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Appendix C - Ecological Assessment Report
CONCISE ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT REPORT
MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE TO ESTABLISH SHORT TERM
ACCOMODATION
157 LAWNVILLE ROAD, BLACK MOUNTAIN
LOT 83 ON MCH3546
Ph: 0428 221 983 / Email: [email protected]
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION......................................................................................3
1.1 PURPOSE......................................................................................................................................3
1.2 ASSESSMENT AREA .......................................................................................................................3
2.0 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................4
2.1 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT ..................................................................................................................4
2.2 FIELD-BASED SITE ASSESSMENT ......................................................................................................4
3.0 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT RESULTS .............................................................5
3.1 NOOSA PLAN 2020 – BIODIVERSITY, WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS OVERLAY MAP .............................5
3.2 SOUTH-EAST QUEENSLAND KOALA CONSERVATION STRATEGY – KOALA HABITAT VALUES MAPPING ....5
3.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SUPPORTING MAP ..............................................................................6
4.0 FIELD ASSESSMENT RESULTS .......................................................8
4.1 GENERAL ......................................................................................................................................8
4.2 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES ..........................................................................................................8
5.0 DEVELOPMENT IMPACTS ................................................................9
6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES ..................................................................9
7.0 LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE ..........................................................10
7.1 NOOSA PLAN 2020 - BIODIVERSITY, WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS OVERLAY .................................... 10
7.2 PURPOSE AND OVERALL OUTCOMES OF THE BIODIVERSITY WATERWAYS AND
WETLANDS OVERLAY CODE ................................................................................................. 19
7.3 NATURE CONSERVATION (KOALA) CONSERVATION PLAN AND SDAP STATE CODE 25 -DEVELOPMENT IN
SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND KOALA HABITAT AREAS ........................................................................ 22
7.4 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACT AND SDAP STATE CODE 16 - NATIVE VEGETATION
CLEARING ............................................................................................................................... 22
8.0 CONCLUSION ...................................................................................23
APPENDIX A – PLAN OF DEVELOPMENT .........................................................24
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Disclaimer
This assessment has been prepared by Equilibrium Ecology Pty Ltd and may only be used and relied upon for the purposes set
out in this report. No responsibility is held to any person other than the Client for any decision or action arising from or in
connection with this report. All opinions and conclusions are based on assumptions detailed in this report and no responsibility
is held for any error or omission arising from these assumptions being incorrect.
Ecological site assessments are necessarily of limited field survey scope and timeframe and may not result in a complete
representation of flora/fauna species abundance and variety across any site due to factors including climatic and seasonal
variation. In this regard, conclusions and recommendations stated herein are provided in good faith in the absence of an
additional long-term environmental study. In the absence of complete ecological data pertaining to a site, a precautionary
principle is generally adopted throughout the assessment process.
To the extent permitted by law, Equilibrium Ecology Pty Ltd excludes all liability to any person for any consequences, including
but not limited to all losses, damages, costs, expenses, and any other compensation, arising directly or indirectly, from using
this report (in part or whole) and any information or material contained in it.
Document Issue
Version Number Date Authorised for Issue
1 17 APRIL 2023 N. Willis (B. Sc., Dip. CLM., mAABR,
mEIANZ, mFPAA) – Director/Principal
Ecologist
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PURPOSE
This Ecological Assessment Report has been prepared for Lot 83 on MCH3546 located at 157 Lawnville
Road, Black Mountain (referred to herein as ‘the site’). The applicants are seeking an approval for a
Development Permit for Material Change of Use to establish short term accommodation in the form of
four new cabins to be built on the premises. The cabins are all proposed in existing cleared areas that are
characterised by mown grass. The proposed Plan of Development has been provided as Appendix A.
This concise Ecological Report has been prepared in lieu of a detailed Ecological Assessment Report as no
vegetation clearing is proposed to facilitate the development and no new clearing exemptions will be
introduced as a result of approval of the development.
1.2 ASSESSMENT AREA
The site is located within a semi-vegetated rural area and covers approximately 4.19ha. The site is
currently improved with a dwelling house, sheds and other associated infrastructure in the western site
extent. The left branch of Six Mile Creek traverses through the centre of the site. The site is characterised
by generally cleared areas supporting pasture grass, with narrow bands of vegetation flanking the creek
and along the external site boundaries. Semi-vegetated rural allotments dominate the landscape
surrounding the site. Plate 1 depicts the existing site conditions.
Plate 1: Assessment Area (Source: Google Earth)
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2.0 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
2.1 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT
To gain an understanding of the existing ecological values and the potential for species of conservation
significance to be present within the site and surrounding area, the following databases and mapping
sources were reviewed:
Noosa Plan 2020 – Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay mapping
The South-East Queensland Koala Conservation Strategy - Koala habitat mapping
The Department of Resources (DoR) Vegetation Management Supporting Map
The results of the desktop assessment are provided In Section 3.
