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Noosa River DMP V1
Concept Dredge Management Plan Noosaville Prepared for Noosa Shire Council By International Coastal Management
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Document Control Sheet
ICM Project Number:
Prepared by: Martin Mulcahy
Title: Senior Coastal Engineer
Company: International Coastal Management
Final Review: Bobbie Corbett
Title: Principal Coastal Engineer
Company: International Coastal Management
Approved for final release: Bobbie Corbett
Title: Principal Coastal Engineer
Company: International Coastal Management
Version History
Version No. Date Changed by Nature of Amendment
DRAFT 12/2022 MM Draft issue for owners consent
V0 25/01/2023 MM / BC Update section 4.1.2 & 5.5.
PacGeo report 2023 available.
V1 24/08/2023 MM/ BC Added control measures Section 5.4 Flora
and Fauna
This document has been produced by International Coastal Management Pty Ltd (ICM) in accordance with the
terms and limitations of the brief by Noosa Shire Council. In preparing this report, ICM has used information
provided by the Client and others identified herein. ICM does not and shall not assume any responsibility or
liability whatsoever to any third party arising out of any use or reliance by any third party on the content of this
document. This document is not to be used without the express approval Noosa Shire Council.
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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................................. 3
LOCATION .............................................................................................................................................. 3
PROJECT DETAILS ................................................................................................................................ 3
DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................................................. 4
PLANT ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................................... 5
SITE-SPECIFIC APPROVALS ................................................................................................................ 6
SCOPE OF CONCEPT DREDGE MANAGEMENT PLAN ....................................................................... 6
LEADERSHIP ................................................................................................................................................. 7
LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT ........................................................................................................ 7
PLANNING ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
GENERAL OBLIGATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 8
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT 1994................................................................................. 8
LOCAL MAPPING ................................................................................................................................... 8
ACID SULFATE SOILS.................................................................................................................... 8
STATE MAPPING .................................................................................................................................... 9
MATTERS OF STATE ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE ........................................................... 9
CULTURAL HERITAGE................................................................................................................. 10
SITE INVESTIGATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 11
SURVEY ........................................................................................................................................ 11
GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS............................................................................................ 12
MARINE PLANTS .......................................................................................................................... 13
DREDGING & NOURISHMENT- ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS, OBJECTIVES AND PLANNING
ACTIONS .............................................................................................................................................................. 18
WATER QUALITY ................................................................................................................................. 18
NOISE.................................................................................................................................................... 19
AIR QUALITY, ODOUR AND DUST MANAGEMENT ........................................................................... 19
FLORA AND FAUNA ............................................................................................................................. 20
LAND ..................................................................................................................................................... 21
CULTURAL HERITAGE......................................................................................................................... 22
NOOSA RIVER CARAVAN PARK, HERITAGE IMPACT STATEMENT (HIS) .............................. 23
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WASTE .................................................................................................................................................. 25
OPERATION ................................................................................................................................................. 27
OPERATIONAL PLANNING AND CONTROL ....................................................................................... 27
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE ............................................................................ 27
OIL SPILL ...................................................................................................................................... 27
INCIDENT REPORTING................................................................................................................ 27
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION .................................................................................................................. 28
MONITORING, MEASUREMENT, ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION ...................................................... 28
GENERAL...................................................................................................................................... 28
COMPLAINTS ............................................................................................................................... 28
EVALUATION OF COMPLIANCE.................................................................................................. 28
INTERNAL AUDIT ................................................................................................................................. 31
MANAGEMENT REVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 31
IMPROVEMENT ........................................................................................................................................... 32
NON-CONFORMITY AND CORRECTIVE ACTION .............................................................................. 32
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT .............................................................................................................. 32
DRAWINGS ................................................................................................................................. A-1
APPROVALS............................................................................................................................... B-1
GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS ......................................................................................... C-1
MARINE BIOTA IMPACT ASSESSMENT .................................................................................. D-1
CORRECTIVE ACTION & INCIDENT REPORTING ....................................................................E-1
COMPLAINT REGISTER .............................................................................................................. F-1
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INTRODUCTION
LOCATION
The site location for dredging/nourishment works is within the Noosa River and along the southern foreshore of
the Noosa River between Hilton Esplanade and Weyba Creek (see Figure 1).
Figure 1: Site Location
PROJECT DETAILS
Localised erosion along the Noosa River southern foreshore is occurring due to natural coastal processes and
boat wakes. The foreshore is a high value area for public use and amenity and the ongoing erosion is threatening
vegetation, parkland and infrastructure. Current approvals exist in for parts of this foreshore (Areas 1 – 6),
however erosion hotspots are changing over time and additional areas require protection with sand re-
nourishment.
The Noosaville Dredge Management Plan 2006 has been used for dredging works to date; however, this updated
management plan specifies requirements consistent with present day sediment testing (NAGD 2009) and
environmental monitoring throughout dredging activities.
