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MCU18.0166 - Response to Information Request
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3 May 2019 Attn: Lisa Pienaar Noosa Shire Council PO Box 141 Tewantin QLD 4565 Dear Sir/Madam, Response to Information Request – MCU18/0166 – Material Change of Use for a Telecommunications Facility, located at 244 Tablelands Road, Cooran QLD 4569 (Lot 22 on SP148684). We refer to your request for further information on 24 October 2018, in accordance with section 12 of the Development Assessment Rules 2017 (DA Rules) for the proposed telecommunications facility at 244 Tablelands Road, Cooran QLD 4569 (Lot 22 on SP148684). The Information Request period was formally extended until 10 May 2019. In accordance with section 13 of the (DA Rules), please find below our formal response to Council’s requested information: INFORMATION REQUIRED Visual Impacts 1. Provide missing view analysis (and photos) for Figures 7.5, 7.6 and 7.12 and additionally from Cooran Tablelands Lookout and from the main streets of Cooran (King and Queen Streets). IRIS Visual Planning and Design has been engaged by Aurecon to undertake a visual impact assessment of the proposed facility, appended to this response in Appendix A – Visual Impact Assessment Report. A summary is provided below. The Visual Impact Assessment Report (VIAR) has assessed the visual impact that would be experienced from the adjoining neighbour at 250 Tablelands Road (previously Figures 7.5 and 7.6 within the development application). The level of impact expected from the closest dwelling is considered to be minor adverse as the monopole would be largely screened by intervening vegetation, however glimpses to the upper section of the tower may be seen from the dwelling looking towards the facility. The facility will be screened by vegetation when viewed from the entrance driveway. Overall, there would be a low level of modification to both views. In consideration of ground elevation, distance and height of obstructing features, a photomontage, location and cross section of the proposed facility from this location has been produced within the VIAR and is shown in Figure 1, 2 and 3 (Figures 6.5, 6.6 and 6.7 within the VIAR). The photomontage and cross section demonstrates that the proposed facility will be completely screened when viewed from this location. nbn acknowledges that the top section of the facility may be viewed from within or immediately adjacent to the dwelling. However, nbn has been unsuccessful in receiving land owner permission to attain a photo taken from an area adjacent to the southern balcony of the dwelling for the purpose of creating a photomontage. An attempt was made following initial land owner interest during the Community Information Session.
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Figure 1: Viewpoint 1a looking east from Tablelands Road, adjacent to 250 Tablelands Road, photomontage (note:
monopole behind trees)
Figure 2: Location of viewpoint 1a
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Figure 3: Cross section of viewpoint 1a
It is noted that Figure 7.12 was incorrectly labelled as Figure 7.11 in the development application. A Google
Earth image orientated towards the facility from Arthys Road is provided in Figure 4.
Indicative location of proposed facility
Figure 4: View west from Arthys Road, adjacent to driveway of 215 Arthys Road.
IRIS Consulting concluded in their desktop analysis that the monopole may be glimpsed from several rural
properties in locally elevated locations. Views to the proposal site area when viewed from Arthys Road are
obstructed by roadside vegetation. Similarly, views of the proposal site from properties located west of
Arthys Road will be obstructed by vegetation located along intervening ridgelines and by vegetation located
immediately east of the facility. It is anticipated that the visual impact of the proposed facility when viewed
Arthys Road will be minor adverse. Further information is provided within Section 6.6.5 of the VIAR.
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The VIAR has undertaken an assessment of the proposed facility when viewed from the Cooran Tablelands
Lookout, as well as from the main streets within Cooran (King and Queen Streets).
When viewed from the Cooran Tablelands Lookout, the level of visual impact is considered to be negligible.
The monopole would be seen against a vegetated hillside and rural backdrop and would be a relatively
small and simple element in this view (Figure 5). Overall, the monopole would comprise a small element on
a lower ridgeline in the middle ground when viewed from this location. It would be largely absorbed as it
would be seen against the backdrop of trees, rural and vegetated ridges. There would be no perceived
modification of the view. The complete view analysis is referenced in the VIAR (Appendix A – Visual Impact
Assessment Report).
Figure 5: View south from Cooran Tablelands Lookout
When viewed from King Street located centrally in the town of Cooran, the level of visual impact is
considered to be negligible. The monopole would be seen from King Street on the rear side of the intervening
vegetated ridge, in the background of view (Figure 6). The upper portion of the tower would rise above the
vegetation on the site and be viewed against the more elevated vegetated ridgelines of the national park.
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Figure 6: View north from King Street (adjacent to number 24)
When viewed from Queen Street located centrally in the town of Cooran, the level of visual impact is
considered to be negligible. The monopole would be seen from Queen Street on the rear side of the
intervening vegetated ridge, in the background of view (Figure 7). The upper portion of the tower may be
seen above the ridgeline vegetation; however, it would be imperceptible at this distance.
Figure 7: View north from Queen Street (adjacent to number 24)
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2. Include a montage of the finished tower and associated aerials in all view photographs that
enables visual impacts to be understood.
An in-depth view analysis of all photograph locations has been provided within the VIAR (Refer Appendix A
– Visual Impact Assessment Report). Due to the large distances afforded from viewpoints in the wider area,
photomontages have only been provided from two nearby viewpoints. In accordance with the findings of the
VIAR, the proposed facility will not have an adverse visual impact on the wider area. A detailed analysis
outlining the level of impact when viewed from the wider area is contained within the VIAR.
3. Include addresses of the nearest properties that relates to each figure.
The address of the nearest property to each viewpoint location has been included in the VIAR (Appendix A
– Visual Impact Assessment Report).
4. Provide details about the extent of height associated aerials protruding above the 35 m height of
the actual tower.
The total height of the monopole is 35 m. The associated headframe and antennas will protrude above the
height of the monopole by no more than 1 m in length. Drawing No. 4POM-51-45-CRNA-C4 within Appendix
B – Amended Proposal Plans and Earthworks Plan, outline the overall height of the facility at 36 m. Please
note that the location of the proposed facility has been relocated approximately 15 m to the north west as a
more structurally suitable area to establish the foundation. The amended proposal plans have also been
separately attached in this submission for future reference. The VIAR is reflective of the changed location.
Comparison between existing and proposed tower
5. Provide information that identifies the impacts (amenity/visual/health) of upgrading the existing
structure in comparison with the proposed structure in the chosen location.
An investigation towards co-locating equipment on the nearby existing Telstra facility has been provided in
Section 3.3.1 of the development application. The investigation concluded that the existing Telstra facility
cannot be upgraded to accommodate nbn equipment due to the limited availability of space on the existing
monopole and due to structural limitations. The existing facility would need to be swapped out for a
substantially taller lattice tower structure to achieve coverage to the targeted service area incorporating
Cooran, parts of Pomona and parts of Traverston. To avoid constructing a more visually intrusive lattice
structure, the proposed facility incorporating a relatively low height slim line monopole has been strategically
located at a higher elevation than the existing Telstra facility to minimise the height required to achieve
acceptable coverage to the target area.
In addition to incurring a greater visual impact, nbn has determined that the swap out of the existing Telstra
facility would incur significant additional expenditure of public funding. Such costings include; the
construction cost of removing the existing monopole and erecting a larger lattice tower, the cost implications
of temporarily turning off Telstra and Vodafone services during construction and the cost of reinstalling
carrier equipment once construction of the new structure has been completed.
Information regarding the safety of the existing Telstra facility and the proposed facility is outlined in
response to point 7.
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6. Provide a visual analysis that relates to the Figures relating to item 2 of this information request
around the upgrade of the existing tower compared with a new tower in the proposed location.
An investigation towards co-locating equipment on the nearby existing Telstra facility has been provided in
Section 3.3.1 of the development application and in response to point 5 above. As co-location is not a viable
option from a visual impact perspective or a cost perspective, no comparison study has been undertaken.
However, the VIAR attached in Appendix A – Visual Impact Assessment Report has concluded that the
level of impact from each viewpoint is either Minor Adverse or Negligible. The level of impact incorporates
factors such as distance, scale, landform & contrast, scale of land use, backdrop and form. The methodology
is further outlined in Section 2 of the VIAR. nbn is therefore able to conclude in confidence that the proposed
facility, albeit an additional structure to the area, will not have an adverse impact on the visual amenity of
the immediate or wider area.
7. Provide details relating the EMS levels associated with the existing communication tower and its
potential upgrade and compare this to the proposed tower.
The maximum EME level of the existing Telstra facility is 2.33% of the allowable safety standard, that is, 42
times below the safety standard level (where 100% is still considered safe). The Telstra facility EME Report
is attached in Appendix C – EME Reports.
The maximum EME level of the proposed nbn facility is even lower than the existing Telstra facility, running
at 0.31% of the allowable safety standard, that is, 322 times below the safety standard. The proposed nbn
facility EME Report is contained in Appendix C – EME Reports.
nbn and its contractors continue to encourage any concerned individuals to contact the Australian Radiation
Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) in the Federal Department of Health for independent
advice; their free call number is 1800 022 333. ARPANSA is the public health authority charged with the
task of recommending Australian safety standards for radio communications networks. Alternatively, a
series of Health and Safety Fact Sheets offered to the public during the community information session is
contained in Appendix D – Health and Safety Fact Sheets.
8. Address potential amenity/visual/health impacts that may relate to the 2 closest neighbours. The
closest neighbours house is 110 m away and is orientated towards the tower.
The VIAR, included in Appendix A – Visual Impact Assessment Report, has assessed potential amenity
impacts from publicly accessible areas adjacent to the two closest dwellings of neighbouring properties.
Two separate cross section diagrams have been provided within the VIAR, allowing the reader to easily
identify the effectiveness of natural screening of vegetation located between the dwelling and the proposed
facility. It is evident from these diagrams that existing vegetation will screen the majority of the proposed
facility resulting in a minor adverse visual impact from the two closest dwellings.
The closest dwelling has been nominated as points of interest within the EME report (Appendix C – EME
Reports). It is noted that the maximum percentage of ARPANSA exposure at the closest dwelling is
0.00017%. This is approximately 588,235 times below the safety standard, where 100% exposure is still
considered safe. In accordance with the precautionary principle and ARPANSA guidelines, nbn does not
consider that any health impacts will result from the proposed facility.
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Earthworks
9. Provide plans that show the extent of cut and fill and details of retaining structures (including
height) related to the building pad and access.
An Earthworks Plan containing the extent of earthworks associated with the proposed development is
provided in Appendix B – Amended Proposal Plans and Earthworks Plan.
**************
We consider that the information above resolves the matters raised within the information request. Please
contact Max Peel on (07) 3173 8353, or alternatively by e-mail [email protected] if you require
further information.
Yours Sincerely,
Max Peel
Town Planner (Aurecon)
APPENDIX
Appendix A – Visual Impact Assessment Report
Appendix B – Amended Proposal Plans and Earthworks Plan
Appendix C – EME Reports
Appendix D – Health and Safety Fact Sheets
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Appendix A – Visual Impact Assessment Report
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Appendix A — Visual Impact Assessment Report
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IRIS Visual Planning + Design
NBN proposal, 244 Tablelands Road, Cooran
NBN Site No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
Visual Impact Assessment
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd
March 2019
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 1
Page 11
Table of Contents 1. Introduction 3 2. Methodology 3 3. Planning context 6 4. Existing environment 9 5. Project scope 12 6. Visual impact assessment 14 7. Mitigation measures 41 8. Response to planning conditions 43 9. Conclusions 45 IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 2
Page 12
1. Introduction 2.2. Assessment of representative
viewpoints
The purpose of this study is to provide a visual
impact assessment of the proposed National The assessment of visual impact would be
Broadband Network (NBN) monopole site (no. undertaken in the following steps:
4POM-51-45-CRNA) at 244 Tablelands Road, • Identify the sensitivity of the viewer
Cooran. (Refer table 2.1)
The proposal site is located approximately two • Identify the level of modification created
kilometres northeast of the rural town of by the project (Refer table 2.2)
Cooran in the Noosa region.