2.2 FIELD-BASED SITE ASSESSMENT
A field-based site assessment was undertaken in October 2022 and April 2023 to assess the existing
ecological value of the on-site vegetation and included a general flora survey for conservation significant
flora species within and adjacent to the proposed development area. The results of the field-based
assessment are provided in Section 4.
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3.0 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT RESULTS
3.1 NOOSA PLAN 2020 – BIODIVERSITY, WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS OVERLAY MAP
The site is mapped as containing the following biodiversity overlays under the Noosa Plan 2020 –
Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay (refer to Plate 2):
Area of Biodiversity Significance
MSES Environmental Values
MSES Regulated Vegetation
MSES Watercourse Vegetation
Waterway
Riparian Buffer Area
Plate 2: Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay
3.2 SOUTH-EAST QUEENSLAND KOALA CONSERVATION STRATEGY – KOALA HABITAT VALUES
MAPPING
The South-East Queensland Koala Conservation Strategy Koala Habitat Values mapping identifies that the
site is contains Core Koala Habitat in the western extent (refer to Plate 3).
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Plate 3: Koala Habitat Values mapping (Source: QLD Globe)
3.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT SUPPORTING MAP
The Vegetation Management Supporting Map identifies that Category B, Category C and Category R
regulated vegetation are mapped within the site (refer to Plate 4). The regulated vegetation is mapped as
containing the following Regional Ecosystems:
Endangered RE 12.3.1, which is described as Gallery rainforest (notophyll vine forest) on alluvial
plains
Of concern RE 12.3.2 which is described as Eucalyptus grandis tall open forest on alluvial plains
Least Concern RE 12.11.2 which is described as Eucalyptus saligna or E. grandis, E. microcorys,
Lophostemon confertus tall open forest on metamorphics +/- interbedded volcanics
Least Concern RE 12.11.10 which is described as Notophyll vine forest +/- Araucaria cunninghamii
on metamorphics +/- interbedded volcanics
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Plate 4: Remnant Vegetation Mapping (Source: QLD Globe)
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4.0 FIELD ASSESSMENT RESULTS
4.1 GENERAL
A field survey of the vegetation within the site was undertaken in October 2022 and April 2023 to validate
the extent of vegetation and confirm species composition, tree heights and canopy cover.
4.2 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
The area proposed for the four cabins is maintained as mown lawn. The narrow band of vegetation
flanking Six Mile Creek is dominated by mature Waterhousea floribunda (weeping lily pily), with Ficus
coronata (creek sandpaper fig), Neolitsea dealbata (white bolly gum), Archontophoenix cunninghamiana
(picabeen palm), Cryptocarya sp. (laurels) with mature Eucalyptus grandis (flooded gum) emergents also
present. The edge of the waterway is dominated by a dense band of semi-aquatic herbs and macrophyte
species including Lomandra hystrix (mat rush), and several native sedge species (Cyperus spp.). The
canopy has attained a height of over 30m. Other canopy tree species observed include Corymbia
intermedia (pink bloodwood), E. tereticornis (Queensland blue gum) and the exotic weed species
Cinnamomum camphora (camphor laurel). Plates 5 depicts typical vegetation conditions within the site.
Plate 5: Vegetation conditions
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5.0 DEVELOPMENT IMPACTS
The cabins have been located a minimum of 30m to 50m from the high bank of Six Mile Creek, however
by necessity must be located within the mapped Riparian Buffer Area which extends across the entire site.
No vegetation clearing is required to locate and construct the proposed cabins which are all proposed
within existing cleared areas characterised by regularly mowed grass. Furthermore, The Bushfire Hazard
Assessment Report submitted as part of the application material has demonstrated that the site is not
located within a bushfire hazard area. Therefore, no new vegetation clearing exemptions will be
introduced into the site for protection of the proposed cabin infrastructure. In this regard, the application
represents a low impact development with regards to the ecological resources within the site.
6.0 MITIGATION MEASURES
A Riparian Rehabilitation Plan has been prepared to guide the restoration of the waterway corridor that
flows through the site. The rehabilitation strategy includes both assisted natural regeneration (weed
control) and revegetation planting to extend the existing vegetated buffer to Six Mile Creek to an average
minimum width of 10m. A total of 1.3ha of the riparian zone is proposed to be rehabilitated as part of the
development application.
Furthermore, a Construction Management Plan has been prepared for the application and details
measures such as noise mitigation, stormwater and sediment control and waste management.
Appropriate erosion and sediment control measures will be employed during construction works to
mitigate risk of sediment release into the adjoining waterway and vegetation communities.
Implementation of the mitigation measures as detailed will ensure that the development can be
undertaken with minimal impacts to the onsite and down-stream ecological values.