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The proposed dredging works include the following:
• Dredging Noosa River for the purposes of beach re-nourishment
o Dredging of up to 10,000t
o Existing approved dredge areas expanded to cover the extent from Hilton Esplanade to Weyba
Creek, instead of individual local areas along this extent. Exclusion zones within private lease
jetty areas still applies.
o Dredging to maintain 25m buffer from Fish Habitat Area (considering anticipated batters at the
time of dredging)
o Dredging to generally maintain -2.5m AHD depth, but extends to -4m AHD depth along Hilton
Esplanade where natural surface level is already deeper than -2.5m AHD and suitable sand is
available at depth.
o Dredge material to be sourced from below LAT at the time of works.
o Dredge areas are to target shoals in close proximity to the nourishment area and minimise
dredge depth by targeting shoals.
o Dredging to be undertaken with suitable plant (e.g. small cutter suction dredger with cyclone).
o Dredging is to target uniform extraction across wide area (i.e. avoid digging holes).
o Material is suitable for on-shore placement (consistent sediment testing report, Pacific Geotech
2022)
• Nourishment of foreshore
o Placement of up to 10,000t per year.
o Material is to be sand suitable for nourishment. Any unsuitable material encountered is not to be
placed on the foreshore.
o Nourishment profile is to be consistent with natural foreshore profiles and transition smoothly to
the existing profile at the works extent.
o No impacts on marine plants (including mangrove pneumatophores) is deemed to be achieved
when works are not occurring within 1m of the marine plant or a specialist marine plant expert
provides written advice that the nourishment is beneficial to the stability or health of the marine
plant or stipulates that a smaller offset would result in no impact.
• Existing approved nourishment areas expanded to cover the extent from Hilton Esplanade to Weyba
Creek, instead of individual local areas along this extent. Exclusion zones within private lease jetty areas
still applies. No marine plants (including mangrove pneumatophores / roots) to be removed or damaged
without approval. This is deemed to be achieved when works are not occurring within 1m of the marine
plant, or a specialist marine plant expert provides written advice that the nourishment is beneficial to the
stability or health of the marine plant or stipulates that a smaller offset would result in no impact.
• No works within private lease jetty areas.
DRAWINGS
Dredging and nourishment works are to be performed in accordance with the ICM project drawings (Table 1). For
copy of drawings see Appendix A
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Table 1: Project Drawing Register
Drawing No. Drawing Title Revision Date
NRD-000 Title Page 1 27-01-23
NRD-001 Scheme of works 1 27-01-23
NRD-002 Typical Section 1 27-01-23
NRD-003 Plan 1 1 27-01-23
NRD-004 Plan 2 1 27-01-23
NRD-005 Plan 3 1 27-01-23
NRD-006 Plan 4 1 27-01-23
NRD-007 Plan 5 1 27-01-23
NRD-008 Plan 6 1 27-01-23
PLANT
A cutter-suction dredger is expected to be the most suitable plant for these works. Dredge may need to be fitted
with a cyclone to meet sediment and water quality requirements. Alternate plant is acceptable provided sediment
and water quality requirements are met.
All plant and equipment is to be:
• Registered.
• Current certificate of operation (where applicable).
• Current certificate of survey (where applicable).
• Current and appropriate insurances.
• Appropriately lit and/or marked to the satisfaction of the Harbour Master.
• Clean and maintained in a proper and effective condition.
• Operated in a proper and effective manner.
• Removed from site on completion of the works.
METHODOLOGY
The works are anticipated to be undertaken using a cutter-section dredger and placed directly onshore via floating
pipeline. Works will be undertaken in response to erosion and be ongoing as required, staying within the annual
limit of 10,000t per year.
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SITE-SPECIFIC APPROVALS
Works are to be performed in accordance with the relevant project approvals and permits. A copy of all relevant
permits is to be available on site and onboard any vessels throughout the works.
Table 2: Relevant Approvals
Permit Type Permit Number
Operational Works Permit TBA
Environmental Authority TBA
SCOPE OF CONCEPT DREDGE MANAGEMENT PLAN
The purpose of this Concept Dredge Management Plan is to document a structured program that:
• Sets the environmental objectives or standards to be achieved;
• Identifies the potential environmental harm which may occur from routine operations and establishes, and
documents measures to avoid this harm as far as practicable;
• Identifies extraordinary factors (i.e. abnormal operation, emergencies) that may cause environmental
harm and establishes and documents contingency plans to deal with these;
• Ensures all persons carrying out the activity are aware of the environmental risks, and are trained in the
measures and contingency plans to deal with them;
• Implements monitoring of environmental performance to ensure the effectiveness of the measures and
contingency plans;
• Assists the communication of environmental information throughout the organisation and to the
administering authority; and
• Provides for continual improvement.
A Site-Specific Environment Management Plan is to be developed and implemented by the Contractor and is to
be consistent with:
• Relevant permit conditions.
• Relevant legislation requirements.
• Concept Dredge Management Plan (this document).
• Contract documentation.
This Site-Specific Environment Management Plan is to be reviewed and accepted by the approval holder
(Principal) prior to the works being undertaken.
To achieve the intended outcomes, including enhancing the environmental performance, the dredging contractor
is to establish, implement, maintain and continually improve the plant and vessel specific Safety Management
Systems and this Site-Specific Environmental Management Plan, including the processes needed and their
interactions.
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LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT
The Site-Specific Dredge Management Plan prepared by the Contractor shall demonstrate leadership and
commitment with respect to the environment management system, including evidence of a company environment
management policy and corresponding systems and procedures.
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PLANNING
GENERAL OBLIGATIONS
Environmental Protection Act 1994
The Environmental Protection Act 1994 states that we all have a general environmental duty. Meeting the general
environmental duty needs to consider:
• Nature of the harm or potential harm
• Sensitivity of the environment
• Current state of technical knowledge for the activity (i.e. current best practice)
• Likelihood of possible measures being successful
• Financial implications of taking different measures
Environmental harm is defined by the Environmental Protection Act 1994 as any adverse effect, or potential
adverse effect (whether temporary or permanent and of whatever magnitude, duration or frequency) on an
environmental value and includes environmental nuisance. It may be caused as a direct or indirect result of the
activity or the combined effect of the activity and other activities or factors.
