Original source · versioned page text
PR0587 Stockwell Medihub FMP 20230209 - signed
Fauna Management Plan Stockwell Design and Construction Report Prepared for Stockwell Design and Construction OPW22/0303 26 Eenie Creek Rd, Noosaville 9 February 2023
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
The download may take up to a minute.
Full text of the other 30 pages
Page 2
DISCLAIMER
Information provided in this report is subject to copyright laws and is intended for the noted recipient(s)
only. This report remains the property of Biodiverse Environmental and may not be copied,
reproduced or submitted in whole or in part without the express permission of the author. Biodiverse
accepts no responsibility for any person or third party who may use or rely upon the concept of this
report, liabilities or cost incurred as a result of the information being inaccurate or incomplete in any
way for any reason. Parts of this report may contain information originally prepared by other parties –
in these cases these sources are cited. All advice is provided based upon information sources current
at time of report preparation. Biodiverse Environmental and the authors do not accept any form of
liability, be it contractual or otherwise, in respect of the data, errors, or omissions arising, through
misinterpretation of information, negligence or otherwise, however caused.
LEGISLATION
Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NCA), Queensland's native wildlife is protected. A person
who intends to move, take, use or keep native fauna requires an appropriate permit to do so. Where
approved land clearing activities may result in displacement of native wildlife, Biodiverse is permitted
to observe or relocate animals under Rehabilitation Permit Number WA0043580.
STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATION
Biodiverse Environmental is a certified Fauna Spotter Catcher service provider under the NCA and
an independent environmental consultancy with appropriate experience to undertake fauna handling
and management, environmental and ecological surveying and reporting, and land management
activities.
Biodiverse Environmental holds a current Rehabilitation Permit and Damage Mitigation Permit under
the Nature Conservation (Administration) Regulation 2017 and Scientific Purposes Permit under the
relevant Nature Conservation (Animals) Regulation 2020.
Biodiverse Environmental and their endorsed employees can carry out:
- Spotter catcher activity under Rehabilitation Permit WA0043580 valid to 12 May 2025
- Removal and relocation of protected animals under Damage Mitigation Permit WA0015031
valid to 12 April 2025
- Taking a protected animal for scientific purposes under Scientific Purposes Permit
WA0026563 valid to 07 September 2025.
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction i
Page 3
DOCUMENT CONTROL
Biodiverse Project
PR0587
Reference No.
PR0587-Stockwell Design and Construction-Lot 22 26 Eenie Creek Road Noosaville-FMP-
Document Title
20230209
Version 001
Brooklyn Hare,
Prepared by
Ecologist
Cerran Fawns,
Reviewed by
Manager Feb 9, 2023
Liam Pratt,
Approved by Feb 9, 2023
Director/Principal Ecologist
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
© All content including photos subject to Copyright
CONTACT DETAILS
Biodiverse Environmental
PO Box 320
Eudlo QLD 4554
0408 011 584
[email protected]
www.biodiverse-environmental.com.au
ABN: 18766198454
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction ii
Page 4
CONTENTS
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION .............................................................................................................. v
TERMINOLOGY, DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS .......................................................................... vi
LIMITATIONS ................................................................................................................................... viii
1. INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................1
1.1. Background ...........................................................................................................................1
1.2. Purpose .................................................................................................................................1
1.4. Roles and Responsibilities ....................................................................................................2
1.5. Site location ...........................................................................................................................2
2. METHODS ....................................................................................................................................4
2.1. Desktop assessment .............................................................................................................4
2.2. Site Visit ................................................................................................................................4
3. RESULTS .....................................................................................................................................5
3.1. Desktop assessment .............................................................................................................5
3.1.1. MNES .............................................................................................................................5
3.1.2. Fauna .............................................................................................................................5
3.2. Site Visit ................................................................................................................................7
3.2.2. Fauna .............................................................................................................................7
3.2.3. Habitat features ..............................................................................................................7
4. ISSUES AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES .............................................................................9
4.1. Vegetation Clearing ...............................................................................................................9
4.2. Fauna Management during works .......................................................................................12
4.3. Animal welfare .....................................................................................................................14
Animal Emergency Centre – Noosa Civic ......................................................................................14
4.4. Providing safe passage for fauna ........................................................................................16
4.5. Bushfire Risk .......................................................................................................................16
4.6. Control of feral, domestic and companion animals..............................................................17
4.7. Control of environmental weeds ............................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
4.8. Habitat Rehabilitation and Protection ..................................................................................18
4.9. Community Education and Awareness................................................................................20
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Site Location .........................................................................................................................3
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction iii
Page 5
LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Legislation and Guidelines applicable to this project ............................................................. v Table 2. Acronyms used throughout the report................................................................................... vi Table 3. CREVNT Fauna deemed moderately to highly likely to found within the project area...........6 Table 4 Habitat features identified during site visit ..............................................................................8 Table 5 Strategies to manage the impacts of vegetation clearing .......................................................9 Table 6 Strategies to manage fauna during works ............................................................................12 Table 7 Strategies to manage animal welfare ...................................................................................14 Table 8 Strategies to provide safe passage for fauna .......................................................................16 Table 9 Strategies to manage feral, domestic and companion animals ............................................17 Table 10 Strategies to manage environmental weeds .........................Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 11 Strategies to rehabilitate and protect retained habitat ........................................................18 Table 12 Strategies to promote community education and awareness .............................................20 FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction iv
Page 6
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION
Table 1. Legislation and Guidelines applicable to this project
Legislation Use of Legislation Impact on project
Its objective is to protect Queensland's environment
Environmental
while allowing for development that improves the total
Protection Regulation Follow the regulations within
quality of life, both now and in the future, in a way that
2019 DES
maintains ecological processes (ecologically
sustainable development)
The EPBC Act provides a legal framework to protect
Environment Protection
and manage nationally and internationally important Follow the related sections of
and Biodiversity
flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage the Environmental Authority
Conservation Act 1999
places—defined in the EPBC Act as matters of provided by the DES
national environmental significance.
