Original source · versioned page text
2022-09-06 P&E Agenda - Item 5 - Attachment 1 - Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement Offset Report - TMR
Very large file: it may take a few minutes
The original of this document is very large (10.7 MB). Opening the original or downloading it may take a few minutes. Please be patient and don't click again. The page text is quick to read. If you are on mobile data, it is best to wait until you are on Wi-Fi.
Text sections have not been matched to the original PDF pages. Use the original document to check page numbers.
Planning & Environment Committee Agenda
6 September 2022
Attachment 1 to Item 5
Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
Matters of National Environmental Significance Report
Department of Transport and Main Roads
Reference: 511784
Revision: 1
9 December 2021
See the original
The page text is free to read. Viewing or downloading an original file needs an account.
Log in to see the originalLog in to download the original file
Very large file: the download may take a few minutes. If you are on mobile data, it is best to wait until you are on Wi-Fi.
Searchable page text hides email addresses. Original files are unchanged and may show email addresses.
Full text of the other 42 sections
Section 2
Contents
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Scope and structure of document ............................................................................................ 1
1.2 Detailed description of proposed action ................................................................................... 1
1.3 Construction methodology ........................................................................................................ 2
1.4 Extent (size) and location of proposed action .......................................................................... 7
1.5 Description of the natural values of the area encompassed by the proposed action .............. 7
1.6 Legislative framework ............................................................................................................... 7
1.7 Relationship to other referred actions or proposals ............................................................... 14
1.8 Public consultation.................................................................................................................. 14
2 Matters of national environmental significance associated with the proposed action ............. 16
2.1 Overview of matters of national environmental significance identified within and adjacent to
the proposed action ................................................................................................................ 16
2.2 Matters of national environmental significance likely to be significantly impacted by the
proposed action ...................................................................................................................... 16
2.2.1 Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia Threatened Ecological Community ... 17
2.3 Matters of national environmental significance not-likely to be significantly impacted by the
proposed action ...................................................................................................................... 19
2.3.1 Koala........................................................................................................................ 19
2.3.2 Grey-headed flying-fox ............................................................................................ 20
2.3.3 Giant barred frog ..................................................................................................... 23
2.3.4 Rufous fantail ........................................................................................................... 25
2.4 Matters of national environmental significance that will not be impacted by the proposed
action ...................................................................................................................................... 26
2.4.1 Mary River cod ........................................................................................................ 26
2.4.2 Australian lungfish ................................................................................................... 29
3 Measures to avoid, minimise or mitigate potential impacts ......................................................... 30
3.1 Avoidance/minimise of impacts .............................................................................................. 30
3.2 Mitigation measures of impacts .............................................................................................. 30
3.2.1 General measures to reduce environmental impacts .............................................. 30
3.2.2 General mitigation measures .................................................................................. 32
3.2.3 Specific measures to reduce impact to identified matters of national environmental
significance .............................................................................................................. 33
4 Summary and conclusion ................................................................................................................. 38
5 References.......................................................................................................................................... 39
Appendices
Appendix A
Six Mile Creek Bridge Upgrade Ecological Assessment (Ecosure, September 2021)
Appendix B
Lowland Rainforest Offset Calculations - Offset Assessment Guide
Section 3
Figures
Figure 1.1 Location of the proposed action ................................................................................................ 3
Figure 1.2 Design drawings of the proposed action (sheet 1) ................................................................... 4
Figure 1.3 Design drawings of the proposed action (sheet 2) ................................................................... 5
Figure 1.4 Constructability diagrams indicating how bridge construction will avoid impacts to the existing
Six Mile Creek channel ............................................................................................................. 6
Figure 2.1 Location of identified Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC within and adjacent to
the area of the proposed action .............................................................................................. 18
Figure 2.2 Location of Koala and Grey-headed flying-fox habitat within and adjacent to the area of the
proposed action ...................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 2.3 Location of Rufous fantail and Giant barred frog habitat within and adjacent to the area of the
proposed action ...................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 2.4 Location of Mary River cod and Australian lungfish habitat within and adjacent to the area of
the proposed action ................................................................................................................ 28
Tables
Table 1.1 Legislation and policies relevant to the proposed action .......................................................... 8
Table 1.2 Projects which have been referred by TMR to the Commonwealth Minister of the
Environment for assessment in the previous three years....................................................... 14
Table 3.1. Impact site calculations used to determine offset obligations................................................. 35
Table 3.2. Assumptions used to determine offset obligations using the Commonwealth Offset
Assessment Guide .................................................................................................................. 36
Table 3.3 Determination of Koala offset obligations (financial and land based) using the Queensland
Financial Settlement Offset Calculator ................................................................................... 37
Section 4
1 Introduction
1.1 Scope and structure of document
This document provides information to support the referral of the Six Mile Creek Timber Bridge Replacement
(the proposed action) to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment to determine if the proposed action
constitutes a controlled action as a result of impacts to matters of national environmental significance
(MNES).
This document draws information from field-based ecological assessments (Ecosure 2021) (refer
Appendix A) which have informed significant impact assessments for MNES in accordance with the relevant
MNES Significant Impact Guidelines (Department of the Environment (DotE) 2013 and Commonwealth of
Australia (CoA) 2014).
This document has been structured in such a way to provide a coherent and easily understood analysis of
the MNES that are relevant to the proposed action. Clear statements related to the proposed action’s
potential to result in a significant impact to each of the identified MNES, and clear mitigation
measures/strategies are identified which align with both Commonwealth and State (Queensland)
government expectations.
This report contains the following sections:
Section 1 provides information related to the proposed action, including a detailed description
(Section 1.2), extent of impacts (Section 1.4), description of the locations natural values (Section 1.5),
legislative framework associated with the proposed action (Section 1.60),other related actions that have
been referred to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment for assessment (Section1.7) and public
consultation that has occurred for the proposed action (Section 1.8).
Section 2 provides information related to MNES associated with the proposed action (Section 2.1), MNES
likely to be subject to significant impacts (Section 2.2), MNES not likely to be subject to significant
impacts (Section 2.3) and MNES that will not be subject to significant impacts (Section 2.4).
Section 3 provides information related to avoidance (Section 3.1), mitigation measures to reduce the
severity of impacts to the identified MNES (Section 3.2). This includes general mitigation measures and
MNES specific mitigation measures.
Section 4 provides a summary of this document, with clear statements related to the proposed action’s
potential impacts and its eligibility to be considered “not a controlled action”.
1.2 Detailed description of proposed action
The proposed action is the Six Mile Creek Timber Bridge Replacement Project, located between the
township of Pinbarren and Pomona on Pomona-Kin Kin Road in Noosa Shire Council, Queensland (refer
Figure 1.1). The existing bridge was constructed in 1934 and has been found deficient for current purposes,
requiring replacement.
The proposed action will be delivered by the Queensland Government (Department of Transport and Main
Roads (TMR)). Aurecon has been commissioned by TMR North Coast Region to undertake the design of the
Six Mile Creek timber bridge replacement.
The proposed action is part of the Timber Bridge Replacement Program, which forms part of the Queensland
Transport and Roads Investment Program, allocation to TMR North Coast Region. The Timber Bridge
Replacement Program looks at replacing timber bridges to reduce maintenance impacts associated with
aging timber structures. In addition, it provides increased load capacity of the structure and improved road
safety as the majority of the bridges to be replaced are single lane structures. The goal of the proposed
action is to improve the condition of the existing transport network, specifically improving road safety,
resilience to flooding, increased load capacity and reduced the maintenance costs.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 1
Section 5
The existing Six Mile Creek bridge is a one-way, single span timber structure, approximately 55 m long. The
bridge has priority movement to southbound vehicles. Currently, insufficient site distance combined with a
high approach speed for the oncoming priority vehicles, make it difficult for vehicles to judge when to give
way, and when stopped, to decide when it is safe to proceed. There are observed occasions of northbound
vehicles failing to give way at the bridge.
The existing timber bridge at Six Mile Creek, currently provides immunity for only small flood events to an
~50% annual exceedance probability event. Due to the bridge being a timber structure, following over toping
events the road remains closed whilst the bridge is inspected and deemed safe for traffic. The purpose of the
proposed action is to improve the condition of the existing transport network through installation of a new
two-lane bridge with improved flood immunity. A concrete bridge is designed for overtopping and therefore,
will not need to remain closed following flood events for maintenance inspections.
1.3 Construction methodology
The proposed action comprises replacing the current single-lane timber bridge that crosses Six Mile Creek
with a new two-lane bridge and constructing new southern and northern road approaches (refer Figure 1.2
and Figure 1.3). The new bridge location is proposed to be positioned to the west of the existing bridge,
approximately 15 m downstream.
The approach roads have been built as close to the existing alignment as possible to minimise impact on the
environment. The new alignment will sit to the east of the existing road so it can be used as a side track
during construction eliminating the need for temporary works. The geometric design was complicated by two
reverse curves intersecting at the bridge location. As such, the bridge has a twist in it due to its
superelevation changing across the length of the structure. This complicated the structural design leading to
the thicker than usual bridge deck, which impacted the hydraulics and afflux up stream. To address this
issue the road had to be realigned vertically.
The construction methodology includes a working platform (piling pad) to be constructed next to the high
bank on the southern approach. The platform allows construction activities to be undertaken whilst avoiding
disruption to the creek flow (during non-flood conditions) and therefore maintaining fish passage (refer
Figure 1.4). The construction machinery will use the platform as a base to cast in place the piles adjacent to
the lower bank. Using this methodology results in the works not requiring a coffer dam of the creek to keep
the work area dry.
The bridge piles will be constructed using cast in place concrete piles with a steel lining. A hole is drilled into
the ground, the steel tube is inserted, and the concrete poured in. The steel is not removed once the
concrete is set. This reduces time by half working adjacent to the creek and it is also less disruptive than
driven piles.
All ancillary areas (e.g. construction compound) during construction will be located within existing cleared
areas adjacent to the project, no additional clearing will be allowed for site compounds or storage.
Following the construction of the new bridge, the existing timber bridge is proposed to be removed and
timber used as replacement parts for maintenance on other bridges in the network.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 2
Section 6
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Legend
Creek
S ix Mile " Towns
Roads
Watercourse (defined by
Water Act 2000)
Design footprint
Constructability buffer
Map by: RY P:\GIS\Projects2\511784_SixMileCreek_BridgeReplacement\511784_Figure_1_1_Location_of_the_proposed_Action.mxd Date: 3/12/2021 05:51
ad
COORAN
Ro
n
Ki
"
Kin
na
mo
Po
POMONA
"
Date: 03/12/2021 Version: 3
Department of Transport and Main Roads Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
°
A3 scale: 1:4,000 Job No: 511784
Figure 1.1:
0 50 100 150 m Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Location of the proposed action
Section 7
Figure 1.2 Design drawings of the proposed action (sheet 1)
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 4
Section 8
Figure 1.3 Design drawings of the proposed action (sheet 2)
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 5
Section 9
Figure 1.4 Constructability diagrams indicating how bridge construction will avoid impacts to the existing Six
Mile Creek channel
In summary, the proposed action includes:
New 4 span concrete bridge to be constructed approximately 15 m west (downstream) of the existing
bridge structure
Cast in place concrete piles
No disturbance to the existing Six Mile Creek channel (i.e. construction and piling outside of existing
creek system under normal hydrological flows, as the bridge will span the channel)
Material from the existing timber bridge structure to be utilised by TMR for maintenance of other timber
bridges within the network, with footings within Six Mile Creek remaining in situ to maintain current fish
habitat values
Existing road to be widened in the approach to the new bridge (will not result in additional fragmentation
of surrounding landscape).
