey area
NCA EPBC
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME SOURCE
STATUS STATUS
EVNT FAUNA
Anilios silvia Striped blind snake NT - RVMM
Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy black cockatoo V V RVMM
Crinia tinnula Wallum rocketfrog V - RVMM
Litoria freycineti Wallum rocketfrog V - RVMM
Litoria olongburensis Wallum sedgefrog V V RVMM
Pezoporus wallicus Eastern ground parrot V - RVMM
Phascolarctos cinereus Koala (SE Qld region) E E RVMM/WildNET
FLORA
Acacia attenuata Whipstick wattle V V RVMM/WildNET
Allocasuarina emuina Mt Emu she-oak E - RVMM
Eucalyptus conglomerata Swamp stringybark E - RVMM
3.1.5 EPBC Protected Matters
A report was generated using the EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool. It noted that there is
potential for 40 Threatened Species and 17 Migratory Species to occur within two kilometres of
the centre of survey area, including Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) listed as Vulnerable, and
Giant barred frog (Mixophyes iteratus) listed as Endangered.
There is also potential for two listed Ecological Communities to occur within two kilometres of
the site: Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia, which is listed as Critically Endangered
under the EPBC Act, 1999 and Coastal Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) Forest of New South
Wales and South East Queensland, which is listed as Endangered.
3.1.6 Protected Plants Flora Survey Trigger map
The Protected Plants Survey Trigger Map is a tool provided by DES in order to identify areas that
may contain EVNT plant species. The trigger map is used to determine when a flora survey needs
to meet the requirements of the Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants (NCA, 1992). Figure
3 shows that the survey area lies within a Protected Plants high risk area and as such, is subject
to the provisions of the guidelines.
3.1.7 Vegetation legislation
The Planning Regulation 2017 and the Vegetation Management Act 1999 regulates the clearing
of vegetation in Queensland. The Planning Regulation 2017, Schedule 10 Part 3 details the
requirements for clearing native vegetation. Schedule 7 details accepted development and if the
proposed clearing complies with an accepted development vegetation clearing code the work
does not require a development application. The proposed works are not considered to fit under
the Accepted development vegetation clearing code - Clearing for Infrastructure (21 June 2019).
Schedule 21 details Exempt clearing work under the legislation. As the site contains mapped
endangered regional ecosystem in a category B area it may require an application under the
Planning Act 2016 – Operational works for Clearing Native vegetation.
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FIGURE 2: Vegetation Management supporting map
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FIGURE 3: Protected Plants Flora Survey Trigger map
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3.1.8 Koala legislation
State Legislation
The Planning Act 2016 regulates new development including areas of South East Queensland
identified as having important Koala habitat values. The Planning Regulation 2017 (Schedule
10) establishes where clearing may be prohibited, where it is assessable by the State, where
Koala conservation outcomes will be considered by local governments and what exemptions may
apply.
The Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2017 and Koala Conservation Plan Maps
identifies Koala Habitat Areas (core and locally refined) and Koala Priority Areas that contain
Koala habitat which is essential for the conservation of a viable Koala population in the wild in
South East Queensland.
Clearing Koala Habitat Areas in a Koala Priority Area is prohibited, except for in certain
circumstances (see Schedule 10, 16A of the Planning Regulation 2017).
Development in Koala Habitat Areas made assessable under the Planning Regulation 2017 will
need to address State Code 25: Development in South East Queensland koala habitat areas.
Under the framework provided by the Environmental Offsets Act 2014 and Environmental Offsets
Regulation 2014 and the Queensland Environmental Offset Policy, environmental offset
conditions for unavoidable, significant residual impacts on the following may be imposed:
i. Koala Habitat Areas (identified under the Nature Conservation Koala Conservation
Plan 2017);
ii. Essential habitat for Koala (mapped under the Vegetation Management Act 1999); or
iii. Areas which are not mapped but contain, or are likely to contain, Koalas.
Clearing of a non-juvenile Koala tree is considered a significant residual impact.
For the purposes of this report, a Koala habitat tree means:
a) a food tree of the Corymbia, Melaleuca, or Lophostemon or Eucalyptus genera; or
b) a preferred shelter species such as Angophora.
and a non-juvenile Koala habitat tree means a koala habitat tree that has:
a) a height of more than four metres; or
b) a trunk with a circumference of more than 31.5 centimetres at 1.3 metres above the
ground.
A search of the Koala habitat area and Koala priority area mapping shows that the proposed
clearing lies in a Koala habitat area (locally refined) and in a Koala priority area.
Clearing for necessary infrastructure (i.e. a landfill) when conducted ‘by or for the state or a public
sector entity’ is considered ‘exempted development’ under Schedule 24(b) and Schedule 5 (Part
2, item 15) of the Planning Regulation 2017.
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Commonwealth Legislation
Australia’s key national environment law is the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999, also known as the EPBC Act. This legislation regulates activities that are
likely to have a significant impact on nationally protected matters including Koala.
For impacts to MNES – koala habitat, the self-assessment process outlined in the Significant
impact guidelines 1.1 EPBC Act 1999 (DoE, 2013) has being completed and it is determined that
the any clearing of Koala trees which is less that 2ha is not considered to represent a ‘significant
impact.’
3.1.9 Wetlands and Watercourses
The quality of natural waters in Queensland (e.g. rivers, creeks, wetlands, lakes, estuaries and
coastal areas and ground waters) is protected under the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy
2009 (EPP Water). The EPP Water achieves the object of the EPA 1994 to protect Queensland's
waters while supporting ecologically sustainable development.
The Map of Referable Wetlands is a statewide regulatory map under the Environmental Protection
Regulation 2008 which identifies wetlands of high ecological significance (HES) and general
ecological significance (GES) across the state. HES wetlands on the Map of Referable Wetlands
are considered ‘matters of state environmental significance’ (MSES) under the Planning and
Environmental Offsets legislation (Environmental Offsets Act 2014).
There are no mapped wetlands of significance in the footprint of proposed works within Lot 77
SP298776.
3.2 Matters of State Environmental Significance
The State Planning Policy 2017 (SPP) defines matters of state environmental significance
(MSES). A desktop analysis has identified the following MSES within or adjacent to the Potential
Impact Area (Appendix E):
• Species – Threatened species (Koala, Wallum froglet, Wallum rocketfrog and
Ground parrot) and Special least concern species (Short-beaked echidna);
• Regulated Vegetation.
All applications impacting MSES must demonstrate compliance with the ‘avoid, minimise
(mitigate), offset’ obligation in accordance with the Environmental Offsets Regulation 2014 and
either the Significant Residual Impact Guideline (Biodiversity Integration and Offsets, Ecosystem
Outcomes, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, 2014) or the DSDMIP Significant
Residual Impact Guideline (http://www.dlgrma.qld.gov.au/resources/ guideline/planning/dsdip-
significant-residual-impactguideline.pdf). This obligation requires in the first instance, avoiding
impacts on prescribed environmental matters and if avoidance cannot be achieved,
demonstrating that impacts have been carefully managed and minimised (mitigated).
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If after avoidance and mitigation, there is still an impact on prescribed environmental matters, an
offset may be required where the impact is, or is likely, to be significant.
Under the Environmental Offsets Act 2014 and Environmental Offsets Regulation 2014, offset
requirements may apply to assessable developments where it has been determined that there
will be a significant residual impact on a prescribed environmental matter e.g. Koala habitat.