In the event that failing to fulfil your general environmental duty results in unapproved environmental harm, the
relevant authorities are to be notified within 24 hours of becoming aware of an incident.
LOCAL MAPPING
Acid Sulfate Soils
Local Mapping identifies land as being at or below 5m AHD (Figure 2).
Acid sulfate testing, undertaken during Geotechnical Investigations, is shown in Section 4.1.2.
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Figure 2: Acid Sulfate Soils Overlay (Noosa Shire Mapping)
STATE MAPPING
The following state mapping relevant to the works has been considered.
Matters of State Environmental Significance
The Noosa River has areas of MSES High ecological significance wetlands, wildlife habitat, declared fish habitat
as identified in Figure 3. The endangered and of concern regional ecosystems associated are associated with
beach ridges and bird species which are unlikely to be affected by the proposed dredging and nourishment works.
The area identified for dredging and nourishment maintains a 25m buffer from the adjacent Fish Habitat Area
(Figure 4) consistent with previous approvals and are not considered to be within the potential zone of influence of
the proposed dredging works.
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Figure 3: Site relative to Matters of State Environmental Significance (Source: SPP IMS; Annotated)
Figure 4. Declared Noosa River Fish Habitat Area
Cultural Heritage
The Noosa River Caravan Park at Munna Point is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register (Figure 5).
Figure 5. Munna Point Caravan Park Cultural Heritage Site
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SITE INVESTIGATIONS
Survey
Bathymetric survey of the Noosa River was undertaken by Hydra Logic 2019 (Figure 6), this surface was used to
prepare the dredge design. It is expected that the riverbed surface will vary over time, due to natural sand
migration and flood events.
A sub-bottom survey was undertaken by Acoustic Imaging 2020 that identified potential sand nourishment
sources. It was shown that a source of clean sand is expected adjacent Hilton Esplanade up to 4.5m below
riverbed surface (Figure 7). Given the existing riverbed surface at this location is already up to -4m AHD in this
location, a proposed increase in the dredge depth (deeper than -2.5m AHD for other locations) is proposed for
this area. This is supported by additional sediment testing by Pacific Geotech 2022 (Section 4.1.2).
Figure 6. Bathymetric Survey Noosa River (Hydra Logic, 2019)
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Figure 7. Sub-bottom profiling Noosa River, Hilton Esplanade (Acoustic Imaging, 2020)
Geotechnical Investigations
Soil Surveys 2006
Acid sulfate testing was undertaken in November 2006 by Soil Surveys Engineering P/L as part of the original
Noosaville Dredge Management Plan (2006), with results indicating that:
“there is ample self buffering capacity present in the soils to effectively neutralise any acid that could potentially
be produced. Therefore we recommend that no lime treatment would be required on the samples tested during
this investigation”
BMT 2022
The BMT Sediment Sampling Report, shows that the sand samples were dominated by sand fractions (0.06-2
mm), with a combined average of approximately 93%. There were minor (typically <10%) components of clay (<2
μm), silt (2-60 μm) and gravel (0.2-6 cm) fractions (0.06-2 mm) in samples. There were no cobbles (>6cm) or in
any of the site horizons.
Updated sediment sampling was undertaken by BMT in 2022; however, results were not consistent with the
previous Soil Surveys investigation, showing potential acid sulfates, generally at extremely low levels with one
high spot identified at BH08.
BMT 2022 assessed all samples in accordance with NAGD 2009, providing the following summary:
“Overall, the sediments were relatively clean with no analytes exceeding the relevant NAGD screening levels or
NEPM investigation levels, thus would be suitable for offshore or land-based disposal, with suitable PASS
material management.”
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Pacific Geotech 2023
Subsequent geotechnical investigations and assessment regarding acid sulfates were undertaken by Pacific
Geotech (January 2023), with the following detail regarding acid sulfate management:
“The initial testing indicated an acid sulfate hot spot in the area of BH08. This additional testing has confirmed
the material initially encountered has either been naturally scoured away or is of such an isolated volume so as
to not be significant and acid sulfate treatment will not be required. It is possible that the material was related to
sediment build-up at the outlet of the stormwater drain but this is not considered to be an issue now.”
“The results of the earlier laboratory testing have been reviewed. Considering the proposed dredging
methodology (ie. use of a cyclone separator) and the natural buffering capacity of the sands, treatment for the
acid sulfate neutralisation is not likely to be required. This should be confirmed with validation testing at the time
of the dredging operation. Validation testing should be undertaken at a rate of 1 test per 250m3 of disturbed
material.”
“On the basis of the testing undertaken, all samples provided nett acidity values below the QASSIT defined
action criteria. Therefore, soils disturbed on-site do not require treatment for acid sulfate potential.”
Summary
As such, the sandy sediments are considered to be suitable for nourishment, acid sulfate treatment is not required
and the material is uncontaminated in accordance with NAGD 2009.
Marine Plants
Marine plants include mangroves, seagrass, samphires, saltcouch and saltmarsh plants, algae and other tidal
plants growing adjacent to the tidal zone, landward and seaward. They provide important habitat for fish and are
protected against deliberate damage or destruction under the Fisheries Act 1994.