The proposed action is planned to be constructed in 2022 and is expected to take between 6 to 9 months to
construct and complete with 4 months working around the creek.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 6
Section 10
1.4 Extent (size) and location of proposed action
The proposed action is located along Pomona – Kin Kin Road over Six Mile Creek, approximately 3 km north
of Pomona, Queensland. The extent of the proposed action is indicated on Figure 1.1.
The proposed action will encompass approximately 3.35 ha and have a perimeter of approximately 2.40 km.
The southern approach to the bridge approximates 490 m in length, the bridge approximates 80 m in length,
and the northern approach approximates 390 m in length, with an overall length of approximately 960 m.
A 10 m constructability buffer was added to the design footprint (refer Figure 1.1) to ensure that “a worst
case scenario” was assessed as part of the impact assessment process (refer Section 2). The impact area
will be reduced where possible during construction.
1.5 Description of the natural values of the area
encompassed by the proposed action
The area encompassed by the proposed action has historically been subject to anthropogenic disturbance.
Historic land management practices associated with agriculture resulted in large areas surrounding the
proposed action being cleared of vegetation. However, in more recent years, natural and anthropogenic
rehabilitation of the area has resulted in consolidation of much of the areas vegetation into a largely intact
vegetation subunit. This area contains a mosaic of Lowland Rainforest, Open Eucalypt forest and Acacia
regrowth. Notwithstanding, areas associated with human dwelling and agriculture have remained largely
cleared of vegetation (refer Figure 1.1).
The proposed action is located within the Mary River catchment and is 12 km downstream of Lake
McDonald. Six Mile Creek, which intersects the proposed action, is defined as a fifth-order waterway
(Strahler, 1964). Six Mile Creek eventually flows into the Mary River.
Climatically, the proposed action is located in a sub-tropical area with warm, humid summers and cool, dry
winters. A review of the closest Bureau of Meteorology station (Tewantin RSL Park (040908)) summarises
the area as having a maximum average temperature range from 24.6°C (July) to 35.5°C (January) and an
average annual rainfall of 1,550 mm.
Further information related to the natural values of the areas associated with the proposed action is provided
in Appendix A.
1.6 Legislative framework
This section provides an overview of the legislation that is applicable to MNES associated with the proposed
action. Included is an outline of the intent of each legislative instrument and its applicability to the proposed
action. The Commonwealth and State-based legislative instruments relevant to the proposed action are
presented in Table 1.1.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 7
Section 11
Table 1.1 Legislation and policies relevant to the proposed action
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
Commonwealth legislation
Environment Protection Australia and its The EPBC Act is the Australian Government’s central piece of MNES have been identified within and directly adjacent
and Biodiversity Territories. Specifically, environmental legislation and provides the legal basis for the to the proposed action. As such, the proposed action
Conservation Act 1999 projects that involve or management and protection of nationally and internationally must comply with the EPBC Act.
(Cth) (EPBC Act) have the potential to important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.
impact upon nationally Under Section 45 of the EPBC Act, the Australian Government and
and internationally Queensland Government have implemented a bilateral agreement
important flora, fauna, relating to environmental assessment. This agreement allows the
ecological communities Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and the Department of
and heritage places – Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) to rely on specified
defined under the Act as environmental impact assessment processes of Queensland in
MNES. assessing actions under the EPBC Act.
The bilateral agreement specifically aims to achieve the following
objectives:
Protect the environment in accordance with the requirements of
the EPBC Act
Promote the conservation and sustainable use of natural
resources
Ensure an efficient, timely and effective process for
environmental assessment and approval of actions.
EPBC Act Environmental Areas subject to the Developed to support the management and protection of MNES The proposed action will implement avoidance and
Offsets Policy (2012) EPBC Act under the EPBC Act and outlines the Australian Government’s mitigation measures (including the provision of offsets) to
(EPBC Act Offsets Policy) approach to the use of environmental offsets for impacts to MNES. minimise the significant adverse residual impacts on the
Eight principles for the use of environmental offset under the EPBC MNES.
Act have been developed by DAWE. These principles are used to Offsets provided for under the policy include direct
assess any proposed environmental offset for MNES to ensure offsets, and other compensatory methods (or indirect
consistency, transparency and equity under the Act. The Australian offsets). The provision of direct offsets is proposed base
Government’s position is that environmental offsets must: on the outcomes of the assessment of significance,
a) Deliver an overall conservation outcome that improves or based on the extent of the significant adverse residual
maintains the viability of the aspect of the environment that is impacts on MNES.
protected by national environment law and affected by the The proposed action will comply with the EPBC Act
proposed action Offsets Policy for any significant adverse residual
b) Be built around direct offsets but may include other impacts to MNES.
compensatory measures
c) Be in proportion to the level of statutory protection that applies
to the protected matter
d) Be of a size and scale proportionate to the residual impacts on
the protected matter
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 8
Section 12
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
e) Effectively account for and manage the risks of the offset not
succeeding
f) Be additional to what is already required, determined by law or
planning regulations or agreed to under other schemes or
programs (this does not preclude the recognition of State or
territory offsets that may be suitable as offsets under the Act
for the same action)
g) Be efficient, effective, timely, transparent, scientifically robust
and reasonable
h) Have transparent governance arrangements including being
able to be readily measured, monitored, audited and enforced
(Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population
and Communities (DSEWPaC) 2012a).
The Australian Government defines offsets as measures that
compensate for the significant residual impacts of an action on the
environment (DSEWPaC 2012a).
Significant impact MNES The purpose of the MNES Guidelines are to assist any person who Assessment of MNES against the MNES Guidelines
guidelines 1.1 – Matters of proposes to take an action to decide whether or not they should facilitate the determination of a significant residual impact
National Environmental submit a referral to the DAWE for a decision by the Australian to MNES. The outcomes of this assessment have been
Significance: Government Environment Minister on whether assessment and presented in Section 2 and Appendix A (Section 6.1).
Environment Protection approval is required under the EPBC Act.
and Biodiversity The MNES Guidelines outlines a ‘self-assessment’ process,
Conservation Act 1999 including detailed criteria, to assist persons in deciding whether or
(MNES Guidelines) not referral may be required. Important terms and phrases are
explained.
EPBC Act Referral MNES The purpose of the guideline is to assist any person who proposes Assessment of MNES against the guidelines facilitate the
Guidelines for the to take an action to decide whether or not they should submit a determination of a significant residual impact to Koala.
vulnerable koala referral to the DAWE for a decision by the Australian Government The outcomes of this assessment have been presented
(combined populations of Environment Minister on whether assessment and approval is in Section 2.3.1 and Appendix A (Section 6.1.2).
Queensland, New South required under the EPBC Act in relation to the Koala.
Wales and the Australian These guidelines outline a ‘self-assessment’ process, including
Capital Territory), (DotE detailed criteria, to assist persons in deciding whether or not referral
2014) may be required.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 9
Section 13
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
Draft Guide to nationally MNES National environmental law applies to the removal of paddock trees Assessment of MNES against the guide facilitates the
protected species when a 'significant impact' on a nationally protected ecosystem or determination of a significant residual impact to
significantly impacted by species is likely to occur. applicable threatened species (such as Koala). This has
paddock tree removal Nationally protected ecosystems include Ramsar wetlands and been undertaken where necessary in Section 2 and
(DoEE 2020) ecological communities listed in the critically endangered, Appendix A (Section 6.1.2). The following species are
endangered or vulnerable categories under the EPBC Act. In very relevant to the proposed action and included within the
rare circumstances, these ecosystems may be significantly draft guide. The species-specific approval requirements
impacted by paddock tree removal. Only a very small subset of noted in the draft Guideline are identified below:
nationally protected species may be significantly impacted by Regent Honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia):
removing paddock trees. In some cases, undertaking mitigation Removing Ironbark paddock trees within known
activities may mean that the removal of paddock trees is lawful and breeding areas or frequented visitation sites.
does not require referral under national environmental law. Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus): Removing paddock
The purpose of the guideline is to assist any person who proposes trees where they are habitat critical to the species
to clear paddock trees to decide whether or not the action may survival or provide the only movement
impact threatened species listed under the EPBC Act and if opportunity/refuge to or between areas of habitat
submission of a referral to the DAWE for a decision by the critical to the species survival.
Australian Government Environment Minister on whether
assessment and approval is required under the EPBC Act.
These guidelines outline species-specific actions, to assist persons
in deciding whether or not referral may be required.
Species recovery plans MNES Recovery plans for listed threatened species and ecological Species recovery plans for the following MNES relevant
communities have been made or adopted under the EPBC Act. to this proposed action have been adopted by DAWE
These plans remain in force until and unless the species is removed and have been considered as part of this assessment of
from the threatened list. likelihood of occurrence and tests of significance (refer
A recovery plan is a document stating the research and Section 2 and Appendix A; Section 6.1):
management actions necessary to stop the decline, support the a) Macadamia nut (Macadamia integrifolia)
recovery and enhance the chance of long-term survival in the wild, b) Rough-shelled bush nut (Macadamia tetraphylla)
of a protected community, animal or plant species.
c) Regent honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia)
d) Mary River cod (Maccullochella mariensis)
Draft recovery plans awaiting adoption under the EPBC
Act and utilised for this report include the following
species:
e) Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri)
f) Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)
Species recovery plans adopted by DAWE are
accessible at the at the following internet location:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-
bin/sprat/public/publicshowallrps.pl
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 10
Section 14
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
Threat abatement plans MNES Threat abatement plans provide for the research, management, and Threat abatement plans relevant to MNES associated
any other actions necessary to reduce the impact of a listed key with the proposed action include:
threatening process on native species and ecological communities. a) Threat abatement plan for disease in natural
Implementing the plan should assist the long-term survival in the ecosystems caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi
wild of affected native species or ecological communities
b) Threat abatement plan for the biological effects,
including lethal toxic ingestion, caused by cane
toads (Rhinella marina)
c) Threat abatement plan for predation, habitat
degradation, competition and disease transmission
by feral pigs (Sus scrofa)
d) Threats identified in the Threat abatement plan for
competition and land degradation by rabbits
e) Threat abatement plan for predation by feral cats
f) Threat abatement plan for predation by the
European red fox
Threat abatement plans approved by DAWE are
accessible at the at the following internet location:
https://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threate
ned/threat-abatement-plans/approved
Queensland legislation
Nature Conservation Act Queensland The NC Act provides for the conservation of nature through The following permits and management plans will be
1992 (Qld) (NC Act) protection of all native plants, birds, reptiles, mammals and required for the proposed action:
amphibians in Queensland (along with a limited range of Exempt clearing notification to the Department of
invertebrates and freshwater fish). The NC Act is based on Environment and Science (DES).
principles aimed at conserving biological diversity, ecologically
Rehabilitation Permit (spotter catcher endorsement)
sustainable use of wildlife, ecologically sustainable development
and international criteria developed by the International Union (Part 14 of the Nature Conservation (Animals)
for the Conservation of Nature for establishing and managing Regulation 2020)
protected areas. Species management program must be submitted to
The following instruments regulate disturbance to flora, fauna DES for approval for tampering with some animal
and habitat under the NC Act: breeding places (Section 33 of the Nature
Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020).