To comply with relevant
Nature Conservation and
sections of the Act relating to
Other Legislation Act Provides legislation on the protection of threatened
matters of significance present
1999 biota in Queensland. It correlates with the ICUN red list
in the vicinity of the project
works.
Nature Conservation
Follow the related sections of
(Wildlife Management) The regulation provides for the management of native
the Act that have national
Regulation 2006 fauna
significance in the work
(a) Prescribes native wildlife as one of the following
classes — (i) extinct in the wild; (ii) endangered; (iii)
vulnerable; (iv) near threatened; (v) least concern Undertake investigations into
Nature Conservation
wildlife; and the fauna that may be present
(Wildlife) Regulation
(b) prescribes particular other wildlife as either of the on site and abide all relevant
2006
following classes of wildlife— (i) international wildlife; management requirements
(ii) prohibited wildlife; and under the Regulation.
(c) state the declared management intent for each of
the classes of wildlife
Nature Conservation and Guideline for identifying and managing koala habitat.
other Legislation (Koala Provides guidance on where fauna spotter catchers Details when koala spotters are
Protection) Amendment are legally required and how they are to manage koala required for clearing works.
Regulation 2020 habitat.
Provides detailed guidelines for designing ecological
Terrestrial Vertebrate Targeted fauna surveys are to
surveys, including the various methodologies, and
Fauna Survey Guidelines be conducted following these
ethical considerations to be made for each
for Queensland guidelines
methodology.
Technical Manual - Gives a guide on how to handle and manage
Amphibians are to be handled
Interim hygiene protocol amphibian species to reduce the risk of spreading
in accordance to this manual
for handling amphibians disease among colonies and specimens.
Code of Practice
Fauna Spotter Catchers to
Care of Sick, Injured or Provides a guide on wildlife care and rehabilitation.
follow this Code when dealing
Orphaned Protected Detailed guidelines of hygiene, housing release,
with sick, injured or orphaned
Animals euthanasia, relevant release, and capture.
fauna
in Queensland
Provides a framework for an effective biosecurity
system in Queensland. Under this act pest species are Weeds of National Significance
not fed, kept, sold, given away or released without a and Restricted Invasive fauna
Biosecurity Act 2014
permit. Under the act everyone obliged to the are to be managed according
biosecurity act to take follow the guidelines to reduce to the Act.
the risk relating to restricted flora and fauna
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction v
Page 7
TERMINOLOGY, DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS Table 2. Acronyms used throughout the report FMP Fauna Management Plan DAFF Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 NC Act Queensland Nature Conservation Act 2000 RE Regional Ecosystem CREVNT Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near threatened FSC Fauna Spotter Catcher SMP-HR Species Management Plan – High Risk of Impacts FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction vi
Page 8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Biodiverse Environmental was commissioned by Stockwell Design and Construction to conduct a site
visit and prepare a Fauna Management Plan prior to the commencement of native vegetation removal
and earthworks associated with the development of a Medihub precinct at Lot 22 26 Eenie Creek
Road, Noosaville.
This report is provided to meet the requirements as outlined in the Operational Works Permit 22/0303
Lot 22 SP 322201 associated with the Development Application submitted to Noosa Shire Council by
Stockwell Design and Construction.
A meander survey was undertaken throughout the site to investigations fauna breeding places and
habitat features.
A total of two (2) habitat features / potential fauna breeding places and 0 fauna species were identified.
Biodiverse Environmental have provided details on the following management / mitigation strategies
to be implemented prior to and during works:
• Vegetation Clearing
• Animal Welfare
• Fauna Management During Works
• Providing safe passage for fauna
• Bushfire Risk
• Control of feral, domestic and companion animals
• Control of environmental weeds
• Habitat rehabilitation and enhancement
• Community Education and awareness
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction vii
Page 9
LIMITATIONS
• This report has been prepared by Biodiverse Environmental for Stockwell Design and
Construction.
• The services undertaken by Biodiverse Environmental in connection with preparing this report
were limited to those specifically detailed in the Fauna Management Plan and are subject to the
scope limitations set out in the report.
• The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on conditions
encountered and information reviewed at the date of preparation of the report. Biodiverse
Environmental has no responsibility or obligation to update this report to account for events or
changes occurring after the date that the report was prepared.
• The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on information
obtained from contemporary research and recommended best practice measures.
• Site conditions (including the presence of additional conservation significant species and/or their
habitat) may change after the date of this report. Biodiverse Environmental does not accept
responsibility arising from, or in connection with, any change to the site conditions.
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction viii
Page 10
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background
Biodiverse Environmental has been engaged by Stockwell Design and Construction to prepare an
overarching Fauna Management Plan (FMP) for Medihub precinct at Lot 22 26 Eenie Creek Road,
Noosaville.
1.2. Purpose
The purpose of this report is to present information on the fauna and habitat features present within
the site to assist the management of development and provide framework for the long-term
management of the site. This report provides a consolidated management document to mitigate
impacts and protect native fauna during the approved clearing and construction activities, notably
conservation significant fauna (i.e., listed under the NC Act 1992 or EPBC Act 1999 as Critically
Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near threatened, henceforth CREVNT).
This report has been prepared to meet the requirements of the Request for Information by the Noosa
Shire Council dated 17th January 2023 OPW22/0303 with the following request:
“Issue: The application requires the removal of native vegetation along the edge of the vegetation
protection covenant. The application material has not been accompanied by a fauna management
plan. Information Required:
- Provided a fauna management plan prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced ecologist
to direct the clearing of vegetation on the site and the protection of fauna during site clearing.”