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7.0 LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE
7.1 NOOSA PLAN 2020 - BIODIVERSITY, WATERWAYS AND WETLANDS OVERLAY
Development is proposed within an area mapped under the Noosa Plan 2020 – Biodiversity, Waterways
and Wetlands Overlay as containing a Riparian Buffer Area and MSES Environmental Values. The
application therefore triggers assessment against Council’s Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands
Overlay Code 8.2.2.3. Table 1 describes the proposal’s potential compliance with each of the Performance
Outcomes and associated Acceptable Outcomes of Code 8.2.2.3.
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Table 1 – CODE 8.2.2.3 - CRITERIA FOR ASSESSABLE DEVELOPMENT
PERFORMANCE OUTCOMES ACCEPTABLE OUTCOMES PROPOSAL COMPLIANCE SUMMARY
Ecologically Important Areas
PO1 AO1.1 AO1.1
Development is sited and designed to protect Ecologically important areas are conserved or improved to No vegetation clearing is proposed. Existing
the physical and ecological integrity and ensure their ongoing contribution to the natural resources vegetated areas will be retained and rehabilitated.
biodiversity of ecologically important areas and biological diversity of Noosa Shire. The application complies with AO1.1
through protection of:
a) existing habitat areas and ecological AND AO1.2
linkages; and The development is proposed within existing
b) existing riparian vegetation, AO1.2 cleared areas that are currently maintained as
waterways and wetland habitat Buildings, structures and associated works are located mown grass. The application complies with AO1.2
values within existing cleared areas or areas of lowest ecological
value. AO1.3
N/A - The application is not for a dwelling house or
AND community residence.
AO1.3
Where constructing a dwelling house or community A01.4
residence, buildings and associated structures are not N/A – No clearing for boundary fences is proposed.
located on land identified as an area of biodiversity
significance on a Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands
Overlay Map.
or
Clearing vegetation (other than for a driveway access) does
not extend beyond—
30 metres of a habitable building or 10 metres of a
class 10 structure on lots greater than 10 hectares;
or
10 metres of a habitable building or class 10
structure on lots 10 hectares or less but more than
3,000m2; or
3 metres of a habitable building or class 10 structure
on lots 3,000m2 or less.
AND
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AO1.4
Clearing of vegetation for a boundary fence does not
extend beyond 5 metres either side of the fence.
Reconfiguring of a lot
PO2 AO2 A02
New lots are only created if they maintain Where clearing vegetation for the purpose of Reconfiguring N/A - No vegetation clearing is proposed to
ecological linkages and minimise the a Lot — facilitate the development. The application is not
clearing of vegetation. a) new boundaries to lots do not transect and for a reconfiguration of a Lot.
fragment existing native vegetation;
b) new lots are created to allow for suitable building
envelopes for future buildings and works to be
located within existing cleared areas or areas of
low ecological value;
c) building envelopes are designated for each lot;
and
d) ecological linkages and ecologically important
areas are secured by environmental covenant or
transferred to public ownership or through gazettal
of a nature reserve.
Management of Impacts
PO3 AO3.1 AO3.1
Development is designed and sited to Where clearing of vegetation cannot be practicably No vegetation clearing is proposed.
manage adverse impacts on ecologically avoided, the development:
important areas by: a) ensures the design and siting limits the loss of
a) minimising the total footprint within which vegetation to the smallest extent possible;
all activities, buildings, structures driveways b) protects and retains ecological values and
and other works are contained; ecosystem processes to the greatest extent
b) locating development in existing cleared possible within and adjacent to the site;
areas or areas of low ecological value over c) provides measures to allow for safe movement of
other areas to the greatest extent possible; fauna through the site; and
and d) provides suitable habitat replacement and
c) incorporating siting and design measures replanting in accordance with PSP3 Ecological
to protect and retain ecological values and Assessment Guidelines.
ecosystem processes within or adjacent to AO3.2 AO3.2
the development site; and Habitat trees, recruitment habitat trees, and roosting, No significant habitat trees for native fauna were
d) where adverse impacts have been breeding and feeding areas are protected for native fauna identified within proximity to the proposed
minimised, any residual impacts on habitat. development. Nonetheless, no impacts to fauna
ecological values are compensated for habitat are proposed.
through suitable habitat replacement and
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replanting on site in the first instance or in a
way that results in a net gain and
enhancement of the overall habitat values of
Noosa Shire.
PO4 AO4.1 AO4.1
Development provides for effective Vegetation is protected from disturbance or damage from Sufficient existing open space is provided around
measures during construction and operation construction and operation activities by: the location of the proposed cabins to ensure that
to protect ecological values including: a) clearly marking trees to be retained with flagging the measures detailed in AO4.1 can be complied
a) avoiding disturbance to or clearing of tape; with during construction works.
vegetation in and within the vicinity of the b) installing protective fencing around the dripline of
site; the vegetation and avoid filling and excavating in
b) managing habitat disturbance and these fenced areas;
physical harm to fauna from noise, vibration, c) ensuring stockpiling, storage and vehicle parking
dust, light, dewatering or excavating; and occurs outside the identified vegetation areas; and
c) avoiding clearing in areas where erosion d) using low impact construction techniques around
or slippage could occur. vegetation.
