Approved Documents · OPW11/0335

Matrix Projects (QLD)- Essence of Peregian, David Low Way Peregian Beach QLD 4573 Page 3

 

3.2.2. Koala Habitat Management Plan

33

3.3.1

DA condition No 49 addresses retention and protection of trees identified in
the Koala Management Plan. Review of the KHMP by James Warren &
Associates found that the site is mapped as an interim Koala Habitat
Protection Area (KHMP, page 5 & Figure 5).

Site assessment by James Warren & Associates found no preferred Koala food
trees on the subject site. Their inspection also found no evidence of Koala
activity within the site, therefore they conclude the site isn’t considered a
movement corridor for local Koalas.

Given this assessment there is no requirement for this report to address any
trees as per DA condition No 49.

The Trees

Tree Survey
The trees surveyed during inspection were dealt with as a group, with some

individuals outside of any significant impacts assessed for retention value.
Several points were noted during inspection and assessment.

The bulk of the trees on the site are mature to over mature Melaleuca
quinquenervia that have been retained from when the caravan park was first
constructed or the area was cleared. Several recorded whole tree failures have
occurred recently, mainly due to basal decay and cavities (see Photo Nol and
2). The majority of the trees have significant structural issues due to old age
and damage that has occurred to their trunks and major roots over the lifetime
of the park. No natural replacement tree germination or new tree plantings
seem to have been done over the lifetime of the park.

DA condition No 17 specifically addresses the significant trees in the
frontages of the site (excluding palms) and requests that they be retained as far
as practical.

The trees fronting onto David Low Way and Grebes Street were therefore
individually assessed as to their viable retention (see diagram No 1).

Tree No 1- Cupaniopsis anacardioides (c.n. Tuckeroo) located near the
existing retaining wall and just inside the property boundary was found to

have a significant basal wound and structural defect that limits its longevity in

a safe and useful form. Retention value is very poor.

Trees No 2, 3 and 4- weren’t identified. Trees No 2 and 4 are located outside
of the property boundary and are therefore council owned (see Photo No 3).
In regards to significance, although visible from David Low Way, none would
be considered significant to the overall treescape due to size. Discussion with
TOD found that sheet piling will be installed a minimum 1200mm outside the
building wall where excavation is need, therefore impacts on the root systems
of all three trees will be almost to their trunks.

 

Leaf and Limb Horticultural ConsultancyO©
Prepared by Samuel Cowie 11% of June 2009