Nature Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020 (Qld), which
prohibits the taking or destruction, without authorisation, of
protected animals and lists all fauna species that are considered
to be extinct in the wild, endangered, vulnerable, near
threatened, least concern and special least concern wildlife
(refer Glossary and Abbreviations for definitions of these terms).
Also listed is international wildlife and prohibited wildlife.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 11
Section 15
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
Nature Conservation (Plants) Regulation 2020 (Qld), which
prohibits the taking or destruction, without authorisation, of
protected plants and lists all flora species that are considered to
be extinct in the wild, endangered, vulnerable, near threatened,
least concern and special least concern. Also listed is
international wildlife and prohibited wildlife.
The NC Act also includes provisions for protected areas such as
national parks, nature refuges, and world heritage management
areas.
Nature Conservation Queensland The Koala Plan requires any clearing in certain areas to be The proposed action will require clearing within District A
(Koala) Conservation Plan undertaken sequentially, and in the presence of a suitably qualified as identified in the Koala Plan. Clearing works in Koala
2017 (Koala Plan) koala spotter. The Koala Plan also prescribes three mapped koala habitat within District A, require ‘sequential clearing’ and
districts (A, B and C) and includes requirements relating to the the presence of Koala spotters.
release of rehabilitation, sick or injured Koalas.
Memorandum of Queensland The MoA applies to government supported transport infrastructure The proposed action will require clearing of Koala habitat
Agreement (MoA) projects within the South East Queensland Koala Protection Area contained within the SEQKPA. As such, works will be
Department of (SEQKPA). The MoA establishes the respective roles and undertaken in accordance with the MoA.
Environment and Resource responsibility of TMR and the Department of Environment and
Management (DERM; Science (DES, formerly DERM) in ensuring that the planning,
former) and TMR design, construction and maintenance of government supported
transport infrastructure in the SEQKPA is carried out in a way that
Government Supported reduces adverse impacts to Koala and Koala habitat.
Transport Infrastructure
within the South East
Queensland Koala
Protection Area
Environmental Offsets Act Queensland The Offsets Act and associated Environmental Offsets Regulation The proposed action will be required to deliver
2014 (Qld) (Offsets Act) 2014 (Qld) seeks to ‘counterbalance the significant residual impacts environmental offsets consistent with the Offsets Act
of particular activities on prescribed environmental matters through where significant residual impacts are identified
the use of environmental offsets’. The Offsets Act is administered by against the relevant State and/or Commonwealth
the Queensland DES, and establishes a coordinated framework to significant impact guideline.
regulate the delivery of offsets in Queensland. Environmental offsets for significant residual impacts
To achieve the purpose of the Offsets Act, the Queensland to a prescribed matter may be delivered through a
Environmental Offsets Policy (Version 1.9, August 2020) was proponent-driven offset (e.g. land-based offset), a
developed to provide further guidance on the requirements for the financial offset calculated in accordance with the
assessment of ‘Significant residual impacts’, and accepted methods Financial Settlement Offset Calculation Methodology,
for the delivery of offsets, where required. or a combination of proponent driven and financial
offsets.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 12
Section 16
Legislation/ policy/plans Legislative jurisdiction Intent Applicability to proposed action
Water Act 2000 (Qld) Queensland The Water Act provides for the sustainable management of non-tidal The proposed action involves works within/adjacent
(Water Act) waters and other resources, together with the establishment and to a defined mapped watercourse and the provisions
operation of water authorities, and for other purposes. of the Water Act may apply.
Through the Planning Act 2016, certain water related development TMR are an existing approved entity under the
under the Water Act is assessable. departments ‘Riverine Protection Permit Exemption
In addition to the approvals triggered under Planning Act, the Water Requirements’ (Schedule 2, Item 2 provides for ‘a
Act regulates the undertaking of works that involve the excavating or government department declared under the Public
placing fill in a watercourse, lake or spring. Service Act 2008’).
Biosecurity Act 2014 (Qld) Queensland The Biosecurity Act provides a framework for an effective The proposed action may involve interaction with
(Biosecurity Act) biosecurity system for Queensland that helps to manage and restricted matters and prohibited matters (potentially
minimise State biosecurity risks, as well as facilitate the including pests and weeds) and will therefore require
response to biosecurity issues and events in a timely and compliance with the Biosecurity Act.
effective way, so as to align with National and International
obligations.
The Biosecurity Act introduces the general biosecurity obligation
upon all persons to take all reasonable and practical measures
to prevent or minimise biosecurity risks.
Fisheries Act 1994 (Qld) Queensland The Fisheries Act provides for the management, use, The proposed action transverses mapped waterways
(Fisheries Act) development and protection of fish habitats and resources, for waterway barrier works. The design of the bridge
together with the management of aquaculture activities. has been confirmed to not be a waterway barrier and
Administered by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries the culverts have been designed in accordance with
(DAF), the Fisheries Act applies to: the accepted development requirements.
Works in a declared Fish Habitat Area (FHA)
Waterway barrier works resulting in the construction of instream
structures inhibiting the free movement of fish along waterways.
Waterways providing for fish passage are a Matter of State
Environmental Significance (MSES).
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 13
Section 17
1.7 Relationship to other referred actions or proposals
The proposed action is not part of a larger action. However, it is noted that TMR have referred ten unrelated
proposed actions to the Commonwealth Minister of the Environment for consideration in the last three years.
A list of these proposed actions is provided in Table 1.2. TMR understand and are committed to meeting the
intent of the EPBC Act and DAWE’s requirements. Using the precautionary principle, where TMR identify
that there is potential for a proposed action to significantly impact upon MNES, the relevant proposed action
is referred to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment for determination.
Table 1.2 Projects which have been referred by TMR to the Commonwealth Minister of the Environment for
assessment in the previous three years
EPBC Act reference no Title of the referral
2021/9003 Townsville eastern access rail corridor
2020/8803 Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade
2020/8783 Mackay Port Access Road
2020/8692 Yorkeys Knob Boating infrastructure project
2020/8646 Stage 1 Coomera Connector
2020/8628 Rockhampton Ring Road
2020/8625 Townsville Ring Road
2019/8573 Bruce Highway Smiths Gap Overtaking lane and fauna crossing
2019/8523 Molongle Creek Navigation Channel Improvement
2019/8511 Port Alma Road Safety
1.8 Public consultation
A Communication Engagement Plan has been prepared for the project as a practical guide for the
implementation of communication and stakeholder engagement activities for detailed design and
construction of the Six Mile Creek Bridge replacement project.
Targeted consultation began in early 2021 with letters distributed to directly affected property owners.
Subsequently, a number of activities were undertaken including notifications advising of the project details to
key stakeholders and the community. A media statement was also released announcing design starting for
the project and updates were made to TMR’s project web page.
Meetings have been held with interested community groups and Council. TMR will continue to keep these
groups updated.
Early community feedback has assisted with specific provisions and inclusions in the detailed design.
Design investigations identified a reduced impact on directly affected landowners. Further consultation with
these landowners are ongoing.
The team will continue to update the community, internal and external stakeholders, and elected State
members as the project progresses.
As part of the consultation process for the cultural heritage component of this project, TMR has engaged with
the relevant Aboriginal Party (Kabi Kabi First Nation Traditional Owners Native Title Claim Group) to invite
them to participate in the early phases of assessment of the Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement Project.
The legislative requirements for this project require consultation with the Kabi Kabi people to ensure that the
Duty of Care Guidelines, as it relates to the management of Aboriginal cultural heritage are assessed and
guided by recommended mitigation strategies suitable to relevant stakeholders.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 14
Section 18
To date, a field survey has been undertaken with Kabi Kabi Applicants on 13 July 2021 where an agreement
between TMR and the Kabi Kabi Applicant has been signed and suitable management strategies identified.
Future consultation and engagement is required with the Kabi Kabi People on the project to execute the
management recommendations/strategies where monitoring during ground disturbing works is proposed.
Wider consultation with local Council regarding the Cultural Heritage component was not required on this
project due to the potential risk attributed to the proposed works. However, this will be reassessed as the
project progresses.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 15
Section 19
2 Matters of national environmental significance
associated with the proposed action
2.1 Overview of matters of national environmental
significance identified within and adjacent to the
proposed action
Fifty-six (56) MNES have been identified as potentially occurring within a 5 km radius of the proposed action
(i.e. 34 fauna and 22 flora) (refer Appendix A).
Following field-based investigations specifically designed to target potentially occurring MNES and comply
with the relevant survey guidelines (refer Appendix A; Section 2.4.3.2), three MNES were identified as
present within, or immediately adjacent to the proposed action. These MNES consisted of the following:
Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) – Critically
Endangered
Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) – Vulnerable
Rufous fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) – Migratory.
In addition to the above MNES, habitat for the following MNES was identified within or immediately adjacent
to the proposed action:
Giant barred frog (Mixophyes iteratus) – Vulnerable
Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) – Vulnerable
Mary River cod (Maccullochella mariensis) – Vulnerable
Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) – Vulnerable.
Significant impact assessments for each of the species presented above is provided within Appendix A (refer
Section 6). A summary of the outcomes of the significant impact assessments are provided in Sections 2.2 to
2.4 below.
It is noted that slight variations in the impact areas for each MNES exist between Appendix A and this
document. Appendix A utilised the disturbance footprint of a previous design iteration, whist this document
utilises calculations from the refined disturbance footprint. Therefore, the quantum of impacts identified within
this document are to be accepted as an accurate representation of the proposed action.
