Appendix G Flora and Fauna Assessment
Sydney | Central Coast | Illawarra | Armidale | Newcastle | Mudgee | Port Macquarie | Brisbane | Cairns
Flora and Fauna Assessment
Additional clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Prepared for Hills Environmental
09 November 2017
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 1
Document control
Project no.: 3573
Project client: Hills Environmental and Mott MacDonald
Project office: Mudgee
Document description: Flora and fauna assessment to assess the impacts
of additional clearing within a power-line
easement and within the road corridor of the
Great Western Highway between Katoomba and
Blackheath.
Project Director: Vivien Howard
Project Manager: Vivien Howard
Authors: Vivien Howard, Amanda Griffith
Internal review: Frank Lemckert
Document status: Draft 1
Local Government Area: Blue Mountains City Council
Document revision status
Author Revision number Internal review Date issued
Vivien Howard,
Chelsea Hankin
Draft 1 Frank Lemckert 22/06/2017
Amanda Griffith Rev1 09/11/2017
© Niche Environment and Heritage, 2017
Copyright protects this publication. Except for purposes permitted by the Australian Copyright Act 1968, reproduction,
adaptation, electronic storage, and communication to the public is prohibited without prior written permission.
Enquiries should be addressed to Niche Environment and Heritage, PO Box 2443, North Parramatta NSW 1750,
Australia, email: [email protected].
Any third party material, including images, contained in this publication remains the property of the specified
copyright owner unless otherwise indicated, and is used subject to their licensing conditions.
Cover photograph: Vegetation mapping unit 11 – Eucalyptus sieberi-Eucalyptus piperita Open Forest (Photo Viv
Howard)
Niche Environment and
Heritage
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Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 2
Executive summary _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mott MacDonald, on behalf of the RMS, are undertaking construction works to upgrade the Great Western
Highway between Katoomba and Blackheath. While the substantive works have already been approved, it
has been determined that some minor additional clearing is required for the road construction as well as
additional minor clearing around an electricity easement. Mott MacDonald has engaged Hills
Environmental to prepare a review of environmental factors (REF) as the project is being assessed under
Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP & A Act). This flora and fauna
assessment forms part of that REF.
The study area consists of the existing Great Western Highway, which is a main regional road from Sydney
west across the Blue Mountains. The study area is confined to areas of vegetation located along either side
of the Great Western Highway in the area between Katoomba and Blackheath. The vegetation consists of a
mix of native and exotic understorey and native canopy.
A total of 4.14 ha of vegetation (Blue Mountains Ridgetop Forest in good and modified condition) was
previously approved for clearing within the Submissions Report. An additional 0.66 ha of vegetation is
proposed to be cleared as a result of proposed footprint changes. A total of 4.8 ha of native vegetation will
therefore be removed for the project.
Direct impacts to biodiversity as a result of footprint amendments include the clearing of an additional
0.66 ha of native vegetation, mainly consisting of native and exotic understorey and native canopy. No
additional hollow-bearing trees will be removed as a result of changes to the development footprint.
Potential indirect impacts include sedimentation, erosion and weed invasion. These indirect impacts would
be ameliorated by a series of mitigation measures.
Assessment of impacts to threatened biodiversity
No state or federally listed threatened ecological communities occur within the study area.
No threatened flora or fauna were recorded in the study area and none of the threatened species identified
as being potentially present were considered likely to be impacted by the proposal. The additional clearing
required is considered to produce a negligible impact within the context of the broader extent of
vegetation adjoining the study area.
An assessment of significance was completed for one threatened flora species (Persoonia acerosa), with
this species having been recorded 1 km to the north of the study area. The assessment concluded that due
to the extent of potential habitat surrounding the study area, and the small amount of potential habitat
impacted by the proposal, the project is considered unlikely to have a significant impact on this species or
its habitat.
The slight increase in vegetation to be cleared (0.66 ha) as a result of amendments to the development
footprint are considered unlikely to have a significant impact on threatened biodiversity as listed under the
EPBC Act and TSC Act.
Recommendations to minimise potential impacts to any native flora or fauna and their habitat are
provided.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 3
Glossary and abbreviations _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Flora and fauna of
conservation significance
Threatened species or populations listed on the schedules of the TSC Act and/or
listed as matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) under the EPBC Act
Local population The population of a particular threatened species that occurs in the locality
Locality The area within 10 km of the study area
Local occurrence Refers to the distribution of an ecological community within the study area and
contiguous with it
Matters of NES Matters of national environmental significance
OEH Office of Environment and Heritage
TEC Threatened ecological community as listed on the TSC Act and or EPBC Act.
Collective term to describe vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered
ecological communities
Threatened biodiversity Threatened species, populations and ecological communities as listed on the TSC
and or EPBC Acts
TSC Act NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
EP&A Act NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
OCVT Over Cleared Vegetation Type
RBVT Revised Biometric Vegetation Type
SEPP State Environment Planning Policy
RDP Rapid Data Point – an efficient way of verifying vegetation type and condition
through the collection of a limited number of attributes.
BioBanking Plot A 50 x 20 metre area with a nested 20 x 20 metre area for collection of floristic data
and a central transect to collect percentage cover estimates.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 4
Table of Contents _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Executive summary ................................................................................................................................ 2
1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 6
2. Methods ......................................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 Database and literature sources.................................................................................................... 9
2.2 Threatened flora and fauna likelihood .......................................................................................... 9
2.3 Field survey methodology ........................................................................................................... 10
2.4 Limitations ................................................................................................................................... 10
3. Results ......................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1 Flora ............................................................................................................................................. 18
3.2 Vegetation community alignment and description. .................................................................... 18
3.3 Threatened Ecological Communities ........................................................................................... 26
3.4 Subject threatened flora .............................................................................................................. 26
3.5 Fauna Habitat types ..................................................................................................................... 26
3.6 Subject threatened fauna ............................................................................................................ 27
4. Impact analysis ............................................................................................................................. 28
4.1 Affected ecological communities ................................................................................................ 28
4.2 Threatened ecological communities (TECs) ................................................................................ 28
4.3 Affected threatened flora ............................................................................................................ 28
4.4 Affected threatened fauna .......................................................................................................... 28
4.5 Migratory species (JAMBA, CAMBA, ROKAMBA) ........................................................................ 29
4.6 Key Threatening Processes .......................................................................................................... 29
5. Recommendations ........................................................................................................................ 30
6. Summary and conclusions ............................................................................................................. 31
References ........................................................................................................................................... 32
Appendix 4. Assessments of Significance .............................................................................................. 45
List of Figures
Figure 1: Location of the study area .................................................................................................................. 7
Figure 2: The study area .................................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 3: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 11
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 5
Figure 4: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 12
Figure 5: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 13
Figure 6: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 14
Figure 7: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 15
Figure 8: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 16
Figure 9: Study area and survey effort ............................................................................................................ 17
Figure 10: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 19
Figure 11: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 20
Figure 12: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 21
Figure 13: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 22
Figure 14: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 23
Figure 15: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 24
Figure 16: Mapped vegetation and HBTs ........................................................................................................ 25
List of Tables
Table 1: Likelihood of occurrence criteria ......................................................................................................... 9
Table 2: Vegetation validation mapping units and areas ................................................................................ 18
Table 3: Key Threatening Processes associated with the project ................................................................... 29
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 6
1. Introduction _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
1.1 Background and project description
Roads and Maritime Services and Mott MacDonald propose to undertake road upgrades of a section of the
Great Western Highway between Katoomba and Blackheath. The substantive works have been assessed
and approved as part of the Submissions Report for the Katoomba to Mount Victoria Road Safety upgrade
(the Project), however some minor additional clearing is required for the road upgrade and for the
maintenance of an existing power-line easement by Endeavour Energy..