3.2 Flora assessment
3.2.1 Vegetation within the survey area
The vegetation within the survey area can be described as a Melaleuca wetland with a semi-
closed canopy dominated by Paperbark tea tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and Swamp box
(Lophostemon suaveolens) and occasional Swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) and Cheese
tree (Glochidion ferdinandi). Refer to Figure 4. The median height of Paper Barked Tea-trees
was 12 metres and the median diameter at breast height (dbh) was 100mm on the southern side
of the site. The mid strata consists of smaller trees, shrubs and vines including Soap Tree
(Alphitonia excelsa), Monkey Vine (Parsonsia straminea) and Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)
and weed species Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora). The understory is dominated by
Spiky Sedge (Schoenus brevifolius), Bunchy Sedge (Cyperus polystachyos), Soft Bracken
(Calochlaena dubia) and Blady Grass (Imperata cylindrica) occurring along with introduced
species e.g. Broad Leaf Paspalum (Paspalum mandiocanum) and Singapore Daisy
(Sphagneticola trilobata). Some larger Melaleucas with dbh 300mm and height 14 metres
occurred on the northern edge of the survey area.
In total, 44 local native species and 23 introduced species were recorded during the flora survey.
An indicative species list for the site is provided in Appendix F. No EVNT flora species were
recorded within the survey area.
FIGURE 4: Melaleuca wetland with Cheese tree and Monkey Rope Vine
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The area surveyed is the moderately disturbed southern end of a larger tract of remnant
heathland. It suffers from degraded edges, litter incursion, clearing for access tracks and/or
potential boreholes and receives stormwater inputs from the constructed sediment basin on the
northern edge of the landfill. Refer to Figure 5.
FIGURE 5: Melaleuca wetland on eastern edge of the survey area
There is also variation in vegetation condition throughout the centre of the site, where Lantana
and introduced grasses have colonised open patches that were historically cleared/disturbed.
Refer to Figure 6.
FIGURE 6: Parts of survey area have been cleared or disturbed
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Weed species are generally restricted to the lower and mid strata and the edges. Of concern is
the presence of Singapore daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata) throughout the survey area, with the
infestation extending over 80 metres into the remnant heathland northeast of the survey area
(Figure 7). Lantana (Lantana camara), Wild tobacco (Solanum mauritianum), African Pigeon
Grass (Setaria sphacelata) Groundsel (Baccharis halimifolia) and Camphor laurel are also
present. Groundsel bush, Singapore daisy, Lantana and Camphor laurel are Restricted Invasive
Plants under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Measures should be taken to control the spread of
Singapore daisy e.g. machinery hygiene inspections and removal/disposal of all spoil
contaminated with Singapore daisy fragments. Management of the Singapore daisy infestation in
the buffer should also be undertaken as part of Council’s general biosecurity obligation.
FIGURE 7: Singapore Daisy infestation extends 50-80 m north east of survey area.
The RE mapping shows the area of interest near the Cleanaway depot contains thin strips of
remnant Scribbly gum woodland (Endangered RE 12.5.3 - Eucalyptus racemosa subsp.
racemosa woodland on remnant Tertiary surfaces) and a central core of remnant Palustrine heath
(Least concern RE 12.3.13 - Closed or wet heathland on seasonally waterlogged Quaternary
alluvial plains with characteristic species including Melaleuca thymifolia, Banksia robur,
Xanthorrhoea fulva, Hakea actites, Leptospermum spp. and Baeckea frutescens).
Ground-truthing of the vegetation on site however, indicates that the edges of the area of interest
do not contain Scribbly gum and are dominated by Paperbark tea tree. The pre-clear vegetation
mapping suggests that these edges are what remains of the lower slopes of the Scribbly gum
vegetation community in which Paperbark tea tree is often a prominent feature.
The central core, which may have historically been dominated by heath species, appears to be
transitioning to a wetland system with well-established Paperbark tea trees. This has probably
occurred through the exclusion of fire and changes in hydrology. The vegetation community now
exhibits the structure and composition of Least concern RE 12.3.5 - Melaleuca quinquenervia
open forest on coastal alluvium.
Whilst there is some evidence of recent disturbance and clearing for tracks (refer to Appendix G
- Aerial imagery), the area has generally not been mechanically or chemically cleared in the past
20 years.
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3.2.2 Vegetation within 100 metre buffer
Two timed meanders through the 100 metre buffer zone traversing remnant wet heath and
Scribbly gum woodland vegetation were undertaken as shown in Figure 1. No EVNT species
were recorded in the timed meander surveys. Results of timed meander surveys are summarised
in Table 3.
TABLE 3: Results of timed meander surveys
Survey 1 (remnant – northeast of the survey site) 12/12/2019 repeated 27/06/2023
Starting point GPS coordinates: -26.435674 oS, 153.026859 oE
Target species: Acacia attenuata, Acacia baueri, Eucalyptus conglomerata.
Time Species recorded
1100
Nil
1130
Survey 2 (remnant – northwest of the survey site) 12/12/2019 repeated 27/06/2023
Starting point GPS coordinates: -26.435590 oS, 153.026752 oE
Target species: Acacia attenuata, Acacia baueri, Eucalyptus conglomerata.
Time Species recorded
1145
Nil
1215
3.3 Fauna assessment
The vegetation on the subject site supports the breeding and habitation requirements of a diversity
of native fauna, including but not limited to one terrestrial mammal; thirteen bird species; five
amphibian species and two reptile species, as shown in Appendix H.
Two Least-concern skinks were detected within the footprint of proposed clearing works: Elegant
Snake Eyed Skink (Cryptoblepharus pulcher) and Garden Skink (Lampropholis delicata).
A number of nectarivorous and insectivorous bird species were observed foraging amongst the
Paperbarked tea tree, Eucalypt and heath elements in the survey area (Figure 8). Monkey rope
vine also provides food for nectarivorous birds during seasonally dry conditions when preferred
food sources are scarce. Scarlet honeyeaters (Myzomela sanguinolenta), were observed feeding
on Monkey rope flowers during the survey.
The survey area provides refuge during dry conditions, and in suitably wet conditions, it also
provides breeding habitat for Least concern amphibian species such as Eastern sedge frog
(Litoria fallax), Striped marsh frog (Limnodynastes peronii), Striped rocketfrog (Litoria nasuta),
Green tree frog (Litoria caerulea) and Graceful tree frog (Litoria gracilenta). Despite the presence
of suitable habitat in the survey area, Wallum frogs appear to be excluded from the area of interest
on the edge of the landfill potentially due to the presence of large populations of competitor
species e.g. Eastern sedgefrog and Striped rocketfrog and predator species e.g. Cane toads;
frequent disturbance and/or changes in water quality (pH and nutrients) associated with proximity
to landfill runoff (Ed Meyer, pers.comm). Large populations of Vulnerable-listed Wallum froglets
(Crinia tinnula) were identified in the less disturbed remnant and groundwater-dependent
ecosystems further north and east during targeted surveys conducted in March and April 2019,
and further north along the Noosa Eumundi Road (Noosa National Park) in February 2020, but
were not present in the survey area.