• Combine these characteristics to assign
a level of likely visual impact (Refer table
2. Methodology 2.3)
The following assessment considers the • Identify opportunities for mitigation to
potential visual influence of the proposal on the reduce the impact where possible.
surrounding landscape and an assessment of
views from these locations. Sensitivity refers to the susceptibility of a view to
accommodate change without losing valued
2.1. Zone of visual influence attributes. The valued attributes of a view refers
to any aspect of landscape or views people
This assessment begins with the identification of consider to be important. Visual values may be
a Zone of visual influence (ZVI). ZVI mapping has reflected in local, state or federal planning
been used to establish the theoretical area from regulations, other published documents or be
which the project could be visible. This established through community consultation
theoretical extent is based on the centre point and engagement, or as professionally assessed.
of the proposed monopole and maps this pole (refer table 2.1)
at a range of heights. The analysis uses a digital
terrain model to identify the areas from which The level of modification refers to the extent of
views to the site may be possible. change that will be experienced by receptors.
This model uses data to a 1 metre accuracy and This change can be adverse or beneficial.
does not include the filtering effect of trees and Factors that could be considered in assessing
buildings. magnitude are: the proportion of the view
affected; extent of the area over which the
change occurs; the size and scale of the change;
the level of contrast and compatibility.
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 3
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T ABLE 2.1 - V ISUAL SENSITIVITY LEVELS summarised in Table 2-2 Typical Indictors of
Visual Modification.
Visual
sensitivity Description
level Visual impact is the combined result of
sensitivity together with the level of
Views where visual amenity is important
at a neighbourhood scale, such as views modification. The visual impact may be adverse
Neighbour
seen from local roads, briefly glimpsed or beneficial and at a level of Very high through
hood
views to landscape features, and views to negligible. (refer table 2.3)
from small groups of residences.
T ABLE 2.3 – V ISUAL IMPACT LEVELS
View of high quality or experienced by
concentrations of residents and/or local Sensitivity
Local
recreational users, and/or large
numbers of road or rail users. Neighbou-
Local Regional
rhood
Heavily experienced view to a feature or
landscape that is iconic to a major Moderate High High
High
Regional portion of a city or a non-metropolitan adverse adverse adverse
region, or an important view from an
Minor Moderate High
area of regional open space. Medium
Modification
adverse adverse adverse
Minor Minor Moderate
A number of principles have been identified that Low
adverse adverse adverse
relate to how well a telecommunications tower No perceived
Negligible Negligible Negligible
can be absorbed into the landscape and what is change
considered to be more or less visually Minor Moderate High
Improvement
harmonious. The principles that will be applied benefit benefit benefit
generally to the viewpoint assessment, are
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 4
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T ABLE 2.2 –T YPICAL INDICATORS OF VISUAL MODIFICATION IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 5 [OCR of page images] TABLE 2.2 —TYPICAL INDICATORS OF VISUAL MODIFICATION High Medium Low IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 5
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3. Planning context Noosa Shire into nine geographic localities. The
proposal site is within the ‘Mary River
The following review identifies key documents Catchment Locality’, in the western part of the
which provide the planning context for the Noosa council area. The region’s high value
visual assessment of the NBN site. scenic areas, landscape features, rural areas,
trail network and visual amenity are protected
3.1. SEQ Regional Plan, 2017 in the planning scheme through zoning,
overlays, codes, and planning scheme policies
A key priority of the SEQ Regional Plan is the
that support the local aspects of the planning
protection of regional scenic amenity areas from
scheme.
development that would compromise their
value, including scenic amenity. Mary River Catchment Locality
Relevant outcomes for the Mary River
The site within the Northern sub-region, in a
Catchment Locality include:
‘Regional Landscape and Rural Production Area’
(Map 7), containing ‘Regionally significant scenic (a) New uses and works are located, designed
amenity’ (Map 5c). A key priority for the and managed to:
management of this area is to ‘protect the iii) avoid significant adverse impacts on the
values of this land from encroachment by urban amenity enjoyed by users of other
and rural residential development’ (p.100). premises, including acoustic and visual
The site is approximately 800 metres south of qualities
Woondum National Park, which identified as a
iv) avoid significant impacts to native
‘regionally significant greenspace’ (Map 5C).
habitat including fragmentation,
The proposal site is within an area containing attrition, or removal of vegetation or
regional biodiversity values and corridors (Map significant habitat features.
5b), including ‘large tracts of vegetation’ that
(c) The Mary River Catchment retains its
contribute to the ‘scenic amenity value’ (Table
primary role as a rural and open space
11b).
area, supporting a range of sustainable
agricultural uses
3.2. The Noosa Plan, 2018
(e) Key features of the landform and landscape
A key element of the planning scheme is to
are protected including:
reinforce the region’s unique identity and
character, which provides ‘the gateway between iii) Woondum national park … and
the South-East Queensland region and the Great v) the values attached to the remnant
Sandy region’ (s.1.5.d). In particular it values the stands of rainforest and eucalypt
large areas of natural and rural landscape forest. (s.8.7.2)
(including the national parks, watercourses,
mountains and trail network) which provide a The proposal site is located between Cooran
setting to urban and rural residential areas and and Woondum National Park. The physical
important views and vistas. The high setting of the site is characterised by steeply
proportions of vegetated land, as compared to dissecting mountain ranges and narrow valley
developed land, ‘distinguish Noosa Shire from floors, dominated by the Woondum Plateau,
other parts of south-east Queensland’ (s.3.1.3g). including the Cooran Tablelands/Mothar
Mountain range system. The intrusive volcanic
To provide assessment and control of plugs of Mt Pinbarren, Mt Cooran and Mt
development, the planning scheme divides Cooroora are noted as ‘prominent topographical
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 6
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and scenic features’ to be preserved and or adjacent to that land’ (s. 8.7.2mm). Relevant
protected (s. 8.7.2f). outcomes for this zone include:
The Plan also seeks to protect and enhance the Built form on sloping sites & ridgelines:
recreation values of the Mary River catchment
a) is responsive to the natural topography of
through the maintenance of the scenic and
the site and minimises the need for cut
environmental values and Noosa’s open space
and fill (eg. by stepping down the site or
network, including trails through the Cooran
using suspended floor construction);
Tablelands, Mt Cooroora and Black Mountain,
such as along Tablelands Road (Schedule 5, Map b) does not visually dominate the hill slope or
2). interrupt the skyline;
The proposal site is located north of Cooran, ‘a c) is integrated with the natural site
small rural village with an intimate rural characteristics including vegetation; and,
character and identity’ at the foothills of Mt d) the landscape character and visual
Cooran (s. 8.7.2ff). The plan aims to maintain amenity quality of hill slopes and
the rural heritage and character of this locality, ridgelines are retained.’ (s. 8.36 O65-66).
including the level of privacy, open space, vistas
and accessibility. Large rural allotments and Infrastructure Uses Code - Mary River Catchment
modest farm houses are noted as key features,
This code aims to ensure:
in particular ensuring:
(b) Infrastructure Uses do not detract from the
The scale and form of buildings and other
visual amenity of the major road network
structures are—
nor on the rural or residential amenity
i. designed to be responsive to the rural enjoyed by residents of and visitors to
character and amenity of the locality; Noosa;
ii. designed to retain strong historical (c) Facilities are co-located where appropriate
connections through the use of sensitive and practical;
and traditional building forms; and iii.
(f) The natural character and environmental
integrated into the landform and
values of Noosa are protected from adverse
landscape. (s. 8.7.2k)
impacts associated with Infrastructure Uses
The Plan also requires the design and siting of (s. 14.37.2).
development to ensure ‘important scenic vistas
Relevant outcomes and probable solutions for
including those to and from Mt Cooroora, Mt
assessable development of infrastructure
Pinbarren and Mt Cooran are protected and
towers are set out in Table 3.1.
uninterrupted to maintain aesthetic and cultural
values of the natural landscape. (Table 8.10)
Rural Zone Code - Mary River Catchment
The proposal site is zoned ‘Rural’. The purpose
of the rural zone code is to ensure the ‘scenic
and environmental values, the distinct rural
amenity and agricultural productivity of the
locality are preserved and are not adversely
impacted as a consequence of development on
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 7
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T ABLE 3.1 SERVICE & UTILITY T YPE 3 - TOWER (TABLE c) Loss of distinct character associated with
14-23) the various towns, villages or rural areas
Specific Probable solutions (if code of the Shire; or
Outcomes assessment)
d) Alteration to key landform and landscape
Visual Amenity
characters such that they become
O10 The tower is S10.1 The tower is—
visually a) not established in the dominated by the facility; or
integrated Detached Housing, Semi-
with its Attached Housing, Attached e) Impact on views to and from waterways,
landscape or Housing or Visitor Mixed Use beaches and riparian zones. (s.3.2)
townscape Zones;
setting so as b) camouflaged through the use Wherever practical towers should:
not to be of colours and materials
visually which blend into the a) Maintain the integrity of landmarks and
dominant or surrounding landscape; and
obtrusive. c) unobtrusive when viewed
places of significance;
from any part of the major
b) Avoid interrupting significant views;
road network (refer to
PSP23 Telecommunication c) Be architecturally integrated with the
Towers); or
S10.2 The tower is co- building/structure they are mounted on;
located on an existing
telecommunication tower; d) Be positioned to minimise clutter of
AND multiple facilities;
S10.3 The height of the
tower does not exceed— e) Be colour matched to their background,
a) 20 metres where on land
in the Community
using no reflective paint;
Services, Business Centre
f) Be at least partially screened by
or Industry Zones; or
b) 25 metres where on land vegetation; and
in the Rural Zone.
g) Be positioned and designed to be less
visible by pedestrians. (s. 3.4).
Noosa Planning Scheme Policy 23—
Telecommunication Towers
A key objective of this code is to ‘encourage
telecommunication towers to only be located in
areas that will not cause impact on existing
character’ (p.1).
‘Applications on sites containing environmentally
sensitive areas, such as native habitat, steep
slopes or ridgelines are unlikely to be supported,
if those areas are likely to be adversely impacted
upon by the proposed development’ (s.2.2).
Council is unlikely to support proposals that
would result in the following:
a) Loss of vegetation on steep slopes or
ridgelines; or
b) Visual scaring or the degradation of views
or vistas from the major road network; or
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 8
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4. Existing environment
The proposal site is set within the Cooran
Tablelands, two kilometres northeast of the
township of Cooran. The site is surrounded by
dense tracts of native forest, as the landscape
transitions from rural landscapes to the National
Park and State forest land.
Much of the land near the site along Tablelands
Road is privately-owned small acreage blocks. V IEW TO MOUNT COORAN FROM THE COORAN TOWNSHIP
Although some of the blocks nearing Cooran are
used for livestock and horticultural farming, the
site and nearby properties are generally lifestyle
blocks, containing residences with rural
outbuildings.