Changes to the approved project/footprint as detailed in the Submissions Report will be assessed under
Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and Mott MacDonald has
engaged Hills Environmental to prepare a review of environmental factors (REF) under Part 5 of the EP&A
Act. This flora and fauna assessment will form part of this REF.
The regional location of the study area and the study area can be seen in Figure 1 and Figure 2 respectively.
The study area and clearing extents are shown in Figures 3-9.
Proposed footprint changes will involve the removal of an additional 0.66 ha of native and exotic vegetation
and the removal of at least 23 of the 31 hollow-bearing trees that were located within and adjacent to the
development footprint.
The area surrounding the study area includes native bushland within the Sydney Catchment Area and small-
lot rural, and residential housing.
1.3 Purpose and objectives
The primary objective of this report is to describe and assess ecological values within the study area and to
determine whether the proposal is likely to have a significant impact on threatened biodiversity. A
description of likely impacts from the proposal and consideration of mitigation measures have also been
provided.
The following was undertaken as part of this assessment:
1. A background review of relevant literature, mapping and databases.
2. A field survey using recognised methods to assess the ecological values of the study area and
address identified data gaps.
3. Reporting on:
the ecological values of the study area in regards to flora, fauna and vegetation communities.
the potential ecological impacts of the proposal.
4. Assessment of impacts on threatened biodiversity as listed on the NSW Threatened Species
Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and the Commonwealth Environment Protection Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
5. Provision of advice on measures to ameliorate impacts, including strategies to avoid or mitigate
impacts.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 9
2. Methods _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2.1 Database and literature sources
Literature and data sources reviewed included:
DECC (2008) Threatened Species Profiles Database, NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (now OEH)
OEH Atlas of NSW Wildlife (accessed September 2017)
EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (accessed September 2017)
Hyder Consulting (2015) NSW Roads and Maritime Services Great Western Highway Safety Upgrade – Katoomba to Mount Victoria Biodiversity Assessment.
2.2 Threatened flora and fauna likelihood
A list of subject threatened flora and fauna within the locality (10 km radius) was determined from
database searches (OEH Atlas of NSW Wildlife and EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool) as well as local
knowledge. The list of potentially impacted (affected) species is determined from consideration of this list
and an analysis of the likelihood of those species occurring within the study area was completed.
Five categories for ‘likelihood of occurrence’ (Table 1) were attributed to the subject species after
consideration of criteria such as known records, presence or absence of important habitat features on the
subject site, results of the field surveys and professional judgement. This process was completed on an
individual species basis (Appendix 1).
Species considered further in formal assessments of significance pursuant to relevant legislation were those
in the ‘Known’, ‘High’ or ‘Moderate’ categories and where impacts for the species could reasonably be
expected to occur from the development.
Table 1: Likelihood of occurrence criteria
Likelihood rating Threatened flora criteria Threatened and migratory fauna criteria
Known The species was observed within the study area The species was observed within the study area
High It is likely that a species inhabits or utilises habitat
within the study area
It is likely that a species inhabits or utilises habitat
within the study area
Moderate
Potential habitat for a species occurs on the site.
Adequate field survey would determine if there is
a ‘high’ or ‘low’ likelihood of occurrence for the
species within the study area
Potential habitat for a species occurs on the site and
the species may occasionally utilise that habitat.
Species unlikely to be wholly dependent on the
habitat present within the study area
Low It is unlikely that the species inhabits the study
area
It is unlikely that the species inhabits the study area.
If present at the site the species would likely be a
transient visitor. The site contains only very common
habitat for this species which the species would not
rely on for its on-going local existence.
None The habitat within the study area is unsuitable for
the species.
The habitat within the study area is unsuitable for the
species
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 10
2.3 Field survey methodology
The study area was investigated by Vivien Howard (Botanist) and Chelsea Hankin (Ecologist) on 2 June 2017.
2.3.1 Flora survey
Given the narrow width of the study area, rapid data points (RDPs) were used to provide identification of
vegetation communities. RDPs involved the collection of information on dominant species, vegetation
structure and general vegetation cover within the surrounding area. Targeted threatened plant searches
were conducted in areas of potential habitat within the study area. The extent of survey effort is shown in
Figures 3-8.
2.3.2 Fauna survey
A habitat assessment was conducted to determine the presence of important threatened fauna habitats.
Habitat characteristics and parameters that were assessed included:
Presence of hollow-bearing trees within the study area - the location of all hollow-bearing trees was recorded using a hand-held GPS
Floristic composition, structure and age
Presence and relative abundance of other key habitat features (e.g. large logs, outcrops, water bodies).
Targeted fauna survey, including trapping and ultrasonic bat detection surveys were not considered
necessary given the site’s condition, limited habitat quality and small size. The timing of the surveys was
also outside of the accepted preferred survey season for most threatened species. Thus these were not
undertaken.
2.4 Limitations
This study was designed as a habitat-based level of assessment, with the methodology developed for the
purposes of conducting an assessment in accordance with Section 5A of the Environment Planning and
Assessment Act 1997 (EP&A Act) and significant impact assessments under the Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 . No surveys for terrestrial fauna such as trapping, spotlighting or call
playback were employed. Habitat assessments are considered to be a more conservative method of
assessment as species are assumed to be present if suitable habitat is present within the site and
surrounding locality.
Rapid Data Point (RDPs) were used instead of BioBanking plots. This was not seen as a limitation as the data
collected was sufficient to enable accurate validation and alignment to native vegetation communities.
The GPS utilised in this assessment has some accuracy limitations depending on satellite coverage at the
time of the record. As such, there may be some slight differences in the true location of records compared
to that generated by the GPS.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 18
3. Results _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3.1 Flora
A total of 59 plant species were recorded across the study area. The full list of species recorded is provided
in Appendix 2. Of these 59 species, 10 were exotic species, with two declared as noxious (class 4) weeds:
Rubus fruiticosus sp. (Blackberry) and Eragrostis curvula (African Love Grass).
3.2 Vegetation community alignment and description.
The study area has been previously mapped by Ecological Surveys and Planning for Blue Mountains City
Council (ESP 2002). This mapping was used as the basis for consideration of the impacts on vegetation
communities by the proposed works and was validated as part of the process.
A total of three vegetation communities have been previously mapped in the study area:
11A – Eucalyptus siberi – Eucalyptus piperita
2G – Eucalyptus oreades open-forest/tall open-forest
12 - Modified Bushland.
The total area of each mapped vegetation unit to be cleared within the study area is contained in Table 2
below.
