QPWS views re development application MCU 16-0081

   

Queensland
Government

Department of
National Parks,
Sport and Racing

The Assessment Manager
Noosa Council

PO Box 141,

Tewantin QLD4565
[email protected]

Dear Sir/Madam,

Development Application MCU 16/0081 - Multiple Housing Type 3 - Retirement and
Special Needs

| refer to the letter from Project Urban regarding the public notice of a Development
Application — Development Permit for a Material Change of Use of Premises for Multiple
Housing Type 3 - Retirement and Special Needs on land described as part of Lot 3 on
SP246584.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) advise that the application area
directly adjoins the Weyba Creek Section of Noosa National Park (Lot 147/NPW889) which
contains a good representation of Regional Ecosystems 12.9-10.1, tall open forest and
12.3.13, closed heathland.

Both Regional Ecosystems are prime habitat for a number of species listed as Vulnerable
and Near Threatened under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NCA) and Vulnerable under
the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC)
including the ground parrot and the grey headed flying-fox.

Of particular concem is the presence of koalas both on the proposed development site and
adjacent National Park. This has been confirmed through sightings recorded on the
Queensland Government's WildNet data base and Koala Habitat Mapping information.

Further, as regular fire management is required to maintain these crucial habitats, it would
be inappropriate to locate a Retirement and Special Needs facility at the proposed site on
the basis that it would put at risk the health and safety of the intended aged care residents
that may suffer from the effects of bushfire smoke. An additional concern would be the
almost certain need of implementing evacuation procedures for the aged care residents
every time a fire is detected within the adjoining bushland particularly during heightened
levels of wildfire risk.

Also, any changes in fire management frequency, as would be required in the establishment
of fire protection zones for the protection of life and property where urban development
adjoins bushland, would pose a threat to maintaining the present natural habitat.

Level 6

12 First Avenue, Maroochydore
Queensland 4558 Australia
Telephone + 61 7 5459 6110
Website www.npsr.qid.gov.au
ABN 11 322 391 452