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Native Foresters Several Endangered Swamp crayfish (Tenuibranchiurus glypticus) were present in the ephemeral ponds in the Melaleuca wetland. Swamp crayfish will reproduce, overwinter and /or avoid desiccation within elaborate community burrows that extend to depths of more than one metre. Further information on this species is provided in section 4.0. No Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) or evidence of Koalas was found within the survey area. However, a previous survey conducted at the Noosa Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre by Native Foresters (2019) identified historical evidence of habitat utilisation within the surrounding Eucalypt-dominated woodland ecosystems. There are also four WildNET records within the surrounding one kilometre radius, suggesting the possibility of a local population. The survey site and surrounding remnant bushland is within a locally refined Koala Habitat Area, and Koala food and habitat trees e.g. Eucalyptus robusta and Melaleuca quinquenervia, are common across the survey area. As such, it is considered likely that the area may be used by local Koala populations. Koalas are listed as Vulnerable under the NC Act 1992 and the EPBC Act 1999. 3.4 Assessment of breeding places and fauna habitat quality Generally, the natural vegetation within the survey area has been assessed as possessing moderate habitat values, providing some breeding habitat as well as refuge, roosting habitat and basking sites for native fauna. The vegetated swamp contains many depressions that are seasonally inundated. These depressions form ephemeral ponds which are exploited by a number of Least concern frog species for breeding (e.g. Eastern sedge frog, Striped marsh frog, Graceful tree frog and Striped rocket frog). The amphibian population was limited to the more common Least concern species e.g., with the Vulnerable-listed Wallum frogs potentially being excluded from these disturbed edges due to the dilution effect of stormwater on pH of surface waters and groundwaters; and potential inter-species competition and/or predation. The ephemeral ponds formed after rains are also exploited for surface activity, foraging and/or potentially breeding by freshwater crayfish species (e.g. Endangered Swamp crayfish). The breeding biology of Swamp crayfish however is poorly documented. Available data suggest that breeding may occur at any time of year (Dawkins, 2015; E. Meyer, pers. comm.) and very little is known about their breeding habitat requirements. Differentiating between areas of breeding and non-breeding habitat is therefore impractical and, for the purposes of this assessment, areas of occupied habitat are regarded as breeding places. No hollow bearing trees or trees showing early stages of hollow formation were observed in the survey area. Trees within the Melaleuca woodland exhibited an average DBH of 150mm with an average height of 10-12m. No significant coarse woody debris (e.g. large hollow stumps and logs) were observed within the survey area. A small active burrow system and digs were observed within the fauna survey area, likely belonging to Bandicoot (Perameles sp. or Isodon sp.), Bush rat (Rattus fuscipes), Swamp rat (Rattus lutreolus) or Melomys sp as shown in Figure 8. Table 4 provides an analysis of the potential presence of threatened species as listed in WildNET and/or the EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool or based on the field habitat suitability assessment that may occur within the area (i.e. one kilometre radius) and comments on the likelihood of those species occurring in or around the survey site. Noosa Landfill & RRC - Northern Section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 24
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Native Foresters FIGURE 8: Fauna and fauna habitat in survey area Top left – Scarlet honeyeater feeding on nectar from Monkey rope vine flowers; Top right – Noisy friarbird Bottom left – Variegated fairy wren; Bottom right – Burrow mound at southern end of survey area Noosa Landfill & RRC - northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 25
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TABLE 4: Breeding habitat assessment and likelihood of occurrence for listed species
Scientific Name Common NCA EPBC Likelihood Habitat Preferences Presence of breeding
Name status status of places or breeding
occurrence habitat
Habitat specialist requires ephemeral, acidic, Absent
wallum wetland but tolerant of disturbance.
Wallum Possible Large population known to occur
Crinia tinnula V -
froglet approximately 300 metres further north and
east, individuals may disperse during
localised flooding.
Habitat specialist requires ephemeral, acidic, Absent
Wallum Possible wallum wetland but tolerant of disturbance.
Litoria freycineti V -
rocketfrog
Habitat specialist – requires suitable wallum Absent
Litoria Wallum Unlikely swamp and ephemeral wetland areas with
V -
olongburensis sedgefrog emergent aquatic vegetation.
Pezoporus Ground Inhabits lowland, coastal plains with dry and Absent
wallicus wallicus parrot wet heath and sedgelands (excluding
V - Possible permanent waterbodies). Prefers sites that
undergo 5 – 8 year fire intervals.
Secondary koala food and habitat trees Potential habitat present,
Phascolarctos present. Koalas may traverse the area as but no individuals detected.
Koala V V Possible
cinereus they disperse from bushland habitat to the
east, north and west.
Inhabits coastal wallum swamps in areas
with sedges and open water. Nocturnal
Tenuibranchiurus Swamp surface activity associated with rain events
E - Known Present.
glypticus crayfish and ephemeral ponding. Individuals
identified further east in areas mapped as
RE 12.3.5/12.3.13.
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4.0 SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
4.1 Swamp crayfish (Tenuibranchiurus glypticus)
Swamp crayfish, listed as Endangered under the NC Act (1992), is Australia’s smallest crayfish
growing up to 25 mm (Figure 9). Its distribution is highly restricted, occurring from the Kinkuna
section of Burrum Coast National Park, Queensland and southwards along the coastline to Lake
Hiawatha, New South Wales. Its area of occupancy within this coastal strip is fragmented and the
species occurs in small, isolated locations, some of which are threatened by urbanisation.
Throughout its range, the Swamp Crayfish is associated mainly with coastal Paperbark swamps,
including areas of remnant and regrowth Melaleuca woodland.
Swamp crayfish can be distinguished from other crayfish species in south east Queensland by its
narrow thorax and the vertical alignment of the fingers of the claws. It is often difficult to detect as
it burrows into the substrate in coastal wallum swamps and shallow drainage channels. It can be
found among sedges and less frequently in open water. Much of the year is spent underground
in elaborate burrows that may extend over 1.5 metres below the surface.
The breeding biology of Swamp crayfish is poorly documented. Available data suggest that
breeding may occur during late autumn/early winter with egg-bearing animals and young-of-year
crayfish having been recorded in May-July (Dawkins, 2015; E. Meyer, pers. comm.), as well as at
other times of year.
Two adult Swamp crayfish were found in small ponds, foraging above leaf litter under a canopy
of Melaleuca (-26.43565oS, 153.02659oE and -26.43570oS, 153.02634oE). Refer to Figure 1.
Their distribution is likely to extend throughout the entire survey area and adjacent habitats.
Habitat loss (i.e loss of treed wetlands), pollution, degradation of water quality, changes to
drainage patterns and climate change are considered significant threats to the survival of Swamp
crayfish. However, records of this species from drainage lines and artificial ponds, within and
adjacent to disturbed Melaleuca woodlands suggest some resilience to disturbance.
FIGURE 9: Swamp crayfish in Melaleuca wetland adjacent to landfill
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5.0 ASSESSMENT – NOOSA PLAN
As part of this revision to the report, a code assessment against the relevant performance and
acceptable outcomes of the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Code is provided in
Table 5. This is in response to Council’s Information Request, dated 18th May 2023 for
application no. 132005.638.02.
Under the Noosa Plan 2020 the site is mapped (see Figure 10) under the Biodiversity, Waterways
and Wetlands Overlay as follows:
• MSES Environmental Values.
• Area of Biodiversity Significance.
It is noted that the overlay maps a Waterway and Riparian Buffer Area approximately 30m to the
north of the proposed clearing.
FIGURE 10: Biodiversity Overlay
Overall, the works will result in the clearing of 0.9 hectares of remnant vegetation which is in a
generally degraded condition associated with stormwater inputs and associated Singapore Daisy
infestation. The adjacent vegetation to the north will be protected and managed to maintain the
ecological values present, including fauna habitat for listed species. The management of works
and operation of the landfill will include measures to protect the adjacent environmental values of
surface waters, groundwaters, native flora and fauna. The provision of an offset area will also
mitigate impacts resulting from the works.
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TABLE 5: Assessment of Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Code
Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
Ecologically important areas
PO1 AO1.1 Complies with PO1
Development is sited and designed to protect Ecologically important areas are conserved or
the physical and ecological integrity and improved to ensure their ongoing contribution to the Flora and Fauna Assessments have been
biodiversity of ecologically important areas natural resources and biological diversity of Noosa
undertaken by Native Foresters to assess onsite
through protection of: Shire.
a) existing habitat areas and ecological
values of the flora and fauna.
linkages; and AND
b) existing riparian vegetation, RE mapping shows the area of interest near the
waterways and wetland habitat AO1.2
Cleanaway depot contains thin strips of remnant
values. Buildings, structures and associated works are Scribbly gum woodland (Endangered RE 12.5.3 -
located within existing cleared areas or areas of Eucalyptus racemosa subsp. racemosa woodland
lowest ecological value. on remnant Tertiary surfaces) and a central core of
remnant Palustrine heath (Least concern RE 12.3.13
AND - Closed heathland on seasonally waterlogged
alluvial plains usually near the coast).