This report presents data collated from contemporary research, a review of previous studies in the
area and a site inspection conducted on 06 February 2023. Previous studies reviewed include:
• Ecological & Environmental Assessment Report Nov 2002 Prepared by URS (for the Noosa
Civic in general)
1.3. Focus and Scope
This FMP has been structured with a focus on the issues pertaining to management of fauna, and it
is envisaged that many activities will require the implementation of more than one component of the
FMP. This FMP refers to the statutory environmental and fauna management requirements as they
may apply, pursuant to all relevant policies, standards and regulation, along with end-user
consideration. In addition, this report seeks to ensure that fauna and fauna habitat in adjacent
conservation areas is not inadvertently adversely impacted.
This assessment report aims to mitigate the risk of injury, orphanage or death of fauna prior to, during
and post-construction by providing management guidelines for the following:
• Presence of CREVNT Fauna
• Vegetation Clearing
• Animal Welfare
• Fauna Management During Works
• Providing safe passage for fauna
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 1
Page 11
• Bushfire Risk • Control of feral, domestic and companion animals • Control of environmental weeds • Habitat rehabilitation and enhancement • Community Education and awareness Compliance with this FMP is compulsory and incorporates the use of expert consultants, including a registered and Department of Environment and Science (DES) approved Fauna Spotter and Catcher. Section 4.1 to 4.10 of the FMP outlines the statutory requirements and management guidelines and policies of the Management Plan. 1.4. Roles and Responsibilities The roles and responsibilities of Stockwell Design and Construction, Contractors, Fauna Spotter Catchers, and Ecologist are outlined for each management strategy are outlined throughout Section 4. Issues and management strategies. 1.5. Site location The project site is located at Lot 22 26 Eenie Creek Road, Noosaville, formally described as 22SP322201. A map showing the site in context of surrounding land has been provided as Figure 1. Detailed Drawing of the proposed development site layout is included as Appendix I. 1.6. Vegetation Historically, two Regional Ecosystems (RE) were present, with RE 12.9-10.1 (Tall open forest often with Eucalyptus resinifera, E. grandis, E. robusta and Corymbia intermedia on sedimentary rocks, usually coastal) FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 2
Page 12
LEGEND
LOT 22 26 EENIE CREEK
Highway
ROAD, NOOSAVILLE Main Road
Created by Brooklyn Hare Local Road
for Stockwell Design and Site
Construction on 07/02/2023 Location
Figure 1. Site Location
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 3
Page 13
2. METHODS 2.1. Desktop assessment Prior to conducting the site visit a comprehensive desktop analysis was undertaken. Species information, including the collation of existing records for the survey area were obtained. The Federal Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s ‘Protected Matters Search Tool’ and were used to generate a report that helped to determine whether Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) other matters protected by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) are likely to occur on the property. The EPBC Act Protected Matters Report was used to identify the listed threatened ecological communities, and flora and fauna species or their habitat that may occur or are likely to occur within the property. Additionally, the Department of Environment and Science (DES) WildNet Database was consulted to identify Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES). The WildNet database supports Queensland’s biodiversity and protected areas by providing important wildlife information that underpins conservation policies, programs and management responses. 2.2. Site Visit The project area was assessed using a daytime survey methodology following a meander pattern, covering as much as possible of the site. This involved visually inspecting the project area for nests, hollows, burrows, arboreal termitarium, waterbodies, anthropogenic (artificial) habitats, scratches scats and tracks. The survey also included a destructive search which involved stripping loose exfoliating bark, raking leaf litter and rolling logs and rocks. The ecologist recorded detailed information about all habitat features identified, and where possible, marked the habitat feature with hi-visibility flagging tape for closer inspection during works. FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 4
Page 14
3. RESULTS
3.1. Desktop assessment
3.1.1. MNES
No MNES were found to be applicable to the project area.
3.1.2. Fauna
A search of the PMST and WildNet databases was undertaken, identifying the species listed as
CREVNT under the NC Act and/or the EPBC Act that have potential to occur within 1 km of the project
area.
Searches returned a total of fifty-one (51) listed threatened fauna species, and fourty-five (45) listed
migratory species. These search tools rate the likelihood of occurrence from ‘may occur’, ‘likely to
occur’ to ‘known to occur’ based on the presence of suitable habitat for foraging and/or breeding.
Generated reports have been provided as Appendix II.
Due to the large list of species returned via this tool, an additional assessment was undertaken,
considering:
• Whether the site contained suitable breeding/roosting locations for the species
• Whether the site contained suitable foraging resources for the species
Assessments determined that seven (7) species have a moderate to high likelihood of occurring within
the study area (Table 3).
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 5
Page 15
Table 3. CREVNT Fauna deemed moderately to highly likely to found within the project area
Status
Scientific Name NCA / Habitat requirements Likelihood of Occurrence
EPBC
Glossy Black Cockatoo like woodland areas dominated by Allocasuarina or open
sclerophyll forests and woodlands with a stratum of Allocasuarina beneath Eucalyptus.
South-eastern Glossy Moderate. A number of records
This species is also known to utilise appropriate woodlands, and small pockets of
Black-Cockatoo from the surrounding area however
V/V Allocasuarina and Casuarina feed trees in urban areas. Glossy black-cockatoos feed on
Calyptorhynchus project area does not contain
the seeds of nine species of Allocasuarina and Casuarina species throughout their range,
lathami optimal habitat
however within an area feeding it is often restricted to one or two species. They are
obligate hollow nesters and need large trees, usually eucalypts, for breeding.