2.2 Matters of national environmental significance likely to
be significantly impacted by the proposed action
One MNES has been identified as likely to be subject to significant impacts as a result of the proposed
action. This MNES consists of the following:
Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) – Critically
Endangered.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 16
Section 20
2.2.1 Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia Threatened Ecological
Community
2.2.1.1 Ecological background
The Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC primarily occurs from Maryborough in Queensland to
the Clarence River in New South Wales. The TEC occurs on basalt and alluvial soils, including sand and
old/elevated alluvial soils as well as floodplain alluvia. It also occurs occasionally on historically enriched
rhyolitic soils and basaltically enriched metasediments. Lowland Rainforest mostly occurs in areas <300 m
above sea level. The TEC is moderately tall to tall (20 m to over 30 m), with a closed canopy cover (i.e.
≥70% cover). Tree species with compound leaves are common and leaves are relatively large (notophyll to
mesophyll). Typically, there is a relatively low abundance of species from the genera Eucalyptus, Melaleuca
and Casuarina. Buttresses are common, as is an abundance and diversity of vines (DSEWPaC 2011).
The canopy is often multi-layered, consisting of an upper, discontinuous layer of emergents, over the main
canopy and subcanopy. Below the canopy is an understorey of sparse shrubs and seedlings. The upper,
discontinuous layer includes canopy emergents that may be 40–50 m tall and have large spreading crowns.
Typically, non-rainforest species such as eucalypts and brushbox comprise <30% of canopy emergents
(DSEWPaC 2011). Patches of the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC are generally small in
size (<10 ha) (DSEWPaC 2011).
2.2.1.2 Potential impact
The Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC was confirmed to be present within and immediately
adjacent to the proposed action (refer Figure 2.1). The TEC is associated with Six Mile Creek, where it is
analogous (in part) with the Queensland-based Regional Ecosystem 12.3.1.
Assessment of the condition of the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC associated with the
proposed action, using the Queensland BioCondition Assessment methodology (Eyre et al., 2015) (refer
Appendix A; Section 4.3.2) was undertaken. Analysis indicates that the TEC has a BioCondition score of
51/100 and has a condition class of 3 (where 1 is highest condition and 4 is lowest condition). However,
noting this condition class, the patch still conforms with the “Patch B thresholds” as identified in the
Commonwealth Listing Advice on Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia (Threatened Species Scientific
Committee (TSSC) 2011) (refer Appendix A; Section 4.3.3).
Approximately 0.173 ha of the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC has been identified as being
contained within the area of direct disturbance associated with the proposed action (refer Figure 2.1).
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical
Australia TEC, as a result of the proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Matters of
National Environmental Significance: Significant impact guidelines 1.1, Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Significant impact guidelines 1.1) (Department of the Environment
(DotE) 2013) (refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.1).
In consideration of the direct removal of 0.173 ha of the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC as
part of the proposed action, and in consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1 (noting that disturbance
thresholds are not contained within the guidelines), the proposed action will result in a reduction of the extent
of an ecological community. As per the Significant impact guidelines 1.1, this reduction in extent is likely to
result in a significant impact to the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC.
Mitigation measures to reduce the severity of these impact induce the provision of direct, land-based offsets
(refer Section 3.2), clearing the minimum extent necessary for the proposed action, and management
measures to reduce edge-related impact from degrading areas that have been retained. Further detail
related to mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts associated with the proposed action, are
provided within Section 3.2.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 17
Section 21
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Six M
ile Creek Legend
Design footprint
Constructability buffer
Lowland Rainforest of
Subtropical Australia TEC
Extent of Flora Surveys
Map by: RY P:\GIS\Projects2\511784_SixMileCreek_BridgeReplacement\511784_Figure_2_1_Location_of_identified_Lowland_Rainforest_of_Subtropical_Australia_TEC_v3.mxd Date: 3/12/2021 06:11
Cooroora Creek
S ix
M ile C r eek
Source of Data: ECOSURE Pty Ltd June 2021 Date: 03/12/2021 Version: 3
Department of Transport and Main Roads Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
°
A3 scale: 1:5,000 Job No: 511784
Figure 2.1:
0 50 100 150 m Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Location of identified Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC within and adjacent to the area of the proposed action
Section 22
2.3 Matters of national environmental significance not-
likely to be significantly impacted by the proposed
action
Four MNES have been identified as having habitat removed as part of the proposed action. However, these
species are not-likely to be subject to significant impacts as a result of the proposed action, given the
relatively small area of clearing and proposed mitigation measures. These MNES consist of the following:
Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) – Vulnerable
Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) – Vulnerable
Giant barred frog (Mixophyes iteratus) - Vulnerable
Rufous fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) – Migratory
Further details related to each of these MNES and potential impacts associated with the proposed action are
provided within the sections below.
2.3.1 Koala
2.3.1.1 Ecological background
The Koala is a medium-sized, arboreal marsupial that is predominantly grey in colour. The Koala is endemic
to Australia and ranges from north-eastern Queensland to the south-east corner of South Australia.
Within Queensland, the highest density of the Koala population occurs in South-east Queensland. Lower
densities occur through central and eastern areas (DAWE 2021a).
Koalas naturally inhabit a range of temperate, sub-tropical and tropical forest, woodland and semi-arid
communities dominated by Eucalyptus species and their habitat can be broadly defined as any forest or
woodland containing species that are known koala food trees, or shrubland with emergent food trees. The
distribution of this habitat is largely influenced by land elevation, annual temperature and rainfall patterns,
soil types and the resultant soil moisture availability and fertility. Preferred food and shelter trees are
naturally abundant on fertile clay soils.
In coastal lowlands in Queensland, Koalas are also found in vegetation communities dominated by
Melaleuca or Casuarina species (DAWE 2021a).
Koalas are folivores, feeding primarily during the dawn, dusk or night periods. Its diet is restricted mainly to
Eucalyptus spp; however, they may also consume foliage of related genera (Family: Myrtacae), including
Corymbia spp., Angophora spp. and Lophostemon spp.
Whilst Koala maintain a defined home-range, they are not considered to be territorial, and there may be
significant overlap in the distribution of home-ranges (DAWE 2021). Home range size is also variable with
those occurring within poorer quality habitat, being relatively larger in size, when compared to those that are
located within higher quality habitat.
Koala have naturally low fecundity, with females potentially producing a single offspring year, with births
occurring within the warmer months of the year (e.g. October through to May). The estimated lifespan of wild
Koalas is generally greater than 15 years in females and 12 years in males (DAWE 2021a).
The main threats to the Koala include: Habitat loss and fragmentation, Mortality associated with dog attacks
and vehicle strikes, Disease (i.e. Chlamydiosis), Climate change and drought, and other threats such as Bell
Miner Associated Dieback (BMAD) and Myrtle rust, both of which impact the health and quantity of available
forage (DAWE 2021a).
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 19
Section 23
2.3.1.2 Potential impact
The Koala and its associated habitat was confirmed to be present within and immediately adjacent to the
proposed action (refer Appendix A; Section 4.6.1) (refer Figure 2.2). Habitat was typically associated with the
presence of primary Koala food trees, which included Queensland blue gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis),
Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) and Small-fruited grey-gum (Eucalyptus propinqua). Field-based
investigations using the methodologies of Phillips and Callaghan (2011) suggest that the area has a “low
utilisation rating”.
Approximately 3.17 ha of the Koala habitat is located within the proposed action. Analysis of this habitat
against the Koala habitat assessment tool (i.e. Table 4 from the EPBC Act referral guidelines for the
vulnerable koala (combined populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital
Territory) (CoA 2014)) indicates that the identified Koala habitat constitutes “habitat critical to the survival of
the species” (refer Appendix A; Table 30).
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Koala (and its habitat), as a result of the
proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Matters of National Environmental
Significance: Significant impact guidelines 1.1, Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999 (DotE 2013) (refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.2 - Table 32).
The following factors have been considered in relation to the potential impact to the Koala as part of the
proposed action:
Relatively small area of disturbance (i.e. 3.17ha)
The localised nature of potential impacts
The nature of disturbance
The absence of an important population
The relatively low utilisation of the area by Koalas
The proposed mitigation measures
In consideration of these factors, and in consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed
action is not likely to result in a significant impact to the Koala.
Mitigation measures to reduce the severity of impacts to this species include the provision of offsets in
accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy (July 2017) (refer Section 3.2.1), clearing the
minimum extent necessary for the proposed action, and management measures to minimise impacts to the
species during construction.
2.3.2 Grey-headed flying-fox
2.3.2.1 Ecological background
The Grey-headed flying-fox is Australia's only endemic flying-fox and occurs in the coastal belt from
Rockhampton in central Queensland to Melbourne in Victoria. It is one of the largest bats in the world with a
weight of 600–1000 g and a head-body length of 230 to 289 mm. It is the only Australian flying-fox that has a
collar of orange/brown fully encircling its neck. Thick leg fur extends to the ankle, in contrast to other
Pteropus species in which fur only reaches the knee (DAWE 2021a).
Grey-headed flying-foxes have relatively low fecundity and produce a single offspring per year, although
twins have occasionally been observed. Offspring are born, following a six-month long gestation period,
between October to January (DAWE 2021b). The average life expectancy for wild Grey-headed flying-foxes
is between 7.1 to 7.4 years, and females of the species typically do not reach sexual maturity until they reach
3 years in age (DAWE 2021).
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 20
Section 24
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Legend
Mile Creek Watercourse (defined by
Six
Water Act 2000)
Design footprint
Constructability buffer
Potential habitat
Wattle regrowth
(unsuitable habitat)
Map by: RY P:\GIS\Projects2\511784_SixMileCreek_BridgeReplacement\511784_Figure_2_2_Location_Koala_and_Grey_headed_flying_fox_habitat_v3.mxd Date: 3/12/2021 10:06
Potential habitat polygons are
indicative only
Source of Data: ECOSURE Pty Ltd June 2021 Date: 03/12/2021 Version: 3
Department of Transport and Main Roads Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
°
A3 scale: 1:3,500 Job No: 511784
Figure 2.2:
0 25 50 75 m Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Location of Koala and Grey-headed flying-fox habitat within and adjacent to the area of the proposed action
Section 25
Whist the Grey-headed flying-fox has an extensive distribution, only a small proportion of its range is used at
any one time, as the species selectively forages where food is available, feeding on nectar, pollen and fruit.
As a result, patterns of occurrence and relative abundance within its distribution vary widely between
seasons and between years (DAWE 2021b).
The Grey-headed flying-fox roosts in aggregations of various sizes on exposed branches. The species can
maintain fidelity to roost sites for extended periods, although new sites have been colonised. The Grey-
headed flying-fox is known to forage up to 50 km from a roost site in a single night (DAWE 2021b).
The Grey-headed flying-fox has a diverse diet, which includes nectar and pollen from the flowers of
eucalypts (genera Eucalyptus, Corymbia and Angophora), melaleucas and banksias. Whist the species has
a diverse range of food sources, the Grey-headed flying-fox has no adaptations for withstanding food
shortages and migrates in response to changes in the amount and location of flowering (DAWE 2021b).