The site is in close proximity to several
residences along Tablelands Road, including
neighbouring properties approximately 100-180
metres northwest and 200 metres south of the
site. V IEW FROM THE COORAN TABLELANDS LOOKOUT
There are several built structures within 100
metres of the proposal site, including a primary
and secondary dwelling, ancillary shed
structures and a shipping container.
There is an existing Telstra facility southwest of
the proposal site at 265 Tablelands Road,
including a 30-metre-high monopole that
currently holds equipment from Telstra,
Vodafone and GWN.
To the northeast of the site, the Tablelands ADJACENT RESIDENCE AND LANDFORM
Lookout (also known as the James McKane
Memorial Lookout) offers southeasterly views
towards the Glass House Mountains including
the volcanic plugs of Mt Pinbarren, Mt Cooran
and Mt Cooroora.
Refer Figure 4-1 Site Context and 4-2 Site
location Plan.
EXISTING TELSTRA FACILITY TO THE SOUTH OF THE SITE
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 9
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F IGURE 4-1 S ITE CONTEXT PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 10 [OCR of page images] eS S cA Orn Key: The proposal site — Contour (50m) Contour (10m) @ _ Monopole location (36m tower) North Not to scale FIGURE 4-1 SITE CONTEXT PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 10
Page 20
F IGURE 4-2 S ITE LOCATION PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 11 [OCR of page images] North Not to scale The proposal site @ Monopole location FIGURE 4-2 SITE LOCATION PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 11
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5. Project scope A total construction period of approximately ten
weeks is anticipated. Once operational, the
The project includes the following built facility will function on a continuously unstaffed
elements: basis and will typically only require maintenance
works three (3) times a year.
• 35-metre-tall circular streel NBN monopole
with internal cabling
• square concrete slab to locate to monopole
and outdoor cabinets
• 120 metre square compound, with a 2.4-
metre-high chainwire fence and a 3-metre-
wide access gate
• 1 x parabolic dish antenna (600 mm)
located at an elevation of 32 m on the
monopole
• 5 x panel antennas located at an elevation
of 35 m (dimensions 1.07 m high x 0.30 m
wide x 0.15 m deep)
• 2 x metallic grey outdoor cabinets installed
at ground level on a concrete slab
• ancillary equipment associated with
F IGURE 5-1 T HE MONOPOLE
operation of the facility, including cable
trays, cabling, safe access methods, bird
proofing, earthing, electrical works and air-
conditioning equipment
• existing aerial power lines between
Tablelands Road and the site would be
upgraded
• there would be a 45-metre-long gravel
access track, leading from Tablelands Road
to the site.
The construction of the project would require: F IGURE 5-2 P LAN VIEW OF MONOPOLE FACILITY
• 2
a 300m area of trees to be removed for
construction of the proposal.
• a 15 x 12 metre construction zone located
immediately northeast of the proposed
site.
• site access via Tablelands Road.
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 12
Page 22
F IGURE 5-3 S ITE LAYOUT PLAN
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 13
[OCR of page images]
SITE LOCATION
+
iB
z
$
2
3
pe "yA ct LOT IO
as = RP|N664
(19.06ha)
ISTING DWELLING (TYP) <=
SITE CO-ORDINATES
MONOPOLE LOCATION
DATUM: MGA [GDA94) [ Zone: 56
LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
EASTING
NORTHING
-2631594°
152.83023°
483 056
7089 316
AEGEND
A= — Ar — EXISTING AERIAL ELECTRICAL ROUTE
— NE — WUE — PROPOSED NBN ELECTRICAL ROUTE
—--——--— PROPERTY BOUNDARY
FIGURE 5-3 SITE LAYOUT PLAN
IRIS Visual Planning + Design
~ LOT 2
Lot 71—-” SP192012
eri SP148684 | ‘ .
LOT 89
887963”
-MCHI219
mI OAS ppge7963
OVERALL SITE PLAN
SCALE 45000
EXISTING ENERGEX AERIAL POWER LINES TO BE
‘ : ‘UPGRADED (NOTE 2)
- “ EXISTING METER BOX TO BE UPGRADED FOR NBN METERING
EXISTING DWELLING
PROPOSED NBN SUBMAIN
EXISTING VEHICLES PROPOSED TO BE MOVED BY LANDOWNER
=— PROPOSED ACCESS TRACK
= PROPOSED NBN CONSTRUCTION AREA
PROPOSED NBN SITE
‘EXISTING CONTAINER PROPOSED TO BE
RELOCATED DURING CONSTRUCTION BY NBN
EXISTING ENERGEX-
POWER POLES.
‘NOTES:
Le
EXISTING
ed
1. THE NBN ELECTRICAL ROUTE SHOWN ON THE
DRAWINGS |S INDICATIVE ONLY. ELECTRICAL
zy CONTRACTOR TO DETERMINE EXACT ROUTE.
. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR TO LOCATE AND
= IDENTIFY EXISTING UG SERVICES PRIOR TO
‘COMMENCEMENT OF WORK.
OWNER CONSENT REQUIRED FOR UGRRADE. IF
i
CONSENT |S NOT OBTAINED, ENERGEX WILL
DETAIL INSTALL NEW AERIAL POWER LINES ON ROAD
PETAL RESERVE AT NBN'S COST. ENERGEX MAY
SCALE 1:2500
REQUIRE NBN TQ TO VEGETATION CLEARING.
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6. Visual impact assessment 6.2. Zone of visual influence
A Zone of Visual Influence (ZVI) has been used to
The following assessment considers the
establish the theoretical area from which the
potential visual influence of the project on the
solar farm may be visible (refer to
surrounding landscape, an assessment of key
methodology).
views from sensitive viewpoints, and a summary
of key findings. The ZVI shows a large part of the potential visual
influence of the project extending in a 1
6.1. Topography kilometre radius from the site, including along
Tablelands Road. The ZVI extends beyond this to
There is a high degree of topographical variation
the northeast (including Tablelands Lookout and
in the land surrounding the site (Refer Figure 6-1
a group of nearby properties at the end of
Elevation).
Tablelands Road) and east (including several
The Woondum National Park to the north of the properties along Arthy’s and Falls Creek Road).
study area is a densely vegetated, mountainous The site also has the potential to be seen across
area. The elevation of this area in the vicinity of the rural landscapes further east, extending as
the site rises to approximately 350 metres far as Mt Pinbarren.
above sea level. A series of smaller ridgelines
The ZVI shows potential visibility extending
extend south and southwest from this park,
further south to properties in the northern
including the lower ridgeline on which the site is
fringe of Cooran, on Queen Road and King Road.
located.
There are also several residential properties and
The landform is much lower to the south of the larger rural allotments on the northern outskirts
study area, descending to around 100 metres at of Cooran that would potentially have views to
Cooran to the south west of the site. This area the site, including along Brewers Road and
includes several prominent hills and mountains Risley Court.
including the Mount Pinbarren approximately
This area formed the basis of field investigations
2.5km to the east of the site, Mt Cooran 3km to
to identify views to the project.
the southwest in Cooran and Mt Cooroora
approximately 6.5km to the south in Pomona. Refer Figure 6-2 Zone of visual influence.
These mountains are a part of the Glass House
Mountains which extend across the Sunshine
Coast Hinterland.
The topography of the site is undulating, with
ground levels ranging from 113 metres at its
lowest point at the south-eastern corner to 192
metres at the highest point at the north-western
corner of the property. The relative height at
proposed monopole site is 164 metres.
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F IGURE 6-1 ELEVATION IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 15 [OCR of page images] Key: The proposal site Contour (50m) Contour (10m) @ Monopole location (36m tower) North . 1 Elevation Not to scale freee High: 420m = Low: 63m FIGURE 6-1 ELEVATION IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 15
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F IGURE 6-2 ZONE OF VISUAL INFLUENCE IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 16 [OCR of page images] ee Mean Eee) <= BSS Area visible from a Key: - vi The proposal site monopole height of: —— Contour (50m) tom Contour (10m) [7 zom Monopole location (36m 25m 2 tower) CI North | 30m Not to scale (9) gem FIGURE 6-2 ZONE OF VISUAL INFLUENCE IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 16
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6.3. Field of view analysis 6.4. Viewpoint assessment
The following viewing locations were selected as
There are physical parameters of human sight
representative of the range of views to the
which can assist in the appreciation of what can
project:
be seen and perceived at different distances.
The relationship between the size of the object • Viewpoint 1: Views from Tablelands Road
and the distance can be analysed in terms of the (View from 250, 268 and 226 Tablelands
human eye’s vertical and horizontal field of Road)
view. • Viewpoint 2: Views south from Tablelands
It is important to note that this analysis does not Road (2a numbers 374 and 382 Tablelands
take into consideration the factors which Road and 2b numbers views)
influence the visual absorption of an object into
• Viewpoint 3: View south from Cooran
the view and the visual compatibility of a
Tablelands Lookout
proposal to the surrounding landscape.
However, it will assist in defining a reasonable • Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley
study area and explain some of the findings of Court
this assessment. • Viewpoint 5: Views north from Brewers
For this project, only the change in the vertical Road
field of view would be relevant, as the width of
• Viewpoint 6: View north from King Road
the proposal is not substantial.
• Viewpoint 7: View north from Queen Street
Assuming the proposal would have a height of
35 metres, the lower 15-18 metres of which The location of these viewpoints is identified on
would be enclosed by existing trees, it can be Figure 6-3 Viewpoint location plan.
assumed that there would be a 20 metre The following sections summarise the daytime
vertical element potentially visible. visual impact for each view, based on site visit
This would be 10% of the vertical field of view at observations.
1.2km, and a 5% change in the vertical field of
view at 2.4km. 10% is not likely to be noticeable
and 5% is considered to be an imperceptible
change in the view.
These scenarios would only be relevant if the
monopole rose above the skyline or contrasted
with the surrounding landscape in any view.
Whereas in situations where the monopole
would be viewed against a background, these
distances would be less.
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F IGURE 6-3 V IEWPOINT LOCATION PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 18 [OCR of page images] Key: ) Viewpoint locations North Not to scale FIGURE 6-3 VIEWPOINT LOCATION PLAN IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 18
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6.4.1. Viewpoint 1: View from Tablelands Road Figure 6.4 Viewpoint 1: View east from Tablelands Road (adjacent to 250 Tablelands Road) Figure 6.5 Viewpoint 1: View east from Tablelands Road, adjacent to 250 Tablelands Road, photomontage (note: monopole behind trees) IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 19
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Figure 6.6 Location of viewpoint 1 Tablelands Road in relation to the proposed monopole
Figure 6.7 Cross section showing Tablelands Road in relation to the proposed monopole
Table 6-1 Assessment of Viewpoint 1: View from Tablelands Road
Description of the view This view shows an unsealed road providing access to the proposal site from Tablelands Road.
The site and neighbouring property are surrounded by dense tracts of mature bushland
(approximately 10-15 metres tall), enclosing views from Tablelands Road. The land gently rises
along the access road towards the proposal site, and also rises steeply to the right of this view to
a local highpoint. The bushland along the road and within the private properties enclose views to
the proposal site.
Description of the During construction, vehicles would be seen travelling along the access road and accessing the
Proposal site at Tablelands Road. The access road would be retained and extended 25 metres to the
southeast, requiring some vegetation trimming in the background of the view. Construction
activity at the tower site would not be seen from this location, due to intervening vegetation,
although tall machinery may be glimpsed above the treeline during installation of the monopole.