Moderate. Suitable habitat within
The Koala has a fragmented distribution throughout eastern Australia. Inhabit eucalypt project area although relatively
Koala
E/E woodlands and forests. Feed on the foliage of more than 70 eucalypt species and 30 non- isolated from adjacent bushland.
Phascolarctos cinereus
eucalypt species, but in any one area will select preferred browse species. High number of recordings
throughout area.
Grey-headed Flying-foxes are generally found within 200 km of the eastern coast of
Grey-headed Flying- Australia, from Rockhampton in Queensland to Adelaide in South Australia. In times of
Moderate-High. Suitable foraging
fox Pteropus LC / V natural resource shortages, they may be found in unusual locations. Occur in subtropical
habitat within project area.
poliocephalus and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and swamps as
well as urban gardens and cultivated fruit crops.
Moderate. Suitable habitat nearby
Swamp Crayfish The Swamp Crayfish is found in Melaleuca swamps and shallow drainage channels. They
the development area. Known to
Tenuibranchiurus V/V prefer burrow into damp clay and peaty sand.
be associated with pre-clearance
glypticus
RE 12.3.5
The Wallum Sedge Frog is found in ephemeral, seasonal and permanent wetlands where
High. Suitable habitat in the vicinity
there are emergent reeds, ferns and sedges, in an undisturbed coastal wallum swamps.
Wallum Sedge Frog of the development area. Known to
V/V the Frog may also be found around creeks and freshwater lakes in coastal wallum. At
Litoria olongborensis be associated with pre-clearance
swamp sites, they can be found sheltering amongst sedges, reeds and ferns all year
RE 12.3.5
round
High. Suitable habitat in the vicinity
The Wallum Rocket Frog inhabits wet coastal heathlands where it is found around sedge
Wallum Rocket Frog of the development area. Known to
V/V swamps, freshwater lakes and drainage lines on low nutrient soils. They have also been
Litoria freycineti be associated with pre-clearance
recorded a considerable distance from water in eucalypt forest near wet heath.
RE 12.3.5
The wallum froglet are found in acidic wetlands in Melaleuca swamps, sedgeland, wet or
High. Suitable habitat in the vicinity
dry heathland and wallum woodland areas in the sandy coastal areas of south-east
Wallum Froglet of the development area. Known to
V/LC Queensland. Occasionally they occur in adjacent forests where there is a heathy
Crinia tinnula be associated with pre-clearance
understorey, and are known to occur in disturbed wallum habitat like 4WD-impacted sites,
RE 12.3.5
roadsides, quarry site, and partly cleared areas
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 6
Page 16
3.2. Site Visit
3.2.1. Vegetation
Weed species are present on the site along the road frontage, including exotic species that occur
presumably due to past disturbance and through dumping of garden waste and subsequent
germination.
3.2.2. Fauna
While on site, Zero (0) fauna species were identified aurally or visually.
3.2.3. Habitat features
Two (2) habitat features were identified, including hollows in a habitat tree and one terrestrial termitary.
Unknown burrows were also identified within the substrate. The geographical location and
photographs of each habitat feature has been provided in Table 4 and specific management actions
for those habitat features are discussed in section 4. Issues and Management Strategies
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 7
Page 17
Table 4 Habitat features identified during site visit
ID 01
Description of habitat Fire scarred, mature Swamp
feature Brushbox
Status of Habitat
Unknown
Feature
Location of habitat
-26.41355, 153.04903
feature
At least two hollows identified from
Comments/Outcome
ground inspection.
ID 02
Description of habitat
Termitarium
feature
Status of Habitat
Active (termites only)
Feature
Location of habitat
-26.41354, 153. 04910
feature
Fairly large terrestrial termitarium.
Comments/Outcome No indication of historic use by
fauna.
ID 03
Description of habitat
Burrows
feature
Status of Habitat
Unknown
Feature
Location of habitat
-26.41339, 153.04886
feature
Comments/Outcome Unknown species.
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 8
Page 18
4. ISSUES AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
• Strategies for managing the impacts of development works on native fauna and their
associated habitat are shown below.
• The responsibilities and environmental control measures are outlined below in the table used
to avoid and reduce impacts during construction and the operational phases.
• The management issues and impact strategies are relevant to all fauna and threatened
species which are known to occur on the site or has the possibility of occurring.
4.1. Vegetation Clearing
Clearing of native vegetation can result in the direct injury or death of fauna. Clearing of the vegetation
on site can also damage fauna habitat within retained vegetation. The table below details the required
management strategies during works to address these issues.
Table 5 Strategies to manage the impacts of vegetation clearing
Issue Fauna habitat and vegetation clearing
Management Reduce direct and indirect effects on fauna during the clearing processes
objective
Requirements Clearing shall only occur once all approvals have been granted. To prevent damage to
to implement surrounding habitats, implement the following controls:
Prior to works commencing:
• Everyone involved in the construction is required to attend an environmental
training as a component of their site induction before entering the site.
• Everyone involved in the construction will also be instructed on their duties in
relation to vegetation clearing protocols and protecting native fauna. Areas
intended for vegetation clearing should be clearly defined and notified in detail in
the site instructions.
• The vegetation protection zone/s (VPZ) are to be clearly delineated
• A suitably qualified Fauna Spotter Catcher (FSC) is to undertake a pre-clearance
survey prior to each day of clearing works. The FSC is to record all data pertaining
to wildlife interactions and clearly indicate all habitat features (i.e., with use of
spray paint or high-visibility flagging tape)
During Works:
• All clearing is to be carried out in the presence of a suitably qualified FSC who
has the primary role of safely capturing and relocating fauna impacted by works
• Removal of understory and scrub trees is to be conducted first, followed by the
removal of non-habitat trees.