Biome Consulting have undertaken a marine plants survey on the foreshore at Hilton Esplanade, Gympie Terrace
and Munna Park (Appendix D). The scope of this survey focussed on areas proposed to be dredged and
nourished; it did not include the entire foreshore extent as the presence of marine plants changes over time and
the potential for nourishment to impact on existing marine plants depends on the state of the foreshore at the time
of the works and many sections of foreshore are accreted and currently do not require nourishment.
The following advice is summarised from the report:
“The marine plants on the foreshore and intertidal zone of the river have the potential to be impacted by
the uncontrolled placement of sand over root zones. Where present, seagrasses have the potential for
direct and indirect disturbances from sand extraction.”
“Seagrass surveys were undertaken by wading the shallow areas of the extraction and nourishment sites
and using an underwater drone in the deeper areas. No seagrass was recorded.”
“Marine plants growing in the intertidal and foreshore areas were recorded along the Gympie Terrace and
Hilton Esplanade foreshores and included mangroves (Avicennia and Rhizophora species) and
Casuarina glauca. No marine plants were recorded at Munna Park.”
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“Two Avicennia marina (Grey Mangrove) were recorded in the intertidal zone of the replenishment area
along Gympie Terrace. Seedling mangroves and one established A. marina were recorded at the
interface of the existing and proposed new extraction areas at Hilton Esplanade.”
“It is important to limit the placement of any sediment that may adversely affect soil permeability,
especially around mature trees, which are more prone to suffer than young trees. Ideally, all areas close
to the tree trunk should be kept at original ground level.”
“While most of the marine plants along the foreshore could be avoided, one mangrove [tree number 3 on
the tree survey plan in Appendix D] [Figure 8] requires management of replenishment spoil to minimise
impacts. Two options have been suggested:
1. Replenishment material be place at a depth so that the pneumatophores are not completely
covered (i.e. leave at least 2 cm of the pneumatophores exposed); or
2. Place replenishment material on either side of the tree protection zone of this specimen and
allow natural processes to move the sediment.”
The other mangrove within the impact area [tree number 26 on the tree survey plan in Appendix D] had
no visible pneumatophores at the time of the site inspection and was located within an area subject to
current erosion control measures (i.e. coir logs [Figure 9]”
“The tree protection zones of all other marine plants within the replenishment area along Gympie Terrace
can either be avoided or will benefit from sand replenishment around the root zone.
Many of the Casuarina glauca along Gympie Terrace have had the roots undermined by erosion. Without
replenishment of the sand along this reach of the river, there is a risk these trees will fall [Figure 10]”
While management of only one marine plant (out of 43 marine plants identified), was specified in the Marine
Plants Survey, in order to implement the controls, the limit of works (tree protection zone) needed to be identified
and pegged out prior to works. Given that this DMP is to support an ongoing annual dredging campaign, and
pneumatophore exposure will change over time, it is proposed that prior to dredging a survey of marine plants is
undertaken and any tree protection zones (that require management due to pneumatophore exposure) are to be
pegged out prior to commencement of sand replenishment.
The tree protection zones for T3 (the mangrove currently at risk of impact) is 2.64m (Figure 8). Out of the six
mangroves identified in the marine plants survey, the tree protection zones varied from 0.12m (mangrove
seedlings) to 6.0m (mature plant) (Table 3).
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Table 3. Tree protection zone for mangroves Plant Tree protection zone number (m) T1 6.0 T3 2.64 T26 0.60 T33 0.36 T34 0.12 T35 3.24 In the existing approved drawings for Noosaville Dredging (2004), there were three mangroves identified and a 10m exclusion zone was specified for each plant (Figure 11). Only one of these mangroves was identified in the updated marine plants survey (plant T35). One mangrove was no longer there, and one mangrove was outside of the updated survey area. While plant T35 has a revised tree protection zone of 3.24m, management is not required given no pneumatophores were exposed at the time of survey. Given that pneumatophore exposure is expected to change over time, this highlights the need for regular marine plants surveys and pegging out of tree protection zones prior to each dredging campaign. Figure 8. Grey mangrove T3 at Gympie Terrace foreshore. No replenishment to be undertaken within the tree protection zone (TPZ = 2.64m) for this specimen. 15
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Figure 9. Mangrove T26 within existing erosion control area (no management required) Figure 10. Gympie Terrace foreshore erosion around tree roots 16
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PLANS AND DOCUMENTS International referred to in the REFERRAL Coastal AGENCY RESPONSE Management SARA ref: 2304-34319.SRA Date: 13 November 2023 Noosa River 505780mE ~ 7080300mN 9g oo 508823 7080296mN = £ iF Dredge / Deposition Ared 4 g : 3 “k [ 3 — 5 oT —— | / \ a ame. | \ fl Sem 7080205m N } SS Retaining Wait Figure 11. Previous 10m mangrove exclusion zone on existing approved drawing NRN-A4 0
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DREDGING & NOURISHMENT- ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS, OBJECTIVES
AND PLANNING ACTIONS
As dredging and disposal are occurring at the same time; with dredged material being placed directly onshore,
this section relates to management of both dredging and disposal activities.
WATER QUALITY
The BMT Sediment Sampling Report (2022) indicates that the composition of sand source is shown to be
generally sand (93%), with minor fractions of clay / silt / gravel. Silts and clays have the potential to become
suspended in the water column and create turbid plumes. Tidal flows in this area of the Noosa River are expected
by be <0.5m/s. Tidal plumes are expected to be relatively small as the sediment is predominantly sand. The
dredging activity has been undertaken historically without water quality issues.