Table 2: Vegetation validation mapping units and areas
Tindall et. al. (2004)
Native vegetation map
report series. No. 4
Katoomba
Blue Mountains City
Council Vegetation
Mapping (EPS 2002)
Corresponding
Threatened
Ecological
Community
(TEC)
Clearing area -
previously
approved in
Submissions
Report (ha)
Updated,
current
clearing area
(ha)
Difference in
clearing area
(ha)
Blue Mountains Ridgetop
Forest
11A Eucalyptus sieberi
– Eucalyptus piperita
2G Eucalyptus oreades
open-forest/tall open-
forest
Not listed
3.66 4.28 +0.62
Modified Blue Mountains
Ridgetop Forest
12 Modified vegetation Not listed 0.48 0.52 +0.04
Total 4.14 4.8 +0.66
The vegetation observed on site corresponded with the three different communities described above, with
core differences in each being primarily restricted to differences in canopy species. Dominant canopy
species included, Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus oreades. Of
these species, Eucalypus siberi and Eucalyptus piperita were the most abundant. Vegetation communities
present were generally forest but contained a dense, tall, shrubby understorey consisting of Acacia
longifolia, Pultenaea scabra, Leptospermum polygalifolium, Polyscias sambucifolia, Hakea dactyloides and
Banksia spinulosa. The age and condition of vegetation varied markedly throughout the study area,
however an obvious edge effect was found along the length of the study area, associated with the road and
due to the long, narrow shape of the study area. The impact of the edge effect was generally observed to
be presence of exotic plants and grasses, and reduced canopy cover.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 26
3.3 Threatened Ecological Communities
A list of Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs) occurring or potentially occurring within the locality was
determined from database searches (NSW Bionet Database Search tool and EPBC Act Protected Matters
Search Tool). Based on these database searches, 16 TECs were identified as potentially occurring within the
locality. These included:
State listed threatened ecological communities:
Blue Mountains Basalt Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Blue Mountains Shale Cap Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Blue Mountains Swamps in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Montane Peatlands and Swamps of the New England Tableland, NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin, South East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian Alps bioregions
Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains of the New South Wales North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregions
Shale Sandstone Transition Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Southern Sydney sheltered forest on transitional sandstone soils in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Sun Valley Cabbage Gum Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest of the New South Wales North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner Bioregions
Western Sydney Dry Rainforest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion
White Box Yellow Box Blakely's Red Gum Woodland.
Federally listed threatened ecological communities:
Natural Temperate Grassland of the South Eastern Highlands Critically Endangered
Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone Endangered Community
Upland Basalt Eucalypt Forests of the Sydney Basin Bioregion Endangered Community
White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland.
Based on the field assessment and a review of the relevant determinations for these listed ecological
communities, it is considered that none of the vegetation present within the study area correlates with any
of the above potentially occurring endangered ecological communities.
3.4 Subject threatened flora
A total of 41 subject threatened flora, as listed on the TSC and/or EPBC Acts, were considered in this
assessment (Appendix 1). This list was derived from the database searches outlined in Section 2.2.
Based on the results of the field survey and likelihood of occurrence, one of these threatened flora
(Persoonia acerosa) was determined to have a moderate likelihood of occurrence in the study area. The
species is known to occur within the locality and records of this species are found 1km to the north of the
study area. None of the other subject threatened flora species were considered likely to occur.
3.5 Fauna Habitat types
The habitat within the study area consisted predominately of shrubby open-forest.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 27
The shrubby forest areas contained trees from the family Myrtaceae (mostly Eucalyptus spp.). These areas
supply direct food (foliage, nectar, exudates) and indirect food (arthropods) for a range of vertebrates,
particularly birds and arboreal mammals.
Thirty one hollow-bearing trees were recorded within or immediately adjacent to the study area during the
field assessment. The location of these trees is shown in Figure 10-16, and the geographical co-ordinates of
these are provided in Appendix 3.
Hollow-bearing trees may provide nesting and roosting habitat for hollow-dwelling fauna. No other areas of
significant habitat (e.g. outcropping rock) were found to be present within the study area.
3.6 Subject threatened fauna
No threatened fauna species were recorded during the current survey.
A total of 49 subject threatened fauna have previously been recorded (Atlas of NSW Wildlife) or are
predicted to have habitat (EPBC Act) within 10 km of the study area (Appendix 1). The list is comprised of
25 birds, 16 mammals, two reptiles, five amphibians, and one invertebrate. After considering the habitat
present on the subject site and the results of the field survey, 11 threatened fauna species were
determined to have a moderate likelihood of occurrence within the study area. This was primarily based on
the presence of hollow-bearing trees representing potential roosting/nesting habitat for arboreal birds and
mammals.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 28
4. Impact analysis _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4.1 Affected ecological communities
The proposal will result in the removal/modification of approximately 0.66 ha of native vegetation.
Table 2 details the breakdown of native vegetation disturbance that is expected to occur as a result of the
proposal.
Indirect impacts will be mitigated through the recommendations provided in Section 5. This will ensure that
the disturbance does not exceed that of the disturbance areas.
4.2 Threatened ecological communities (TECs)
As discussed in Section 3.3, it has been determined that the vegetation within the study area does not align
with any state or commonwealth listed TECs. The proposal will not have an impact on a TEC. No
assessments of significance have been prepared for any state or commonwealth listed TECs.
4.3 Affected threatened flora
As discussed in section 3.4, only one species of threatened flora was identified as having a moderate or
higher likelihood of occurring in the study area. There is suitable habitat for Persoonia acerosa and this
species has been recorded one kilometre to the north of the study area and several records exist within the
locality. As such, an assessment of significance was conducted to assess the significance of potential
impacts on this species. The assessment determined that the project is unlikely to have a significant impact
on the potential habitat present for this species within the study area, and so would not have a significant
impact on this species, should it be present. This was due primarily to the large areas of extant habitat
available for this species adjoining the study area and the relatively small amount of disturbed habitat
being removed as a result of the works.
4.4 Affected threatened fauna
The analysis of subject threatened species (Appendix 1) resulted in 11 threatened fauna species having a
moderate likelihood of occurrence within the study area. This was primarily based on the presence of
hollow-bearing trees representing potential roosting/nesting habitat for arboreal birds, mammals and
microbats.
Based on the updated road footprint, at least 23 of the 31hollow-bearing trees identified within and
adjacent to the development footprint will be removed for the project. This is a reduction from the 51 that
were previously mapped and assessed as impacted in the Submissions Report (Hyder Consulting 2015).
Assessments of significance of potential impacts to hollow-dependant fauna were undertaken for the
previous report. The assessments determined that there would be no significant impact to hollow-
dependant threatened fauna that have the potential to utilise resources in the study area, due to the fact
that these tree hollows occur in disturbed and modified habitats adjacent to the heavily trafficked Great
Western Highway which makes them less likely to be preferred breeding/roosting sites. The study area also
adjoins large tracts of high quality habitat (Blue Mountains National Park) that would likely support
extensive potential foraging and breeding resources for these species. As such, the proposal will result in
the removal of marginal habitat only.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 29
Given the new proposal footprint represents a reduction in the number of hollow-bearing trees to be
removed, it is considered that the conclusions of the previous impact assessment are still relevant such that
significant impacts to threatened fauna as a result of the proposal are unlikely.
4.5 Migratory species (JAMBA, CAMBA, ROKAMBA)
Migratory species listed under the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA), the China-Australia
Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA), and the Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement
(ROKAMBA), which have been previously recorded, or have predicted habitat within the study area are
detailed in Appendix 1. No migratory species are likely to be significantly impacted due to the absence of
suitable habitat resources (ponds and wetlands) within the study area.
4.6 Key Threatening Processes
In NSW the assessment of significance requires that consideration be given as to whether the action
proposed constitutes, or is part of, a key threatening process (KTP) or is likely to result in the operation of,
or increase the impact of, a KTP on threatened biodiversity as listed on the TSC Act. Key threatening
processes are also listed on the EPBC Act. An assessment of KTPs listed under the TSC Act and EPBC Act that
are relevant to the proposal are provided in Table 3.