The main threats to the Grey-headed flying-fox include: Habitat loss and fragmentation, Exploitation (i.e.
mortality associated with crop protection), Competition and hybridisation with other flying-fox species (e.g.
Black flying-fox), Pollution, pathogens and electrocution (DAWE 2021b).
2.3.2.2 Potential impact
Whilst the Grey-headed flying-fox was not directly observed within the area associated with the proposed
action, a Nationally important flying-fox roost is known to occur within 16 km of the proposed action (i.e.
Kadanga roost, known to contain between 16,000-50,000 bats during most survey periods). In addition to
proximity to a Nationally important flying-fox roost, foraging habitat for the Grey-headed flying-fox was
confirmed to be present within and immediately adjacent to the proposed action (refer Appendix A;
Section 6.1.4) (refer Figure 2.2). Habitat was typically associated with the presence of food trees, such as
Queensland blue gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys) and Small-fruited grey-
gum (Eucalyptus propinqua).
Approximately 3.17 ha of the Grey-headed flying-fox habitat is located within the proposed action. Analysis
of this habitat against the conservation advice for this species (DAWE 2021b) indicates that the identified
Grey-headed flying-fox habitat constitutes “habitat critical to the survival of the species” given its proximity to
a flying-fox camp of National importance.
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Grey-headed flying-fox (and its habitat),
as a result of the proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Matters of National
Environmental Significance: Significant impact guidelines 1.1, Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (DotE 2013) (refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.4 - Table 35).
In consideration of the relatively small area of disturbance (i.e. 3.17 ha), the localised nature of potential
impacts, the nature of disturbance, the proposed mitigation measures, and in consideration of Significant
impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action is not-likely to result in a significant impact to the Grey-headed
flying-fox.
Mitigation measures to reduce the severity of impacts to the Grey-headed flying-fox include the provision of
offsets (in the form of offsets for the loss of Koala habitat as habitat for the Koala is synonymous with the
Grey-headed flying-fox) in accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy (July 2017) (refer
Section 3.2.3.1). In addition, clearing the minimum extent necessary for the proposed action, and
management measures to minimise impact to the species during construction will also minimise the impact
to this species. Further detail related to mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts associated with
the proposed action are provided within Section 3.2.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 22
Section 26
2.3.3 Giant barred frog
2.3.3.1 Ecological background
The Giant barred frog is a large, dark-olive green to black coloured frog that grows to 115 mm. The species
is characterised dark cross-bars on the hindlimbs, with dark thighs and yellow spots (DAWE 2021c).
The Giant barred frog occurs in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. Within Queensland,
the Giant barred frog is known to occur from Doongul Creek in the Burrum River catchment, in scattered
locations in the Mary River catchment downstream to Kenilworth, the Upper Stanley River, the Caboolture
River and the Coomera River (DAWE 2021c).
The Giant barred frog occurs in rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests in upper to lower catchment areas, in
south-east Queensland, Giant barred frogs typically prefer a closed forest canopy with a relatively light cover
of vegetation at ground level (DAWE 2021c). The Giant barred frog is carnivorous as an adult and typically
feeds upon invertebrates. As a tadpole, the species typically feeds opportunistically upon biofilms, algae and
other organic material within the aquatic environment.
The Giant barred frog breeds in running water, such as streams. Eggs are laid out of water, in areas such as
bank overhangs or steep bank slopes, and upon hatching the tadpoles fall into the water. Clutch size for the
Giant barred frog is variable and may range from 1343 to 4184 with an egg diameter of between 1.7-1.8 mm
(DAWE 2021c). Giant barred frog tadpoles are large (i.e. over 100 mm in length) and are deep-bodied and
ovoid, with a tail length twice that of the body, with eyes that are located in a dorsolateral position. Tadpoles
are yellow-brown above with dark spots and a dark patch at the base of tail. The tadpole has a thick and
muscular tail, with fins that are opaque with dark flecking and low in profile (DAWE 2021c).
The main threats to the Giant barred frog include upstream clearing, changes in water flow regimes, declines
in water quality, disturbance to riparian vegetation, feral animals, domestic sock and weed invasion. In
addition, Chytridiomycosis (e.g. caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobaidis) has also been
identified as a threatening process for this species (DAWE 2021c).
2.3.3.2 Potential impact
Approximately 0.173 ha of the Giant barred frog habitat, which corresponds to the Lowland Rainforest of
Subtropical Australia TEC has been identified as being contained within the area of direct disturbance
associated with the proposed action (refer Figure 2.3). Analysis of this habitat against the conservation
advice for this species (DAWE 2021c) indicates that the identified Giant barred frog habitat constitutes
“habitat critical to the survival of the species”.
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Giant barred frog (and its habitat), as a
result of the proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Significant impact guidelines 1.1
(DotE 2013) (refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.3 - Table 34).
In consideration of the relatively small area of disturbance (i.e. 0.173 ha), the localised nature of potential
impacts, the nature of disturbance, the proposed mitigation measures, and in consideration of Significant
impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action is not likely to result in a significant impact to the Giant barred
frog.
Mitigation measures to reduce the severity of these impacts include the provision of voluntary direct, land-
based offsets (refer Section 3.2) for the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC (noting that the
Giant barred frog habitat is synonymous with this TEC). In addition, clearing the minimum extent necessary
for the safe construction and operation of the proposed action, and management measures to reduce edge-
related impacts from degrading areas that have been retained will also reduce the severity of impact to this
species. Further detail related to mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts associated with the
proposed action, are provided within Section 3.2.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 23
Section 27
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Six M
ile Creek Legend
Design footprint
Constructability buffer
Identified habitat for
Rufous fantail and Giant
barred frog
Map by: RY P:\GIS\Projects2\511784_SixMileCreek_BridgeReplacement\511784_Figure_2_3_Location_Rufous_fantail_and_Giant_barred_frog_habitat.mxd Date: 3/12/2021 06:05
Cooroora Creek
S ix
M ile C r eek
Source of Data: ECOSURE Pty Ltd June 2021 Date: 03/12/2021 Version: 3
Department of Transport and Main Roads Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
°
A3 scale: 1:5,000 Job No: 511784
Figure 2.3:
0 50 100 150 m Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Location of Rufous fantail and Giant barred frog habitat within and adjacent to the area of the proposed action
Section 28
2.3.4 Rufous fantail
2.3.4.1 Ecological background
The Rufous fantail is medium sized bird, approximating 14.5 cm to 18.5 cm in length. The bird’s forehead is
a rich reddish-brown colour across the eyes. The eyes have a white arc underneath and the top of the head,
back of the neck and the upper back, transition from an olive to reddish-brown colour, which then blends into
a blackish-brown, long, fan-shaped tail. This blackish-brown tail, contrasts with the base of the tail, which is
tipped with a paler colour, often white. The species is monomorphic (i.e. sexes are indistinguishable) (DAWE
2021d).
The Rufous fantail is primarily insectivorous, consuming a range of invertebrate. Food is typically captured
aerially, however the species is also known to glean food from foliage (DAWE 2021d).
The Rufous fantail has a coastal and near coastal distribution and occurs along the east Australian coast,
from Adelaide and the southern parts of Victoria, through to the tip of Cape York Peninsular, west to Darwin
and into northern Western Australia (DAWE 2021d). Within this range, two subspecies are known (i.e.
Rhipidura rufifrons subsp. rufifrons and Rhipidura rufifrons subsp. intermedia) (DAWE 2021d).
The Rufous fantail primarily associates with wet sclerophyll forests, subtropical rainforest and monsoon
rainforests, including semi-evergreen mesophyll vine forests, semi-deciduous vine thickets or thickets of
Paperbarks (Melaleuca spp.). When on passage/migration, they are sometimes recorded in drier sclerophyll
forests and woodlands, including Spotted Gum (Eucalyptus maculata), Yellow Box (E. melliodora), ironbarks
or stringybarks, often with a shrubby or heath understorey (DAWE 2021d).
The Rufous fantail breeds from September to February and nests at elevations of >600 m above sea level in
south-east Australia. Clutch size changes from 2 to 4 eggs which are laid in a small cup-shaped nest which
is usually made from grass, roots, fine strips of bark, plant-fibre, decayed wood, moss and spider web. Nests
are constructed in a trees, shrubs or vines, between 0.34–6.0 m above the ground (DAWE 2021d).
The main threat to populations of Rufous fantail is fragmentation and loss of core moist forest breeding
habitat through land clearing and urbanisation; especially forest remnants and corridors along the species'
migration routes (DAWE 2021c).
2.3.4.2 Potential impact
The Rufous fantail and its associated habitat was confirmed to be present within and immediately adjacent to
the area of the proposed action. Approximately 0.173 ha of the Rufous fantail habitat, which corresponds to
the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC has been identified as being contained within the area
of direct disturbance associated with the proposed action (refer Figure 2.3).
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Rufous fantail (and its habitat), as a
result of the proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Significant impact guidelines 1.1
(DotE 2013) (refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.7 - Table 40).
In consideration of the relatively small area of disturbance (i.e. 0.173 ha), the localised nature of potential
impacts, the nature of disturbance, the proposed mitigation measures, and in consideration of Significant
impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action is not likely to result in a significant impact to the Rufous fantail.
Mitigation measures to reduce the severity of these impacts include the provision of voluntary direct, land-
based offsets (refer Section 3.2) for the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC (noting that the
Rufous fantail habitat is synonymous with this TEC), clearing the minimum extent necessary for the
proposed action, and management measures to reduce edge-related impact from degrading areas that have
been retained. Further detail related to mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts associated with
the proposed action are provided within Section 3.2.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 25
Section 29
2.4 Matters of national environmental significance that will
not be impacted by the proposed action
Two MNES have been identified as potentially occurring in close proximity to the proposed action. However,
direct impact to habitat for these species will be avoided (refer Section 1.3, Figure 1.2, Figure 1.3 and
Figure 1.4). These MNES consist of the following:
Mary River cod (Maccullochella mariensis) – Vulnerable
Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) – Vulnerable
Further details related to each of these MNES and potential impacts associated with the proposed action are
provided within the sections below.
2.4.1 Mary River cod
2.4.1.1 Ecological background
The Mary River cod is an elongate fish with concave head profile and protruding lower jaw. It is typically
golden-yellow, green or dark brown in base colouration, with an overlay of black to dark green mottling which
sometimes extends onto the grey or whitish ventral surface. Dorsal, pectoral, caudal and anal fins are clear
to dark, with dark mottling on their bases. This species typically grows to 70cm in length and a weight of 5 kg
(TSSC 2016). The Mary River cod is a carnivorous ambush predator that is known to feed on fish and
invertebrates.