The nourishment activity is undertaken concurrently with dredging. The sand is expected to be generally
consistent in colour and grade with the beach that is nourishing. Nourishment area is above LAT and placement
will be on the visible beach above the water level with subsequent reprofiling as required. This will minimise
potential for sediment plumes.
Objective: To minimise impacts of dredging and disposal on water quality.
Issues: Releases of suspended sediment (i.e. turbidity) as part of the dredging activity and placement of
nourishment. Spill of hazardous substances (e.g. fuel or oil) during operations or refuelling.
Performance Criteria: All releases are within permit requirements. No spills or leaks of hazardous substances.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. Undertake the dredging activity in a manner that minimises the turbid plume as far as practicable. Contractor
2. Implement dredging operational controls as required to ensure water quality requirements are met. This Contractor
may include control of production rates, timing of dredging activity to coincide with more suitable tides
and/or other operational controls.
3. Fuel bunkering to be undertaken by a licenced contractor. Contractor
4. Oils and fuels to be securely stored within designated storage areas. Storage tanks to be either self- Contractor
bunded or bunded with impermeable surfaces and capacity to contain 110% of the largest tank storage
capacity.
5. Undertake the dredging activity and ancillary activities in a manner that minimises the potential for oil, Contractor
grease, scum, litter or other visually objectionable matter to enter the waterways.
6. Oil spill management plan to be implemented. Management Plan to be located on board. Staff are to be Contractor
suitably trained. Suitable oil spill control stations to be located onboard.
7. Plant and equipment is to be clean of silt, pests and other contaminants. Plant to be well maintained. Contractor
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
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NOISE
The Noosa River experiences regular vessel traffic during the day. The foreshore is busy with public amenities
such as parks, pedestrian/ cycling path. The foreshore is also occupied by several restaurants, cafes and other
commercial venues, that will be abutting the dredge/nourishment areas.
By using small dredging plant such as cutter-suction dredger, the noise generated is not expected to be louder
than inherent background noise with a busy waterway.
Objective: To minimise impacts of dredging and disposal works on noise-sensitive receptors.
Issues: Cutter-suction dredger engines and use of spuds for dredge movement are the primary sources of noise
generation.
Performance Criteria: No complaints received.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. Observe project working hours. Dredging to be limited to Monday - Saturday 6:30am – 6:30pm. No Contractor
dredging work to be undertaken on Sundays or public holidays. Noisy activities are to be scheduled for
the least sensitive times of the day where possible.
2. Noise generated by the activity must not cause environmental nuisance to any sensitive place or Contractor
commercial place.
3. Engines / equipment are to be well maintained at all times in accordance with manufacturer’s Contractor
specifications.
4. Staff to be aware of noise restrictions. Contractor
5. Fit all equipment with mufflers (where applicable) and operate so as to comply with the Environmental Contractor
Protection (Noise) Policy 1997
6. Provide a register to record any noise complaints received. Record details including date, time and Contractor
duration of noise nuisance.
7. In response to a noise complaint, identify the source and check maintenance records to ensure all Contractor
machinery has been maintained. Fit improved noise attenuation (or other appropriate maintenance works)
to any equipment found to be non-compliant with noise standards with and do not use on site until
compliance is achieved.
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
AIR QUALITY, ODOUR AND DUST MANAGEMENT
The dredging works are expected to be undertaken by a single cutter-suction dredger, as such air quality is not
expected to be significantly impacted (i.e. similar to small construction projects).
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As the dredged materials remain wet as it is pumped on-shore, air quality, odour and dust from the material itself
is not anticipated to be a significant issue. Given the nature of the material, odour from the material is not
expected to be a significant issue.
Objective: To minimise impacts of dredging works on air quality.
Issues: Particles, dust and odour generated by dredging equipment & operations.
Performance Criteria: No complaints received.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. Engines / equipment are to be well maintained at all times in accordance with manufacturer’s Contractor
specifications.
2. Carry out all work and operate all equipment so as to comply with the Environmental Protection (Air) Contractor
Policy 1997 at all times.
3. Staff shall be aware of air quality restrictions. Contractor
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
FLORA AND FAUNA
The dredge area is to maintain a 25m buffer from the designated Noosa River Fish Habitat Area, consistent with
the existing Environmental Authority.
No marine plants are to be impacted due to dredging or nourishment (without obtaining separate approval).
Existing mangroves are present on the Noosa River foreshore. Mangroves have the potential to be impacted by
the uncontrolled placement of sand over root zones. Tree protection zones have been calculated for mangroves
along Hilton Esplanade and Gympie Terrace, although only one of identified marine plants required management
due to exposed pneumatophores. Given that exposure of pneumatophores will change over time, it is proposed
that a marine plants survey is undertaken before each dredging campaign and any mangroves with exposed
pneumatophores be pegged prior to sand replenishment.
Existing trees that are currently being undermined by erosion may be classified as marine plants. It is considered
that sand re-nourishment will generally enhance the survival of any undermined trees and no buffer is required.
Biome (2022) have assessed the marine megafauna likely to be encountered within the Noosa River estuary
(dugong, dolphins and turtles) and they are all capable of foraging in turbid water. Dolphins often stir up bed
sediments when foraging for benthic prey, resulting in limited visibility for prey detection and reliance on
echolocation to detect prey.