AO1.3
Where constructing a dwelling house or community However, the vegetation on site was found to be a
residence, buildings and associated structures are Melaleuca wetland exhibiting characteristics of
not located on land identified as an area of Least Concern Regional Ecosystem RE12.3.5 –
biodiversity significance on a Biodiversity, Melaleuca quinquenervia open forest on coastal
Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Map
alluvium. It was also found to be moderately
Or disturbed with impacts including degraded edges,
weed infestations i.e. Singapore daisy, litter
Clearing vegetation (other than for a driveway incursion, clearing for access tracks, and/or
access) does not extend beyond— boreholes and receives stormwater inputs from the
sediment basin on northern edge of landfill. The
a) 30 metres of a habitable building or 10 area was too small to be reclassified using a PMAV,
metres of a class 10 structure on lots so even though it is not consistent with the
greater than 10 hectares; or mapping, for the purposes of the report it is will
b) 10 metres of a habitable building or class classed as partly RE12.3.13 and partly RE12.5.3.
10 structure on lots 10 hectares or less but
more than 3,000m2; or
c) 3 metres of a habitable building or class 10
structure on lots 3,000m2 or less.
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
AND This vegetation is within a mapped Area of
Biodiversity Significance and approximately 0.9
AO1.4 hectares will be cleared for the expansion of the
Clearing of vegetation for a boundary fence does not landfill.
extend beyond 5 metres either side of the fence.
Lot 77 will retain 270.53 hectares of regional
ecosystems on site following the works. Therefore,
the clearing required for the landfill expansion is
0.3% of the remnant vegetation in Lot 77.
Area of clearing for proposed expansion = 0.9ha
Area of biodiversity overlay remaining = 269.51ha
The proposed clearing is in accordance with the
Master Plan for the site, which aims to retain the
majority of Lot77 as natural vegetation, with
clearing only occurring in the southern portion of the
site for the Noosa Shire waste management facility.
Reconfiguring a Lot
PO2 AO2 N/A
New Lots are only created if they maintain Where clearing vegetation for the purpose of
ecological linkages and minimize the clearing of reconfiguring a Lot
vegetation d) new boundaries to lots do not transect and
fragment existing native vegetation;
e) new lots are created to allow for suitable
building envelopes for future buildings and
works to be located within existing cleared
areas or areas of low ecological value;
f) building envelopes are designated for each
lot; and
g) ecological linkages and ecologically
important areas are secured by
environmental covenant or transferred to
public ownership or through gazettal of a
nature reserve.
Management of impacts
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
PO3 AO3.1 Complies with PO3
Development is designed and sited to manage Where clearing of vegetation cannot be practicably
adverse impacts on ecologically important avoided, the development: The landfill expansion works cannot be practicably
areas by: a) ensures the design and siting limits the avoided and have been minimised as much as
a) minimising the total footprint within loss of vegetation to the smallest extent
which all activities, buildings, possible;
possible.
structures driveways and other works b) protects and retains ecological values and
are contained; ecosystem processes to the greatest The proposed clearing will allow for the landfill
b) locating development in existing extent possible within and adjacent to the expansion to occur in accordance with the master
cleared areas or areas of low site; plan for the site, and will require clearing of 0.9
ecological value over other areas to c) provides measures to allow for safe hectares of mapped vegetation – area of biodiversity
the greatest extent possible; and movement of fauna through the site; and importance.
c) incorporating siting and design d) provides suitable habitat replacement and
measures to protect and retain replanting in accordance with PSP3 Clearing vegetation is unavoidable, but the following
ecological values and ecosystem Ecological Assessment Guidelines.
processes within or adjacent to the
is noted:
development site; and AO3.2 • The proposed clearing is directly adjacent
d) where adverse impacts have been Habitat trees, recruitment habitat trees, and roosting, to the existing cleared areas of the landfill
minimised, any residual impacts on breeding and feeding areas are protected for native site,
ecological values are compensated fauna habitat. • Vegetation proposed to be cleared is a
for through suitable habitat patch that is surrounded on three sides by
replacement and replanting on site in landfill areas and has been impacted by the
the first instance or in a way that
uses of the landfill,
results in a net gain and
enhancement of the overall habitat • Proposed works on the site include a HES
values of Noosa Shire. Basin and concrete crushing area which
are positioned to manage the expanded
landfill footprint and ensure stormwater
flows from the site are properly treated.
An offset plan for the cleared area has been
proposed and is detailed in Section 5.1 below.
PO4 AO4.1 Complies with PO4
Development provides for effective measures Vegetation is protected from disturbance or damage
during construction and operation to protect from The proposed clearing will be undertaken in
ecological values including: construction and operation activities by: accordance with a Construction Environmental
a) avoiding disturbance to or clearing of a) clearly marking trees to be retained with
vegetation in and within the vicinity of flagging tape;
Management Plan (CEMP) which will incorporate
the site; b) installing protective fencing around the actions specific to protecting the environmental
b) managing habitat disturbance and dripline of the vegetation and avoid filling values on site and adjacent to the site.
physical harm to fauna from noise, and excavating in these fenced areas;
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
vibration, dust, light, dewatering or c) ensuring stockpiling, storage and vehicle The works will also be undertaken in accordance
excavating; and parking occurs outside the identified with an approved High Risk Species Management
c) avoiding clearing in areas where vegetation areas; and Program (SMP) for:
erosion or slippage could occur. d) using low impact construction techniques
• Wallum Froglet (Crinia tinnula) - Vulnerable;
around vegetation.
• Wallum Rocketfrog (Litoria freycineti) -
AO4.2 Vulnerable;
Vegetation which is capable of forming or • Swamp Crayfish (Tenuibranchiurus
contributing to a buffer between different land uses or glypticus) – Endangered.
a buffer against pollution, light spillage or noise is
retained. This SMP outlines management of impacts to these
species breeding habitat and contingency planning.
AO4.3
Lighting associated with development: The works will also be undertaken in accordance
a) does not contribute an unacceptable level
with a Low Risk SMP for least concern fauna species
of illuminance (greater than 1 lux) for light
sensitive species within or at the boundary on site.
of an ecologically important area; and
b) does not contribute to an unacceptable The site is flat and clearing will not result in hillslope
level of illuminance on landward horizons erosion or slippage.
along coastal areas and known marine
turtle nesting beaches.
AO4.4
Clearing of vegetation does not involve clearing that
may cause or contribute to hillslope erosion, bank
erosion, or slippage.
Connectivity
PO5 AO5 Complies with PO5
Development is designed and operated to Development is designed and operated to maintain
maintain and enhance connectivity between ecological linkages and maximise opportunity for The vegetation proposed to be cleared in a 0.9ha of
and across ecologically important areas and connectivity and the movement of fauna by: vegetation “jutting” into the landfill site. It is shown
connecting habitat and support unimpeded and a) ensuring protection of wildlife refuges;
safe movement of terrestrial and aquatic fauna. b) maintaining vegetation in patches of the
within the Master Plan to be cleared for landfill uses.
greatest possible size and within the
smallest possible edgetoarea ratio; It does not link to the south, east or west to
c) enhancing connectivity through planting vegetation, but is surrounded by landfill in these
and rehabilitation works, including across directions. It is connected to the bulk of the
property boundaries, to areas of national vegetation on Lot 77 to the north.
park, state forest or reserve;
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
d) avoiding the creation of physical barriers The clearing will reduce the existing ‘edge’ of the
and safety hazards (such as roads, patch remaining inside the landfill area.
pedestrian access and instream structures)
along and within the ecological linkage; Fauna breeding habitat will be managed in
e) providing mitigation measures such as
wildlife movement infrastructure, fauna
accordance with the approved SMP for the site.
exclusion and directional fencing,
underpasses/overpasses and traffic An offset plan is detailed in Section 5.1 below to
calming devices, signage and lighting; and deliver an offset to support fauna to the south of the
f) where offsets are necessary, delivering clearing area.
offsets that support and enhance
ecological linkages. The proposed works do not impact the connectivity
to the north to the adjacent national park.
