06/1354 - Formally suspend appeals period and submit following for consideration [As Published] · 132006.1354

Page 2

.Taylor Ecology

Principal: Mark Taylor B.Sc.(For)

Forestry Scientist and Horticulturist
Member of the Institute of Foresters of Australia
Member of the Australian Institute of Horticulture
Licenced Spotter - Catcher

 

[email protected]
www.taylorecology.com,

P.O. Box 222
MOOLOOLABA Qld. 4557
Ph/Fax: (07) 5444 1758
Mobile: 0417 710 437

ABN: 85 759 286 717

 

BUSHFIRE HAZARD ASSESSMENT

August 2007

Laguna St and Boreen Rd
Boreen Point

Lot 8 RP19/680

Applicant: Murray and Associates Pty Ltd
Client: P and S Pty Ltd

Noosa Council File No. 2006/1354

 

Vegetation Surveys * Bushfire Hazard Assessments ¢ Flora and Fauna Reports * Site Rehabilitation - Design and Construction
Landscaping - Design and Construction ¢ Native and Plantation Establishment and Management «

Licenced Spotter - Catcher + Domestic Horticulture Advisory Service

Page 3

SUMMARY

A bushfire hazard assessment was carried out on the parcel of land at 1
Laguna St in February 2006 before development. That Report made various
recommendations into layout and accessibility according to the Guidelines of
State Planning Policy 1/03 Mitigating the Adverse Impacts of Flood, Fire and
Landslide (SPP 1/03).

Subsequent to development there has been some reduction in the fuel available
to fires due to site modifications.

The most recent development proposed for the site will reduce that fuel load
even further.

The Report which follows demonstrates that the bushfire hazard now affecting
the site is Low.

The required Outcomes and Solutions of SPP 1/03 are easily met due to the
small extent of remaining vegetation and the ease of access for firefighting
appliances.

A specific Bushfire Management Plan is not required under SPP 1/03 but
some guidelines for home occupants are included.

The most important recommendation of this Report is as follows -

It is essential that the vegetation along the unmade Teewah road undergo
regular hazard reduction burning.

This also includes a newly constructed rehabilitation area adjoining drainage
line vegetation.

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 4

CONTENTS

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Site Conditions
2.1 Laguna St Vegetation Covenants
2.2 Southern Boundary Vegetation Covenants
2.3 Southern Cleared Area
2.4 Western Vegetation Covenant
3.0 Outcomes and Solutions
4.0 Bushfire Management Plan
4.1 Specific Emergency Advice
4.2 Additional Information

oo men KR SW

References

Appendix Lot Layout

COPYRIGHT ©

This document is intended for use in a development application of the property at 1
Laguna Street Boreen Point as at August 2007.

The contents of this report are the sole responsibility of the author except where
otherwise acknowledged and as such the copyright belongs to the author. Except for
the purpose of review, the report shall not be copied, stored or transmitted to any other
party without the express consent of Mark Taylor.

Important Note

This report assesses the bushfire risk factors affecting the site and makes
recommendations to manage and mitigate those risks. Taylor Ecology takes no
responsibility for any loss or damage which may occur to any party who relies on its
contents.

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 5

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The parcel of land bounded by Laguna St, Boreen Rd and the unmade Tewah Rd of
some 1.3 hectares (Lot 21 RP839106) has previously been the subject of a
Development Application. That application for seven residential lots with a parcel of
bushland at its western end has been approved by Noosa Council (Approval No.
2004/22099) and was the subject of a Bushfire Hazard Assessment by the author in
February 2006.

The following Report draws on the findings of the 2006 Report and on a separate
Report into the bushfire hazard on a parcel of land immediately to the north but also
in Laguna St (December 2006, Noosa Council File No. 2004/5596). It is assumed the
reader has access to both of these reports.

The parcel of bushland at the western end of Laguna St is now intended to be utilised
for the creation of a further two residential lots with the retention of some bushland as
follows —

A, A 4 metre wide strip along the southern boundary of Lot 8 for a distance of
some 32 metres.