The Mary River cod naturally occurs within the Mary River system, and there are three areas within the Mary
River system where cod are present (TSSC 2016). These are:
Tinana-Coondoo Creek upstream from Tinana Barrage
Six Mile Creek downstream from Lake Macdonald
Upper Obi Obi Creek
Mary River cod form pairs and spawn annually around spring. Nest sites are selected and guarded by the
male. Nests are located in area associated with structures and may be formed in hollow pipes, snags, hollow
logs and other in-stream debris. The eggs are typically deposited as a layer inside the nest where they
adhere to the surface of the substrate. The eggs of this species are opaque, measuring between 3.0mm to
3.5 mm in diameter. Eggs typically hatch at the end of the fourth day after they are laid when the
temperature is 21°C. Newly hatched cod larvae are 5 to 7 mm long. The male continues to guard the brood
until they disperse to search for food around seven to nine days after hatching (TSSC 2016).
The Mary River cod inhabits high gradient, rocky, upland streams through to large, slow-flowing pools in
lowland areas. Anecdotal accounts by anglers and landowners often describe the ideal cod habitat as
comprising deep, shaded, slow flowing pools with plenty of snags and log-piles (TSSC 2016). The Mary
River cod is known to migrate into smaller tributaries from the main river in late winter. Depending on flows
and time of year the Mary River cod may move over 30 km up or down stream. The species is also known to
have a home range where fish may stay for a large proportion of time (TSSC 2016).
The main threats to the Mary River cod are impoundment of streams, loss of in-stream aquatic vegetation,
invasive fish, and overfishing (TSSC 2016).
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 26
Section 30
2.4.1.2 Potential impact
Whilst the Mary River cod was not identified within or adjacent to the area of the proposed action, habitat for
the species (i.e. Six Mile Creek) has been identified as present (refer Figure 2.4), noting that breeding habitat
for the species was not present within proximity to the proposed action (refer Appendix A). However, the
proposed action will not result in alteration or obstruction of the Six Mile Creek channel, or result in the loss
of in-stream aquatic vegetation (refer Section 1.2, 1.3 and Figure 1.2 to Figure 1.4). Whist it is noted that the
existing Six Mile Creek bridge structures will be removed as part of the proposed action, instream structures
will remain insitu, thus avoiding disturbance to existing habitat for this species.
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Mary River cod, as a result of the
proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Significant impact guidelines 1.1 (DotE 2013)
(refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.5 - Table 37).
In consideration of the absence of direct impacts and the proposed mitigation measures (refer Section 3),
and in consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action will not result in a significant
impact to the Mary River cod.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 27
Section 31
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Six M
ile Creek Legend
Watercourse (defined by
Water Act 2000)
Design footprint
Constructability buffer
Habitat for the Australian
lungfish and the Mary river
Map by: RY P:\GIS\Projects2\511784_SixMileCreek_BridgeReplacement\511784_Figure_2_4_habitat_for_the_Australian_lungfish_and_the_Mary_river_cod_drainage_line_v3.mxd Date: 3/12/2021 08:59
cod
Cooroora Creek
Mil
Si
e Cre ek
x
Date: 03/12/2021 Version: 3
Department of Transport and Main Roads Six Mile Creek Bridge Replacement
°
A3 scale: 1:5,000 Job No: 511784
Figure 2.4:
0 50 100 150 m Coordinate system: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Location of Australian lungfish and Mary River cod and within and adjacent to the area of the proposed action
Section 32
2.4.2 Australian lungfish
2.4.2.1 Ecological background
The Australian lungfish is a long, heavy-bodied, primitive freshwater fish that has five pairs of gills and its fins
resemble flippers. They have large, overlapping scales and a small mouth with large, crushing teeth on the
palate and lower jaw. Adult Australian lungfish can weigh up to 48 kg and grow to around 2 m, but commonly
reach 1.3 m and are dark brown or olive brown on the back and pink on the belly, with some whitish colour
on the belly and underside of the head (DAWE 2020e). Juveniles are dark olive, brown or yellow with a
mottled pattern above and a dull pink belly. The species is able to breathe aquatically using its gills, and
aerially using its single lung. It usually uses its gills, but surfaces to breathe when it is active and requires
more oxygen (DAWE 2020e).
The Australian lungfish is endemic to Australia and restricted to south-eastern Queensland. The species'
natural distribution is the Mary, Burnett and Brisbane River systems. However, the species has been
translocated to many other locations, with translocated populations persisting in the Coomera, Condamine,
Albert and Logan Rivers (DAWE 2021e). Within the Mary River system, the distribution of the Australian
lungfish within the Mary River is from the Mary River Barrage (59.3 km from the mouth of the river) to the
town of Conondale (220 km from the mouth of the river). It also occurs in large tributaries of the Mary River,
including Yabba Creek, Tinana Creek, Coondoo Creek, Wide Bay Creek, Obi Obi Creek, and Munna Creek
(DAWE 2021e).
The Australian lungfish inhabits still or slow-flowing, shallow, vegetated pools with clear or turbid water
where they feed on vegetation and invertebrates (the species is considered to be a low-level benthic
carnivore) which they ingest through a suctorial feeding method. They cannot live in saline waters or migrate
through sea water and are restricted to areas of permanent water. In order to spawn, the Australian lungfish
requires emergent or submerged vegetation which allows for successful deposition of eggs. These structures
also provide refuges for juveniles (DAWE 2021e).
The Australian lungfish are long lived (life spans ranging from 50 to 100 years), and mature very slowly, with
males reaching sexual maturity at 15 years of age, while females become sexually active at 20 years.
(DAWE 2021e). Whilst adult Australian lungfish are largely free of predation, eggs and juveniles are
susceptible to predation by insect larvae, shrimp and fish (DAWE 2021e).
The main threats to the Australian lungfish are impoundment of streams, erratic recruitment rates, recreation
anglers (caught as bycatch), exotic or translocated native fish, widespread clearing of aquatic vegetation
(particularly Vallisneria sp), and low genetic diversity (i.e. for populations in the Mary and Brisbane River
systems) resulting in decreased overall resilience (DAWE 2021e).
2.4.2.2 Potential impact
Whilst the Australian lungfish was not identified within or adjacent to the area of the proposed action, habitat
for the species (i.e. Six Mile Creek) has been identified as present (refer Figure 2.4). However, the proposed
action will not result in alteration or obstruction of the Six Mile Creek channel, or result in the loss of in-
stream aquatic vegetation (refer Section 1.3, Figure 1.2, Figure 1.3 and Figure 1.4). The structural integrity of
the channel will be maintained as part of the proposed action. Whist it is noted that the existing Six Mile
Creek bridge structures will be removed as part of the proposed action, instream structures will remain insitu,
thus avoiding disturbance to existing habitat for this species.
An assessment of significance related to potential impacts upon the Australian lungfish, as a result of the
proposed action, has been undertaken in accordance with the Significant impact guidelines 1.1 (DotE 2013)
(refer Appendix A; Section 6.1.6 - Table 39).
In consideration of the absence of direct impacts and the proposed mitigation measures (refer Section 3),
and in consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action will not result in a significant
impact to the Australian lungfish.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 29
Section 33
3 Measures to avoid, minimise or mitigate
potential impacts
This section provides information related to measures designed to avoid and reduce potential impacts. This
section includes measures to reduce impact to the environment generally (refer Section 3.2.1 and 3.2.2) and
specific measures to reduce impact to the identified MNES (refer Section 3.2.2).
3.1 Avoidance/minimise of impacts
The proposed action was designed to firstly avoid impacts to flora and fauna and their habitat. Where
avoidance was not possible, the design and construction footprint has been minimised to the greatest extent
possible, particularly in the following areas:
Six Mile Creek Conservation Park (National Park)
Council Environmental Reserve
Six Mile Creek channel
The bridge was also designed to span the creek to avoid the low flow channel.
The approach roads have been built as close to the existing alignment as possible to minimise impact on the
environment. The geometric design was considered in regards to environmental impact (refer Section 1.3).
Further, the existing bridge will be used as a side track during construction eliminating the need for
temporary works.
3.2 Mitigation measures of impacts
3.2.1 General measures to reduce environmental impacts
Mitigation measures presented within this section are designed to reduce impacts upon the environment,
including animals, plants and animal breeding places. The mitigation measures presented within this section
will also reduce impacts to the identified MNES but are not designed to specifically target these values.
Measures presented in the sections below include State-based legislative approval requirements,
compliance with State-based policies/guidelines as well as general best-practice techniques.
3.2.1.1 Compliance with State-based approval processes
Compliance with Queensland legislative requirements must occur for the proposed action to proceed (refer
Table 1.1). This includes the preparation of specific documentation, supported by field-based site
investigations where triggered by State-based environmental mapping. Approval to undertake works within
or adjacent to these areas is required. State-based legislative instruments applicable to the proposed action
that are relevant to MNES are outlined in Table 1.1. Compliance with these legislative instruments will
ensure that the environmental impacts are minimised to acceptable levels. Assessment of State-based
matters associated with the area proposed action, in accordance with the Queensland Environmental Offsets
Policy Significant Residual Impact Guideline (Nature Conservation Act 1992, Environmental Protection Act
1994, Marine Parks Act 2004) (State of Queensland 2014), is provided in Appendix A (Section 6.2).
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 30
Section 34
3.2.1.2 TMR’s Fauna Sensitive Road Design Manual
The conservation and protection of native fauna is important to TMR. Road corridors are maintained where
possible to support unique flora and fauna species. As part of the planning stage of projects, TMR completes
environmental assessments to understand the potential risks on fauna corridors, fauna habitat and the
potential for road kills, to inform the project design where possible. As part of the design process, TMR’s
Fauna Sensitive Road Design Manual is used to design, construct and maintain roads that better
accommodate the needs of fauna, by reducing habitat or population fragmentation and the impact of road
traffic.
The Fauna Sensitive Road Design Manual has been divided into two parts:
Part 1 (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-standards-publications/Fauna-
sensitive-road-design-volume-1) provides information on past and existing practices to assist
practitioners to design, construct and maintain roads that better accommodate the needs of fauna.
Part 2 (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-standards-publications/Fauna-
Sensitive-Road-Design-Volume-2) provides information on preferred practices to assist practitioners to
design, construct and maintain roads that better accommodate the needs of fauna.
Guidelines outlined in TMR’s Fauna Sensitive Road Design Manual have been incorporated into the
proposed action’s design, where relevant to reduce impacts to the identified MNES (refer Section 1.3).
3.2.1.3 TMR’s Road Drainage Manual
TMR’s Road Drainage Manual (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/-/media/busind/techstdpubs/Hydraulics-
and-drainage/Road-drainage-manual/RoaddrainagemanualComplete.pdf?la=en) provides information
related to the planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of road drainage infrastructure. It
provides the technical reference required for all aspects of hydraulic, road drainage, erosion, environmental
and sediment control throughout Queensland.
TMR has generally agreed to adopt the guidance published in Austroads Guides to Road Design series
(https://austroads.com.au/safety-and-design/road-design/guide-to-road-design) as part of national
harmonisation. While the Road Drainage Manual remains the primary document, it references and adopts
criteria and methodology as published in the Austroads Guide to Road Design.