Waterways and wetlands
PO6 AO6.1 Complies with PO6
The biodiversity and ecosystem values of Development and clearing of vegetation does not
waterways, wetlands and adjacent riparian occur within: The proposed clearing for the landfill expansion is
zones are protected by: a) a riparian buffer area; not within a riparian buffer or wetland area,
a) avoiding any new development in a b) a wetland area; or
riparian buffer area and wetland area; c) 10 metres either side of the centre line of
identified on Council’s overlay mapping.
b) retaining aquatic and terrestrial other waterways identified on a
habitat in riparian zones; Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands The clearing is approximately 35m to the south of
c) maintaining and enhancing wildlife Overlay Map. the mapped waterway and 30m south of the
corridors and connectivity along AO6.2 mapped riparian buffer.
watercourses and drainage lines for Development provides for the rehabilitation of land
native fauna movement; within:
d) avoiding edge effects and damage a) a riparian buffer area;
from adjacent land uses; b) a wetland area; and
e) maintaining stream integrity and bank c) 10 metres either side of the centre line of
stability by minimising bank erosion any other waterway identified on a
and slumping; Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands
f) maintaining water quality through Overlay Map.
filtering sediments, nutrients and
other pollutants; and AO6.3
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
g) removing pest species and replacing Recreational facilities (eg. playgrounds, pergolas,
them with local native species. barbeques) are setback a minimum of 10 metres
from the top of the bank of a waterway.
PO7 No acceptable outcome provided. N/A
Vegetation within 400 metres of the full
ponded water within Lake
Macdonald is retained.
PO8 AO8.1 N/A
Development on land adjacent to a waterway or Development adjacent to a waterway or wetland
wetland maintains appropriate extent of public provides that: There is currently no public access to the waterway
access to waterways and wetlands and a) no new lots directly back onto a riparian to the north of the proposed clearing.
minimises edge effects. buffer area; and
b) new public roads are located between a
riparian buffer area or riparian zone and
the proposed development area.
Surface and ground water hydrology
PO9 AO9.1 Complies with PO9
Development ensures that the natural surface Development does not impact on the natural surface
water and ground water hydrologic regimes of water or groundwater hydrologic regimes and this is The native vegetation to the north of the clearing (in
waterways, wetlands and facilitated by: adjacent retained vegetation) is not mapped as a
hydrologically-sensitive plant communities are a) avoiding or minimising channelization,
not adversely impacted. redirection or interruption of flow;
groundwater dependent ecosystem.
b) avoiding groundwater extraction;
c) maintaining groundwater recharge and The works have been designed to ensure surface
discharge processes; flows are safely conveyed across the site without
d) maintaining natural groundwater causing erosion on the site. The works will also be
fluctuations; undertaken in accordance with a CEMP to protect
e) avoiding causing ingress of saline water water quality values on site.
into freshwater aquifers of wetlands; and
f) avoiding contaminants entering There is no proposed groundwater extraction for the
groundwater (e.g. from runoff, effluent
disposal).
works.
The landfill site currently uses a HES basin and a
bioretention basin to treat surface waters on site prior
to entering adjacent ecosystems. The proposed
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
works include a larger upgraded HES Basin with the
intention of improving water quality of stormwater
entering adjacent retained vegetation.
Council is implementing weed management on the
site and will continue to manage surface waters to
protect water quality on site.
Rehabilitation of ecologically important areas
PO10 AO10.1 Complies with PO10
Development provides for ecologically Landscaping and rehabilitation complements and
important areas to be restored and enhanced supports ecologically important areas by: The works will include implementation of a Weed
through: a) utilising local native species;
Management Plan for Singapore Daisy and other
a) designing landscaped areas to b) utilising suitable plant species identified in
complement and enhance existing PSP2 Landscaping;
weed species.
vegetation and ecological linkages; c) restoring degraded ecosystems to achieve
b) removing species likely to displace a functional ecosystem state that requires The proposed offset plan detailed in Section 5.1
native flora species or degrade fauna minimal human intervention; proposes to rehabilitate an area to replace regional
habitat; d) replicating adjacent remnant habitats of the ecosystems removed.
c) replanting and rehabilitating degraded same type, including the understorey
habitat; vegetation;
d) replacing any vegetation removed e) creating or enhancing linkages between
with suitable local native species; existing habitats;
e) providing for fauna habitat; and f) avoiding the use of pest plant species
f) avoiding the planting of pest plant listed in PSP2 - Landscaping;
species. g) planting riparian zones to filter stormwater
run-off, stabilise soil and provide for wildlife
habitat; and
h) providing ground and arboreal structures
for fauna, which may include ground
depressions, rocks, hollows, nesting boxes
and in-stream habitat.
AO10.2
Vegetation cleared is replaced with:
a) plantings of equivalent area that replicate
the floristic structure of the vegetation
removed; or
b) where this is not possible due to the
characteristics of the site and the
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
development, plantings twice the number
of the removed trees and plants.
Koala habitat protection and enhancement
PO11 AO11.1 Complies with PO11
Development is designed, constructed and Development design complies with the
operated to— Koala-sensitive Design Guideline: A guide to koala The proposed works will require clearing of 0.9 ha of
a) protect and enhance koalas and sensitive design measures for planning and koala habitat.
koala habitat and avoid adverse development activities.
impacts;
b) provide measures to assist the It is proposed to provide the following measures to
AO11.2
survival of koala populations in the reduce impacts and risks to koalas as a result of
Development incorporates revegetation and
area to mitigate any potential threats landscaping that provides food, shelter and
these works;
or risk to koalas; and movement opportunities for koalas. • Offset plan to include a 3:1 offset of koala
c) provide for safe and appropriate trees
koala movement across the • Weed management of the site
landscape.
• Erecting a fauna, dust and rubbish exclusion
fence around the edge of the landfill to
AO11.3 reduce impacts to adjacent vegetation and
Development is designed to maximise and enhance excluding access to the landfill areas for
connectivity between koala habitat trees and ensure koalas and other fauna.
safe koala movement.
• A koala spotter catcher required during
clearing works to relocate koalas and other
AO11.4 native fauna
During construction, measures are incorporated to
not increase the risk of death or injury to koalas, by
• Clearing works to be undertaken in a
including safe koala movement measures, as defined sequential manner from cleared edges
in the Planning Regulation 2017. towards retained vegetation to allow fauna
to escape
• Works to be in accordance with a CEMP
detailing clearing works methodology to
reduce impacts on native fauna.
• A site based Stormwater Management Plan
to protect water quality on site
• ESC plans for clearing and construction
works.
• Council to manage the site during landfill
operations to ensure regular inspections of
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Performance Outcomes Acceptable Outcomes Response
protective measures are working in
accordance with design.
Bushfire management
PO12 Complies with PO12
Bushfire management measures are adopted No acceptable outcome provided.
based on ecological principles, which: The site is mapped as Medium Potential Bushfire
a) maintain and enhance biodiversity; Intensity and Potential Impact Buffer areas, with
b) minimise threat of fire to the natural
environment, as well as life and
adjacent vegetation also being Medium to High
property; and potential bushfire intensity.
c) provide for effective use and
maintenance of buildings and Council will continue to manage the landfill to reduce
structures. bushfire potential on the landfill site.
The adjacent retained vegetation on Lot 77, which is
not dedicated conservation area, will continue to be
managed in accordance with Council’s bushfire
management of this site. There are bushfire access
roads on site.