AO4.2
Vegetation which is capable of forming or contributing to a AO4.2
buffer between different land uses or a buffer against N/A. All existing vegetation is to be retained.
pollution, light spillage or noise is retained.
AO4.3
Lighting associated with development: AO4.3
a) does not contribute an unacceptable level of Lighting associated with the development can
illuminance (greater than 1 lux) for light sensitive comply with AO4.3 a) and can be conditioned with
species within or at the boundary of an ecologically an approval.
important area; and
b) does not contribute to an unacceptable level of b) N/A
illuminance on landward horizons along coastal
areas and known marine turtle nesting beaches.
AO4.4
Clearing of vegetation does not involve clearing that may AO4.4
cause or contribute to hillslope erosion, bank erosion, or N/A – No clearing is proposed.
slippage.
Connectivity
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PO5 AO5 AO5
Development is designed and operated to Development is designed and operated to maintain Complies with AO5 - All existing ecological
maintain and enhance connectivity between ecological linkages and maximise opportunity for linkages will be retained.
and across ecologically important areas and connectivity and the movement of fauna by:
connecting habitat and support unimpeded a) ensuring protection of wildlife refuges;
and safe movement of terrestrial and b) maintaining vegetation in patches of the greatest
aquatic fauna. possible size and within the smallest possible
edge-to-area ratio;
c) enhancing connectivity through planting and
rehabilitation works, including across property
boundaries, to areas of national park, state forest
or reserve;
d) avoiding the creation of physical barriers and
safety hazards (such as roads, pedestrian access
and instream structures) along and within the
ecological linkage;
e) providing mitigation measures such as wildlife
movement infrastructure, fauna exclusion and
directional fencing, underpasses/overpasses and
traffic calming devices, signage and lighting; and
f) where offsets are necessary, delivering offsets that
support and enhance ecological linkages.
Waterways and Wetlands
PO6 AO6.1 Development cannot avoid being undertaken
The biodiversity and ecosystem values of Development and clearing of vegetation does not occur within the mapped Riparian Buffer Area which
waterways, drainage lines, wetlands and within: covers the entire site. Therefore, the application
adjacent riparian zones are protected by: a) a riparian buffer area; cannot meet Acceptable Outcome 6.1. In this
a) avoiding any new development in a b) a wetland area; or regard, an assessment against the purpose and
riparian buffer area and wetland c) 10 metres either side of the centre line of other overall outcomes of the Biodiversity Wetlands and
area; waterways identified on a Biodiversity, Waterways Waterways Overlay Code has been undertaken
b) retaining aquatic and terrestrial and Wetlands Overlay Map. and presented in Section 7.2 below.
habitat in riparian zones;
c) maintaining and enhancing wildlife AO6.2 AO6.2
corridors and connectivity along Development provides for the rehabilitation of land within: A Riparian Rehabilitation Plan has been prepared
watercourses and drainage lines for a) a riparian buffer area; which details the proposed rehabilitation strategy
native fauna movement; b) a wetland area; and within the waterway corridor which is the
d) avoiding edge effects and damage c) 10 metres either side of the centre line of any other predominant ecologically important area located
from adjacent land uses; waterway identified on a Biodiversity, Waterways within the site.
and Wetlands Overlay Map.
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e) maintaining stream integrity and
bank stability by minimising bank
erosion and slumping; AO6.3
f) maintaining water quality through Recreational facilities (e.g. playgrounds, pergolas,
filtering sediments, nutrients and barbeques) are setback a minimum of 10 metres from the AO6.3
other pollutants; and top of the bank of a waterway. N/A. No public recreational facilities are proposed.
g) removing pest species and
replacing them with local native Editor’s Note—Setbacks to waterways for certain uses and
species. works are also specified in the relevant codes.
Editor's Note—Wetland areas are identified on the
Queensland Wetland Program mapping
Editor’s Note – Any clearing of vegetation also needs to
meet the outcomes of the Earthworks Code and the Water
Quality and Drainage Code.
PO7 No acceptable outcome provided. N/A
Vegetation within 400 metres of the full
ponded water within Lake Macdonald is
retained.
PO8 AO8.1 N/A
Development on land adjacent to a Development adjacent to a waterway or wetland provides
waterway or wetland maintains appropriate that:
extent of public access to waterways and a) no new lots directly back onto a riparian buffer
wetlands and minimises edge effects. area; and
b) new public roads are located between a riparian
buffer area or riparian zone and the proposed
development area.