• Non-habitat trees and coarse woody debris should be stockpiled
• Clearing of non-habitat trees will only occur where their removal will not impact on
identified habitat trees (e.g. canopies do not interconnect with habitat trees).
• Hollows within trees will be identified in the field before commencing clearing.
These will be marked and dismantled using a qualified arborist, a cherry picker,
and a fauna spotter catcher.
• Hollows within trees will be identified in the field before commencing clearing.
These will be marked for inspection and dismantled using a qualified arborist, a
cherry picker or elevated work platform (EWP), and a fauna spotter catcher.
o inspecting each of the potential habitat features (usually hollows, dreys
and arboreal termite nests) to determine the presence of arboreal fauna.
This is usually carried out by simply looking into hollows with the
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 9
Page 19
assistance of a small torch, however, burrow and bore-scopes can also
be useful for deep hollows.
o If fauna is located within a hollow, a towel or rag will be firmly lodged into
the entrance to prevent wildlife from experiencing additional distress or
attempting to escape due to a perceived threat.
o If an occupied ringtail possum drey is encountered, the fauna
spotter/catcher should quietly approach (i.e., avoid contacting other
branches) the drey in the EWP bucket and physically capture the possum
by placing the entire drey in a catch bag or only the possum if it emerges
from the drey.
• Once the hollow entrance has been secured the arborist or fauna
spotter/catcher will cut the entire hollow limb off below the cavity where the
branch remains solid. In circumstances where a hollow continues into the main
stem of the tree, a small window will be carefully cut into the hollow, allowing the
fauna spotter/catcher to plug the hollow above and below the window, then the
hollow limb removed and lowered to the ground in sections.
o When the fauna has been safely secured within its hollow, the entire
limb can then be placed in the EWP bucket or lowered to the ground
using ropes depending on the size of the limb.
o This limb will then be placed in a cool, quiet location until translocation
to the recipient habitat site, when at dusk the follow entrance is re-
opened to allow the fauna to emerge of its own accord.
• If there is more than one work zone undertaking clearing or earthworks, there shall
be the requirement for at least one FSC per work zone
• Undertake sequential clearing - the direction of sequential clearing should be
away from road infrastructure and threatening environments and towards habitat
links to ensure fauna are not needed to move through developing and disturbed
areas
• Trees to be cleared along the boundary of the VPZ are to be felled inwards to
avoid damaging surrounding retained vegetation
• All trees to be removed will be rechecked by a fauna spotter catcher prior to and
after felling, to ensure there is no fauna present
• All trees that are to be stockpiled overnight must be re-checked by a fauna spotter
catcher prior to mulching to ensure no fauna have relocated into the pile
After works:
• Fauna should not be left in an isolated ‘island’ of habitat between these
environments, unless there is no other option suitable
• Cleared vegetation should be piled thoughtfully; kept away from waterways and
without causing damage to the surrounding habitat
• Cleared vegetation must be piled in a way that will not disturb fauna movement
• Large rocks and logs must be removed and placed in nearby vegetation to provide
shelter for fauna. Piles of cleared vegetation are to be used on the site for
rehabilitation.
Performance
• Zero disturbance must occur outside the permitted clearing area
indicators
• Mortality and disturbance of fauna should be prevented
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction is held accountable for:
responsible • Ensuring all contractors have read and are able to comply with this management
plan.
• Ensuring a suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher undertakes a pre-clearance
survey to identify habitat features and reduce fauna load within 1 week of clearing
works
• Ensuring a suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher is present for all vegetation
clearing
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 10
Page 20
The Clearing Contractor is responsible for conducting vegetation clearing in accordance
with this management plan
The Site Superintendent is responsible for dealing with Contractor compliance with what
is required and reporting back to the Superintendent.
The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is responsible for
• Undertaking a pre-clearance survey, safely capturing fauna and releasing fauna
into suitable habitat and under suitable conditions.
• Maintaining detailed records of fauna interactions and fauna habitats cleared,
and preparing reports
All personnel are responsible for upholding animal welfare by preventing and / or
minimizing the risk of distress, injury, illness, orphanage, predation or death of fauna.
Reporting and The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is responsible for
Auditing • Providing Stockwell Design and Construction with a pre-clearance survey
report, detailing how any additional habitat features will be managed
• Reporting on the number of hollows, hollow recruitment trees and arboreal
termitaries lost as a result of clearing works
• A post-clearance report is to be handed to the contractor on the clearing of any
native vegetation, including any fauna found and or relocated, and the details of
all habitat features removed during works
• Each day of native clearing vegetation is completed a log is to be completed by
the Contractor before or on the completion of the day. Audit of the key
requirements like the clearing within the limits, the presence of the fauna spotter
catcher, the absence of damage to vegetation in the surrounding area.
Corrective • In the event where monitoring practice are inconsistent with the strategies for the
Action management plan the Contractor should take the corrective steps and write them
down in a monthly report to be looked at by the Site Superintendent.
Timing • The duration of the construction period
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 11
Page 21
4.2. Fauna Management during works
To manage fauna during works, a suitably qualified Fauna Spotter Catcher must be engaged. The
Fauna Spotter Catcher bears sole responsibility for handling and relocating fauna impacted by works.
Table 6 Strategies to manage fauna during works
Issue Fauna Management During works
Management Locate and safely release native fauna into suitable habitat
Objective
Implementations • A suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher is to be present on site during all
required vegetation clearing, mulching and grubbing works. Essential qualifications and
experience include
o Venomous snake handling certificate
o Fauna Handling experience / fauna handling certificate
o First Aid and CPR
o Competent in Fauna ID and knowledge of habitat requirements
• Prior to clearing works commencing each day, the site is to be thoroughly
inspected by a suitably qualified Fauna Spotter Catcher to capture and
relocate any fauna that has moved back into the impact area overnight.