B. A 20 metre wide strip fronting Boreen Rd for a distance of approximately 60
metres.

Cc. A 9 metre wide strip fronting Laguna Street for a distance of approximately 50
metres.

The layout is illustrated on the accompanying Plan of Murray and Associates (Plan
No, 38411 - 1f.

The Report which follows assesses the bushfire hazard that may emanate from the
retained bushland. It is accepted that the bushfire hazard posed by the surrounding
district is minimal (as demonstrated in Taylor Ecology 2006 — February and
December), however since the original reports were written there has been some
minor changes in site conditions which will be investigated.

The theoretical calculations of fire hazard according to the Guidelines of State
Planning Policy 1/03 Mitigating the Adverse Impacts of Flood, Fire and Landslide
(SPP 1/03) are essentially unchanged from the February 2006 Report and they are not
repeated here. Because SPP 1/03 emphasises a qualitative approach to bushfire hazard
it is intended to deal with any potential changes in hazard by discussion of individual
areas of vegetation.

A site assessment was conducted on August 15, 2007.

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 6

2.0 SITE CONDITIONS

There have been some changes in site conditions since the February 2006 report
which have some ramifications for bushfire hazard.

2.1 Laguna St Vegetation Covenants

These nine metre wide discontinuous covenants adjacent to Laguna St had previously
been assessed as having a theoretical hazard of Medium according to the Guidelines
of State Planning Policy 1/03 Mitigating the Adverse Impacts of Flood, Fire and
Landslide. However a qualitative assessment showed that the hazard was in fact quite
minimal.

Since the development of the original land parcel these strips of vegetation have
undergone some modifications in order to present a more tidy fagade to the estate.
This has involved the removal of some weeds and undergrowth and the placement of
mulch for approximately half of their width.

Apart from the fact that the mulch utilised was straw — a fairly flammable material —
the consequent overall reduction in fuel has meant that these covenants now have very
little fire hazard. At the time of inspection this straw had rotted down considerably
compared with its volume at first application and could be expected to be completely
deteriorated within a few months. Further applications of mulch such as pinebark or
material which is inorganic eg gravel, would reduce the fire hazard even further.

It can be expected that a similar tidy-up will take place around the perimeter of the
latest development due to the proliferation of exotic weeds and grasses such as
Umbrella trees and Green Panic. It would appear that the local authority already
undertakes the spraying of grass around the verges.

2.2 Southern Boundary Vegetation Covenants

Subsequent to the 2006 hazard assessment a 4 metre wide vegetation covenant has
been incorporated along the southern boundary of the development — apparently a
Council condition. This covenant will also apply to the newly created lot 8.

The original assessment emphasised the importance of setbacks of houses from the
Tewah Rd vegetation for safety purposes despite the fact that a qualitative assessment
of the hazard did not support the theoretical finding of a High hazard for this
vegetation. The addition of a 4 metre covenant has reduced this setback significantly.
It can only be assumed that the authorities view this vegetation as having insignificant
hazard or else that it is intended to substantially remove the Tewah Rd vegetation to
faciltate road construction.

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 7

If neither of the foregoing conclusions is correct then it is absolutely essential that
the issue of hazard reduction burning of this area be addressed frequently.

In reality it is likely that the 4 metre covenant within the building blocks will undergo
the removal of undergrowth as a tidying procedure — and therefore reduce the fuel
load - but there can be no guarantee of this.

2.3 Southern Cleared Area

This area includes the playing area of Boreen Field and an adjacent park area of
mown grass among ornamental trees. Both of these areas were shown in the 2006
report to be substantial firebreaks. They are divided by a narrow area of vegetation
that surrounds a drainage line that runs in a north-south direction. This vegetation was
previously not considered an issue for fire purposes due to its narrow extent and the
fact that being a drainage line it would be frequently wet. However an extra 15 metre
wide area adjacent to this drainage vegetation has undergone rehabilitation by tree
planting and mulching.