Surface and ground water hydrology
PO9 AO9.1 N/A - The development is not proposing activities
Development ensures that the natural Development does not impact on the natural surface water which are likely to affect natural surface water or
surface water and ground water hydrologic or groundwater hydrologic regimes and this is facilitated groundwater hydrologic regimes.
regimes of waterways, wetlands and by:
hydrologically-sensitive plant communities a) avoiding or minimising channelization, redirection
are not adversely impacted. or interruption of flow;
b) avoiding groundwater extraction;
Editor's Note—Groundwater dependent c) maintaining groundwater recharge and discharge
ecosystems are identified on Queensland processes;
Government Wetland Info mapping. d) maintaining natural groundwater fluctuations;
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e) avoiding causing ingress of saline water into
freshwater aquifers of wetlands; and
f) avoiding contaminants entering groundwater (e.g.
from runoff, effluent disposal).
Rehabilitation of ecologically important areas
PO10 AO10.1 AO10.1
Development provides for ecologically Landscaping and rehabilitation complements and supports A Riparian Rehabilitation Plan has been prepared
important areas to be restored and ecologically important areas by: which comprehensively uses local native species
enhanced through: a) utilising local native species; that occur within the local riparian vineforest
a) designing landscaped areas to b) utilising suitable plant species identified in PSP2 communities. Any additional site landscaping can
complement and enhance existing Landscaping; be conditioned by Council to comply with AO10.1.
vegetation and ecological linkages; c) restoring degraded ecosystems to achieve a
b) removing species likely to displace functional ecosystem state that requires minimal
native flora species or degrade human intervention;
fauna habitat; d) replicating adjacent remnant habitats of the same
c) replanting and rehabilitating type, including the understorey vegetation;
degraded habitat; e) creating or enhancing linkages between existing
d) replacing any vegetation removed habitats;
with suitable local native species; f) avoiding the use of pest plant species listed in
e) providing for fauna habitat; and PSP2 - Landscaping;
f) avoiding the planting of pest plant g) planting riparian zones to filter stormwater run-off,
species. stabilise soil and provide for wildlife habitat; and
h) providing ground and arboreal structures for fauna,
which may include ground depressions, rocks,
hollows, nesting boxes and in-stream habitat.
AO10.2 AO10.2
Vegetation cleared is replaced with: N/A – No vegetation clearing is proposed.
a) plantings of equivalent area that replicate the
floristic structure of the vegetation removed; or
b) where this is not possible due to the characteristics
of the site and the development, plantings twice
the number of the removed trees and plants.
Editor’s Note — Revegetation and rehabilitation works are
to be carried out in accordance with an approved
Revegetation and Rehabilitation Management Plan, as
referred to in PSP3 Ecological assessment guidelines.
Koala habitat protection and enhancement
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PO11 AO11.1 AO11.1 – No development is proposed within
Development is designed, constructed and Development design complies with the Koala Sensitive close proximity to the mapped koala habitat within
operated to— Design Guideline: A guide to koala sensitive design the south-west of the site. The development retains
a) protect and enhance koalas and measures for planning and development activities the existing extent of koala habitat within the site
koala habitat and avoid adverse within one contiguous unit. The development does
impacts; not generate unacceptable impact on existing
b) provide measures to assist the koala movement opportunities through the site and
survival of koala populations in the AO11.2 between patches of offsite suitable koala habitat.
area to mitigate any potential Development incorporates revegetation and landscaping
threats or risk to koalas; that provides food, shelter and movement opportunities for AO11.2
c) provide for safe and appropriate koalas The revegetation strategy has incorporated
koala movement across the characteristic vineforest species as per the existing
landscape; and AO11.3 riparian vineforest community and does not include
d) provide for a net gain in mature and Development is designed to maximise and enhance koala habitat trees which are generally unsuited to
actively regenerating koala habitat. connectivity between koala habitat trees and ensure safe the high shade conditions of the waterway corridor.
koala movement.
Editor's Note—Koala habitat mapping is in AO11.3
Schedule 2 Mapping. AO11.4 Development has been located within existing
During construction, measures are incorporated to not cleared areas and any available koala movement
Editor's Note—The Planning Regulation increase the risk of death or injury to koalas, by including opportunities are to be maintained via retention of
2017, schedule 10 states that development koala movement measures, as defined in the Planning existing vegetated areas.
that interferes with koala habitat, in an area Regulation 2017
that is both a koala priority area and a koala AO11.4
habitat area, is prohibited development N/A - Construction associated with the
(subject to the exceptions stated in development will be for the construction of a small
schedule 10 of the Planning Regulation number of cabins only and is not anticipated to
2017). present a risk to koalas if they inhabit the site.
Editor's Note- These performance
outcomes and acceptable outcomes apply
to:
a) development on land in a koala priority
area, where the development does not
interfere with koala habitat and where the
benchmarks are additional to and not
inconsistent with, the assessment
benchmarks stated in schedule 11, part 2 of
the Planning Regulations 2017; and
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b) development on land outside the koala
priority area, where the development does
not interfere with koala habitat in koala
habitat areas.