• All newly identified habitat features, and breeding sites are to be marked with
flagging tape, and their planned mitigation measures are to be discussed with
the clearing crew.
• During this discussion, hazards to fauna dispersing away from the impact site
should be discussed, such as predators, machinery, roads/traffic and clearing
operations.
• The Fauna Spotter Catcher and clearing crew are to work collectively to
determine the manner and direction of clearing that best allowed fauna to
safely self-relocate to nearby suitable habitat.
• the Fauna Spotter Catcher is to inspected habitat features and breeding places
in cleared vegetation for any fauna present.
• The FSC is to fauna must assess all fauna injury, capture photographs if
possible and confidently identify fauna to species level. (Resources, such as
field guides should be used if uncertain).
• Uninjured captured diurnal fauna are to be released into the closest suitable
habitat as soon as practicable. A suitable release location will be the nearby
Noosa National Park or if appropriate the adjacent vegetation to the site.
• Nocturnal fauna species are to be stored in a thermally suitable, quiet and dark
location and released at dusk into suitable habitat.
• The following environmental and ecological factors must be considered when
determining the timing and location of release:
o Habitat contains an adequate food supply and shelter
o Weather, season, and time of day is appropriate for the species.
o Under circumstances which will not cause additional stress, such as
extreme weather conditions, the wrong time of day (i.e., nocturnal
species)
o In the appropriate social group. Some animals fare better if released
into social groups.
o Within 1km of the site as per DES guidelines.
• Injured and orphaned fauna are to be secured in a thermally suitable, quiet
and dark location while assessments are made over the severity of injury.
• Viable fauna are to be transported swiftly to the closest vet or wildlife carer,
identified in section 5.6 Animal Welfare.
• Fauna suffering non-viable injuries are to be promptly euthanized, following
procedures outlined in the Code of Practice - Care of Sick, Injured or
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 12
Page 22
Orphaned Protected Animals in Queensland (1992), or alternatively taken
immediately to a veterinary clinic for euthanasia.
• Hives of native bees (genus Tetragonula (syn Trigona) and/or Austroplebelia)
are to be salvaged during vegetation clearing works for relocation into the
retained vegetation.
Personnel • Stockwell Design and Construction are responsible for ensuring the
responsible engaged Fauna Spotter Catcher possesses all required qualifications
• The Fauna Spotter Catcher is responsible for managing all fauna during
works
Reporting and The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is responsible for
Auditing • providing Stockwell Design and Construction with information pertaining to
fauna management during works, as part of the post-clearance report.
Corrective Action • In the event where monitoring practice are inconsistent with the strategies for
the management plan the Contractor should take the corrective steps and write
them down in a monthly report to be looked at by the Site Superintendent.
Timing • The duration of the clearing period
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 13
Page 23
4.3. Animal welfare
The clearing of native vegetation has a high potential of negatively impacting fauna and may lead to
distress, injury, illness, orphanage, predation or death of fauna.
Table 7 Strategies to manage animal welfare
Issue Animal Welfare
Management Prevent fauna deaths and reduce disturbance to fauna
Objective
Implementations Before Works:
required • Ensure that works are not undertaken under environmental conditions that
may result in additional impacts to fauna
• Ensure that works are timed to occur outside of the breeding season of fauna
• A suitably qualified Fauna Spotter Catcher is to undertake a pre-clearance
survey within 1 week of works commencing, to identify any potential animal
welfare issues (for example, active nests). Management strategies should be
discussed, including how clearing can be conducted to minimize the risk to
fauna.
• Implement habitat enhancements (i.e., nest boxes) in areas outside of the
cleared area before vegetation clearing.
During Works:
• Ensure that the management strategies in section 4.4 – Movement of Fauna
are implemented and followed by all personnel
• Relocation and fauna handling must only be carried out by personnel with a
current site-specific Damage Mitigation Permit (DMP) and Animal
Rehabilitation Permit (ARP) from Queensland Department of Environment and
Science.
• Fauna spotter catchers are required to relocate injured wildlife to the closest
designated veterinary clinic. There are 3 clinics near the site. Orphaned
Wildlife, for example unhatched bird eggs may be relinquished to a suitably
qualified wildlife carer.
• The location and contact details of each veterinary clinic and nominated wildlife
carers are to be kept in an accessible location at the site office. All personnel
are to be inducted on how to find this information, in the event that an animal
is injured on or in the vicinity of the site and no fauna spotter catcher is present
(for example, after vegetation clearing has been completed)
Animal Emergency Centre – Noosa Civic
(07) 5353 7005
28 Eenie Creek Rd, Noosaville QLD 4566
Greencross Vets Noosa Civic
(07) 3084 6006
28 Eenie Creek Rd, Noosaville QLD 4566
Noosa District Animal Hospital
(07) 5473 0004
43 Rene St, Noosaville QLD 4566
WILVOS
07 5441 6200
• Invasive and introduced fauna are to be managed / dealt with ethically by the
Fauna Spotter Catcher. This may include taking the animal to the nearest
veterinary clinic for euthanasia.
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 14
Page 24
• A fauna incident or interactions register is to be updated daily throughout
clearing operations.
•
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction is held accountable for:
responsible • Ensuring a suitably qualified fauna spotter catcher is present for all vegetation
clearing
• Working with the Fauna Spotter Catcher to manage any animal welfare issues
identified (for example, active nests).
• Ensuring all personnel are reminded of their responsibility to uphold animal
welfare by preventing and / or minimizing the risk of distress, injury, illness,
orphanage, predation, or death of fauna.
• Ensuring all personnel understand that fauna is not to be handled by anyone
except the licensed spotter catcher.