It cannot be predicted with any certainty how this rehabilitation area will be managed.
Unfortunately most similar projects do not enjoy the ongoing management zeal that is
associated with their installation and it is likely that the area will become an extension
of the mowed park rather than an extension of the vegetated corridor.

In all events it can be stated with some certainty that — due to flat terrain, extensive
surrounding cleared areas and the extent of the vegetation itself— this vegetation will
not present a significant hazard to intending residents. However its presence should be
noted and included in any hazard reduction burning in Tewah Rd.

2.4 Western Vegetation Covenant

This area is contiguous with the Vegetation Covenant in Laguna St but is
approximately twice as wide. It would be expected that its perimeter which fronts
Boreen Rd and Tewah Rd will receive a higher level of maintenance during and after
development than it presently enjoys — if not landscaping treatment as has already
occurred in Laguna St - and this will result in a reduction of available fuel for fires.

The 2006 assessment calculated the hazard of this area as High but — as for the entire
site — the following mitigating circumstances still apply:

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 8

development.

All of the vegetation is isolated and narrow.

Much of the vegetation is fragmented by tracks or Telstra infrastructure.
Extensive roading is in close proximity.

Adjacent vegetation to the north is likely to be cleared for urban

Hazard reduction burning is conducted on a regular basis in the district.

e There is extensive clearing to the south of the site which is assessed as
having a Low hazard.
e Fire history would indicate that the region is not prone to fires.

However the present development proposal (which it is understood has been
approved) will result in a substantial area of that bush being removed. The calculated

hazard then becomes —

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LAND CHARACTERISTICS SCORE
Vegetation | Euc forest but reduction for 6
narrowness (SPP 1/03 errata
Note 1)
Slope About 13% 3
Aspect West to south 2
TOTAL SCORE 11
Hazard Scores

The total hazard score determines the severity of the bushfire hazard per the following

 

 

 

 

 

table —
TOTAL HAZARD SCORE SEVERITY OF BUSHFIRE HAZARD
13 or greater High
6 to 12.5 Medium
1 to 5.5 Low

 

 

The bushland at the western end of the property has a theoretical hazard of Medium.

However due to the above ameliorating circumstances it is considered that a Low
level of hazard is most appropriate.

Nevertheless the Outcomes and Solutions of Appendix 5 of SPP 1/03 will still be

adhered to as follows -

 

Taylor Ecology

Laguna St Aug 2007

 

Page 9

3.0 OUTCOMES AND SOLUTIONS

 

 

OUTCOME SOLUTION
Lot design and siting | The proposed house sites will be located as indicated on the
of buildings to accompanying approved plan.

minimise fire risk.

Houses on Lots 8 and 9 will be located so that their setback
from ail retained vegetation is maximised.

Additionally all lots will contain effluent disposal areas as
illustrated on the accompanying plan. These are located
between house sites and vegetation and for efficient
functioning these areas must have no more than a light grass
cover — effectively these are no-fuel areas.

House sites are also located on fairly level ground — the least
hazardous slope for fires.

 

Firebreaks that provide
adequate setback
between buildings and
vegetation.

The previous solution satisfies this requirement by locating
the proposed houses at least 10 metres from retained
vegetation.

The cleared Telstra easement also assists this requirement.
Additionally the local brigade has confirmed (pers. com.)
that Boreen Field and associated parkland to the south can
be considered a very large effective firebreak as described in
Paragraph A3.14 (Errata Note 2) of SPP 1/03.

 

‘| Firebreaks that provide
adequate access for
firefighting vehicles

There is unhindered access to all retained vegetation directly
from Laguna St and Boreen Rd.

It is understood the local Brigade has access to the gated
Tewah Rd.

 

A reliable reticulated
water supply suitable
for fire fighting

purposes.