Bushfire Management
PO12 No acceptable outcome provided A Bushfire Hazard Assessment has been prepared
Bushfire management measures are which demonstrates that the site is within a low
adopted based on ecological principles, hazard area with regards to bushfire. No clearing
which: of vegetation is required for bushfire mitigation
a) maintain and enhance biodiversity; purposes.
b) minimise threat of fire to the natural
environment, as well as life and
property; and
c) provide for effective use and
maintenance of buildings and
structures.
Editor's note—The performance outcome
applies to properties in bushfire hazard
areas and only where clearing is reasonably
necessary for the control of bushfire risk to
a building or structure. Bushfire hazard
areas are shown on Bushfire Hazard
Overlay maps in Schedule 2.
Scenic Amenity
PO13 AO13.1 AO13.1 All vegetation is proposed to be retained
The scenic amenity and vegetated Vegetation is retained: as per AO13.1 (where applicable).
character of the landscape is protected by a) on and within 30 metres of prominent ridgelines
retaining vegetation: and on sloping sites;
a) along and around watercourses and b) in gullies;
drainage lines; c) along watercourses and drainage lines;
b) on steep slopes and ridgelines; d) within 10 metres of the major road network; and
c) along the major road network; and e) along the front coastal dune system.
d) that forms coastal vistas to and
from beaches.
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7.2 PURPOSE AND OVERALL OUTCOMES OF THE BIODIVERSITY WATERWAYS AND
WETLANDS OVERLAY CODE
1. The purpose of the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands overlay code is to protect, rehabilitate
and enhance ecologically important areas and improve connectivity and ecological linkages across
Noosa Shire.
2. The overall outcomes sought for the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands overlay code are:
a) The natural resources and ecosystem values of Noosa Shire are protected and enhanced
including ecologically important areas and land and environmental values of scenic,
aesthetic, cultural, educational, recreational, scientific, economic and social value.
b) Development is designed, sited, constructed and operated in a way that avoids adverse
impacts on ecologically important areas, ecological systems and processes.
c) Development design and layout provides for ecological connectivity across the landscape
through the protection, rehabilitation and enhancement of
native vegetation and ecological linkages.
d) Ecological linkages and riparian vegetation are conserved, managed, enhanced and
rehabilitated to protect and improve biodiversity, ecosystem health, landscape stability
and resilience.
e) Development design and layout provides for the protection and establishment of
appropriate buffers to waterways, wetlands, native vegetation and significant fauna
habitat.
f) The terrestrial and aquatic native flora and fauna and their habitats are protected and
enhanced.
g) Development and its associated landscaping provides for the rehabilitation of ecologically
important areas, degraded ecosystems and habitats to achieve a functional and healthy
ecosystem state that requires minimal human intervention.
h) Development is designed, sited, constructed and operated to avoid or minimise adverse
impacts on koalas and their habitat and to provide for connectivity and safety for the long
term viability of the koala population.
i) In urban areas, biodiversity values are protected and enhanced to assist with ecosystem
health, flora and fauna, urban amenity and quality of life.
Table SC1.2.2 of the Noosa Plan 2020, defines an Ecologically important area to mean:
a) an area which contains or is likely to contain listed threatened species and/or ecological
communities, critical habitat, or listed migratory species as defined by the Environmental
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (Cth) Act 1999;
b) a protected area under the Natural Conservation Act 1992 or Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation (Cth) Act 1999;
c) Endangered and Of Concern Regional Ecosystems under the Queensland Vegetation Management
Act 1999;
d) an area which contains or is likely habitat for endangered, vulnerable or near threatened species
under the Nature Conservation Act 1992;
e) an area which contains a spring as defined under the Water Act (Qld) 2000;
f) an area which contains protected marine plants or is defined as a fish habitat area under the
Fisheries Act 1994;
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157 LAWNVILLE ROAD, BLACK MOUNTAIN
Page 21
g) a legally secured offset area;
h) an area of remnant or non-remnant native vegetation;
i) an area with contains flora or fauna species that are regionally significant in South East
Queensland;
j) regrowth vegetation that is likely to develop into a Matter of Environmental Significance;
k) a natural waterway or wetland;
l) a riparian zone;
m) riparian vegetation;
n) an ecological linkage;
o) an area which contains groundwater dependent ecosystems;
p) an area which contains vegetation that is under-represented across Noosa Shire’s protected areas;
q) an area which contains vegetation that is locally restricted;
r) an area which contains habitat for flora and/or fauna species of local significance in Noosa Shire;
s) an area containing significant flora and fauna species that are vulnerable to disturbance; or
t) an area contains vegetation in an area that has been cleared in contravention of a local law,
including the former local law.
It is noted that Table SC1.2.2 does not specifically include a Riparian Buffer Area within the definition of
an Ecologically Important Area. The elements of the Riparian Buffer Area that are defined to be an
Ecologically important Area would be limited to the natural waterway, riparian zone and riparian
vegetation as per items k-m of the prescribed definition. Note that any other vegetated areas within the
site that are included in the definition of an Ecologically Important Area (e.g., the mapped extent of the
endangered regional ecosystem) are also located within the riparian vegetation associated with Six Mile
Creek. Therefore, the extent of riparian vegetation flanking Six Mile Creek is considered to represent the
extent of Ecologically Important Areas within the site.