Table 3: Key Threatening Processes associated with the project
Key Threatening Process (TSC Act) EPBC Act
Equivalent (x)
Operating
presently or
historically
Increased by
proposal
Alteration of habitat following subsidence due to longwall mining x No No
Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers, streams, floodplains
& wetlands x No No
Bushrock removal x No No
Clearing of native vegetation Yes Yes
Ecological consequences of high frequency fires x No No
Human-caused climate change No No
Infection of frogs by amphibian chytrid fungus causing the disease
chytridiomycosis No No
Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi Unlikely Unlikely
Introduction and Establishment of Exotic Rust Fungi of the order
Pucciniales pathogenic on plants of the family Myrtaceae x Unlikely Unlikely
Invasion and establishment of exotic vines and scramblers x No No
Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses (only N. Aust) Yes Unlikely
Loss of hollow-bearing trees x Yes Yes
Removal of dead wood and dead trees x Yes Yes
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5. Recommendations _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
To minimise any impacts to flora, fauna and their habitat, the following are recommended:
Minimise impact to large trees, hollow-bearing trees and patches of native vegetation, where possible.
Implement a two-stage clearing process following best practise guidelines (RMS Guidelines) when felling hollow-bearing trees.
The Environment Officer will inform contractors of the location of the hollow-bearing trees identified.
Silt fencing should be used at all locations where erosion and sediment runoff may occur.
Any vegetation removal other than that detailed in this report would require further assessment.
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6. Summary and conclusions _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
This report assesses the terrestrial ecology impacts associated with the proposed road upgrade works, in
accordance with the requirements of the EP&A Act, TSC Act and EPBC Act.
The proposal will result in the removal of approximately 0.66 ha of native vegetation and at least 23 hollow-
bearing trees.
Based on field validation of previous mapping, three native vegetation communities were identified in the
study area. None of these communities align with any state or federally listed threatened ecological
communities.
No threatened flora were recorded within the study area. One threatened flora species (Persoonia acerosa)
was considered a potentially affected species due to the presence of potential habitat in the study area and
the proximity of records within the locality. An assessment of significance was conducted and determined
that the proposal was unlikely to have a significant impact on the local population of this species due to the
availability of known extant habitat adjoining the study area, and the relatively small area of potential habitat
to be removed within the study area.
Threatened and hollow-dependant threatened fauna with the potential to occur are considered unlikely to
be impacted by the proposal due to the modified and disturbed state of the habitat present, and presence
of extensive tracts of better quality habitat adjoining the study area which would represent more suitable
and likely preferred habitat.
A number of recommendations have been made to minimise the potential impacts of the proposal on native
vegetation, flora and fauna occurring in the study area.
It is determined that preparation of a species impact statement or referral to the commonwealth are
required.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 32
References _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
DEC (2005). Threatened Species Profiles Database, OEH. Also provides access to threatened species final
determinations by the NSW Scientific Committee.
DECC (2007). Threatened Species Assessment Guidelines: The Assessment of Significance. Department of
Environment and Climate Change.
ESP (2002). Native vegetation mapping in the Blue Mountains 1999-2002. Ecological Survey and Planning
Pty Ltd. Prepared for Blue Mountains City Council.
Hyder Consulting (2015). NSW Roads and Maritime Services Great Western Highway Safety Upgrade –
Katoomba to Mount Victoria Biodiversity Assessment.
OEH (2012). Atlas of NSW Wildlife (accessed June 2017), NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH),
Goulburn Street, Sydney.
SEWPaC (2012). SPRAT Database and Protected Matters Search Tool (accessed June 2017),
http://www.environment.gov.au/, Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water,
Population and Communities. Provides access to threatened species profiles, recovery plans and final
determinations by the Commonwealth Scientific Committee.
Somerville, M. (2009). Hunter, HCCREEMS/Hunter Councils Environment Division for Hunter – Central
Rivers Catchment Management Authority Tocal NSW.
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 33
Appendix 1. Threatened species likelihood of occurrence ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Flora
Acacia baueri subsp.
aspera
V - Occurs in low, damp heathlands, often on exposed rocky outcrops over a wide range of climatic and topographical conditions.
Appears to prefer open conditions; rarely observed where there is any shrub or tree canopy development; and many of the
observations of this species have been made following fire, suggesting the species prefers early successional habitats. Restricted to
the Sydney region, occurring on the Kings Tableland in the central Blue Mountains and with sporadic occurrences on the Woronora
Plateau in the Royal National Park, Mt. Keira district and at Wedderburn. May also occur on the escarpment-Woronora Plateau in
the Flat Rock Junction and Stanwell Tops area of the Illawarra.
None
Acacia bynoeana Bynoe's
Wattle
E V Grows mainly in heath and dry sclerophyll forest in sandy soils. Mainly south of Dora Creek-Morisset area to Berrima and the
Illawarra region, west to the Blue Mountains, also recorded from near Kurri Kurri in the Hunter Valley and from Morton National
Park.
None
Acacia clunies-rossiae Kanangra
Wattle
V - Grows in the Kowmung and Coxs River areas entirely within Kanangra-Boyd and Blue Mountains National Parks. Grows in dry
sclerophyll forest on skeletal soils on rocky slopes, or on alluvium along creeks.
None
Acacia flocktoniae Flockton
Wattle
V V Grows in dry sclerophyll forest on sandstone. The Flockton Wattle is found only in the Southern Blue Mountains (at Mt Victoria,
Megalong Valley and Yerranderie).
None
Acrophyllum australe V V Restricted distribution, occurring from Faulconbridge to Lawson, South of Bilpin and near Kings Tableland, in the Blue Mountains
area. Grows in sheltered gullies beneath waterfalls and drip zones of rock overhangs and cliff faces, usually with a south-east to
south-west aspect. Typically found in areas where there is a more or less constant supply of water. Usually grows in shale interbeds
at the base of small cliffs, in crevices on the sandstone rock face or on talus slopes. The rock overhangs are of Hawkesbury or
Narrabeen Sandstone. Found adjacent to open forest of Eucalyptus piperita and Angophora costata and closed forest of Doryphora
sassafras and Ceratopetalum apetalum. Frequently growing on very thick layers of moss.
None
Asterolasia elegans E E Occurs north of Sydney, in the Baulkham Hills, Hawkesbury and Hornsby local government areas. Also likely to occur in the western
part of Gosford local government area. Known from only seven populations, only one of which is wholly within a conservation
reserve. Occurs on Hawkesbury sandstone in sheltered forests on mid- to lower slopes and valleys, e.g. in or adjacent to gullies which
support sheltered forest.
None
Caladenia tessellata Thick-lip
Spider Orchid
E V The Tessellated Spider Orchid is found in grassy sclerophyll woodland on clay loam or sandy soils, though the population near
Braidwood is in low woodland with stony soil. Known from the Sydney area (old records), Wyong, Ulladulla and Braidwood in NSW.
Populations in Kiama and Queanbeyan are presumed extinct.
None
Callistemon
megalongensis
Megalong
Valley
Bottlebrush
CE CE Known only from 8 sites within a small section of the eastern Megalong Valley in the western Blue Mountains. This species is
primarily restricted to shrub swamps in the immediate vicinity of Nellies Glen Road, with populations extending along the associated
downstream watercourses and into the fringing vegetation of Megalong Creek.