During operation, the view would include the upgraded access road in the middle ground of the
view. the monopole would be mostly screened by the intervening vegetation with some possible
glimpses to the upper portion of the tower. (refer Figure 6-5).
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is located on a rural road and represents
views from a nearby rural dwelling.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance 100 metres, however the monopole would not be visible
Scale Small to medium scale tower (36m), however, the monopole would not be
visible
Landform & contrast Ridgeline with dense tree cover has a high visual absorption capacity
Scale of land use Relatively thin structure and of moderate size
Backdrop The tower would be seen within a vegetated setting
Form Simple vertical structure
The monopole would be largely screened by intervening vegetation, however
glimpses to the upper section of the tower may be seen from this location.
The entry driveway would be extended and may also offer glimpses into the
site. Overall, there would be a low level of modification to the view.
Level of Impact Minor adverse visual impact
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Figure 6.8 Location plan of cross section through 250 Tablelands Road
Figure 6.9 Cross section showing 250 Tablelands Road and proposed monopole
landform. There would be a low level of
6.4.1.1. View from 250 Tablelands Road
modification to the view, and a minor adverse
The residence at 250 Tablelands Road is visual impact.
approximately 100 metres from the monopole
site. It is likely that the intervening landform and 6.4.1.2. View from 268 Tablelands Road
vegetation would largely screen views to the site The residence at 268 Tablelands Road is located
and monopole. (refer to cross section and approximately 200 metres from the monopole
location plan in Figure 6-8 and 6-9). site. The landform varies between the residence
During construction, vehicles would be seen and the proposal site, with the landform rising
from this property travelling along the road and by a three to four metres above the base of the
accessing the site at Tablelands Road. NBN tower on the proposal site property.
Construction activity within the tower site would The air photograph shows trees between the
not be visible from this location due to residence and the site that would filter and
intervening landform and vegetation, although screen views to the proposal. It is expected that
tall machinery may be visible above the treeline this intervening vegetation and landform would
during installation of the monopole. largely screen views to the monopole from this
Overall, the monopole would be largely property. (Refer figure 6.10 and 6.11)
screened by intervening vegetation and
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Figure 6.10 Location plan of cross section through 268 Tablelands Road Figure 6.11 Cross section showing 268 Tablelands Road and proposed monopole Similarly, during construction, activity within the site would not be seen from this location, due to the intervening vegetation and landform, however, some taller machinery may be visible glimpsed above the treeline during installation of the monopole, in the background of the views from this location. Overall, this would result in a low level of modification and a minor adverse visual impact. IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 22
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6.4.1.3. View from 226 Tablelands Road The landform on this property rises to the north
and towards the site. The air photograph shows
It is expected that the primary view from 226
trees to the north of the residence between that
Tablelands Road is south across the intervening
would filter and screen views to the site. It is
ridgelines and to several of the Glass House
expected that the intervening vegetation would
mountains, including Mount Pinbarren.
largely screen views to the monopole from this
property (refer to cross section and location
plan in Figure 6-13 and 6-14).
During construction, activity within the site
would not be seen from this location, due to
intervening vegetation, although tall machinery
may be visible above the treeline during
installation of the monopole, in the background
of views from this location. Similarly, during
operation the monopole would be largely
Figure 6.12 View from 226 Tablelands Road (source: screened by intervening vegetation with only
Raine & Horne Noosa Hinterland - Pomona) the upper portion of the structure possibly
visible above the treeline. This would result in a
minor adverse visual impact.
Figure 6.13 Location plan of cross section through 226 Tablelands Road
Figure 6.14 Cross section showing 226 Tablelands Road and proposed monopole
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6.4.2. Viewpoint 2: View south from
Tablelands Road
There are four properties on the northern
section of Tablelands road, approximately 800m
north of the site. These properties are located
adjacent to Woondum National Park on the
southern side of Tablelands Road.
Each property consists of a private residence
and outbuildings, with generous lawns and
gardens set within the bushland setting.
These properties will be considered as viewpoint
2a and viewpoint 2b as they have different
orientations and the location of the proposal will
be different from each group of dwellings.
6.4.2.1. Viewpoint 2a: Views south from 374 and
382 Tablelands Road
Figure 6.16 Viewpoint 2a: Views south from 374
and 382 Tablelands Road
Figure 6.15 Location of 374 and 382 Tablelands
Road
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Table 6-2 Assessment of Viewpoint 2a: View from 374 and 382 Tablelands Road
Description of the view These residences are generally orientated southwest towards Cooran and the Glass House
Mountains. The views from these properties would be filtered and enclosed by the surrounding
vegetation along Tablelands Road.
Description of the The proposal would be located approximately 800 metres to the southeast of these residences.
Proposal It is possible that the monopole would be visible rising above the intervening vegetation on and
surrounding the site so that the upper portion may be visible within these views. Due to the
distance, and screening of the vegetation, the proposal would comprise a small portion of the
view and be on the periphery of the main view, not obstructing the focal points of the distant
mountains. Refer Figure 6-14 and 6-15.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is located on a rural road and represents
views from a small group of rural dwellings.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance Background of the view (800 metres)
Scale Relatively thin structure and small within the scale of the landscape
Landform & contrast Undulating, including a network of hills, ridges and valleys associated with the
Cooran Tablelands. The vertical monopole would somewhat contrast with the
surrounding undulating landscape.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses,
including farming, grazing and individual dwellings with existing transmission
lines within the view, and able to absorb the scale of the proposal
Backdrop The monopole would be seen rising partly above a vegetated hillside
backdrop
Form The monopole structure would be seen as a small and simple component in
the periphery of this view.
Overall, the monopole would comprise a small element on a lower ridgeline in
the background of this view. It would be largely absorbed as it would be seen
amongst trees, and not in line with the focal points of these views.
There would be a low level of visual modification.
Level of Impact Minor adverse visual impact
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Figure 6.17 Viewpoint 2b: Views south from 398 and 428 Tablelands Road Figure 6.18 Location plan of 398 and 428 Tablelands Road IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 26
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Table 6-3 Assessment of Viewpoint 2b: View from 398 and 428 Tablelands Road
Description of the view These residences are generally orientated southeast towards Mount Pinbarren and other more
distant Glass House Mountains. The views from these properties are therefore oriented away
from the site.
Description of the The proposal would be located approximately 800 metres to the south to southwest of these
Proposal residences. The viewshed diagrams show the site not within view of these properties due to
intervening landform. Refer Figure 6-16 and 6-17.
It is possible that the upper portion of the tower may rise above the intervening landform and
vegetation, however, this would be a very small element in a view and not in line with any of the
features of these views, which are to the south east.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is located on a rural road and represents
views from a small group of rural dwellings.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance Background of the view (800 metres)
Scale Relatively thin structure and small within the scale of the landscape
Landform & contrast Undulating, including a network of hills, ridges and valleys associated with the
Cooran Tablelands. The vertical monopole would somewhat contrast with the
surrounding undulating landscape.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses,
including farming, grazing and individual dwellings with existing transmission
lines within the view, and able to absorb the scale of the proposal
Backdrop The tower would be seen rising partly above a vegetated hillside backdrop
Form The monopole structure would be seen as a small and simple component in
the periphery of this view.
Overall, if visible, the monopole would comprise a small element in the
background of this view. It would be a peripheral element and largely
absorbed as it would be seen amongst trees, and not in line with the focal
points of these views.
There would be a low level of visual modification.
Level of Impact Minor adverse visual impact
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6.4.3. Viewpoint 3: View south from Cooran Tablelands Lookout
Refer detail
Figure 6.19 Viewpoint 3: View south from Cooran Tablelands Lookout, panorama and detail
Figure 6.20 Viewshed from Viewpoint 3 Cooran Tablelands Lookout
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Table 6-4 Assessment of Viewpoint 3: View from Cooran Tablelands Lookout
Description of the view Elevated view from Cooran Tablelands (James Mc Kane Memorial) Lookout, approximately 1.4km
from the site. View east from the tablelands to the valley floor and the volcanic plugs of Mt
Pinbarren (left of view), Mt Cooran and Mt Cooroora (centre of view) are noted as ‘prominent
topographical and scenic features’ to be preserved and protected in The Noosa Plan (s. 8.7.2f).
Description of the The monopole would be located in the far right of the view, glimpsed between a break in the
Proposal trees at the lookout plateau edge and at a distance of 1.4km. The lower section of the monopole
would be screened by surrounding vegetation and the upper section viewed above the
vegetation but against the vegetated backdrop of the distant ridges. The scale of this element
would be small due to the distance.
Construction activity would be mostly screened by the existing vegetation surrounding the site,
however, tall machinery would be visible rising above the treeline during installation of the
monopole. This work would be seen against a backdrop of vegetation and largely absorbed into
the view.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a regional visual sensitivity as it is a lookout identified in the Woondum National
Park map and located on the Noosa Trail Network (Trail 3: Kin Kin to Cooran via Western Branch
Road).
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance The monopole would be in the background of the view and comprise a small
part of the visible field of view. It is likely that this element would be
imperceptible at this distance.
Scale Relatively thin structure and small within the scale of the landscape
Landform & contrast Undulating, including a network of hills, ridges and valleys associated with the
Cooran Tablelands. The vertical monopole would somewhat contrast with the
surrounding undulating landscape.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses,
including farming, grazing and individual dwellings with existing transmission
lines within the view, and able to absorb the scale of the proposal
Backdrop The tower would be seen against a vegetated hillside and rural backdrop
Form The monopole would be a relatively small and simple element in this view
Overall, the monopole would comprise a small element on a lower ridgeline in
the middle ground of this view. It would be largely absorbed as it would be
seen against the backdrop of trees, rural and vegetated ridges.
There would be a no perceived modification of the view.
Level of Impact Negligible visual impact
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6.4.4. Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court
Figure 6.21 Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court (adjacent to number 30)
Refer detail
Figure 6.22 Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court, photomontage
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Figure 6.23 Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court, photomontage, zoom to show detail Figure 6.24 Viewshed from Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 31
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Table 6-5 Assessment of Viewpoint 4: View northeast from Risley Court (adjacent to number 30)
Description of the view The fore and middle ground of this view includes the rural residential outskirts of northern
Cooran, consisting of acreage lifestyle properties with single storey dwellings, large gardens and
lawn areas within a rural bushland setting. The densely vegetated ridges and hillsides of the
Cooran tablelands can be seen in the background of this view, enclosing views to the proposal
site. The existing 30-metre-high monopole on Tablelands Road is visible but not perceptible in
this view.
Description of the The monopole would be located in the centre background of view, at a distance of
Proposal approximately 1.6km, behind the ridgeline vegetation. The proposal would rise above the
ridgeline vegetation and the upper portion of the pole would be seen against the skyline.
Construction activity would also be screened by this intervening vegetation. Tall machinery
would be visible above the treeline at the proposal site during installation of the monopole.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is located on a local road near residential
dwellings and represents views from dwellings on the northern outskirts of Cooran, to the south
of the site.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance The monopole would be in the background of the view and comprise a small
part of the visible field of view. It is likely that this element would be
imperceptible at this distance. (as shown in the photomontage)
Scale Relatively thin structure and small within the scale of the landscape.
Landform & contrast The landform is hilly and undulating assisting in the absorption of a vertical
element in this view.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses,
including farming, grazing and individual dwellings with the capacity to absorb
the proposal.
Backdrop Top section visible against the sky.
Form The monopole structure would be seen as a thin and simple component in the
background of this view.