Biome (2022) identified extraction and replenishment should be undertaken outside of migration and breeding
times of important fisheries and forage fish species (closed season for fin fish species occurring in the Noosa
River is from July to August);
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Dugongs have poorly developed eyesight and rely on bristles on their upper lip, rather than visual cues, to detect
seagrass food resources. Flatback Turtles are known to feed in turbid shallow waters and may not be directly
affected by turbid plumes generated by dredging. Other marine turtle species such as Green and Hawksbill Turtle,
which feed on seagrass and/or in reef environments, may avoid areas affected by turbid plumes.
It is expected that marine fauna will avoid the source of underwater noise and their immediate surrounds. Once
operations have been completed, avoidance behaviour is expected to cease.
Objective: To minimise risk of impact of dredging and nourishment works on flora and fauna.
Issues: Injury to marine fauna from vessel strike or dredger operations.
Performance Criteria: No injury to marine mega-fauna. No impact to marine plants except where approved.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. Beach renourishment is not to cover any exposed mangrove pneumatophores. Marine plants survey to be Contractor
undertaken prior to dredging works and tree protection zone to be pegged out when necessary to avoid
impacts (including when exposed pneumatophores are identified).
2. Seagrasses not to be impacted during dredging. Contractor
3. Beach renourishment is to be undertaken in a manner that does not damage the root systems of any Contractor
undermined trees that are not mangroves. No buffer needs to be observed where there is an expectation
that nourishment will enhance stability.
4. Water quality monitoring to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4. Water quality to be managed in Contractor
accordance with control measures in section 5.1
5. Visual observations shall be undertaken for at least 10 minutes prior to commencement of dredging Contractor
operations and periodically throughout works. Should fauna be observed, operations shall cease until the
spotted animal has moved on.
6. In the event that a marine animal is captured or injured during the course of dredging, DES is to be Contractor
notified (phone 1300 130 372). The incident is to be recorded in the dredge log.
7. No extraction or replenishment activities should be undertaken during the closed seasons for important fin Contractor
fish species likely to occur in the Noosa River (specifically, July to August)
8. Extraction should not be undertaken more frequently than every two years from the same site to allow Contractor
time for benthic community recovery between events;
9. Material should be deposited on the receiving site in a spray of sand and water or in a number of shallow Contractor
layers (e.g. up to 20cm depth per layer) to maximise survival and vertical migration by resident infauna.
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
LAND
Geotechnical investigations have been undertaken by Soil Survey (2006), BMT (2022) and Pacific Geotech
(2023) (section 4.1.2).
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Investigations by BMT (2022) undertaken in accordance with NAGD 2009 (National Assessment Guidelines for
Dredging) for contaminants confirms that sediments are not contaminated and are suitable for onshore disposal.
Testing was undertaken in accordance with QASSIT requirements for acid sulfate soils. While investigations by
BMT (2022) indicate locations with very low levels of potential acid sulfate soils that are not fully offset by the
natural buffering capacity of the soils and one isolated high spot, subsequent testing around the hot spot by
Pacific Geotech (14 November 2022) “confirmed the material initially encountered has either been naturally
scoured away or is of such an isolated volume so as to not be significant and acid sulfate treatment will not be
required.”
Acid sulfate management of the Noosa River is to be undertaken in accordance with Pacific Geotech
recommendations as follows: “Considering the proposed dredging methodology (ie. use of a cyclone separator)
and the natural buffering capacity of the sands, treatment for the acid sulfate neutralisation is not likely to be
required. This should be confirmed with validation testing at the time of the dredging operation. Validation testing
should be undertaken at a rate of 1 test per 250m3 of disturbed material. … If the validation testing indicates the
material is providing results above 18molH+/tonne (ie. above the action criteria) the material should be neutralised
at the time of dredging”.
Objective: To minimise the impacts of disturbance of soils on the surrounding environment.
Issues: Adverse impacts associated with unexpected sediment types (that may be acidic or contaminated).
Performance Criteria: Compliance with Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual and NAGD (2009).
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. Dredge to be fitted with a cyclone when working in areas that don’t have adequate buffering capacity Contractor
2. Nourishment to consist of suitable sandy sediments ONLY. Dredged sediment to be monitored. In the Contractor
event that sediment types that are unsuitable for nourishment or are indicative of acid sulfates or
contaminated sediment, dredging is to cease or move to an adjacent area.
3. Acid sulfate validation testing to be undertaken at a rate of 1 test per 250m3 of disturbed material. Contractor
In the event that the validation testing indicates the material is providing results above 18molH+/tonne (i.e.
above the action criteria) a geotechnical expert is to be consulted and material is to be neutralised at the
time of dredging”
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
CULTURAL HERITAGE
The dredge and nourishment area has historically been dredged and used for re-nourishment. Given the level of
previous disturbance, it is considered unlikely that items of indigenous cultural heritage significance are present.