Guidelines outlined in TMR’s Road Drainage Manual have been incorporated into the proposed action’s
design to reduce impacts to the identified MNES, particularly in relation to any potential indirect impacts to
aquatic species such as the Mary River cod and Australian lungfish. The bridge will drain to the southern
embankment, where water will be carried away in a swale drain.
3.2.1.4 TMR’s Specifications
All site preparation, construction phase and dismantling of the existing bridge will be carried out pursuant to
the TMRs engineering standards and Technical Specifications. Environmental aspects will be managed
under site specific and relevant aspects of the MRTS 51 Environmental Management and MRTS 52 Erosion
and Sediment Control. Rehabilitation and landscaping works will be managed by MRTS16 Landscape and
Revegetation Works.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 31
Section 35
MRTS51 Environmental management
MRTS 51 Environmental Management (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-
standards-publications/Specifications/3-Roadworks-Drainage-Culverts-and-Geotechnical#MRTS51)
includes requirements for the implementation of management, monitoring and reporting activities associated
with environmental elements, including water quality, noise and vibration, air quality, contaminated land,
hazardous chemicals and spill management procedures, flora and fauna (incorporating the Species
Management Programs), pest and weed management, air quality/dust, waste and cultural heritage. These
aspects will be addressed in the construction contractor's Construction Environmental Management Plan
(CEMP) and will be adapted to ensure that they are site specific to the proposed action and prescriptive,
including responsibilities and accountabilities.
MRTS52 Erosion and sediment control
MRTS 52 Erosion and Sediment Control (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-
standards-publications/Specifications/3-Roadworks-Drainage-Culverts-and-Geotechnical#MRTS52)
includes contractor requirements for the engagement of a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment
Control (CPESC) to develop, implement and monitor/adapt site specific erosion and sediment control plan/s
(ESCP) in accordance with the International Erosion Control Association (IECA) Best Practice Erosion and
Sediment Control Manual (2008). The proposed action will have a site specific ESCP.
3.2.1.5 MRTS16: Landscape and Revegetation Works
MRTS16: Landscape and Revegetation Works (https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-
standards-publications/Specifications/3-Roadworks-Drainage-Culverts-and-Geotechnical#MRTS16)
applies to the construction of landscape and revegetation treatments in road works. This Technical
Specification provides a standardised approach to ensure that landscape and revegetation treatments are of
sufficient standard and quality to minimise impacts to the surrounding landscape. Site rehabilitation will be
undertaken in accordance with MRTS16.
3.2.2 General mitigation measures
The proposed action will be subject to compliance with TMR's Technical Specifications mentioned above. In
addition, the following general mitigation measures will be applied to the proposed action and incorporated
into the site specific CEMP:
Design to avoid clearing of native species and vegetation wherever possible and the contractor to adhere
to contractual limits of clearing and minimise disturbance areas within the limits of clearing where
practicable. This includes clearly delineating important features (e.g. TEC boundary) to prevent
unnecessary vegetation clearing
Temporary flagging and/or barrier to be delineated on construction drawings and installed along physical
clearing boundaries to clearly identify no-go areas and reduce access to stream bank vegetation
Contractor to comply with MRTS51 biosecurity measures, including obtaining biosecurity certificates
certifying that all imported topsoil and mulches are free of restricted biosecurity matters and ensuring
construction plant and vehicles undergo a documented cleaned prior to commencement
Contractor to undertake weekly weed survey along the boundary of the TEC to reduce risk of weed
encroachment. Biosecurity matters will be treated where present
Avoidance of direct impact to Six Mile Creek (i.e. construction of bridge, including piers remaining outside
of the existing creek system)
Landscape and rehabilitation works to be undertaken as soon as practical to stabilise exposed work
areas, in accordance with TMR’s Specification MRTS16
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 32
Section 36
Where disturbance to the high bank of Six Mile Creek occurs, these areas will be stabilised to maintain
bank integrity using rock riprap where required with incorporation of riparian vegetation and grasses
consistent with the local area
Implement appropriate sediment and erosion control, as per MRTS52 and IECA Best Practice Erosion
and Sediment Control Manual (2008), for all disturbed areas during the construction phase. Controls to be
maintained until the works are complete and the exposed areas have been stabilised/rehabilitated in
accordance with the detailed design and MRTS16 requirements
Works to be undertaken in accordance with the proposed actions of the High Risk SMP (refer
Section 3.2.3)
Pre-clearance survey to be undertaken prior to any vegetation clearing and presence of suitably qualified
and licenced fauna spotter catchers to identify and relocate individual animals during clearing works
If required, ensure any herbicides used near waterways are “frog-friendly” and “fish-friendly”
Minimise potential for chytrid fungus by implementing suitable hygiene protocols
Night works must be kept to a minimum wherever possible and in keeping with the TMR Noise
Management Code of Practice
Reduce unnecessary noise and disturbance (e.g. turning off equipment/plant when not in use, locating or
directing exhaust and motor away from local sensitive receptors, use of equipment with lower sound
power levels where feasible) in accordance with the TMR Noise Management Code of Practice
Avoid chemical contact (e.g. fuel spills, unnecessary use of insecticides/fertilisers etc) with the
environment where possible, through locating fuel and chemical storage away from drainage lines and
the creek, developing specific protocols and procedures for any refuelling of plant equipment in close
proximity to the creek and providing appropriate spill kits (and training in their use) in areas of higher risk.
Monitoring, reporting and auditing as per the MRTS specifications and the CEMP throughout the duration
of construction to ensure the measures are being adopted by the construction contractor.
Application of these mitigation measures will result in a minimisation of indirect impacts to the area proximate
to the proposed action. In addition, whilst most of these mitigation measures are generic in nature, they will
also directly minimise the potential magnitude of impacts to the identified MNES.
3.2.3 Specific measures to reduce impact to identified matters of national
environmental significance
3.2.3.1 High Risk Species Management Program (Giant barred frog and Rufous
fantail)
A High Risk Species Management Program (High Risk SMP) is required under Section 88 of the
Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 and Section 335 of the Queensland Nature Conservation
(Animals) Regulation 2020 (NC Animals Regulation) to authorise interference with animal breeding places.
Under Schedule 7 of the NC Animals Regulation, an animal breeding place is defined under as:
“…a bower, burrow, cave, hollow, nest or other thing that is commonly used by the animal to incubate or
rear the animal’s offspring.”
Species Management Programs (SMP) are required for varying classes of protected fauna, where an
associated breeding place has been identified, and where tampering of the breeding place is necessary to
complete a project.
In relation to the area encompassed by the proposed action, potential breeding places for the Giant barred
frog and the Rufous fantail may be present. In order to minimise impact to these species, a Species
Management Program – High Risk of Impacts has been prepared for the proposed action.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 33
Section 37
The High Risk SMP is designed to detail actions and procedures to be followed during the pre-construction,
construction and operational phases of the proposed action, in order to mitigate potential adverse impacts to
species and their associated breeding places. The document is dynamic and will be updated as required
during construction as further information, species sightings and records come to light in order to ensure that
management measures are applicable and achieve the best possible conservation outcomes. The High Risk
SMP is a State Government endorsed document to ensure compliance under the NC Act and the NC
Animals Regulation.
3.2.3.2 Koala Memorandum of Agreement: Department of Environment and
Resource Management and Department of Transport and Main Roads
The Koala Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) applies to government supported transport infrastructure
projects within the South East Queensland Koala Protection Area (refer Table 1.1).
The MoA provides mitigation measures that are required in order to reduce impact to the Koala as a result of
government supported infrastructure. The proposed action will be undertaken in accordance with the
requirements outlined within the MoA.
As per the MoA, the following measures will be implemented:
A pre-clear survey will be completed by an ecologist or suitably qualified (Koala) fauna spotter-catcher to
count the number of non-juvenile habitat trees and ensure there are no Koalas present in the area prior to
clearing works, at the following timeframes:
− Within two weeks of clearing within each clearing area
− Immediately prior to clearing
During all clearing works an ecologist or suitably qualified (Koala) fauna spotter-catcher will be present
onsite to ensure Koala safety
Vegetation clearing will be carried out sequentially in a way that ensures any Koalas in the area have
sufficient time to move out of the clearing area without human intervention. For sites with an area of 3 ha
or more, clearing must be carried out in stages ensuring a 12 hour period elapses between each stage
and the next that starts at 6 pm on a day and ends at 6 am the following day during which no trees have
been cleared on the site.
Vegetation clearing will be carried out in a way that it is directed away from threatening processes (i.e.
roads) and towards any retained vegetation or habitat corridors and ensures appropriate habitat links are
maintained while clearing is occurring to allow koalas to move out of the site.
If a Koala is detected onsite works must cease until the Koala has moved out of the works area, ensuring
any tree with a crown overlapping a tree in which a Koala is present is not cleared.
3.2.3.3 Environmental offsets
3.2.3.4 Provision of environmental offset in accordance with EPBC Act
Environmental Offsets Policy - Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical
Australia TEC (comprising habitat for Rufous fantail and Giant barred
frog)
As indicated in Section 2.2.1, the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC has been identified as
likely to be subject to significant impacts when assessed against the Significant impact guidelines 1.1 (DotE
2013) as the proposed action will reduce the extent of an ecological community (i.e. removal of 0.173 ha).
The removal of this area is unavoidable and therefore, in order to mitigate the loss of this area, direct offsets
are proposed in accordance with the Commonwealth’s EPBC Act Environmental Offsets Policy.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 34
Section 38
Whilst assessment of the proposed action’s impact upon the Giant barred frog and Rufous fantail indicated
that these species are not likely to be subject to significant impacts (refer Section 2.3.3 and 2.3.4), the
provision of a direct offset for the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC would ensure that these
species are subject to a positive conservation outcome as a result of the proposed action.
It is noted methodologies to calculate offset obligations within Appendix A (Section 8.1) utilised values which
incorporated a 50 m buffer (in addition to a 10 m construction buffer). As it is identified that the action will
involve the direct removal of part of this community, offset obligations are to be calculated on the area of
direct removal (incorporating the 10 m construction buffer). Therefore, this section provides a recalculation of
the quantum of proposed offset to achieve a net ecological benefit. Calculations related to the quality of
quantum of impacts is provided in Table 3.1, and assumptions used to calculate the quantum of offset
required (as required by the Commonwealth Offset Assessment Guide (DSEWPaC 2012)), are provided in
Table 3.2. Refer Appendix B for a copy of the completed Offset Assessment Guide.