Scenic amenity
PO13 AO13.1 Complies with PO13
The scenic amenity and vegetated character of Vegetation is retained:
the landscape is protected by retaining a) on and within 30 metres of prominent The proposed clearing does not significantly change
vegetation: ridgelines and on sloping sites; the scenic amenity of the site.
a) along and around watercourses and b) in gullies;
drainage lines; c) along watercourses and drainage lines;
b) on steep slopes and ridgelines; d) within 10 metres of the major road network; The clearing area is not visible from adjacent road
c) along the major road network; and and ways and as it is within an existing landfill site, it is
d) that forms coastal vistas to and from e) along the front coastal dune system. unlikely to change the amenity.
beaches.
The adjacent large area of vegetation retains the
scenic amenity values of the site.
The proposed Offset Planting will act to visually
buffer the landfill to the south of the site.
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5.1 Proposed Offset Plan
Council is proposing a Rehabilitation Offset Plan in accordance with the Environmental Offsets
Act 2014. Council will need to enter into an agreed delivery arrangement to deliver this
environmental offset. The Council proposed offset area is shown in Figure 11.
Generally the plan will include:
• Establishment of an offset area to offset impacts to RE12.3.13.
• Ensure species selection is determined to re-establish RE12.3.13.
• Establish an offset for the loss of koala habitat trees at a ratio of 3:1.
• Ensure koala habitat trees are used in offset planting works to achieve replacement of
loss of koala habitat trees at a ratio of 3:1.
• To remove environmental weeds and restricted invasive plants (RIP) as listed in the
Biosecurity Regulation 2016.
FIGURE 11: Proposed Offset Area
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6.0 SUMMARY
• The vegetation within the survey area consists of a Melaleuca wetland occurring across
two land zones (Coastal alluvium in the centre and remnant Tertiary surfaces and
Cainozoic and Mesozoic sediments on the outer edges).
• The vegetation is mapped as remnant ‘Least Concern’ RE 12.3.13 - Closed heathland on
seasonally waterlogged alluvial plains usually near the coast, and ‘Endangered’ RE
12.5.3- Scribbly gum woodland on remnant Tertiary surfaces.
• Ground-truthing of the RE mapping suggests that in the absence of fire, the central core
is transitioning from a palustrine heath to a palustrine wetland (Least concern RE12.3.5 –
Paperbark tea tree open forest on coastal alluvium), as evidenced by a well-established
canopy of Paperbark tea tree.
• The Land Zone 5 ecosystem on the edges of the patch also has a well-established canopy
of Paperbark tea tree, with no Scribbly gums present, and is likely to represent the lower
slopes of the remnant Scribbly gum woodland which would have historically covered the
area to the south.
• A total of 43 local native flora species and 23 introduced flora species were recorded
during the survey, including four species listed as Restricted Invasive Plants under the
Biosecurity Act 2014.
• No EVNT flora species were recorded within the survey site or adjoining 100m buffer zone.
• No evidence of EPBC listed Ecological Communities was found onsite.
• The survey area provides suitable habitat for a range of native fauna, including but not
limited to thirteen bird species, two reptile species, five amphibian species and one
terrestrial mammal, possibly a Bandicoot or Bush rat.
• One EVNT-listed fauna species, Swamp crayfish (Tenuibranchiurus glypticus) – listed as
Endangered - was identified in the ponded water on site after large rain events.
• Proposed works will result in the loss of approximately 0.9 hectares of mapped remnant
vegetation in which Melaleuca and Eucalyptus spp are dominant. The clearing area is
considered to be in a degraded condition associated with inputs of stormwater from the
landfill and the associated presence of the habit changing groundcover species;
Singapore Daisy which is a restricted invasive plant.
• A large infestation of Singapore Daisy is occurring at the northern end of the site extending
approximately 80 metres north into remnant heathland. Other restricted invasive plants,
e.g. Lantana, Camphor laurel and Groundsel also occur.
• There is evidence of clearing for access tracks in historical aerial imagery. This has
resulted in significant variation in condition throughout the survey area and has left canopy
openings that have now been colonised by introduced grasses and weeds e.g. Lantana.
• The site lies in a Koala Priority Area and a Koala Habitat Area (locally refined). However
as the proposed clearing is for landfill infrastructure conducted by a local council, it is
considered ‘exempted development’ under the Planning Regulation 2017.
• No evidence of Koala habitat utilisation was found, however four WildNET records and
other historical records within the surrounding 1km radius suggest the possibility of a local
population. Koala food and habitat trees (Eucalyptus robusta and Melaleuca
quinquenervia) are present and it is considered possible that the forested areas may be
used by a local Koala population as they disperse from suitable bushland occurring to the
west (across Eumundi Noosa Road), north (through existing bushland), east (Weyba
Nature Refuge) and south (Noosa National Park) or as a dry season refugia.
• Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) occur within the survey area (i.e.
Regulated Vegetation and Protected Species).
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Native Foresters
• The assessment against the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetland Code (Noosa Plan,
2020) determined that the proposed works comply with codes 1,3,4,5,6,9,10,11,12 and 13
while codes 2,7 and 8 are not applicable.
7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise any potential adverse impacts on native flora and fauna species and their breeding
habitats within the survey area, the following recommendations are made:
1. A Residual Impact Assessment for the Matters of State Environmental Significance that are
known to occur on site i.e Regulated Vegetation and Protected Species has been undertaken
which determined that an offset will be required for residual impacts to MSES that cannot be
avoided or mitigated.
2. An approved Species Management Plan has been prepared in order to mitigate potential
impacts on Endangered Swamp crayfish and their breeding habitat within the survey area.
3. An Operational Works for Clearing Native Vegetation application may need to be submitted
under the Planning Act 2016.
4. As the proposed clearing is in a Protected Plants High Risk area, an Exempt Clearing
Notification (protected plants) will need to be submitted, in accordance with 261z of the
Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. This report includes a flora
survey as per the Flora Survey Guidelines and can be submitted with the notification provided
it is lodged to the state within 12 months of the survey being undertaken.
5. A Fauna Spotter catcher should be engaged during clearing and excavation works to relocate
any native fauna found to undisturbed habitat nearby.
6. Disturbance to retained remnant vegetation and tree root protection zones of large retained
habitat trees (trees with dbh>300mm) that occur next to the clearing area should be avoided.
7. Whilst the likelihood of encountering a Koala during works is considered low, due
consideration should be given to the potential presence of Koalas in surrounding bushland
habitat.
8. Care should be taken to avoid introduction and further spread of undesirable habitat-changing
weeds during works through machinery inspections and hygiene protocols and
removal/disposal of all spoil contaminated with Singapore daisy fragments.
9. Control and eradication of Singapore daisy should be considered a priority where it has
colonised drainage lines and where it has encroached into adjacent remnant ecosystems as
part of Council’s General Biosecurity obligation under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
10. Control of Lantana, Groundsel, Camphor Laurel and Morning Glory should also be
incorporated into works as part of the General Biosecurity Obligation. Frog-friendly herbicides
should be used in proximity to wetlands.
11. Implementation of sediment control measures to minimise the potential for overland erosion
and associated adverse effects on downstream water quality and amphibian breeding habitat
will be required.
12. Appropriate litter control measures such as a litter barrier or fence or regular clean ups should
be implemented to ensure dispersal of litter into retained remnant vegetation adjacent to the
site is minimised.
13. Felled trees should be retained and dispersed throughout adjacent remnant and regrowth
areas where appropriate to reinstate coarse woody debris or donated to community
revegetation projects to augment habitat value for reptiles and small mammals.
14. A detailed Offset Delivery Plan should be developed in accordance with the Environmental
Offsets Act 2014 which details species composition, planting and maintenance program for
the Offset area. Appropriate monitoring and reporting for the Offset area should be included
as part of this plan.