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Noosa River Caravan Park, Heritage Impact Statement (HIS) The Noosa River Caravan Park at Munna Point is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. This site already has existing approvals for dredging and beach re-nourishment that were obtained during Munna Point Groyne works. The closest nourishment works are 2m seaward of an existing building and 3m seaward of camp sites (Figure 12); however, an existing geotextile container retaining wall separates the nourishment area and caravan park at this location. Only the beach area, seaward of the heritage place will be impacted by the dredging and nourishment works. The dredging and nourishment work at this location will increase beach width and reduce the impact of erosion, protecting the caravan and tent sites. The works are considered to have no adverse impact on the heritage site and will provide benefit in maintaining an erosion buffer. Beach access can remain open to the public while nourishment works are undertaken. Figure 12. Location of works adjacent Noosa River Caravan Park 23
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Figure 13. Munna Point foreshore, eastern side Figure 14 Munna Point foreshore, boat ramp Figure 15. Munna Point foreshore, SFGC groynes and timber retaining wall 24
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Figure 16. Munna Point foreshore, northern side / Weyba Creek entrance.
Objective: To minimise impacts of the works on items of cultural or heritage significance.
Issues: No impacts expected.
Performance Criteria: No disturbance of cultural heritage items.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. If items are identified that potentially have cultural significance, immediately notify Traditional Owners and Contractor
seek advice.
2. Dredging and nourishment activities at Munna Point Caravan Park to be undertaken in a manner that Contractor
minimises impacts on visual and recreational aesthetics during the works.
3. Public access to be maintained to the foreshore during the works. Contractor
4. On completion, nourishment to form a natural profile and not present safety hazards to users. Contractor
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
WASTE
Dredged sediments are not considered to be waste.
The dredging activity generates wastes, including general rubbish and hazardous wastes.
Objective: To minimise impact of waste generated by the dredging works.
Issues: Release of waste to receiving waters.
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Performance Criteria: No loss of waste overboard. No unsuitable disposal of waste.
Control Measures:
Responsible
Control Measures
Party
1. No garbage to be thrown overboard or into the environment. Materials and equipment is to be secured to Contractor
prevent accidental loss overboard, particularly during inclement weather. If garbage accidently ends up in
the water, it is to be retrieved.
2. Waste bins are to have secure lids, be appropriately sized and be disposed of regularly to a suitable Contractor
facility onshore. Waste to be recycled where possible.
3. Hazardous wastes must be stored in an appropriate and secure manner with collection and transport by a Contractor
licenced Contractor.
4. On completion of the works, inspect and remove any waste generated as a result of the works. Contractor
5. Refueling to be undertaken at an approved facility or in calm waters with the vessel moored alongside a Contractor
suitable area under the supervision of the Engineer.
6. Oil spill management plan to be implemented. Management Plan to be located on board. Staff are to be Contractor
suitably trained. Suitable oil spill control stations to be located onboard.
7. Suitable amenities to be provided onshore. Contractor
8. Major repair and maintenance not to be undertaken on site. Contractor
Monitoring: Monitoring is to be undertaken in accordance with Table 4.
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OPERATION
OPERATIONAL PLANNING AND CONTROL
The Contractor will establish, implement, control and maintain the processes needed to meet environmental
management system requirements and to implement the actions identified in Section 5.
Environmental requirements are to be clearly communicated to subcontractors and external providers as
appropriate.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE
Oil Spill
An oil spill management plan is to be prepared by the Contractor and implemented throughout the works.
Incident Reporting
Any marine incidents are to be reported by the Contractor as required by the relevant legislation.
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PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
MONITORING, MEASUREMENT, ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION
General
An environmental monitoring program is to be implemented for the duration of the dredging works to ensure that
the requirements of this Concept Dredge Management Plan and the Contractor’s Site-Specific Environmental
Management Plan are being met. The environmental monitoring methods, frequency and timing, analysis and
evaluation against performance criteria and party responsible for implementing the monitoring are outlined in
Table 4. Results of monitoring that is the responsibility of the Dredging Contractor are to be recorded on the daily
log sheet.
All monitoring, recording and interpreting of parameters are to be undertaken by appropriately qualified persons in
accordance with the requirements of the approval conditions. Where necessary, calibrated equipment that is
properly maintained and suitable for the purpose is to be utilised in a manner consistent with relevant guidelines
and best practice.
The Approval Holder is required to store site-specific environmental monitoring records for a minimum of 5 years
during which period they are to be provided to the administering authority upon request.
Complaints
It is an objective of the project to respond to, investigate and resolve any non-vexatious complaints received
within 24-48 hours.
Details of complaints are to be recorded in a complaint register, recording the details below.
• Date and Time the complaint was received.
• Name and contact details of the complainant.
• Nature of the complaint.
• Investigations undertaken.
• Conclusions formed.
• Actions taken.
Evaluation of Compliance
Analysis and evaluation shall be performed promptly after each monitoring event and any non-conformances
promptly communicated appropriately as such that corrective action can be undertaken if required and the
monitoring frequency adjusted accordingly.
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PLANS AND DOCUMENTS #2 International referred to in the REFERRAL Coastal AGENCY RESPONSE om Management SARA ref; 290434319584 Date: 13 November 2023 2
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Table 4: Environmental Monitoring Requirements
Issues Monitoring Method Frequency/Timing Performance Criteria Responsibility
Water Quality Visual inspection Daily during dredging Visible plume does not extend more than 100m from the dredge area or nourishment Contractor
outlet.
No visible oil, grease, scum, litter, visually objectionable matter or other unapproved
contaminant.
Noise Aural inspection of equipment (dredge Daily during dredging Noise levels consistent with equipment specifications. Contractor
and booster pumps) for excessive noise
Investigation of noise complaints in Within 14 days of Investigation of noise complaints in accordance with permit requirements. Contractor
accordance with permit requirements. complaint
Air quality Visual inspection. Daily during works No excess machinery exhaust. Contractor
Flora / Fauna Visual inspection Daily during works Visual observations for marine mega-fauna shall be undertaken for at least 10 minutes Contractor
prior to commencement of dredging operations and periodically throughout works.