None
Callistemon
purpurascens
CE - The only known population of Callistemon purpurascens is located in the Megalong Valley in the Sydney Basin Bioregion. It is known
to occur on the swampy floodplain and riparian zone of two unnamed tributaries of Megalong Creek below the Blue Mountains
Plateau, on privately owned rural land.
None
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 34
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Carex klaphakei Klaphake's
Sedge
E - Found in only three locations, from the Blue Mountains (at Blackheath and Mt Werong) to the Southern Highlands (at Penrose).
Grows with other native sedges and rushes in swamps on sandstone at altitudes of greater than 600 metres.
None
Cryptostylis
hunteriana
Leafless
Tongue-orchid
V V Does not appear to have well defined habitat preferences and is known from a range of communities, including swamp-heath and
woodland. The larger populations typically occur in woodland dominated by Scribbly Gum, Silvertop Ash, Red Bloodwood and Black
Sheoak and appears to prefer open areas in the understorey of this community.
None
Diuris aequalis Buttercup
Doubletail
E V Recorded in Kanangra-Boyd National Park, Gurnang State forest, towards Wombeyan Caves, the Taralga - Goulburn area, and the
ranges between Braidwood, Tarago and Bungendore. Grows in forest, low open woodland with grassy understorey and secondary
grassland on the higher parts of the Southern and Central Tablelands.
None
Epacris hamiltonii E E Occurs in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney. Found at 72 sites within three creek catchments. The creeks occur in an altitude range
of 810-940 m a.s.l. and are all located on the northern side of the escarpment and flow into the Grose Valley. All known sites occur
within a radius of approximately 5 km. Has a very specific habitat, being found on or adjacent to Narrabeen sandstone cliffs
alongside perennial creeks, often below plateau hanging swamps. The soil generally has a spongy-peat-like consistency, with a very
high moisture content. Sites are found at the sheltered base of cliffs adjacent to wet gully or swamp vegetation, usually where a
perennial or virtually perennial source of water, such as cliff seepages, is present.
None
Eucalyptus aggregata Black Gum V - Found in the NSW Central and Southern Tablelands, with small isolated populations in Victoria and the ACT. Has a moderately
narrow distribution, occurring mainly in the wetter, cooler and higher parts of the tablelands in the lowest parts of the landscape, on
alluvial soils, on cold, poorly-drained flats and hollows adjacent to creeks and small rivers. Also occurs as isolated paddock trees in
modified native or exotic pastures.
None
Eucalyptus copulans E E Only one individual tree is currently known, on Council Reserve along Jamison Creek at Wentworth Falls in the Blue Mountains, NSW.
A second tree nearby may also be Eucalyptus copulans although it has not been formally identified as such. A larger population is
thought to have occurred historically in the locality.
None
Eucalyptus
macarthurii
V - A moderately restricted distribution, recorded from the Moss Vale District to Kanangra Boyd National Park. In the Southern
Highlands it occurs mainly on private land, often as isolated individuals in, or on the edges, of paddocks. Isolated stands occur in the
north west part of the range on the Boyd Plateau. The only known record in the conservation estate is within Kanangra Boyd
National Park. Occurs on grassy woodland on relatively fertile soils on broad cold flats.
None
Eucalyptus
pulverulenta
Silver-leaved
Mountain
Gum
V V Found in two quite separate areas, the Lithgow to Bathurst area and the Monaro (Bredbo to Bombala).Grows in shallow soils as an
understorey plant in open forest, typically dominated by Brittle Gum, red stringybark, broad-leaved peppermint, silvertop ash and
apple box.
None
Euphrasia arguta CE CE Occur in eucalypt forest with a mixed grass and shrub understorey within Nundle State forest. Sites have either been logged in the
last few decades, or appear to have regrown from past clearing.
None
Euphrasia bowdeniae V V This species in known to occur at 750 m asl but is likely to occur up to 1000-1100 m asl. It is found on vertical sandstone cliffs, in very
shallow soil on rocky ledges, or trailing over steep exposed rocks.
None
Grammitis
stenophylla
Narrow-leaf
Finger Fern
E - Moist places, usually near streams, on rocks or in trees, in rainforest and moist eucalypt forest. None
Haloragis exalata
subsp. exalata
Square
Raspwort
V V Occurs in 4 widely scattered localities in eastern NSW. It is disjunctly distributed in the central coast, south coast and north-western
slopes botanical subdivisions of NSW. The species appears to require protected and shaded damp situations in riparian habitats.
None
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Flora and Fauna Assessment 35
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Haloragodendron
lucasii
E E Occurs on Hawkesbury Sandstone in moist sandy loam soil. The species prefers sheltered aspects and inhabits gentle slopes below
cliff lines near creeks in low open woodland or open forest. Its distribution is correlated with high soil moisture and phosphorus
levels.
None
Isopogon fletcheri V V Grows in dry sclerophyll forest and heath on sandstone; confined to sheltered moist positions on the escarpment in the Blackheath
district of the Blue Mtns, rare.
None
Kunzea cambagei V V Occurs in wet heath and woodland on coarse sandy soil on sandstone and quartzite. None
Leionema
lachnaeoides
E E Populations occur on exposed sandstone cliff tops and terraces, at 960 – 1000 m altitude and with aspects from south-east to south-
west.
None
Lepidosperma
evansianum
V - The species is currently known from 3 locations (at Blackheath and Wentworth Falls), where it occurs in a very restricted habitat. It is
recorded to be rare to occasional to common at these locations. It is difficult to assess the number of individuals at each location
because of the rhizomatous habit of the species
None
Leucopogon exolasius Woronora
Beard-heath
V V Grows in woodland on sandstone. Restricted to the Woronora and Grose Rivers and Stokes Creek, Royal National Park. None
Pelargonium sp.
Striatellum
Omeo's
Stork's-bill
E E Flowering occurs from October to March. Occurs in habitat usually located just above the high water level of irregularly inundated or
ephemeral lakes. During dry periods, the species is known to colonise exposed lake beds. The species is known to form clonal
colonies by rhizomatous propagation.
None
Persoonia acerosa V V Occurs in dry sclerophyll forest, scrubby low-woodland and heath on low fertility soils. Recorded only on the central coast and in the
Blue Mountains, from Mt Tomah in the north to as far south as Hill Top where it is now believed to be extinct. Mainly in the
Katoomba, Wentworth Falls, Springwood area.
High. Previous records in
locality.
Pherosphaera
fitzgeraldii
Dwarf
Mountain Pine
E E Found within the spray zone or associated drip lines and seepage areas of waterfalls on steep, sandstone cliffs and ledges, at
altitudes between 680 and 1000 m above sea level.
None
Prasophyllum fuscum Tawny Leek-
orchid
CE V Tawny Leek-orchid is confined to the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury sandstone, and the Burrawang district, NSW. This species grows
on the margins of swamps at moderate altitudes, about 500–700 m above sea level. Tawny Leek-orchid grows in wet low heathland
on gentle slopes, in brown silty loam or in moist heath, often along seepage lines. The species can also be found in grasslands with
scattered low Leptospermum and rushes, in silty peat loam, or in boggy soils in open heath, sometimes in running water or at the
ecotone between grassy woodland-forest and swamps.