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Native Foresters REFERENCES Eyre TJ, Ferguson DJ, Hourigan CL, Smith GC, Mathieson MT, Kelly, AL, Venz MF, Hogan, LD and Rowland, J. (2014), Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Survey Assessment Guidelines for Queensland. Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, Queensland Government, Brisbane. Frogs Australia Network (2017), Australian Frogs Database. www.frogsaustralia.net.au Heavey, J. and MacDonald, S. (2013), Weeds of The Sunshine Coast. Noosa Integrated Catchment Association Inc. Leiper, G., Glazebrook, J., Cox, D. and Rathie, K. (2009), Mangroves to Mountains. A Field Guide to the Plants of South East Queensland. Revised Edition. Society for Growing Australian Plants – QLD Region. Meyer E, Hines H and Hero J-M (2001), Wet forest frogs of south-east Queensland, Griffith University, Nathan. Native Foresters (2019), Noosa Landfill Expansion- flora and fauna survey and assessment of impacts on adjacent ecosystems, Document No:190707-FF-Revision 2. Neldner, V.J., Wilson, B.A., Dillewaard, H.A., Ryan, T.S., Butler, D.W., McDonald, W.J.F, Addicott, E.P. and Appelman, C.N. (2019), Methodology for survey and mapping of regional ecosystems and vegetation communities in Queensland. Version 5.0. Updated March 2019. Queensland Herbarium, Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Brisbane. Parkes, D., Newell, G. and Cheal, D. (2003), Assessing the quality of native vegetation: The ‘habitat hectares’ approach. Ecological Management and Restoration 4: S29–S38. doi: 10.1046/j.1442-8903.4.s.4.x Queensland Government, Department of Environment and Science (2019), Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants. Nature Conservation Act 1992. Prepared by Wildlife and Threatened Species Operations, Version 2.01. Queensland Government, Department of Environment and Science (2019), BioCondition benchmark for regional ecosystem condition assessment, Queensland Herbarium, Brisbane, https://www.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0026/67382/seq-benchmarks.pdf Queensland Government (2006), Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. Queensland Government (2020), Nature Conservation and Other Legislation (Koala Protection) Amendment Regulation. Queensland Herbarium (2016), Regional Ecosystem Description Database (REDD) Version 10.0 (December 2016) (DSITI: Brisbane). Noosa Landfill & RRC – northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 41
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Native Foresters APPENDIX A – NOOSA LANDFILL MASTERPLAN Noosa Landfill & RRC – northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 42
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Native Foresters
APPENDIX B – DATABASE AND MAP SEARCHES USED FOR
DESKTOP REVIEW OF SITE ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES
DATABASE / MAP SOURCE DESCRIPTION
PRODUCT
Regulated Vegetation DR, 2022 Regulated Vegetation mapping shows vegetation categories that
Management Map determine clearing requirements as gazetted under the Qld Vegetation
Management Act 1999. The Regulated Vegetation Supporting map
provides information on regional ecosystems, wetlands, watercourses,
and essential habitat and factors.
Protected Plants Flora DES, 2022 This tool identifies whether a proposed clearing area lies within a high
Survey Trigger Map) risk area that may contain EVNT plant species. It is used to determine
when a flora survey needs to meet the requirements of the Queensland
Flora Survey Guidelines – Protected Plants (NCA, 1992).
Essential Habitat Map DR, 2022 Essential Habitat is a vegetation ecotype that is considered by DES to
form potential habitat for an EVNT species that is listed under the Nature
Conservation Regulations (2020). Essential Habitat mapping is
provided in conjunction with Regulated Vegetation Management
mapping as gazetted under the VMA (1999).
WildNET Database DES/DSITIA, Wildlife sightings and listings for all flora and fauna species within a
2022 designated area.
EPBC Protected Matters DoE, 2022 This tool generates a report that indicates whether matters of national
Search Tool environmental significance or other matters protected by
the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999 that are likely to occur in your area of interest – Indicative only.
Map of Referable DES, 2022 A statewide regulatory map under the Environmental Protection
Wetlands Regulation 2008 which identifies wetlands of high ecological
significance (HES) and general ecological significance (GES). HES
wetlands are considered MSES under the Planning and Environmental
Offsets legislation.
Nature Conservation Qld These maps identify Koala Habitat Areas (core and locally refined) and
(Koala) Conservation Government, Koala Priority Areas that contain Koala habitat which is essential for the
Plan 2017 and maps 2022 conservation of a viable population in the wild in South East Queensland
Queensland Waterways Development This spatial data layer guides the determination of whether operational
for Waterway Barrier Assessment work that is constructing or raising waterway barrier works i.e. works
Works spatial data layer Mapping that may inhibit the free movement of fish along waterways and onto
and guideline System, floodplains, complies with the accepted development requirements or is
DSDMIP 2022 assessable development requiring a development approval under the
Planning Act 2016.
Matters of State DES, 2022 This report identifies MSES as referenced in the biodiversity state
Environmental interest under the State Planning Policy (SPP). MSES encompass
Significance (MSES) environmental values protected under Queensland legislation
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APPENDIX C: CERTIFICATION OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED
PERSON FOR FLORA SURVEY
Native Foresters flora surveys are undertaken by competent and trained personnel led by Vanessa
Moscato.
Vanessa Moscato (BSc) also undertakes flora surveys as part of the Native Foresters flora survey team.
Vanessa has been undertaking flora surveys, including EVNT species surveys for twelve years, including:
▪ Flora and Fauna Assessment - Petrie Creek Bank Stabilisation (2017)
▪ Plot survey of Pararistolochia praevenosa - Nambour Landfill Expansion (2015-2017)
▪ Flora Assessment - Maleny Southern Wetlands (2016)
▪ Flora Assessment - Jimna Bellthorpe Road bridge, West Kilcoy (2016)
▪ Population survey of Symplocos harroldii at Daintree Estate, Tewantin (2014)
The following statement is provided in certification of the suitably qualified person who conducted the flora
survey.
I certify that
(a) I have adhered to all statutory requirements and flora survey guideline requirements, and
(b) the flora survey report is an accurate and full account of the flora survey.
I have previously been approved by EHP under the Nambour Landfill Expansion project – Fauna and
Flora Assessment, prepared for Noosa Council.
Name: Vanessa Moscato Signature:
Date: 12/12/2019
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APPENDIX D: JUSTIFICATION OF SUITABLY QUALIFIED AND
EXPERIENCED PERSON FOR FAUNA BREEDING PLACE
SURVEY
Native Foresters fauna surveys and breeding habitat assessments are coordinated and led by
Tony Bright.
Tony Bright is a native fauna and flora specialist with over 40 years’ experience in the field. He
has spent ten years as a guide working in the Fraser Island region and 30 years doing field–based
research in Australia and overseas. Tony is a professional wildlife keeper and a licensed Wildlife
spotter catcher (Fauna rehabilitation permit holder) specialising in reptile, mammal and amphibian
species.
Tony Bright is assisted in the field by Vanessa Moscato and Pru McIntyre.
Vanessa is an ecological consultant with:
• Ten years’ experience in conducting surveys for animal breeding places;
• A Science degree; and
• Four years’ experience as a Fauna Spotter-catcher
Pru is an environmental scientist with five years’ experience in conducting habitat restoration,
fauna and flora surveys.