Overall, the lower portions of the monopole would be screened by vegetation
with the upper portion rising above the skyline and comprising a small
element in the background of this view.
There would be a low to medium level of visual modification.
Level of Impact Minor adverse visual impact
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6.4.5. Viewpoint 5: View north from Brewers Road (adjacent to number 58)
Intervening vegetated ridge
Figure 6.25 Viewpoint 5: View north from Brewers Road
Figure 6.26 Viewshed from Viewpoint 5: View north from Brewers Road
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Table 6-6 Assessment of Viewpoint 5: View north from Brewers Road (adjacent to number 58)
Description of the view The fore and middle ground of this view includes rural residential properties on the northern
outskirts of Cooran consisting of acreage lifestyle properties with detached dwellings and
outbuildings, large gardens and lawn areas, and small paddocks within a rural bushland setting.
The densely vegetated ridges and hillsides of the Cooran tablelands are seen in the background
of view, enclosing views to the proposal site. The upper part of the existing 30-metre-high
monopole on Tablelands Road is visible, but not perceptible, in the centre of this view, rising
above the vegetation but seen against a vegetated backdrop.
Description of the The monopole would be located beyond the existing monopole site, on the other side of the
Proposal intervening vegetated ridge, in the background of view, approximately 1,600 metres from this
location on Brewers Road. The upper portion of the tower may be seen above the ridgeline
vegetation, and visible against the vegetated ridgeline of the national park beyond. Activity
during construction would be screened by vegetation, although tall machinery may be visible
above the treeline during installation of the monopole.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is on a local road and represents views
from dwellings on the northern outskirts of Cooran, to the south of the site.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance The monopole would be visible in the background of the view and comprise a
small part of the visible field of view. It is likely that this element would be
imperceptible at this distance.
Scale Relatively thin structure and small within the scale of the landscape.
Landform & contrast The landform is hilly and undulating assisting in the absorption of a vertical
element in this view.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses with
the capacity to absorb the proposal.
Backdrop A small section of the upper portion would be seen against viewed against the
backdrop of vegetation in the national park
Form The vertical element in an otherwise curved and rolling landscape
Overall, the monopole would be largely screened by landform and vegetation
and would comprise a small element in the background of this view. This view
includes several other built elements which are readily absorbed.
There would be a low level of visual modification.
Level of Impact Minor adverse visual impact
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6.4.6. Viewpoint 6: View north from King Road (adjacent to number 24)
Intervening
vegetated ridge
Figure 6.27 Viewpoint 6: View north from King Road
Figure 6.28 Viewshed from Viewpoint 6: View north from King Road
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Table 6-7 Assessment of Viewpoint 6: View north from King Road
Description of the view From this section of Kings Road, the landform descends north towards the Six Mile Creek valley.
The North Coast rail corridor and Chris Kenny Park can be seen in the foreground of this view.
The middle ground includes an undulating rural landscape consisting of acreage lifestyle
properties set within a rural bushland setting. The densely vegetated ridges and hillsides either
side of Tablelands Road are visible in the background of view, enclosing views to the proposal
site. The existing 30-metre-high monopole on Tablelands Road is not perceptible from this
location, due to the distance and intervening elements.
Description of the The monopole would be located on the rear side of the intervening vegetated ridge, in the
Proposal background of view, approximately 2 kilometres from this location. The upper portion of the
tower would rise above the vegetation on the site and be viewed against the more elevated
vegetated ridgelines of the national park. Activity during construction would be screened by
vegetation, although the top of tall machinery may rise above the treeline during installation of
the monopole.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a local visual sensitivity as it is from the local centre of Cooran.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance The monopole would be visible in the background of the view and comprise a
small part of the visible field of view. It is likely that this element would be
imperceptible at this distance.
Scale The scale small compared with other built elements in the view including
powerlines, overhead rail infrastructure etc.
Landform & contrast The landform is hilly and undulating assisting in the absorption of a vertical
element in this view.
Scale of land use Large tracts of vegetation interspersed with small scale rural land uses with
the capacity to absorb the proposal.
Backdrop Viewed against a backdrop of vegetation with possible glimpse above the
treees.
Form The vertical element in an otherwise curved and rolling landscape
Overall, the monopole would be largely screened by vegetation with only a
and would be imperceptible in the background of this view. This view includes
several other built elements adding to the visual absorption capacity.
There would be a no perceived modification of the view.
Level of Impact Negligible visual impact
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6.4.7. Viewpoint 7: View north from Queen Street (adjacent to number 12)
Intervening vegetated ridge
Figure 6.29 Viewpoint 7: View north from Queen Street
Figure 6.30 Viewshed from Viewpoint 7: View north from Queen Street
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Table 6-8 Assessment of Viewpoint 7: View north from Queen Street (near number 12)
Description of the view The fore and middle ground of this view includes residential properties on the eastern edge of
Cooran, consisting detached dwellings, large gardens and lawn areas within a rural bushland
setting. The densely vegetated ridges and hillsides of the Cooran tablelands are seen in the
background of view, enclosing views to the proposal site. The existing 30-metre-high monopole
on Tablelands Road is not distinguishable in views from this location, due to distance and
intervening elements.
Description of the The monopole would be located on the rear side of the intervening vegetated ridge, in the
Proposal background of view, approximately 2 kilometres from this location on Queen Street. The upper
portion of the tower may be seen above the ridgeline vegetation; however, it would be
imperceptible at this distance. During construction, all ground level works would be screened by
the surrounding vegetation, furthermore the removal of trees would not be perceived at this
distance. Some tall machinery may be visible above the treeline during installation of the
monopole, however, this would be a very small temporary element in the background of the
view.
Visual Sensitivity This view has a neighbourhood visual sensitivity as it is on a local road and represents views
from dwellings on the eastern outskirts of Cooran, to the south of the site.
Visual Modification Level of modification (Low, Medium, High) L M H
Distance The monopole would be in the background of the view and comprise a small
part of the visible field of view. It is likely that this element would be
imperceptible at this distance.
Scale The scale is consistent with other built elements in the view
Landform & contrast The landform is hilly and undulating assisting in the absorption of a vertical
element in this view.
Scale of land use The landuses in this view are rural and include scattered built elements.
Backdrop The upper level of the would be seen against a vegetated backdrop.
Form The vertical element in an otherwise curved and rolling landscape.
Overall, the monopole would be largely screened by landform and vegetation
and would comprise a small element in the background of this view. This view
includes several other built elements which are readily absorbed.
There would be a no perceived modification of the view.
Level of Impact Negligible visual impact
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6.6. Summary of visual impact by intervening vegetation and if visible, would
be glimpsed above the tree canopy and in the
The following tables summarise the potential background of the view.
landscape and visual impacts of the project.
There are three dwellings in close proximity to
T ABLE 6.1 D AYTIME VISUAL IMPACT
the proposal site, at 250 and 268 Tablelands
Location Sensitivity Modificati Impact Road to the north west and 226 Tablelands Road
on to the south of the site. The dwellings at 250
1 View east from Neighbou Low Minor and 268 are at a relatively similar elevation to
Tablelands rhood adverse
Road the site, and approximately 100 metres and 200
2 Views south Neighbou Low Minor metres from the site respectively (refer to
from rhood adverse
Figures 6-8 and 6-10). In these views the
Tablelands
Road proposal would be screened by intervening
3 View south Regional No Negligible vegetation so that there would only be glimpses
from Cooran perceived
Tablelands change to the upper level of the monopole, rising above
Lookout the treeline, if at all.
4 View northeast Neighbou Low – Minor
from Risley rhood Medium adverse The dwelling at 226 Tablelands Road is located
Court approximately 200 metres to the south of the
5 Views north Neighbou Low Minor
from Brewers rhood adverse site and below the level of the proposal site by
Road approximately 30 metres (refer Figure 6.11 to 6-
6 View north Local Low Negligible
13). The primary view from this dwelling is to
from King Road
7 View north Neighbou No Negligible the east and south towards Mt Pinbarren and
from Queen rhood perceived Mt Cooran. In views up the hill towards the site,
Street change
the lower levels of the proposal would be
The following section describes the key findings screened by intervening vegetation. The upper
of this assessment. section of the monopole may be glimpsed above
this vegetation. As this is a secondary view and
6.6.1. Views from Tablelands Road and in the middle to background of the view, the
adjacent dwellings within close magnitude of change would be low.
proximity to the site
Overall, in views from Tablelands Road and
Tablelands Road is a narrow, partially sealed no dwellings in close proximity to the site there
through road, providing access to several rural would be a low level of visual modification. As
properties and the Tablelands Lookout. This these views are of neighbourhood visual
road winds along a ridgeline through dense sensitivity, this would result in a minor adverse
bushland vegetation, adjacent to Woondum impact on views.
National Park.
6.6.2. Views from the north and Woondum
The proposal is located approximately 200
metres from Tablelands Road at its closest National Park
point. In the view from Tablelands Road (refer There are several residential dwellings to the
Vewpoint 1) work to install upgrades to the north of the site, on Tablelands Road, where the
overhead power connection on existing power landform is elevated and undulating, including
poles (near 244 and 250 Tablelands Road) and numbers 301, 303, 335, 374, 382, 398, and 428,
extend the access track to the south and into there are also properties to the northeast at 414
the site would be visible. The operational and 560 Tablelands Road. (refer viewpoint 2)
monopole, however, would be largely screened
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 39
Page 49
Most of these properties have views oriented Overall, there would be no perceived
towards the surrounding mountains which are modification to this view and a negligible visual
located to the southeast and southwest of the impact.
site so that the proposal is not in line with the
main features of these views. Where vegetation 6.6.4. Views from dwellings to the south
and landform does not intervene, there may be and northern outskirts of Cooran
some glimpsed views to the upper section of the There are several residential dwellings to the
monopole from these residential properties. south of the proposal site, on the northern
In these views the monopole would be seen fringe of Cooran, that may have views to the
rising above the vegetation, so that the lower proposal site.
level of the monopole would be screened. The landform is gently undulating so that the
During construction, views to the ground level intervening hills and vegetation provide some
works would also be screened by existing localized screening of views towards the
vegetation, however, the installation of the proposal site. However, the lower viewing angle
tower may be seen above the surrounding means that the upper portion of the monopole
vegetation. would be seen rising above the surrounding
vegetation and in some locations viewed against
Overall, there would be a low level of visual
the sky.
modification in views from dwellings to the
north, resulting minor adverse visual impacts. This would include properties, such as number 9
and 17 Weemilah Court, 30 Risley Court (refer
viewpoint 4) and 40 Brewers Road.
However, the distance between the site and
these properties is 1 to 2km, and the scale of
this change would be minor due to the nature of
the slim structure viewed at this distance.
Overall, there would be a low level of visual
modification in views from dwellings to the
south, resulting in a minor adverse visual impact.
View south from 560 Tablelands Road towards the
proposal site and Mt Cooran (source: URL
www.realestate.com.au)
6.6.3. Views from the Cooran Tablelands
Lookout
The view from the Cooran Tablelands Lookout
(refer viewpoint 3) is again oriented to the south
and southeast, and not towards the proposal
site. There is a glimpsed peripheral view towards Northerly view from 17 Weemilah Court towards the
the site, and the proposal would be visible in the proposal site and Mt Pinbarren (source: URL
background of this view, set below the www.realestate.com.au)
viewpoint, and the upper level of the monopole
would be seen against a backdrop of
background vegetation and rural landscapes.
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 40
Page 50
element in this otherwise rolling landscape.