Boreen Point has no reticulated supply for drinking water
but there are several hydrant points with sufficient pressure
for firefighting purposes (Boreen Fire Brigade pers. com.).
These bores are regularly maintained and scoured by the
Brigade.

It is believed that several of these bores are located
throughout the town and are sufficiently close for refilling of
Brigade appliances.

Additionally residents are advised to have an on site water
storage of 5,000 litres e.g. a tank. These would be suitable
for domestic use only and the use of brass hose fittings is
recommended for strength and durability.

 

 

Residential lots allow
for efficient
emergency access for
fire fighting
appliances.

 

Due to the narrowness of the vegetation and external access
to it, there is no requirement for firefighting vehicles to have
access through lots 8 and 9.

 

 

Taylor Ecology

Laguna St Aug 2007

 

Page 10

4.0 BUSHFIRE MANGEMENT PLAN
Under SPP 1/03 a Bushfire Management Plan is not required because the
development will not take place in an area of High Bushfire Hazard. However in the

interests of safety the following information is provided for the benefit of home
occupants.

4.1 Specific Emergency Advice

Residents should be aware at all times of the potential for fires particularly during
periods of low rainfall, dry fuel, high winds and low humidity. This is not restricted
to, but typically occurs, between August — December.

Radio and television weather warnings are often broadcast in advance of expected
hazardous conditions. Make it a habit to listen to the weather forecast every day.

In extreme conditions spot fires can be created by windborne firebrands well ahead of
the main fire front.

Be aware of the debilitating effect of smoke.

A mobile telephone should be accessible at all times for emergency contact. Landline
services may be inoperable in an emergency.

Never re-enter a burning building.

PHONE NUMBERS

SERIOUS EMERGENCY 000
BOREEN POINT RURAL

FIRE BRIGADE 5485 3130

Fire Warden and First Officer — Mr Errol Lindsay

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 11

4.2 Additional Information

Although not specifically required by SPP 1/03, the following cautionary items are
mentioned in the interests of prospective residents —

All vegetation adjacent to, and within, the property should be subject to hazard
reduction burning at least every five years. This must be done in consultation
with the Fire Warden.

Perceived presence of Rare or Endangered plants or animals should never take
precedence over the need for hazard reduction burning and in fact their
continued survival may depend on it.

It would be advisable that any intended landscaping or gardening within house
lots contain less flammable rainforest species or fruit trees.

Sedge or grass type plants such as Lomandra or Dianella which may retain
leaf litter are not recommended.

Planted trees should be located individually rather than in groups with mulch
being either inorganic (e.g. gravel) or pine bark.

The physical integrity of tall trees in retained vegetation should be checked
periodically. If necessary consult an expert opinion.

Keep ground litter buildup to a minimum for as large an area around the
dwelling as is practicable. This is the main fuel for bushfires and without it a
fire simply cannot spread.

Keep gutters cleared.

Keep property surrounds well watered during periods of extreme weather.

Use brass tap fittings for garden hose connections to provide strength and
durability.

Ensure that all occupants are aware of the potential for fire during extreme
weather and that they familiarise themselves with an appropriate evacuation
procedure.

Finally, all Rural Fire Brigades are staffed by volunteer members and receive only
limited government funding. Residents are encouraged to make a financial
contribution to their efforts. They may also be able to assist towards community
responsibility by joining the Brigade.

References

Queensland Fire Service and Department of Housing, Local Government and
Planning (1993) Bushfire Hazard Planning In Queensland.

Queensland Department of Local Government and Planning, and Department of
Emergency Services (2003). State Planning Policy Mitigating the Adverse Impacts of
Flood, Bushfire and Landslide. And SPP 1/03 Guideline.

Bushfire Hazard Assessment. Laguna Street Boreen Point. Taylor Ecology February
2006 and December 2006.

Appendix

Lot Layout — Murray and Associates

 

Taylor Ecology Laguna St Aug 2007

Page 12

 

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