Table 3.1. Impact site calculations used to determine offset obligations
MNES feature requiring offset Comments
Threatened Ecological Community Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia
EPBC Act listing Critically endangered (annual probability of extinction 6.8%)
Impact site quality Site condition (structure and condition of site, diversity of relevant endemic and
non-endemic species)
The assessed patch:
contains 33 diagnostic endemic species listed in Appendix A of the listing
advice
contains 118 endemic species and 26 non-endemic species
contains multiple strata, including emergent, canopy, sub-canopy, shrub and
ground layers
meets criteria for condition threshold B of the listing advice
obtained a site-based score of 44/80 within a 100 m by 50 m BioCondition
assessment plot at the impact site (refer Appendix 4).
Sub-component score = 7
Site context (connectivity, importance in relation to overall TEC occurrence,
threats)
The impact site is currently connected to a band of mapped rainforest (RE
12.3.1) along Six Mile Creek and some other watercourses in the region.
Connectivity is occasionally broken by existing roads. A BioCondition
assessment at the impact site (refer Appendix 4) gave the following results:
the site lies within a patch containing 23 ha of remnant and 14 ha of regrowth
mapped vegetation
<10% of the perimeter of the mapped rainforest area is connected to mapped
remnant vegetation and >25% is connected to mapped regrowth vegetation
59.2 ha (19%) of remnant vegetation and 68.95 ha (22.3%) of regrowth
vegetation is mapped within 1 km of the site
landscape-scale attribute score of 9/20.
Sub-component score = 6
Overall site quality = 7
Area impacted 0.173 ha
Total quantum of impact (in 0.12 ha
consideration of community
quality)
As an offset site has not been identified for the proposed action at this stage, the following assumptions have
been used to estimate an indicative offset requirement:
The total quantum of impact = 0.12 ha (refer Table 3.1)
The offset site will have a starting quality of 5
The proposed offset works will raise the offset site quality to 7 after 20 years
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 35
Section 39
Based on these assumptions, an offset area of 0.9 ha will provide approximately 100.49% of the direct offset
requirement. These estimates will be revised when an offset area is identified.
Table 3.2. Assumptions used to determine offset obligations using the Commonwealth Offset Assessment
Guide
Offset Assessment Guide item Value used (assumed# or derived from the Commonwealth
Offset Assessment Guide*) (refer Appendix B)
Total quantum of impact (refer Table 3.1) 0.12 ha*
Risk-related time horizon 20 years#
Time until ecological benefit 20 years#
Offset site starting quality 5#
Offset site quality without offsets 5#
Risk of loss without offset 90%#
Offset site quality with offset 7#
Risk of loss with offset 10%#
Confidence in result 90%#
Proposed offset area 0.9 ha#
Proportion of impact area offset 100.49%*
3.2.3.5 Provision of environmental offsets in accordance with the Queensland
Environmental Offsets Policy – Koala habitat (also comprising habitat for
Grey-headed flying-fox)
Whilst the Koala and Grey-headed flying-fox were identified as unlikely to be subject to significant impacts
when assessed against the Significant impact guidelines 1.1 (DotE 2013) as a result of the proposed action
(refer Section 2.3.1 and Section 2.3.2), it is proposed that offsets that would provide habitat for both of these
species will be provided under the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy. It is noted that under the
provisions of the Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act), the Grey-headed flying-fox is listed as
a “least concern” species. Therefore, the offset calculations have been undertaken using the Koala, which is
listed as “vulnerable” under the provisions of the NC Act. Given that habitat for both the Koala and the Grey-
headed flying-fox are co-located within the area encompassed by the proposed action, offset delivery for the
Koala would also result in a net ecological gain for the Grey-headed flying-fox.
As indicated in Table 1.1, the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy is a statutory instrument which is a
decision-making support tool when an environmental offset is required for significant residual impacts to
prescribed environmental matters including Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES). Under the
Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy, an offsets package may include land-based offsets, actions in a
direct benefit management plan or a financial settlement offset. The quantum (Cost and/or Land area) of an
environmental offset under the policy, is calculated in accordance with the Financial Settlement Offset
Calculation Methodology presented in the Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy. A Financial Settlement
Offset Calculator service is provided by the Queensland Government (refer:
https://apps.des.qld.gov.au/offsets-calculator/) to assist in the determination of offset obligations where
significant impacts are expected to prescribed environmental matters. This online calculator has been used
to determine offset obligations (in relation to land-based and financial settlement options) associated with the
removal of Koala habitat associated with the proposed action.
It is noted that methodologies to calculate Koala offset obligations within Appendix A (Section 8.2), utilised
preliminary estimates that have subsequently been refined through design revision. Therefore, this section
provides a recalculation of the quantum of proposed offset to achieve a net ecological benefit for Koala (and
Grey-headed flying fox) where the quantum of impact associated with the proposed action is 3.17 ha.
Results from the offset calculations are provided in Table 3.3.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 36
Section 40
Table 3.3 Determination of Koala offset obligations (financial and land based) using the Queensland
Financial Settlement Offset Calculator
Category Input/output data
Input data
Section 1
Bioregion/Marine (and waterways) zone Southeast Queensland
Subregion/Marine bioregion Gympie Block
Local government Area (LGA) Noosa Shire Council
Distinct Matter area (DMA) 1:1
DMA impact area (ha) 3.17*
DMA notional offset area (ha) 12.68
DMA matter group Threatened animals - Phascolarctos cinereus (Koala)
Financial offset calculation (Financial offset)
Total on ground costs $253,600.00
Landholder incentive payment $166,995.60
Administrative costs $63,400.00
Total Koala habitat cost for Noosa Shire Council $483,995.60
Area required for offset provision (Direct offset)
Offset area required 12.68 ha
Table notes:
* The quantum of impact is to be confirmed prior to construction (tree count). Offsets will be delivered in accordance with the Qld
Environmental Offset Policy in consideration of TMR’s MoA with DES.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 37
Section 41
4 Summary and conclusion
The proposed action contains the following MNES values: Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC,
and habitat for the Koala, Grey-headed flying-fox, Rufous fantail, Giant barred frog, Mary River cod and the
Australian lungfish.
Using the hierarchy of avoidance, minimise and mitigation, impacts to the Mary River cod and the Australian
lungfish will be minimised through avoidance (i.e. remaining outside of the existing Six Mile Creek channel).
Habitat for the Koala, Grey-headed flying-fox, Rufous fantail and Giant barred frog will be removed by the
proposed action. However, the magnitude of these impacts, in consideration of the relatively small area of
disturbance, the localised nature of potential impacts, the nature of disturbance, the proposed mitigation
measures, and in consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action is not likely to result
in a significant impact to these species. However, notwithstanding the absence of a significant impact, it is
proposed that offsets under the Queensland Environmental Offset Policy will be provided for the Koala. The
provision of this offset will also benefit the Grey-headed flying-fox whose habitat is co-located with the Koala
within the area encompassed by the proposed action.
Approximately 0.173 ha of the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC is proposed to be removed
as part of the proposed action. In consideration of Significant impact guidelines 1.1, the proposed action will
result in reduction to the extent of an ecological community. As per the Significant impact guidelines 1.1, this
reduction in extent is likely to result in a significant impact to the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia
TEC. Notwithstanding this impact, it is proposed that a 0.9 ha area of direct offset be provided to mitigate this
potential impact. Provision of this offset would also provide habitat for the Giant barred frog and the Rufous
fantail which are associated with the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia TEC. The provision of an
offset of this magnitude aligns with the EPBC Act Environmental Offsets Policy.
A range of mitigation measures, both general and MNES specific are proposed to reduce the magnitude of
impacts associated with the proposed action. This includes mitigation measures to reduce the magnitude of
direct impacts (e.g. provisions of offsets) and indirect impacts (i.e. rehabilitation, erosion and sedimentation
control, High Risk SMP). Combined, these measures will effectively reduce the severity of impacts to
acceptable levels.
It is therefore concluded, in consideration of the nature of impacts, proposed mitigation and the type of
disturbance, that the proposed action IS NOT a controlled action.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 38
Section 42
5 References
Commonwealth of Australia (2014). EPBC Act Referral Guidelines for the vulnerable koala (combined
populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory) Available from:
https://www.awe.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/koala-referral-guidelines.pdf
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2021a). Species Profile and Threats Database
(SPRAT): Phascolarctos cinereus (combined populations of Qld, NSW and the ACT) — Koala (combined
populations of Queensland, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory). Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=85104
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2021b). Species Profile and Threats Database
(SPRAT): Pteropus poliocephalus — Grey-headed Flying-fox. Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=186
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2021c). Species Profile and Threats Database
(SPRAT): Mixophyes iteratus — Giant Barred Frog, Southern Barred Frog. Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1944
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2021d). Species Profile and Threats Database
(SPRAT): Rhipidura rufifrons — Rufous Fantail. Available from: https://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-
bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=592
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (2021e). Species Profile and Threats Database
(SPRAT): Neoceratodus forsteri — Australian Lungfish, Queensland Lungfish. Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=67620
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2012). Offsets Assessment
Guide. Available from: https://www.awe.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/offset-assessment-
guide.xlsm
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (2011). Approved
Conservation Advice for the Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Australia. Canberra, ACT: Department of
Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/communities/pubs/101-conservation-
advice.pdf
Department of the Environment (2013). Matters of National Environmental Significance: Significant impact
guidelines 1.1, Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Available from:
https://www.awe.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/nes-guidelines_1.pdf
Eyre, T.J., Kelly, A.L, Neldner, V.J., Wilson, B.A., Ferguson, D.J., Laidlaw, M.J. and Franks, A.J. (2015).
BioCondition: A Condition Assessment Framework for Terrestrial Biodiversity in Queensland. Assessment
Manual. Version 2.2. Queensland Herbarium, Department of Science, Information Technology, Innovation
and Arts, Brisbane. Available from:
https://www.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0029/68726/biocondition-assessment-manual.pdf
Phillips S and Callaghan J (2011). The Spot Assessment Technique: a tool for determining localised levels of
habitat use by Koalas Phascolarctos cinereus. Australian Zoologist, 35(3):774-780.
State of Queensland (2014). Queensland Environmental Offsets Policy Significant Residual Impact Guideline
(Nature Conservation Act 1992 Environmental Protection Act 1994 Marine Parks Act 2004). Communities.
Available from: https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/90404/significant-
residual-impact-guide.pdf
Strahler, A.N. (1964). Quantitative geomorphology of drainage basins and channel networks. Chow, V.T.,
Editor. Handbook of Applied Hydrology. New York: McGraw-Hill; 1964; pp. 4-39, 4-76.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 39
Section 43
Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2016). Conservation Advice Maccullochella mariensis Mary River
cod. Canberra: Department of the Environment and Energy. Available from:
http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/species/pubs/83806-conservation-advice-
16122016.pdf.
Threatened Species Scientific Committee (2011). Commonwealth Listing Advice on Lowland Rainforest of
Subtropical Australia. Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities.
Canberra, ACT: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities. Available
from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/communities/pubs/101-listing-
advice.pdf.
Project number 511784 File Six Mile Creek - Matters of National Environmental Significance Report 2021-12-03 Revision 1 40