Noosa Landfill & RRC – northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 45
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Native Foresters APPENDIX E: MSES MAPPING Noosa Landfill & RRC – northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment – REV3 46
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Native Foresters MSES - Species Koala habitat area (SEQ) Area of Interest ([} Lot and Pian A Towns Freeways/Highways Secondary roads Major rivers/creeks HR Koala habitat area (core) Koala habitat area (locally refined) LOCALITY DIAGRAM The koala habitat mapping within South East Queensland uses regional ecosystem linework compiled at a scale varying from 1:25,000 to 1:100,000. Linework should be used as a guide ° 140 200 420560 700m only. The positional accuracy of regional ecosystem a data mapped at a scale of 1:100,000 is +/- 100 metres. © The State of Queensland, 2020 This product is projected into GDA 1994 Queensland Albers While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of this product, the Department of Environment and Science acting ‘on behalf of the State of Queensland makes no representations ‘or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and disclaims all responsibilty ‘and ail liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or onsequential damage) and costs which you might incur as a result of the data being inaccurate or incomplete in any way and for any reason. Due to varying sources of data, spatial locations may not coincide when overtaid The represented layers for SEQ ‘koala habitat area-core’ and koala habitat area- locally refined’ in MSES are sourced directly from the regulatory mapping under the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Pian 2017. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information remains current, there may be delays between updating versions. Please refer to the original mapping for the most recent version. See https://environment des.qid.gov.aulwildlife/animalsfiving- with/koalas/mapping Noosa Landfill & RRC — northern section — Fauna and Flora Assessment — REV3 47
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Native Foresters MSES - Regulated Vegetation Area of Interest | Information presented on this product is distributed by the (Lot and Plan LOCALITY DIAGRAM Queensland Government as an information source only. While a Tk every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of this data, the state fowns of Queensland makes no statements, representations or — Freeways/Highways warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability of any information contained in this product. Secondary roads Major rivers/creeks The state of Queensland disclaims all responsibility for information contained in this product and alll liability (including — Regulated vegetation (intersecting a watercourse) without limitation, labiity in negligence) forall expenses, losses Fulani vegatnieti (100m fein wetland) damages and costs you may incur as a result ofthe information being inaccurate or incomplete in any way for any reason. Regulated vegetation (category B - endangered or of concern) [Regulated vegetation (category C - endangered or of concern) Regulated vegetation (category R - GBR riverine) —] Regulated vegetation (essential habitat) 150 300 450 600 750 m © The State of Queensiand, 2020 This product is projected into GDA 1994 Queensland Albers Noosa Landfill & RRC — northern section — Fauna and Flora Assessment — REV3
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APPENDIX F: FLORA SPECIES LIST
SCIENTIFIC NAME FAMILY COMMON NAME ABUNDANCE
CANOPY
Acacia melanoxylon Mimosaceae Blackwood Occasional
Eucalyptus robusta Myrtaceae Swamp mahogany Occasional
Eucalyptus pilularis Myrtaceae Blackbutt Rare
Glochidion ferdinandi Phyllanthaceae Cheese tree Common
Lophostemon suaveolens Myrtaceae Swamp box Occasional
Lophostemon confertus Myrtaceae Brushbox Uncommon
Melaleuca quinquenervia Myrtaceae Broad-leaved paperbark Common
MID STRATA
Acacia leiocalyx Mimosaceae Black wattle Occasional
Allocasuarina littoralis Casuarinaceae Black she-oak Common
Alphitonia excelsa Lauraceae Soap tree Common
Archontophoenix
cunninghamiana Arecaceae Piccabeen palm Rare
Banksia robur Proteaceae Swamp banksia Occasional
Ficus coronata Moraceae Creek sandpaper fig Occasional
Guioa semiglauca Sapindaceae Guioa Common
Hakea actites Proteaceae Wallum hakea Uncommon
Homalanthus nutans Euphorbiaceae Bleeding heart Uncommon
Hovea acutifolia Fabaceae Hovea Uncommon
Leptospermum
polygalifolium Myrtaceae Wild may Common
Leucopogon sp. Arecaceae Beard heath Uncommon
Maclura cochinchinensis Moraceae Cockspur thorn Uncommon
Melaleuca pachyphylla Myrtaceae Wallum bottlebrush Common
Melaleuca sieberi Myrtaceae Small-leaved paperbark Common
Melia azedarach Meliaceae White cedar Rare
Parsonsia straminea Apocynaceae Monkey rope Common
Persoonia virgata Sapindaceae Geebung Occasional
Piper hederaceum Piperaceae Pepper vine Occasional
Pultenaea villosa Sapindaceae Hairy bush-pea Uncommon
Baeckea/ Twiggy leaf
Sannantha bidwillii Myrtaceae myrtle Occasional
Symplocos stawellii Symplocaceae White hazelwood Rare
Xanthorrhoea fulva Xanthorrhoeaceae Wallum grasstree Rare
LOWER STRATA
Calochlaena dubia Dicksoniaceae Soft bracken Occasional
Cassytha filiformis Lauraceae Dodder vine Occasional
Cyperus polystachyos Cyperaceae Bunchy sedge Common
Doodia aspera Aspleniaceae Rasp fern Occasional
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SCIENTIFIC NAME FAMILY COMMON NAME ABUNDANCE
Entolasia stricta Poaceae Wiry panic grass Common
Gahnia clarkei Cyperaceae Tall aw sedge Occasional
Hardenbergia violacea Fabaceae Hardenbergia Occasional
Imperata cylindrica Cyperaceae Blady grass Common
Juncus usitatus Juncaceae common rush Uncommon
Lindsaea ensifolia Lindsaeaceae Graceful necklace fern
Lygodium microphyllum Schizaeaceae Climbing maidenhair fern Occasional
Ottochloa gracillima Cyperaceae Graceful grass Common
Schoenus brevifolius Cyperaceae Spiky sedge Common
SCIENTIFIC NAME FAMILY COMMON NAME RESTRICTED
NON-NATIVE
Ageratum houstonianum Asteraceae Billygoat weed
Ardisia elliptica Primulaceae Shoebutton ardisia
Axonopus compressus Poaceae Broad-leaved carpet grass
Baccharis halimifolia Asteraceae Groundsel X
Bidens pilosa Asteraceae Cobbler's pegs
Briza minor Poaceae Shivery grass
Calyptocarpus vialis Asteraceae Creeping cinderella weed
Chloris gayana Poaceae Rhodes grass
Cinnamomum camphora Lauraceae Camphor laurel X
Citrus x limon Rutaceae Bush lemon
Conyza bonariensis now
Erigeron bonariensis Asteraceae Flax-leaf fleabane
Hypochaeris radicata Asteraceae False dandelion
Ipomoea indica Convolvulaceae Morning glory X
Lantana camara Verbenaceae Lantana X
Macrotyloma axillare var.
axillare Fabaceae Perennial horse gram
Paspalum mandiocanum Poaceae Broad-leaved paspalum
South African pigeon
Setaria sphacelata Poaceae grass
Sida rhombifolia Malvaceae Paddy’s lucerne
Solanum mauritianum Solanaceae Wild tobacco bush
Solanum nigrum Solanaceae Blackberry nightshade
Sphagneticola trilobata Asteraceae Singapore daisy X
Syagrus romanzoffiana Arecaceae Cocos Palm
Urena lobata Malvaceae Pink burr
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Native Foresters APPENDIX G: AERIAL IMAGERY 1958, Qld Herbarium 2012, Qld Herbarium Noosa Landfill & RRC – northern section – Fauna and Flora Assessment 51
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1994, QImagery
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APPENDIX H: FAUNA SPECIES LIST
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Birds
Coturnix ypsilophora Brown Quail
Corvus orru Torresian Crow
Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra
Grallina cyanoleuca Peewee
Lichmera indistincta Brown Honeyeater
Macropygia amboinensis Brown Cuckoo-dove
Malurus lamberti Variegated Fairy Wren
Meliphaga lewinii Lewin’s Honeyeater
Myzomela sanguinolenta Scarlet Honeyeater
Philemon corniculatus Noisy Friar Bird
Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail
Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Dove
Threskiornis molucca White Ibis
Mammals
Perameles sp or Isodon sp Bandicoot (Digs)
Reptiles
Cryptoblepharus pulcher Elegant Snake Eyed Skink
Lampropholis delicata Garden Skink
Reptiles
Litoria caerulea Green tree frog
Litoria gracilenta Graceful tree frog
Litoria nasuta Striped rocket frog
Limnodynastes peronii Striped marsh frog
Litoria fallax Eastern sedge frog
Rhinella marina* Cane toad
Invertebrates
Cherax depressus Orange-fingered yabby
E
Tenuibranchiurus glypticus Swamp crayfish
KEY E – Endangered * - Introduced
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