• Ensuring that clearing works cease temporarily if an animal is injured, to allow
the fauna spotter catcher time to assess the level of injury and determine the
next steps required
The Clearing Contractor is responsible for
• Communicating clearly and effectively with the fauna spotter catcher, by use
of radio, hand signals or other agreed upon methods
• Working carefully and under the impression that fauna may be concealed
within vegetation
• Working with the Fauna Spotter Catcher to manage any animal welfare issues
identified
• Not continuing to clear vegetation while the Fauna Spotter Catcher is
managing fauna
The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is responsible for
• Capturing and relocating fauna
• Maintaining detailed records of fauna interactions and fauna habitats cleared,
and preparing reports
Reporting and • A breeding place register is to be maintained by the Fauna Spotter Catcher
Auditing • A fauna register is to be maintained by the Fauna Spotter Catcher
• The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is to provide Stockwell Design and
Construction with completed registers, for submission to DES at the end of
construction
Corrective Action • In the case where monitoring acknowledges practices that re inconsistent with
the strategies developed for the associated management plan, the Contractor
shall carry out the necessary corrective process and write them up in a monthly
report which is then reviewed by a Site Superintendent.
Timing • Length of the construction period
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 15
Page 25
4.4. Providing safe passage for fauna
The following measures will be employed throughout the site to reduce fauna habitat fragmentation,
facilitate movement and decrease injuries and deaths inflicted by vehicles.
Management requirements are considered
• At site preparation operations
• During design treatments and strategies in the building phase of the development.
Table 8 Strategies to provide safe passage for fauna
Issue Maintaining safe movement of Fauna
Management Maintaining a safe movement of fauna within the retained habitat and to decrease the
Objective movement opportunities through the preparation of site areas
Implementations Fauna may attempt to relocate away from clearing operations and into bushland
required adjacent to Eenie Creek Road.
• Ensure vegetation clearing is conducted in a manner that allows fauna to
relocate at their own volition, into areas that are not isolated islands of
vegetation.
o This includes clearing in the direction of West to East, encouraging
fauna to disperse back into the Covenant and protected vegetation.
• Maintain and rehabilitate wildlife corridors to be retained on and adjacent to the
site through measures including, but not limited to
o Installation of nest boxes to compensate loss of hollows at a ratio of 3:1
(i.e, 3 nest boxes for every hollow lost)
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction is required to
responsible • Prepare the site access plan and install relevant signage at areas deemed high
risk for fauna-vehicle collision
• Inform all contractors, through means of a site induction or pre-start meeting, of
their responsibility to abide by speed limits
• Undertake rehabilitation measures as outlined above unless otherwise dictated
by Noosa Shire Council
Reporting and Details of all fauna-vehicle collisions are to be provided to the Fauna Spotter
Auditing Catcher/Ecologist for inclusion
Corrective If monitoring identifies inconsistent practices with the strategies formed for this
Action management plan, the Contractor shall take action to correct this and include a note in
the monthly report to be looked over by the Superintendent.
Timings Construction period duration
4.5. Bushfire Risk
Fire is a normal factor operating in the environment of most vegetation types occurring within the site.
Open forests and swamp forest communities are fire tolerant and typically have a 15–30-year fire
cycle. The site contains evidence of past fires of low to moderate intensity. However, fragmentation
of habitat and subsequent urban development reduces the risk of fire substantially.
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 16
Page 26
4.6. Control of feral, domestic and companion animals
Terrestrial vertebrate pest species that may be present within the site including foxes, cats, dogs,
rabbits, cane toads, rats and mice.
Pest management is therefore an important factor in the management of native species during habitat
disturbance and revegetation. Management is considered:
• At site preparation operations
• During on-going management of retained habitats
The Biosecurity Act 2014 requires everyone to take all reasonable and practical steps to minimise
the risks associated with invasive animals under their control. This is called a general biosecurity
obligation (GBO).
A control and monitoring program for pest species will be developed and implemented according to
local and state legislation plans. The success of any strategy is likely to be linked to the approach
towards the management implemented on adjacent lands.
Table 9 Strategies to manage feral, domestic and companion animals
Issue Control of feral, domestic and companion animals
Management Minimize the impact of feral, domestic and companion animals on fauna within the site
Objective and Environmental Management and Conservation Zone
Implementations • Dogs and companion animals are banned from the site
required • Reduce food sources available for introduced rodents around workshops, site
offices, storage sheds and crib huts. This can be maximized with maintenance
of environmental education and routine practices, for example:
o Promoting adequate housekeeping practices relating to food scrap
disposal
o Provision of waste receptacles prevents access to rodents
o Practice daily food waste removal
o Provide communication with staff to raise awareness of the linkage
between environments and housekeeping practices to support
populations of rodents which support feral cats, and consequences from
feral cats on native wildlife
• All construction workers will attend environmental training as the introduction of
the site before starting on the work site. The training involves instructing the
construction workers on their responsibilities to avoid and minimize the
introduction of feral species
• All introduced fauna encountered by the Fauna Spotter Catcher (i.e., Cane
Toad) are to be euthanized ethically
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction is responsible for
responsible • ensuring good housekeeping practices are enforced and adhered to within the
site
• Regularly inspecting the development area to identify any introduced pest
species
• Enforcing a ban on all dogs and companion animals on site
• Implementing reactive management if feral, domestic or companion animal
species are found to be adversely affecting local fauna
Reporting and Weekly visual inspections of the construction site will be undertaken by the HSE
Auditing coordinator and construction personnel to identify any potential feral, domestic and
companion animal management issues. Any actions to be undertaken as a result of site
inspections will be recorded
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 17
Page 27
Corrective Where monitoring shows inconsistent strategies developed for the management plan,
Action the Contractor will take necessary corrective action and note them down in the quarterly
report to be looked at by the Site Superintendent.