(Refer to Figure 6-31)
Similarly, during construction, the installation of
the tower would be seen above the surrounding
vegetation, creating some contrast with the
surrounding landscape.
Overall, there would be a low level of
modification to these views, which are of
neighbourhood sensitivity, resulting in a minor
Northerly view from 40 Brewers Road towards the adverse visual impact.
proposal site and Mt Pinbarren (source: URL
www.realestate.com.au) 6.6.6. Views from the Cooran township
6.6.5. Views from rural areas to the east, The distance between the proposal site and the
township of Cooran is approximately 2km, so
along Arthy’s Road
that any change in the view would be
Arthy’s Road is located on a ridgeline, extending imperceptible due to the nature of the slim
north-south through the Cooran Tablelands, structure and relatively small (approximately 20
north of Cooran. The landform between this metre) section of monopole that would rise
road and the proposal site is undulating and above the surrounding landform and vegetation.
hilly. Properties on the western side of Arthy’s
These views include several other built elements
Road have middle distance views to the
located between the town centre and the
proposed monopole. Views to the proposal site
national park such as the railway corridor and
are obstructed by roadside vegetation along
several existing power lines, adding to the visual
field boundaries and within fields, and within
absorption capacity of the landscape.
the gardens surrounding the dwellings.
Overall, there would be no perceived
The monopole would be glimpsed, from several
modification to these views, which are of
rural properties in locally elevated locations. The
neighbourhood sensitivity, resulting in a
upper section of the monopole would be seen in
negligible visual impact.
the middle ground of views, rising above the
surrounding vegetation, and would be a vertical
Figure 6.31 Cross section from Arthy’s Road
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 41
Page 51
7. Mitigation measures
This section addresses the mitigation measures
developed to avoid, reduce and manage the
identified potential adverse operational and
construction visual impacts.
Mitigation measures during construction:
• All works equipment and materials would be
contained within designated boundaries of
the worksite.
• Trees outside the construction footprint
would be retained and protected during
construction in accordance with AS4970
Protection of trees on development sites
• Stockpiles, waste, and vehicle parking would
be located within the site and set back from
Tablelands Road.
Mitigation measures during operation:
• The monopole and all attachments would
be treated with a non-reflective finish
• The tower would be painted a bushland
green colour, such as Colourbond© Pale
Eucalypt, which blends into the vegetated
background.
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 42
Page 52
8. Response to planning conditions
The Proposal is generally consistent with the intent and strategies identified in Noosa Planning Scheme
Policy 23— Telecommunication Towers. The following assessment uses the requirements of this policy as
a guide.
T ABLE 8.1 ASSESSMENT AGAINST N OOSA P LANNING SCHEME POLICY 23— TELECOMMUNICATION TOWERS
Requirement Response
Council is unlikely to support proposals that would result in the following:
a) Loss of vegetation on An approximately 300m2 area of trees would be removed for
steep slopes or construction of the proposal. This area is located on the upper
ridgelines; or slopes of the property, but this is not a steep slope, and it is set
down from the ridgeline. This would not result in a significant
change to the vegetation cover on this small ridgeline site, which
has been partially cleared for rural residential use.
b) Visual scaring or the The proposal site is not visible from the any major roads.
degradation of views King Street is the main street in the township of Cooran. Views from
or vistas from the this location would not be adversely impacted and therefore not
major road network; ‘degraded’ or ‘visually scarred’.
or
c) Loss of distinct The proposal site is located approximately two kilometres northeast
character associated of the rural town of Cooran, within the Cooran Tablelands. Although
with the various there may be glimpses to the upper limits of the monopole from
towns, villages or rural some properties of the northern edge of Cooran and within some
areas of the Shire; or properties, roads and trails in the tablelands landscape, the
monopole would be a relatively minor visual element in a landscape
which includes transmission lines and other infrastructure. The
distinct character of this area would not be affected by the
proposal.
d) Alteration to key The landform of the proposal site would be slightly altered, with
landform and some minor earthworks surrounding the construction zone to install
landscape characters the monopole. This would, however, not result in a substantial
such that they become change in the landform and character of the rural residential site
dominated by the nor dominating the landscape character.
facility; or
e) Impact on views to The proposal site is not visible from any waterway, beach or riparian
and from waterways, zone.
beaches and riparian
zones. (s.3.2)
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 43
Page 53
Wherever practical towers should:
a) Maintain the integrity Although the proposal site is located on Cooran Tablelands, the
of landmarks and monopole would not distract or compete with local landmarks such
places of significance; as the distinctive volcanic plugs of Mt Pinbarren, Mt Cooran and Mt
Cooroora, which are noted as ‘prominent topographical and scenic
features’ (The Noosa Plan, s. 8.7.2f).
b) Avoid interrupting The monopole structure would not disrupt significant views in the
significant views; local landscape, including from Cooran Tablelands lookout. The
tower would be seen as a small and simple component in the
periphery of the view from Cooran Tablelands lookout. The tower
would be seen against a vegetated hillside backdrop and would not
be the focus of this view. The scale of the tower would be reduced
due to distance and position in the background of view (refer
Viewpoint 3).
c) Be architecturally The proposal would be located on a cleared site, separate from any
integrated with the nearby buildings/structures.
building/structure
they are mounted on;
d) Be positioned to Although there is an existing 30-metre-high monopole
minimise clutter of approximately 100 metres southwest of the proposal site at 265
multiple facilities; Tablelands Road, this facility these facilities are separated by
landform and vegetation and there would not be many locations
from which these elements are both visible and perceptible in the
view.
e) Be colour matched to The Proposal would not include any highly reflective or gloss
their background, materials. The tower would be a bushland green colour, such as
using no reflective Colourbond © Pale Eucalypt, to blend into the vegetated
paint; background.
f) Be at least partially As described and illustrated in the visual impact assessment, the
screened by vegetation surrounding the proposal site would be retained and
vegetation; and would screen the lower 15-18 metres of the monopole.
g) Be positioned and The proposal is set back from Tablelands Road, and surrounded by
designed to be less bushland vegetation providing visual separation between any
visible by pedestrians. pedestrian using the road.
(s. 3.4).
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 44
Page 54
References
9. Conclusions
Queensland Department of Infrastructure, Local
It is expected that views from neighbouring Government and Planning (DILGP), 2017,
properties, those within 500 metres of the site, ShapingSEQ, South East Queensland Regional
would be largely screened by retained existing Plan 2017, URL:
vegetation and there would be minor adverse https://planning.dilgp.qld.gov.au/planning/bette
and negligible visual impact. r-planning/state-planning/seqrp (accessed
There are some minor adverse visual impacts 15/01/2019).
expected from residential properties to the Noosa Council, 2006, PSP23 Telecommunication
north and south, at a distance of approximately Towers, URL:
1km from the site where views would include https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/view-the-noosa-
the upper level of the monopole rising above plan (accessed 30/01/2019).
the surrounding vegetation and viewed against
Noosa Council, The Noosa Plan, 2018, URL:
the sky. In many of these views it is likely that
https://www.noosa.qld.gov.au/view-the-noosa-
the relatively small scale of the visible portion of
plan (accessed 15/01/2019).
the monopole would be such that it would not
be perceptible and largely absorbed into these
views.
There would be a negligible visual impact on
views from the regionally important Tablelands
Lookout, due to distance, viewing level and the
visual absorption capacity of the landscape in
this view.
There would also be a negligible visual impact on
views from the township of Cooran, due to the
absorption capacity of the landscape and
distance which would make the portion of the
monopole that would be visible above the
intervening landform and vegetation
imperceptible within the view.
IRIS Visual Planning + Design Page 45
Page 55
Appendix B – Amended Proposal Plans and Earthworks Plan
10
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Appendix B —- Amended Proposal Plans and Earthworks Plan
Page 56
Client:
DATE OF ISSUE
DRAWING PACKAGE VERSION
GENERAL SITE CODE: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
Client:
COORAN
ERICSSON
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
ELECTRICAL
COORAN
Client:
QLD 4569
RF AND TX CONFIGURATIONS
RFNSA No: 4569003 Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
STRUCTURAL NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
CIVIL PRELIMINARY
MONOPOLE DOCUMENTATION
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
LEASE
DESIGNER: MH
DISTRIBUTION PROJECT SUMMARY CHECKED:
APPROVED:
JR
LS
Drawing Title:
COVER SHEET
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-T1 04
COPYRIGHT © NBN Co LIMITED ABN 86 136 533 741 . ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 10 - SEPT 2011
Page 57
Client:
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
SITE SPECIFIC
NOTES
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-C1 04
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Page 58
Client:
SITE LOCATION
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
COPYRIGHT © OPENSTREETMAP CONTRIBUTORS, CC BY-SA
http://www.openstreetmap.org
http://creativecommons.org/licences/by-sa/2.0/
Use of this image is subject to the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0
licence, the full licence of which can be accessed at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
SITE CO-ORDINATES NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
MONOPOLE LOCATION COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
OVERALL
SITE PLAN
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-C2 04
COPYRIGHT © NBN Co LIMITED ABN 86 136 533 741 . ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 10 - SEPT 2011
Page 59
Client:
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
SITE SETOUT
PLAN
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-C3 04
COPYRIGHT © NBN Co LIMITED ABN 86 136 533 741 . ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 10 - SEPT 2011
Page 60
Client:
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
SITE ELEVATION
AND DETAILS
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-C4 04
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Page 61
Client:
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
NBN ANTENNA
CONFIGURATION
& SETOUT PLAN
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-A1 04
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Page 62
Client:
Client:
ERICSSON
Client:
Project:
NATIONAL BROADBAND
NETWORK
SITE No: 4POM-51-45-CRNA
COORAN
244 TABLELANDS ROAD
COORAN
QLD 4569
PRELIMINARY
Rev Date Revision Details
Aurecon Australia Pty Ltd ABN 54 005 139 873
DESIGNER: MH
CHECKED: JR
APPROVED: LS
Drawing Title:
EARTHWORKS
PLAN
Drawing No. Revision
4POM-51-45-CRNA-C5 A
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Page 63
Appendix C – EME Reports
11
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Appendix C — EME Reports
Page 64
Environmental EME Report
Cooran 265 Tablelands Road, COORAN QLD 4569
This report provides a summary of Calculated RF EME Levels around the wireless base station
Date 6/10/2016 RFNSA Site No. 4569001
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to provide calculations of EME levels from the existing facilities at the site and any proposed
additional facilities.
This report provides a summary of levels of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic energy (EME) around the wireless base
station at Cooran 265 Tablelands Road COORAN QLD 4569 . These levels have been calculated by Huawei using
methodology developed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).
The maximum EME level calculated for the existing systems at this site is 2.32% of the public exposure limit and with proposed
alterations to this site the calculated maximum EME level will be 2.33% of the public exposure limit.
The ARPANSA Standard
ARPANSA, an Australian Government agency in the Health and Ageing portfolio, has established a Radiation Protection
Standard specifying limits for general public exposure to RF transmissions at frequencies used by wireless base stations. The
Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) mandates the exposure limits of the ARPANSA Standard.
How the EME is calculated in this report
The procedure used for these calculations is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report “Radio Frequency EME Exposure
Levels - Prediction Methodologies” which is available at http://www.arpansa.gov.au.
RF EME values are calculated at 1.5m above ground at various distances from the base station, assuming level ground.
The estimate is based on worst-case scenario, including:
wireless base station transmitters for mobile and broadband data operating at maximum power
simultaneous telephone calls and data transmission
an unobstructed line of sight view to the antennas.