Six Mile Creek is mapped as a second order waterway within the site. Table SC1.2.2 of the Noosa Plan
2020 defines the Riparian Zone as land which adjoins, directly influences, or is influenced by a body of
water. The Queensland Department of Resources seeks to preserve native vegetation within 10m of the
defining bank of a second order waterway (refer Table 2 within State Code 16 – Native Vegetation
Clearing) as this is recognised as the critical zone that contributes stability and influences water quality
within the adjoining waterway. Therefore, it is considered that the riparian zone is limited to extending to
10m from the high bank of the waterway. The Rehabilitation Plan has therefore used the 10m width as
detailed within State Code 16 to define the Riparian Zone flanking Six Mile Creek and has prescribed the
proposed rehabilitation works accordingly.
Performance Outcome 6 and Acceptable Outcome 6.1 of the Biodiversity Waterways and Wetlands Code
do not allow for development and clearing of vegetation within a mapped Riparian Buffer Area. Although
no vegetation clearing is proposed as part of the development, the Riparian Buffer Area extends across
the entire site, therefore development is unable to avoid being located within the Riparian Buffer Area.
However, it is considered that the proposed development is of a low impact nature, with the built
elements of the development located a minimum of 30m to 50m from the waterway. Importantly, the
development meets the intent of the purpose and overall outcomes sought by the Code.
The purpose of the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Overlay Code is to protect, rehabilitate and
enhance ecologically important areas and improve connectivity and ecological linkages across Noosa
Shire. The application retains all Ecologically Important Areas within the site which are restricted to the
riparian vegetation flanking Six Mile Creek. The existing connectivity provided by the vegetated riparian
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157 LAWNVILLE ROAD, BLACK MOUNTAIN
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zone is to be retained and will be enhanced via the proposed rehabilitation works. In this regard, the
application is compliant with the purpose of the Code.
The overall outcomes sought for the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands overlay code are:
a) The natural resources and ecosystem values of Noosa Shire are protected and enhanced including
ecologically important areas and land and environmental values of scenic, aesthetic, cultural, educational,
recreational, scientific, economic and social value.
The Ecologically Important Area within the site is restricted to the riparian vegetation and all land
contained within 10m of the high bank of Six Mile Creek (the riparian zone). This area is to be protected
and rehabilitated (enhanced) as per the overall outcome sought by the code.
b) Development is designed, sited, constructed and operated in a way that avoids adverse impacts
on ecologically important areas, ecological systems and processes.
The development avoids the Ecologically Important Area by a minimum of 30-50m. No unacceptably
adverse impacts to the identified Ecologically Important Area, ecological systems or processes have been
identified.
c) Development design and layout provides for ecological connectivity across the landscape through
the protection, rehabilitation and enhancement of native vegetation and ecological linkages.
The riparian vegetation flanking Six Mile Creek is to have a Rehabilitation Plan enacted to enhance the
ecological condition of the native vegetation and the ecological linkage.
d) Ecological linkages and riparian vegetation are conserved, managed, enhanced and rehabilitated
to protect and improve biodiversity, ecosystem health, landscape stability and resilience.
The riparian vegetation is to be conserved, managed, enhanced and rehabilitated to protect and improve
biodiversity, ecosystem health, landscape stability and resilience.
e) Development design and layout provides for the protection and establishment of appropriate
buffers to waterways, wetlands, native vegetation and significant fauna habitat.
The application is for the construction of a maximum of four small cabins for short stay accommodation.
Each cabin has been located a minimum of 30m – 50m from the high bank of Six Mile Creek within existing
mowed open space. A minimum of 10m vegetated buffer has been provided in the form of existing
riparian vegetation or proposed revegetation to enhance the existing buffer to the waterway within the
site.
f) The terrestrial and aquatic native flora and fauna and their habitats are protected and enhanced.
No vegetation clearing is proposed. The existing ecological and habitat values contained within the
vegetated areas will be protected and enhanced via enactment of the rehabilitation plan.
g) Development and its associated landscaping provides for the rehabilitation of ecologically
important areas, degraded ecosystems and habitats to achieve a functional and healthy ecosystem state
that requires minimal human intervention.
A Riparian Rehabilitation Plan has been provided which prescribes management measures for the
ecological rehabilitation of the Ecologically Important Areas within the site.
h) Development is designed, sited, constructed and operated to avoid or minimise adverse impacts
on koalas and their habitat and to provide for connectivity and safety for the long term viability of the
koala population.
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157 LAWNVILLE ROAD, BLACK MOUNTAIN
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Development is clearly separated from the koala habitat within the south-west of the site which is to be
retained. Development is small scale and located within existing cleared areas. In this regard, no impacts
to existing connectivity and koala movement opportunities are likely to occur as a result of development
approval.
i) In urban areas, biodiversity values are protected and enhanced to assist with ecosystem health,
flora and fauna, urban amenity and quality of life.