Timing On-going for the life of each development precinct
4.7. Habitat Rehabilitation and Protection
Rehabilitation of retained habitat areas should be undertaken along with the vegetation management
commitments prescribed by Noosa Shire Council within the Development Application approval
conditions. The following treatments and strategies will further benefit fauna within the retained
habitat.
Table 10 Strategies to rehabilitate and protect retained habitat
Issue Fauna Habitat Rehabilitation
Management Improve the habitat values for fauna within the retained habitat.
Objective
Implementations • Installation of nest boxes to compensate loss of hollows at a ratio of 3:1 (i.e., 3
required nest boxes for every hollow lost)
• Installation of nest boxes to compensate loss of hollow recruitment trees at a
ratio of 3:1 (i.e., 3 nest boxes for every hollow recruitment tree lost)
o Nest boxes installed should be suitable for a variety of fauna species,
as informed by the characteristics of hollows removed through clearing
and observations of fauna made within the site.
o Nest boxes should be monitored at 1, 3 and 5 years post-installation to
determine the effectiveness of the offset provided
• Maintenance, rehabilitation, and protection of the creek/drainage line along the
eastern boundary of lot 17 in accordance with the approval conditions of the
Development Application.
• Ensure that any fences erected in relation to this feature do not impede the
movement of aquatic fauna.
• Placing hollow tree trunks randomly in the retained area collected from the
clearing areas to provide additional habitat values
• Placing rocks in the retained habitat from the cleared area to provide additional
habitat.
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction are responsible for:
responsible • Complying with all approval conditions of the Development Application
pertaining to habitat rehabilitation and landscaping
Stockwell Design and Construction are strongly encouraged to install, maintain and
monitor an appropriate number of nest boxes to compensate for lost tree hollows.
Proposed receiving sites for nest boxes, hollow logs and rocks include the area titled
“Covenant J” and the Environmental Management and Conservation Zone.
The Fauna Spotter Catcher is responsible for:
• Talking to the vegetation clearing contractors to relocate hollow trees, logs and
rocks
The Clearing Contractor is responsible for:
• Working with the Fauna Spotter Catcher to relocate hollow trees, logs and rocks
The Ecologist is responsible for:
• Determining the final quantity and type of nest boxes to be installed
• Undertaking monitoring of nest boxes at the nominated time periods
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 18
Page 28
Reporting and The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is to provide a summary report detailing high-
Auditing level information pertaining to nest box installation, such as
• Nest box ID
• Type of nest box
• Height of installation
• Location of box
• Host tree species
The Fauna Spotter Catcher / Ecologist is to provide a summary report detailing the
outcomes of any monitoring undertaken including:
• Nest box ID
• Occupancy status
• Any damage or maintenance required
Corrective Replacement or the repair of the nest boxes within 2 months of receiving the nest box
Action monitoring reports
Timings Nest boxes should be installed within 2 months of clearing works commencing
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 19
Page 29
4.8. Community Education and Awareness
Community awareness is vital in the support of site-wide initiatives. It is necessary these initiatives
are accompanied by an effective public information campaign which is repeated and is ongoing to
reinforce the message in accordance to the issue of fauna management.
Table 11 Strategies to promote community education and awareness
Issue Awareness and Education for Residential Community – Native fauna
Management Improve community awareness and respect of the retained natural environments
Objective
Implementations oDuring tree clearing, implement a communication strategy for the public
required to raise awareness of the presence of a Fauna Spotter Catcher to aid in
the fauna management works of the site
Personnel Stockwell Design and Construction are strongly encouraged to work with the
responsible Ecologist to improve community awareness and respect of the retained natural
environments
Reporting and All new tenants should be provided with the same statement detailing the above
Auditing information
Corrective As required
Action
Timings As required
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 20
Page 30
APPENDIX I – SITE PLAN
LOT 22 26 EENIE LEGEND
CREEK ROAD, Highway
Noosa National
NOOSAVILLE Main Road Park
Created by Brooklyn Hare Local Road
for Stockwell Design and
Development Area Boundary
Construction on
07/02/2023
FAUNA MANAGEMENT PLAN | Stockwell Design and Construction 21
Page 31
PR0XXX-[Client]-[Project]-FMP-[Date]_1
Final Audit Report 2023-02-09
Created: 2023-02-09
By: Biodiverse Environmental ([email protected])
Status: Signed
Transaction ID: CBJCHBCAABAAGllGZVyknM9bQZAsL-_PjcVHygK9MJ1A
"PR0XXX-[Client]-[Project]-FMP-[Date]_1" History
Document created by Biodiverse Environmental ([email protected])
2023-02-09 - 4:24:13 AM GMT- IP address: 49.182.35.158
Document emailed to [email protected] for signature
2023-02-09 - 4:25:24 AM GMT
Email viewed by [email protected]
2023-02-09 - 4:35:59 AM GMT- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Signer [email protected] entered name at signing as Liam Pratt
2023-02-09 - 4:37:08 AM GMT- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Document e-signed by Liam Pratt ([email protected])
Signature Date: 2023-02-09 - 4:37:10 AM GMT - Time Source: server- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Document emailed to [email protected] for signature
2023-02-09 - 4:37:12 AM GMT
Email viewed by [email protected]
2023-02-09 - 4:37:42 AM GMT- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Signer [email protected] entered name at signing as CERRAN FAWNS
2023-02-09 - 4:38:47 AM GMT- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Document e-signed by CERRAN FAWNS ([email protected])
Signature Date: 2023-02-09 - 4:38:49 AM GMT - Time Source: server- IP address: 1.128.110.5
Agreement completed.
2023-02-09 - 4:38:49 AM GMT