In practice, exposures are usually lower because:
the presence of buildings, trees and other features of the environment reduces signal strength
the base station automatically adjusts transmit power to the minimum required.
Maximum EME levels are estimated in 360° circular bands out to 500m from the base station.
These levels are cumulative and take into account emissions from all mobile phone antennas at this site.
The EME levels are presented in three different units:
volts per metre (V/m) – the electric field component of the RF wave
milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²) – the power density (or rate of flow of RF energy per unit area)
percentage (%) of the ARPANSA Standard public exposure limit (the public exposure limit = 100%).
Results
The maximum EME level calculated for the existing systems at this site is 7.067 V/m; equivalent to 132.46 mW/m² or 2.32% of
the public exposure limit.
The maximum EME level calculated for the existing and proposed systems at this site is 7.092 V/m; equivalent to 133.4 mW/m²
or 2.33% of the public exposure limit.
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.68342.26750)
Page 65
Radio Systems at the Site
This base station currently has equipment for transmitting the following services:
Carrier Radio Systems
Vodafone GSM900, WCDMA2100, WCDMA900, LTE850
Telstra LTE700, WCDMA850, LTE1800
It is proposed that this base station will have equipment for transmitting the following services:
Carrier Radio Systems
Vodafone GSM900, WCDMA2100, WCDMA900, LTE850
Telstra LTE700, WCDMA850, LTE1800
NBN Co LTE2300 (proposed)
Calculated EME Levels
This table provides calculations of RF EME at different distances from the base station for emissions from existing equipment
alone and for emissions from existing equipment and proposed equipment combined.
Maximum Cumulative EME Level – All carriers at this site
Distance from the antennas
at Cooran 265 Tablelands Existing Equipment Existing and Proposed Equipment
Road
Electric Field Power Density % ARPANSA Electric Field Power Density % ARPANSA
in 360 circular bands V/m mW/m² exposure limits V/m mW/m² exposure limits
0m to 50m 3.63 34.88 0.65% 3.72 36.65 0.67%
50m to 100m 7.067 132.46 2.32% 7.092 133.4 2.33%
100m to 200m 7.011 130.39 2.28% 7.034 131.26 2.29%
200m to 300m 5.15 70.27 1.14% 5.45 78.75 1.23%
300m to 400m 3.49 32.35 0.52% 4.039 43.28 0.63%
400m to 500m 2.63 18.34 0.3% 3.075 25.086 0.36%
7.067 132.46 2.32 7.092 133.4 2.33
Maximum EME level 97.6 m from the antennas at Cooran 265 97.6 m from the antennas at Cooran 265
Tablelands Road Tablelands Road
Calculated EME levels at other areas of interest
This table contains calculations of the maximum EME levels at selected areas of interest that have been identified through the
consultation requirements of the Communications Alliance Ltd Deployment Code C564:2011 or via any other means. The
calculations are performed over the indicated height range and include all existing and any proposed radio systems for this site.
Maximum Cumulative EME Level
Height / Scan All Carriers at this site
Additional Locations relative to location Existing and Proposed Equipment
ground level
Electric Field Power Density % of ARPANSA
V/m mW/m² exposure limits
POI 1 Residence 1 Tablelands Road,Co... 0m to 3m 2.62 18.17 0.19%
POI 2 Residence 2 Tablelands Road, C... 0m to 3m 3.42 31.026 0.54%
POI 3 Residence 3 Akuna Lane Cooran 0m to 3m 1.33 4.71 0.061%
POI 4 Residence 4 Brewers Road, Coo... 0m to 3m 1.54 6.32 0.098%
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.68342.26750)
Page 66
RF EME Exposure Standard
The calculated EME levels in this report have been expressed as percentages of the ARPANSA RF Standard and this table
shows the actual RF EME limits used for the frequency bands available. At frequencies below 2000 MHz the limits vary across
the band and the limit has been determined at the Assessment Frequency indicated. The four exposure limit figures quoted
are equivalent values expressed in different units – volts per metre (V/m), watts per square metre (W/m²), microwatts per
square centimetre (µ W/cm²) and milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²). Note: 1 W/m² = 100 µ W/cm² = 1000 mW/m².
Assessment
Radio Systems Frequency Band ARPANSA Exposure Limit (100% of Standard)
Frequency
LTE 700 758 – 803 MHz 750 MHz 37.6 V/m = 3.75 W/m² = 375 µ W/cm² = 3750 mW/m²
WCDMA850 870 – 890 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µ W/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM900, LTE900, WCDMA900 935 – 960 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µ W/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM1800, LTE1800 1805 – 1880 MHz 1800 MHz 58.1 V/m = 9.00 W/m² = 900 µ W/cm² = 9000 mW/m²
LTE2100, WCDMA2100 2110 – 2170 MHz 2100 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µ W/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2300 2302 – 2400 MHz 2300 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µ W/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2600 2620 – 2690 MHz 2600 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µ W/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE3500 3425 – 3575 MHz 3500 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µ W/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
Further Information
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) is a Federal Government agency incorporated
under the Health and Ageing portfolio. ARPANSA is charged with responsibility for protecting the health and safety of people,
and the environment, from the harmful effects of radiation (ionising and non-ionising).
Information about RF EME can be accessed at the ARPANSA website, http://www.arpansa.gov.au, including:
Further explanation of this report in the document “Understanding the ARPANSA Environmental EME Report”
The procedure used for the calculations in this report is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report; “Radio Frequency EME
Exposure Levels - Prediction Methodologies”
the current RF EME exposure standard
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), 2002, ‘Radiation Protection Standard: Maximum
Exposure Levels to Radiofrequency Fields — 3 kHz to 300 GHz’, Radiation Protection Series Publication No. 3, ARPANSA,
Yallambie Australia.
[Printed version: ISBN 0-642-79400-6 ISSN 1445-9760] [Web version: ISBN 0-642-79402-2 ISSN 1445-9760]
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for the regulation of broadcasting, radiocommunications,
telecommunications and online content. Information on EME is available at http://emr.acma.gov.au
The Communications Alliance Ltd Industry Code C564:2011 ‘Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment’ is available from the Communications
Alliance Ltd website, http://commsalliance.com.au .
Contact details for the Carriers (mobile phone companies) present at this site and the most recent version of this document are available
online at the Radio Frequency National Site Archive, http://www.rfnsa.com.au.
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.68342.26750)
Page 67
Environmental EME Report
Cooran, 244 Tablelands Road, COORAN QLD 4569
This report provides a summary of Calculated RF EME Levels around the wireless base station
Date 25/5/2018 RFNSA Site No. 4569003
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to provide calculations of EME levels from the existing facilities at the site and any proposed
additional facilities.
This report provides a summary of levels of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic energy (EME) around the wireless base
station at Cooran, 244 Tablelands Road COORAN QLD 4569. These levels have been calculated by Ericsson using
methodology developed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).
The maximum EME level calculated for the proposed systems at this site is 0.31% of the public exposure limit.
The ARPANSA Standard
ARPANSA, an Australian Government agency in the Health and Ageing portfolio, has established a Radiation Protection
Standard specifying limits for general public exposure to RF transmissions at frequencies used by wireless base stations. The
Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) mandates the exposure limits of the ARPANSA Standard.
How the EME is calculated in this report
The procedure used for these calculations is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report “Radio Frequency EME Exposure
Levels - Prediction Methodologies” which is available at http://www.arpansa.gov.au.
RF EME values are calculated at 1.5m above ground at various distances from the base station, assuming level ground.
The estimate is based on worst-case scenario, including:
• wireless base station transmitters for mobile and broadband data operating at maximum power
• simultaneous telephone calls and data transmission
• an unobstructed line of sight view to the antennas.
In practice, exposures are usually lower because:
• the presence of buildings, trees and other features of the environment reduces signal strength
• the base station automatically adjusts transmit power to the minimum required.
Maximum EME levels are estimated in 360° circular bands out to 500m from the base station.
These levels are cumulative and take into account emissions from all wireless base station antennas at this site.
The EME levels are presented in three different units:
• volts per metre (V/m) – the electric field component of the RF wave
• milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²) – the power density (or rate of flow of RF energy per unit area)
• percentage (%) of the ARPANSA Standard public exposure limit (the public exposure limit = 100%).
Results
The maximum EME level calculated for the proposed systems at this site is 3.44 V/m; equivalent to 31.42 mW/m² or 0.31% of
the public exposure limit.
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Radio Systems at the Site
There are currently no existing radio systems for this site.
It is proposed that this base station will have equipment for transmitting the following services:
Carrier Radio Systems
NBN Co LTE2300 (proposed)
Calculated EME Levels
This table provides calculations of RF EME at different distances from the base station for emissions from existing equipment
alone and for emissions from existing equipment and proposed equipment combined.
Maximum Cumulative EME Level at 1.5m above ground – all carriers at this site
Distance from the antennas at
Existing Equipment Proposed Equipment
Cooran, 244 Tablelands Road
in 360° circular bands Electric Field Power Density % ARPANSA Electric Field Power Density % ARPANSA
V/m mW/m² exposure limits V/m mW/m² exposure limits
0m to 50m 0.91 2.22 0.022%
50m to 100m 0.84 1.87 0.019%
100m to 200m 3.44 31.42 0.31%
200m to 300m 3.35 29.76 0.3%
300m to 400m 2.18 12.57 0.13%
400m to 500m 1.61 6.84 0.068%
3.44 31.42 0.31
Maximum EME level 187.019 m from the antennas at Cooran, 244
Tablelands Road
Calculated EME levels at other areas of interest
This table contains calculations of the maximum EME levels at selected areas of interest that have been identified through the
consultation requirements of the Communications Alliance Ltd Deployment Code C564:2011 or via any other means. The
calculations are performed over the indicated height range and include all existing and any proposed radio systems for this site.
Maximum Cumulative EME Level
Height / Scan All Carriers at this site
Additional Locations relative to location Existing and Proposed Equipment
ground level
Electric Field Power Density % of ARPANSA
V/m mW/m² exposure limits
1 Residence 1 on Tablelands Rd, Cooran 0m to 3m 0.079 0.017 0.00017%
2 Residence 2 on Tablelands Rd, Cooran 0m to 3m 0.53 0.74 0.0074%
3 Residence 1 on Akubra Lane, Cooran 0m to 3m 0.94 2.37 0.024%
4 Residence 1 on Brewers Rd, Cooran 0m to 3m 0.81 1.74 0.017%
Environmental EME report (v11.4, Oct 2016) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 5.0) NAD (v1.0.85808.28892)
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RF EME Exposure Standard
The calculated EME levels in this report have been expressed as percentages of the ARPANSA RF Standard and this table
shows the actual RF EME limits used for the frequency bands available. At frequencies below 2000 MHz the limits vary across
the band and the limit has been determined at the Assessment Frequency indicated. The four exposure limit figures quoted
are equivalent values expressed in different units – volts per metre (V/m), watts per square metre (W/m²), microwatts per
square centimetre (µW/cm²) and milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²). Note: 1 W/m² = 100 µW/cm² = 1000 mW/m².