None
Prasophyllum petilum Tarengo Leek
Orchid
E E Natural populations are known from a total of five sites in NSW. These area at Boorowa, Captains Flat, Ilford, Delegate and a newly
recognised population c.10 km SE of Muswellbrook. Grows in open sites within Natural Temperate Grassland at the Boorowa and
Delegate sites.
None
Prasophyllum sp.
Wybong
A leek orchid - CE Endemic to NSW. It is known from seven populations in eastern NSW near Ilford, Premer, Muswellbrook, Wybong, Yeoval, Inverell
and Tenterfield.
None
Pultenaea glabra V V Grows in swamp margins, hillslopes, gullies and creekbanks and occurs within dry sclerophyll forest and tall damp heath on
sandstone. Restricted to the higher Blue Mountains.
None
Rhizanthella slateri V E Habitat requirements are poorly understood and no particular vegetation type has been associated with the species, although it is
known to occur in sclerophyll forest.
None
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 36
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Thesium australe Austral
Toadflax
V V Grows in very small populations scattered across eastern NSW, along the coast, and from the Northern to Southern Tablelands. It is
also found in Tasmania and Queensland and in eastern Asia. Occurs in grassland or grassy woodland. Grows on Kangaroo Grass
tussocks but has also been recorded within the exotic Coolatai grass.
None
Velleia perfoliata V V The species is only known from the Hawkesbury District and Upper Hunter Valley in the Central Coast botanical subdivision of NSW.
Velleia perfoliata grows in heath on shallow sandy soil over Sandstone. It is currently known to exist in 9 populations. Five of these
populations are reserved whilst a further population is partly reserved. Four of the reserved sites are situated adjacent to fire trails.
None
Veronica blakelyi V - Occurs in eucalypt forest, often in moist and sheltered areas. Associated canopy species include Eucalyptus dives, E. dalrympleana, E.
rossii and E. pauciflora. Restricted to the western Blue Mountains, near Clarence, near Mt Horrible, on Nullo Mountain and in the
Coricudgy Range.
None
Xanthosia scopulicola V - Known only from scattered locations between Kings Tableland (Wentworth Falls) and Boars Head rock (west of Katoomba) in the
Blue Mountains. Grows in cracks and crevices of sandstone cliff faces or on rocky outcrops above the cliffs.
None
Zieria covenyi E E Occurs in open sclerophyll forest dominated by Eucalyptus sieberi. The species occurs on gentle east and south-facing slopes and on
ridges in shallow sandy soil.
Low
Zieria involucrata E V Has a disjunct distribution in the Baulkham Hills, Hawkesbury, Hornsby and Blue Mountains LGAs. Recent records for the species
come from 22 populations in the catchments of the Macdonald, Colo and Hawkesbury Rivers. Occurs on Hawkesbury sandstone,
Narrabeen Group sandstone and on Quaternary alluvium. Found in sheltered forests on mid- to lower slopes and valleys, in or
adjacent to gullies which support sheltered forest, although some populations extend up-slope into drier vegetation.
None
Amphibians
Heleioporus
australiacus
Giant
Burrowing
Frog
V V The Giant Burrowing Frog has been recorded breeding in a range of water bodies associated with sandy environments of the coast
and adjacent ranges from the Sydney Basin south the eastern Victoria. It breeds in hanging swamps, perennial non-flooding creeks
and occasionally permanent pools, but permanent water must be present to allow its large tadpoles time to reach metamorphosis.
None
Litoria
booroolongensis
Booroolong
Frog
E E The Booroolong Frog is found along permanent western flowing streams of the Great Dividing Range through most of NSW and
down into northern Victoria. Streams range from small slow-flowing creeks to large rivers and the adults are found on or near
cobble banks and other rock structures within stream margins and shelter under rocks or amongst vegetation near the ground on
the stream edge. The species occurs along streams in both forested areas and open pasture, but has been affected by the presence
of the introduced willow tree. Booroolong Frogs sometimes basks in the sun on exposed rocks near flowing water during summer.
None
Litoria littlejohni Littlejohn's
Tree Frog
V V Occurs in wet and dry sclerophyll forests and heathland associated with sandstone outcrops between 280 and 1000 m on the
eastern slopes of the Great Dividing Range from the Central Coast down into Victoria. Individuals have been collected from a wide
range of water bodies that includes semi-permanent dams, permanent ponds, temporary pools and permanent streams, with calling
occurring from fringing vegetation or on the banks. Individuals have been observed sheltering under rocks on high exposed ridges
during summer and within deep leaf litter adjacent to the breeding site. Calling occurs in all months of the year, often in association
with heavy rains. The tadpoles are distinctive, being large and very dark in colouration.
None
Mixophyes balbus Stuttering Frog E V Associated with streams in dry sclerophyll and wet sclerophyll forests and rainforests of more upland areas of the Great Dividing
Range of NSW and down into Victoria. Breeding occurs along forest streams with permanent water where eggs are deposited within
nests excavated in riffle zones by the females and the tadpoles swim free into the stream when large enough to do so. Outside of
breeding, individuals range widely across the forest floor and can be found hundreds of metres from water.
None
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 37
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Pseudophryne
australis
Red-crowned
Toadlet
V - Occurs on wetter ridge tops and upper slopes of sandstone formations on which the predominant vegetation is dry open forests and
heaths. This species typically breeds within small ephemeral creeks that feed into larger semi-perennial streams. After rain these
creeks are characterised by a series of shallow pools lined by dense grasses, ferns and low shrubs and usually contain leaf litter for
shelter. Eggs are terrestrial and laid under litter, vegetation or rocks where the tadpoles inside will reach a relatively late stage of
development before waiting for flooding waters before hatching will occur.
None
Birds
Anthochaera phrygia Regent
Honeyeater
CE CE The Regent Honeyeater mainly inhabits temperate woodlands and open forests of the inland slopes of south-east Australia. Birds are
also found in drier coastal woodlands and forests in some years. There are only three known key breeding regions remaining: north-
east Victoria (Chiltern-Albury), and in NSW at Capertee Valley and the Bundarra-Barraba region. In NSW the distribution is very
patchy and mainly confined to the two main breeding areas and surrounding fragmented woodlands. In some years flocks converge
on flowering coastal woodlands and forests.
None
Calidris ferruginea Curlew
Sandpiper
E CE, M It occurs along the entire coast of NSW, particularly in the Hunter Estuary, and sometimes in freshwater wetlands in the Murray-
Darling Basin. It generally occupies littoral and estuarine habitats, and in New South Wales is mainly found in intertidal mudflats of
sheltered coasts. It also occurs in non-tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons on the coast and sometimes the inland. Northern hemisphere
breeding.
None
Callocephalon
fimbriatum
Gang-gang
Cockatoo
V - In summer, the species occupies tall montane forests and woodlands, particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet sclerophyll
forests. Also occur in subalpine snow gum woodland and occasionally in temperate or regenerating forest. In winter, occurs at lower
altitudes in drier, more open eucalypt forests and woodlands, particularly in box-ironbark assemblages, or in dry forest in coastal
areas. It requires tree hollows in which to breed.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Calyptorhynchus
lathami
Glossy Black-
Cockatoo
V - Inhabits forest with low nutrients, characteristically with key Allocasuarina spp. Tends to prefer drier forest types with a middle
stratum of Allocasuarina below Eucalyptus or Angophora. Often confined to remnant patches in hills and gullies. Breed in hollows
stumps or limbs, either living or dead. Endangered population in the Riverina.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Climacteris picumnus
victoriae
Brown
Treecreeper
(eastern
subspecies)
V - Found in eucalypt woodlands (including box-gum woodland) and dry open forest of the inland slopes and plains inland of the Great
Dividing Range; mainly inhabits woodlands dominated by stringybarks or other rough-barked eucalypts, usually with an open grassy
understorey, sometimes with one or more shrub species; also found in mallee and river red gum forest bordering wetlands with an
open understorey of acacias, saltbush, lignum, cumbungi and grasses; usually not found in woodlands with a dense shrub layer;
fallen timber is an important habitat component for foraging; also recorded, though less commonly, in similar woodland habitats on
the coastal ranges and plains.