The site is not located within an urban area.
7.3 NATURE CONSERVATION (KOALA) CONSERVATION PLAN AND SDAP STATE CODE 25 -
DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND KOALA HABITAT AREAS
The South-East Queensland Koala Conservation Strategy Koala Habitat Values mapping identifies that
Core Koala Habitat is mapped within the site. No Impacts to koala habitat are proposed therefore referral
to SARA for assessment against State Code 25 is not required.
7.4 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ACT AND SDAP STATE CODE 16 - NATIVE VEGETATION CLEARING
The Department of Resources’ Vegetation Management Supporting Map identifies that Category B
regulated vegetation is mapped within the site. No impacts to regulated vegetation are proposed and
therefore referral to SARA for assessment against State Code 16 is not required.
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8.0 CONCLUSION
An ecological assessment has been undertaken to determine the environmental values present within Lot
83 on MCH3546 located at 157 Lawnville Road, Black Mountain. The outcomes of the assessment
identified the following:
The development is small scale in nature and has been located within existing cleared areas.
All Ecologically Important Areas are proposed to be retained and enhanced via an ecological
rehabilitation program that will enhance the habitat value and buffering capacity of the riparian
vegetation flanking Six Mile Creek.
Overall, the application represents a low impact development and although it cannot comply with
Performance Outcome 6 of the Biodiversity, Waterways and Wetlands Code, it is considered to comply
with the purpose and overall outcomes of the Code.
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Page 25
APPENDIX A – PLAN OF DEVELOPMENT
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LEGEND
N
PROPOSED NEW 4000
x 13600 CABINS
WATERWAYS
00 PROPOSED ACCESS
7.
12 TO CABIN 2
126.00
STAGING 12
5.0
0
0 EV
STAGE 1 - CABINS 1 & 2
PROPOSED ACCESS
R OAD 124.0 AN
TO CABINS 3 & 4 NS 209 SR
EVA
00
° OA
3.
99. 35' D
12
00
01
STAGE 2 - CABINS 3 & 4 DAM
150
00'
00
172° 3 PROPOSED
2.
12
201.8
1500
SEPTIC TANK
PROPOSED ACCESS
. 00
1
0
TO CABIN 1
12
PROPOSED ADVANCED
CABIN 2
9.0 00
0
21 SECONDARY ASTP
00
11 120.
8
0
15
41 °9'
2600
.92
OVERHEAD CABIN 3
0
POWERLINES TO 11
00
BE REALIGNED 0
CABIN 4
PP PROPOSED SURFACE
IRRIGATION AREA
119
.00 CABIN 1
15000
7 32
38 LOT 83 LOT 21
MCH3546 RP905958
119.
00 4.19 Ha
LA
PROPOSED ADVANCED
W
SECONDARY ASTP
110 00'
NV
258
119.00
.03
PROPOSED SURFACE
13 ° 57
DAM
°
I LL
64
0.0 '
IRRIGATION AREA
ER
7
11
9.
OA
PP
00
D
EXISTING DWELLING
0
9.0
11
EXISTING
SHED
120.00
EXISTING EXISTING
DRIVEWAY SHED
289.06
7°15'
119.00
120.00
12 12 12
120
118 1.0
2.
.00 3.0
00
0 0
.00
NOTES
TOPOGRAPHY
INDICATIVE ONLY AS EXISTING ACCESS POINT
LAWNVILLE ROAD
PROVIDED BY NOOSA
REGIONAL COUNCIL
INTERACTIVE MAPPING
REV DESCRIPTION DATE
MCLARENDESIGN
MCLAREN PTY LTD
A CONCEPT 03/11/2022 MATTHEW MCGEE SITE PLAN
B AMENDMENTS 08/05/2023
QBCC Licence: 15022752 P 07 5417 4251 M 0418 234 571 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: LOT 83 ON MCH3546
1A 22 Reef Street Gympie Q 4570 www.mclarendesign.com.au
PO BOX 718 Gympie Q 4570
PROPOSED CABINS DATE 03/11/2022 PROJECT NO: 22-168
DESIGNED BY LRM
© Copyright
Reproduction in part or
ALL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS TO BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH:
THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE (NCC): THE BUILDING CODE OF AUSTRALIA (BCA): THE QUEENSLAND DEVELOPMENT
whole is forbidden without CODE (QDC) BUILDING REGULATIONS & LOCAL GOVERNMENT PLANS & POLICIES: CURRENT ISSUES OF AUSTRALIAN
157 LAWNVILLE ROAD, BLACK DRAWN BY LS A3 01
written permission
STANDARDS CURRENT MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS & INSTALLATION DETAILS FOR MATERIAL USED
NOTE: ALL DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED & MUST BE VERIFIED ON SITE
MOUNTAIN APPROVED BY Scale 1 : 1000