Assessment
Radio Systems Frequency Band ARPANSA Exposure Limit (100% of Standard)
Frequency
LTE 700 758 – 803 MHz 750 MHz 37.6 V/m = 3.75 W/m² = 375 µW/cm² = 3750 mW/m²
WCDMA850 870 – 890 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µW/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM900, LTE900, WCDMA900 935 – 960 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µW/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM1800, LTE1800 1805 – 1880 MHz 1800 MHz 58.1 V/m = 9.00 W/m² = 900 µW/cm² = 9000 mW/m²
LTE2100, WCDMA2100 2110 – 2170 MHz 2100 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2300 2302 – 2400 MHz 2300 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2600 2620 – 2690 MHz 2600 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE3500 3425 – 3575 MHz 3500 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
Further Information
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) is a Federal Government agency incorporated
under the Health and Ageing portfolio. ARPANSA is charged with responsibility for protecting the health and safety of people,
and the environment, from the harmful effects of radiation (ionising and non-ionising).
Information about RF EME can be accessed at the ARPANSA website, http://www.arpansa.gov.au, including:
• Further explanation of this report in the document “Understanding the ARPANSA Environmental EME Report”
• The procedure used for the calculations in this report is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report; “Radio Frequency EME
Exposure Levels - Prediction Methodologies”
• the current RF EME exposure standard
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), 2002, ‘Radiation Protection Standard: Maximum
Exposure Levels to Radiofrequency Fields — 3 kHz to 300 GHz’, Radiation Protection Series Publication No. 3, ARPANSA,
Yallambie Australia.
[Printed version: ISBN 0-642-79400-6 ISSN 1445-9760] [Web version: ISBN 0-642-79402-2 ISSN 1445-9760]
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for the regulation of broadcasting, radiocommunications,
telecommunications and online content. Information on EME is available at http://emr.acma.gov.au
The Communications Alliance Ltd Industry Code C564:2011 ‘Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment’ is available from the Communications
Alliance Ltd website, http://commsalliance.com.au .
Contact details for the Carriers (mobile phone companies) present at this site and the most recent version of this document are available
online at the Radio Frequency National Site Archive, http://www.rfnsa.com.au.
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Appendix D – Health and Safety Fact Sheets
12
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Appendix D — Health and Safety Fact Sheets
Page 71
Fact Sheet
National Broadband Network Fixed Wireless
Base Stations and Health
Based on current research there are no established health effects from
the low level exposure to the RF EME from NBN base station antennas.
Introduction the telecommunications companies on the Radio
Frequency National Site Archive website, www.rfnsa.
The National Broadband Network (NBN) makes use of
com.au. The NBN sites may be located by searching by
fixed wireless communications links to provide high-
postcode or town.
speed broadband in areas beyond the reach of the
fibre network. Typically, this is where residential blocks For typical 30-40 m high NBN base stations, the highest
are large and widely spaced. EME exposure levels at ground level in the surrounding
area are typically thousands of times below the limits
The fixed wireless links use low level radiofrequency
of the ARPANSA RF Standard.
(RF) electromagnetic energy (EME) to communicate
between NBN base stations and small rooftop Where NBN base station antennas are mounted on the
installations on residences and business premises. same structure as mobile phone base station antennas,
the ARPANSA EME reports provide the overall
Are NBN base stations regulated in Australia? exposures from the different technologies combined.
The RF EME emissions from mobile phone base
Do NBN base stations cause any health
stations and other communications installations are
regulated by the Australian Communications and effects?
Media Authority (ACMA). The ACMA’s regulatory Health authorities around the world, including
arrangements require NBN base stations to comply ARPANSA and the World Health Organization, have
with the exposure limits in the ARPANSA RF Standard. examined the scientific evidence regarding possible
The ARPANSA Standard is designed to protect people health effects from the RF EME emitted by NBN base
of all ages and health status against all known adverse stations. Current research indicates that there are no
health effects from exposure to RF EME. The ARPANSA established health effects from the low exposure to the
Standard is based on scientific research that shows the RF EME from NBN base station antennas.
levels at which harmful effects occur and it sets limits,
based on international guidelines, well below these Conclusion
harmful levels. No adverse health effects are expected from
continuous exposure to the low RF EME emitted by the
How much RF EME are people exposed to from antennas on NBN fixed wireless base stations.
NBN base stations?
ARPANSA will continue to review the research into
The maximum levels of exposure of RF EME from potential health effects of RF EME emissions from NBN
NBN base stations may be calculated from details of base stations and other sources in order to provide
the equipment installed. These calculations are made accurate and up-to-date advice.
available in the ARPANSA EME reports provided by
Useful Links
ARPANSA fact sheet on RF EME WHO fact sheet on base stations
www.arpansa.gov.au/RadiationProtection/basics/rf.cfm www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/facts/fs304/en/
The ARPANSA RF Standard NBN Co Limited
www.arpansa.gov.au/Publications/codes/rps3.cfm www.nbnco.com.au
ARPANSA Fact Sheet – National Broadband Network Fixed Wireless Base Stations and Health 619 Lower Plenty Road,
Email: [email protected] | Web: www.arpansa.gov.au Yallambie VIC 3085
March 2015 Telephone: +61 3 9433 2211 | Fax: + 61 3 9432 1835
© Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency 2015
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Radio Communications
in the Community
Explained Series – Wireless Technology and Health Issue Date – July 2008
What communications systems
Introduction use radio frequency technology?
Radio frequency technology is used by
Radio communications are a part of everyday
life in today's society. All radio communications > TV and AM / FM broadcasts
> Mobile phones and their base stations
systems utilise EMF in the radiofrequency > Wireless broadband
(RF) part of the electromagnetic spectrum. > Radio paging services
> Cordless phones
Typical background EMF levels from radio > Baby monitors
communications systems are very low and > Emergency services communications
(police, fire, ambulance)
well below safety guidelines. > Government communications
> Air traffic control
> Rural and country communications.
www.emfexplained.info
Page 73
Radio Communications
in the Community
Explained Series – Wireless Technology and Health Issue Date – July 2008
How strong are the environmental
How do the transmitter or background EMF levels in the
powers compare? community?
In a typical community, broadcast television and radio
Radio Systems* Typical Transmitter Power (Watts) signals are similar in strength to signals from mobile
phone networks and other two-way communications
systems. These signals are overall very low and well
TV & Radio broadcast 5,000 – 100,000
below the established safety guidelines.
Air traffic control radars 5000 – 20,000
The World Health Organisation has reviewed the
Radio paging services 50 – 100
background EMF levels from wireless systems
Emergency communications 50 – 100 and says,
Government radio systems 50 – 100
“Recent surveys have shown that the
Mobile phone base station 2 – 50
RF exposures from base stations range
Wireless Broadband base station 2 – 50 from 0.002% to 2% of the levels of
international exposure guidelines,
Radio Devices Typical Transmitter Power (Watts) depending on a variety of factors such
as the proximity to the antenna and the
Walkie Talkies 0.1 – 5 surrounding environment. This is lower
Mobile phones 0.002 – 0.2 or comparable to RF exposures from
Wi-Fi Modem 0.1 radio or television broadcast
Cordless phones 0.01 – 0.2 transmitters"
Baby monitors 0.01 – 0.1 Specifically on EMF levels in public areas the
Car remote control 0.001 – 0.1 WHO says,
"Recent surveys have indicated that
* typical power into antenna
RF exposures from base stations and
wireless technologies in publicly
accessible areas (including schools and
hospitals) are normally thousands of
times below international standards."
What research has been done on
radio communications and EMF
safety?
There has been a lot of research conducted
worldwide to investigate possible health effects of
radio communications and wireless technology.
In relation to radio frequency exposures and wireless
technology and health, the general conclusion from
the World Health Organisation (WHO) is
"Despite extensive research, to date
there is no evidence to conclude that
Spectrum plot showing typical radio communications signals in a community exposure to low level electromagnetic
This picture is a plot from a spectrum analyser (specialised radio measurement fields is harmful to human health”
equipment) showing the various radio communications signals measured in a typical The WHO also says,
community. The plot is taken at one location to illustrate typical radio communication "radio and television broadcast stations
signals present, and to make a comparison of signal level.
have been in operation for the past 50 or
The type of radio service is indicated on the plot along the horizontal axis and signal more years without any adverse health
level in dBm (level relative to 1 milli-watt) on the left hand axis. The units are not really
consequence being established”.
important here except to show relative levels. The picture also shows how many radio
services are used in a typical community.
www.emfexplained.info
Page 74
COMMUNICATIONS TOWERS, RADIO TRANSMITTERS AND SAFETY Information for communities and their parliamentary representatives Radio transmitters—Are they safe? Some people may have concerns about possible health effects from exposure to electromagnetic energy (EME) coming from radiocommunications transmitters on towers and elsewhere. This factsheet outlines the steps the Australian Government takes to keep Australians safe. Exposure to radiofrequency (RF) EME has been the subject of detailed research by experts. Exposure limits are set well below the level at which adverse health effects are known to occur and include a wide safety margin to protect the public. What is EME? RF EME is the energy in radio waves, and is used for wireless communication. It has been in use for over 100 years. It is used to send and receive signals between communications equipment such as broadcast towers, radios and televisions, mobile phone towers and phones, radar facilities, and electrical and electronic equipment. It is also part of our natural environment. How is EME regulated? Two Australian Government agencies, the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), are responsible for regulating RF EME exposure. ARPANSA is an independent Australian Government agency charged with protecting Australians from exposure to EME. ARPANSA is responsible for advising what safe levels of EME exposure are. ARPANSA has developed a public health standard which sets limits for human exposure to RF EME. The limits are set well below the level at which adverse health effects are known to occur and include a wide safety margin to protect the public. The exposure standards take into account the many sources of RF EME present in the modern environment. The ACMA licenses the operation of radiocommunications transmitters. Licences require transmitters to comply with the exposure limits set out in the ARPANSA standard. VERSION 01 / FEBRUARY 2015 communications.gov.au
Page 75
How much EME comes from radio transmitters?
All transmitters must operate below ARPANSA’s public exposure
standard. Typically transmitters operate at a tiny percentage of the
ARPANSA standard.
Is the scientific information on EME up to date?
EME emissions
ARPANSA maintains continual oversight of emerging research into
are well below the
the potential health effects of EME exposure in order to provide limits set by the
accurate and up-to-date advice to the Government. ARPANSA ARPANSA Standard
works with the World Health Organisation in researching the health
effects of human exposure to EME. Should scientific evidence
indicate that the current ARPANSA standard does not adequately
protect the health of Australians, the Government would take
immediate action to rectify the situation.
NBN wireless towers
Currently, as part of the rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN), a number of new fixed wireless
towers are being built across Australia. These are subject to the same strict EME safety limits set by
ARPANSA. As such, exposure to EME should not be a concern.
People can, however, also be concerned about the appearance of towers and their visual impact in their
communities. This can also be the case with other facilities, for example mobile phone base stations.
Approvals for the installation of free standing telecommunications towers are subject to state, territory
and local government planning laws. NBN Co is required to follow the processes for community and local
government consultations set out in these laws. People with concerns about proposed NBN towers should
raise their concerns during the consultation process for each tower.
Where can I find out more information?
Further information is available from the following World Health Organisation
expert bodies: www.who.int/topics/electromagnetic_fields
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear International Commission on Non-Ionising
Safety Agency Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)
www.arpansa.gov.au/Science/rf www.icnirp.org
Australian Communications and Media Authority You can also find out more about transmitters
www.acma.gov.au/Citizen/Consumer-info/ in your community, including EME reports and
Rights-and-safeguards/EME-hub community consultation information, from the
Radio Frequency National Site Archive
www.rfnsa.com.au
VERSION 01 / FEBRUARY 2015 communications.gov.au