Low
Daphoenositta
chrysoptera
Varied Sittella V - Inhabits wide variety of dry eucalypt forests and woodlands, usually with either shrubby under storey or grassy ground cover or
both, in all climatic zones of Australia. Usually in areas with rough-barked trees, such as stringybarks or ironbarks, but also in
paperbarks or mature eucalypts with hollows.
Low
Dasyornis
brachypterus
Eastern
Bristlebird
E E Found in coastal woodlands, dense scrub and heathlands, particularly where it borders taller woodlands. None
Glossopsitta pusilla Little Lorikeet V - Distributed in forests and woodlands from the coast to the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in NSW, extending westwards
to the vicinity of Albury, Parkes, Dubbo and Narrabri. Mostly occur in dry, open eucalypt forests and woodlands. They feed primarily
on nectar and pollen in the tree canopy. Nest hollows are located at heights of between 2 m and 15 m, mostly in living, smooth-
barked eucalypts. Most breeding records come from the western slopes.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 38
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Grantiella picta Painted
Honeyeater
V V The Painted Honeyeater is nomadic and occurs at low densities throughout its range. The greatest concentrations of the bird and
almost all breeding occurs on the inland slopes of the Great Dividing Range in NSW, Victoria and southern Queensland. During the
winter it is more likely to be found in the north of its distribution. Inhabits Boree, Brigalow and box-gum woodlands and box-ironbark
forests.
Low
Hirundapus
caudacutus
White-
throated
Needletail
- M, MA An aerial species found in feeding concentrations over cities, hilltops and timbered ranges. Low
Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot E CE The Swift Parrot occurs in woodlands and forests of NSW from May to August, where it feeds on eucalypt nectar, pollen and
associated insects. The Swift Parrot is dependent on flowering resources across a wide range of habitats in its wintering grounds in
NSW. This species is migratory, breeding in Tasmania and also nomadic, moving about in response to changing food availability.
Low
Melithreptus gularis
gularis
Black-chinned
Honeyeater
(eastern
subspecies)
V - Eucalypt woodlands within an approximate annual rainfall range of 400-700 mm None
Monarcha
melanopsis
Black-faced
Monarch
- M Found along the coast of eastern Australia, becoming less common further south. Inhabits rainforests, eucalypt woodlands, coastal
scrub and damp gullies. It may be found in more open woodland when migrating.
None
Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail - M Breeds in temperate Europe and Asia. The Yellow Wagtail is a regular wet season visitor to northern Australia. Increasing records in
NSW suggest this species is an occasional but regular summer visitor to the Hunter River region. The species is considered a vagrant
to Victoria, South Australia and southern Western Australia. Habitat requirements for the Yellow Wagtail are highly variable, but
typically include open grassy flats near water. Habitats include open areas with low vegetation such as grasslands, airstrips, pastures,
sports fields; damp open areas such as muddy or grassy edges of wetlands, rivers, irrigated farmland, dams, waterholes; sewage
farms, sometimes utilise tidal mudflats and edges of mangroves.
None
Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin
Flycatcher
- M The Satin Flycatcher is found along the east coast of Australia from far northern Queensland to Tasmania, including south-eastern
South Australia. Found in tall forests, preferring wetter habitats such as heavily forested gullies, but not rainforests.
None
Ninox connivens Barking Owl V - Generally found in open forests, woodlands, swamp woodlands and dense scrub. Can also be found in the foothills and timber along
watercourses in otherwise open country.
None
Ninox strenua Powerful Owl V - Occupies wet and dry eucalypt forests and rainforests. Can occupy both un-logged and lightly logged forests as well as undisturbed
forests where it usually roosts on the limbs of dense trees in gully areas. It is most commonly recorded within turpentine tall open
forests and black she-oak within open forests. Large mature trees with hollows at least 0.5 m deep are required for nesting. Tree
hollows are particularly important for the Powerful Owl because a large proportion of the diet is made up of hollow-dependent
arboreal marsupials. Nest trees for this species are usually emergent with a diameter at breast height of at least 100 cm.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Numenius
madagascariensis
Eastern
Curlew
- CE, M A primarily coastal distribution. Found in all states, particularly the north, east, and south-east regions including Tasmania. Rarely
recorded inland. Mainly forages on soft sheltered intertidal sand flats or mudflats, open and without vegetation or cover.
None
Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin V - The Scarlet Robin is found from SE Queensland to SE South Australia and also in Tasmania and SW Western Australia. In NSW, it
occurs from the coast to the inland slopes. The Scarlet Robin lives in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands. The understorey is usually
open and grassy with few scattered shrubs.
Low. Previous records in
locality; limited habitat
available.
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 39
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Petroica phoenicea Flame Robin V - Flame Robins are found in a broad coastal band from southern Queensland to just west of the South Australian border. The species is
also found in Tasmania. The preferred habitat in summer includes eucalypt forest and woodland, whilst in winter prefers open
woodlands and farmlands. It is considered migratory. The Flame Robin breeds from about August to January.
Low. Previous records in
locality; limited habitat
available.
Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail - M Found along the east coast of Australia from far northern Queensland to Tasmania, including south-eastern South Australia. Inhabits
tall forests, preferring wetter habitats such as heavily forested gullies, but not rainforests.
None
Rostratula australis Australian
Painted Snipe
E E, MA In NSW, this species has been recorded at the Paroo wetlands, Lake Cowell, Macquarie Marshes and Hexham Swamp. Most common
in the Murray-Darling Basin. Prefers fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas where there is a cover of grasses, lignum, low
scrub or open timber. Nests on the ground amongst tall vegetation, such as grasses, tussocks or reeds.
None
Stagonopleura
guttata
Diamond
Firetail
V - Feeds exclusively on the ground, on ripe and partly-ripe grass and herb seeds and green leaves, and on insects (especially in the
breeding season). Found in grassy eucalypt woodlands, including box-gum woodlands and snow gum woodlands. Also occurs in open
forest, mallee, natural temperate grassland, and in secondary grassland derived from other communities.
None
Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl V - Inhabits a diverse range of wooded habitat that provide tall or dense mature trees with hollows suitable for nesting and roosting.
Mostly recorded in open forest and woodlands adjacent to cleared lands. Nest in hollows, in trunks and in near vertical spouts or
large trees, usually living but sometimes dead. Nest hollows are usually located within dense forests or woodlands. Masked Owls
prey upon hollow-dependent arboreal marsupials, but terrestrial mammals make up the largest proportion of the diet.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl V - Often found in tall old-growth forests, including temperate and subtropical rainforests. In NSW mostly found on escarpments with a
mean altitude less than 500 metres. Nests and roosts in hollows of tall emergent trees, mainly eucalypts often located in gullies.
Nests have been located in trees 125 to 161 cm in diameter.