No injured marine mega-fauna or impact to marine plants.
Land Visual inspection Daily during works No unsuitable sediment to be placed as beach nourishment. Contractor
Acid sulfate validation testing 1 test per 250m3 Results below 18molH+/tonne Contractor
Cultural Heritage Visual inspection. Daily during works Any cultural heritage items identified to be notified appropriately. Contractor
Visual inspection Daily during works Maintains safe public access, recreational usage and natural profile of the foreshore Contractor
throughout works and on completion.
Waste Visual inspection Daily during works No uncontained litter/waste from plant associated with the works. Contractor
management
Complaints Complaint Register. As required. Complaints responded to within 24-48 hours and all complaints investigated and Principal
resolved.
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INTERNAL AUDIT
The Contractor’s site-specific management plan is to detail any internal auditing processes.
MANAGEMENT REVIEW
The Contractor’s site-specific management plan is to detail any ongoing management review.
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IMPROVEMENT
NON-CONFORMITY AND CORRECTIVE ACTION
This Concept Dredge Management Plan has outlined areas of environmental management for the works. If
ongoing monitoring of the works identify areas of non-conformance with the requirements of this Concept Dredge
Management Plan, the Contractor shall (where possible, safe and appropriate):
a) React to the Non-Conformity.
1) Take Corrective Action to control and correct it.
2) Deal with the consequences, including mitigating actual adverse environmental impacts.
3) Initial Communication of the Non-conformity
b) Evaluate the need for action to eliminate the causes of the nonconformity.
1) Review the nonconformity.
2) Determine the causes of the nonconformity.
3) Determine if similar nonconformities exist or could potentially occur.
c) Implement any preventative action needed.
d) Review the effectiveness of any corrective action undertaken.
e) Make changes to the environmental system, if necessary.
Communication of the issue to the approval holder (Noosa Shire Council) is required as soon as practicable if the
Non-Conformity included any of the following:
o A complaint regarding any environmental impact caused by the works is received.
o A departure from approved procedure is observed.
o Non-compliance with performance criteria.
o Major non-conformance with management plan.
Notification of agencies is to be undertaken where required.
CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
The Contractor shall continually improve the suitability, adequacy and effectiveness of the environmental
management system to enhance environmental performance.
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DRAWINGS
Relevant project drawings
Drawing No. Drawing Title Revision Date
NRD-000 Title Page 1 27-01-23
NRD-001 Scheme of works 1 27-01-23
NRD-002 Typical Section 1 27-01-23
NRD-003 Plan 1 1 27-01-23
NRD-004 Plan 2 1 27-01-23
NRD-005 Plan 3 1 27-01-23
NRD-006 Plan 4 1 27-01-23
NRD-007 Plan 5 1 27-01-23
NRD-008 Plan 6 1 27-01-23
A-1
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APPROVALS
Relevant project approvals
Permit Type Permit Number
Operational Works Permit TBA
Environmental Authority TBA
B-1
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International Coastal Management PLANS AND DOCUMENTS referred to in the REFERRAL AGENCY RESPONSE SARA ref: 2304-34319 SRA Date: 13 November 2023 Appendix C. GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATIONS C-1
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PLANS AND DOCUMENTS ~~ y International referred to in the REFERRAL : AGENCY RESPONSE Coastal Management SARA ref: 2304-34319SRA Date: 13 November 2023 Appendix D. MARINE BIOTA IMPACT ASSESSMENT
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PLANS AND DOCUMENTS International referred to in the REFERRAL Coastal AGENCY RESPONSE acre Management SARA ref: 2304-34319 SRA. Date: 13 November 2023 os... Appendix E. CORRECTIVE ACTION & INCIDENT REPORTING
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CORRECTIVE ACTION REQUEST Part A – Notification To be completed by person issuing CAR Date: Issued by: Signature……………………………………. Activity: Responsibility: Reason for non-compliance or environmental impact detected: Comment: Part B – Corrective Action To be completed by Site Supervisor CAR number: Date received: Corrective action undertaken: Recommended preventative action: Responsibility: Comments: Date completed: Signature………………………………….. E-2
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Part C – Verification
To be completed by Project Manager
Verification procedure
Date corrective action verified:
Signature…………………………………………………………………………………….
CAR number Date CAR CAR Date CAR Date verified Signature
received responsibility completed
1
2
3
4
E-3
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ENVIRONMENTAL INCIDENT / EMERGENCY REPORT
Client: Contact: Phone:
Phone (ah): Project:
Location:
Incident Date:
Incident Time:
Description of Event and Pollutant Remedial Action Required
Comments:
Authorities Ph: Date & Time Officers Name Signed
Notified
Person Completing this Form Date Signature
Name:
Position:
Ph:
Project Co-ordinator Date Signature
Name:
Position:
Ph:
E-4
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COMPLAINT REGISTER
Aspect Details Details
Complaint Number
Complaint Date & Time Complaint Received
Details
Complainant’s Name
Complainant’s Contact Details
Details of Complaint
Date & Time Principal notified
Investigation Details of investigation undertaken
Corrective Action Taken
Conclusion Conclusions
Date & Time of Response to
Complainant
Date & Time Principal notified
Management Review
Review Additional procedures required?
Management Plan revised?
F-1