Low. Previous records in
locality; limited habitat
available.
Invertebrates
Petalura gigantea Giant
Dragonfly
E - The Giant Dragonfly is found along the east coast of NSW from the Victorian border to northern NSW. It is not found west of the
Great Dividing Range. There are known occurrences in the Blue Mountains and Southern Highlands, in the Clarence River catchment,
and on a few coastal swamps from north of Coffs Harbour to Nadgee in the south. Live in permanent swamps and bogs with some
free water and open vegetation. Adults emerge from late October and are short-lived, surviving for one summer after emergence.
None. Records in locality
but no habitat within
project area.
Mammals
Bettongia gaimardi Tasmanian
Bettong
Extin
ct
- Grassland areas, heathlands and sclerophyll woodland. The Eastern Bettong (mainland) may have built densely woven nests of dry
grass and bark
None
Cercartetus nanus Eastern
Pygmy-
possum
V - Inhabits rainforest through to sclerophyll forest and tree heath. Banksias and myrtaceous shrubs and trees are a favoured food
source. Will often nest in tree hollows, but can also construct its own nest. Because of its small size it is able to utilise a range of
hollow sizes including very small hollows. Individuals will use a number of different hollows and an individual has been recorded
using up to 9 nest sites within a 0.5 ha area over a 5 month period.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared
Pied Bat
V V Located in a variety of drier habitats, including the dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands to the east and west of the Great Dividing
Range. Can also be found on the edges of rainforests and in wet sclerophyll forests. This species roosts in caves and mines in groups
of between 3 and 37 individuals.
Low
Dasyurus maculatus
maculatus
Spotted-tailed
Quoll
V E Spotted-tailed Quoll are found on the east coast of NSW, Tasmania, eastern Victoria and north-eastern Queensland. Only in
Tasmania is it still considered common. Recorded across a range of habitat types, including rainforest, open forest, woodland,
coastal heath and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine zone to the coastline.
Low. Previous records in
locality but limited habitat
in project area.
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 40
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Falsistrellus
tasmaniensis
Eastern False
Pipistrelle
V - Inhabit sclerophyll forests, preferring wet habitats where trees are more than 20 m high. Two observations have been made of
roosts in stem holes of living eucalypts. There is debate about whether or not this species moves to lower altitudes during winter, or
whether they remain sedentary but enter torpor. This species also appears to be highly mobile and records showing movements of
up to 12 km between roosting and foraging sites.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Isoodon obesulus
obesulus
Southern
Brown
Bandicoot
(eastern)
E E Prefers sandy soils with scrubby vegetation and-or areas with low ground cover that are burn from time to time. A mosaic of post
fire vegetation is important for this species.
None
Miniopterus
schreibersii
oceanensis
Eastern
Bentwing-bat
V - Eastern Bentwing-bats occur along the east and north-west coasts of Australia. Caves are the primary roosting habitat, but also use
derelict mines, storm-water tunnels, buildings and other man-made structures. Form discrete populations centred on a maternity
cave that is used annually in spring and summer for the birth and rearing of young.
Low
Mormopterus
norfolkensis
Eastern
Freetail-bat
V - Most records are from dry eucalypt forests and woodlands to the east of the Great Dividing Range. Appears to roost in trees, but
little is known of this species' habits.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Petauroides volans Greater Glider - V Restricted to eastern Australia, occurring from the Windsor Tableland in north Queensland through to central Victoria. It is typically
found in highest abundance in taller, montane, moist eucalypt forests with relatively old trees and abundant hollows.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available..
Petaurus australis Yellow-bellied
Glider
V - Occur in tall mature eucalypt forest generally in areas with high rainfall and nutrient rich soils. Forest type preferences vary with
latitude and elevation; mixed coastal forests to dry escarpment forests in the north; moist coastal gullies and creek flats to tall
montane forests in the south. Found along the eastern coast to the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range, from southern
Queensland to Victoria.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Petaurus norfolcensis Squirrel Glider V - Generally occurs in dry sclerophyll forests and woodlands but is absent from dense coastal ranges in the southern part of its range.
Requires abundant hollow bearing trees and a mix of eucalypts, banksias and acacias. There is only limited information available on
den tree use by Squirrel gliders, but it has been observed using both living and dead trees as well as hollow stumps. Within a suitable
vegetation community at least one species should flower heavily in winter and one species of eucalypt should be smooth barked.
Endangered population in the Wagga Wagga LGA.
Moderate. Previous
records in locality; limited
habitat available.
Petrogale penicillata Brush-tailed
Rock-wallaby
E V Found in rocky areas in a wide variety of habitats including rainforest gullies, wet and dry sclerophyll forest, open woodland and
rocky outcrops in semi-arid country. Commonly sites have a northerly aspect with numerous ledges, caves and crevices.
None
Phascolarctos
cinereus
Koala V V Inhabits eucalypt forests and woodlands. The suitability of these forests for habitation depends on the size and species of trees
present, soil nutrients, climate and rainfall.
Low. Previous records in
locality; limited habitat
available.
Pseudomys
novaehollandiae
New Holland
Mouse
- V The New Holland Mouse currently has a disjunct, fragmented distribution across Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and
Queensland. Across the species' range the New Holland Mouse is known to inhabit open heathlands, open woodlands with a
heathland understorey, and vegetated sand dunes.
None
Additional vegetation clearing Great Western Highway – Katoomba to Mount Victoria
Flora and Fauna Assessment 41
Scientific Name Common
Name
TSC
Act
EPBC
Act
Habitat Likelihood of occurrence
Pteropus
poliocephalus
Grey-headed
Flying-fox
V V This species is a canopy-feeding frugivore and nectarivore of rainforests, open forests, woodlands, melaleuca swamps and banksia
woodlands. Bats commute daily to foraging areas, usually within 15 km of the day roost although some individuals may travel up to
70 km.
Low
Scoteanax rueppellii Greater Broad-
nosed Bat
V - Prefer moist gullies in mature coastal forests and rainforests, between the Great Dividing Range and the coast. They are only found
at low altitudes below 500 m. In dense environments they utilise natural and human-made opening in the forest for flight paths.
Creeks and small rivers are favoured foraging habitat. This species roosts in hollow tree trunks and branches.
Low
Reptiles
Eulamprus leuraensis Water skink E E The species is restricted to isolated and naturally fragmented habitats of permanent sedge and hanging swamps (these develop at
moderate to high altitudes on sloping rock faces composed of Narrabeen sandstone which are subject to a constant supply of water),
in open forest and open scrub or heath.
None. No habitat in study
area.
Hoplocephalus
bungaroides
Broad-headed
Snake
E V Occurs almost exclusively in association with communities occurring on Triassic sandstone within the Sydney Basin. Typically found
among exposed sandstone outcrops with vegetation types ranging from woodland to heath. Within these habitats they spend most
of the year sheltering in and under rock crevices and exfoliating rock. However, some individuals will migrate to tree hollows to find
shelter during hotter parts of summer.
None
Key: CE = Critically Endangered; E, E1 = Endangered; EP = Endangered Population; V = Vulnerable; M = Migratory.
Note: Fauna that are exclusively dependant on marine environments, including near shore environments, were not included in the assessment due to lack of suitable habitat. Habitat descriptions taken from the relevant
profiles on the OEH Threatened Species website unless otherwise stated.
Sydney | Central Coast | Illawarra | Armidale | Newcastle | Mudgee | Port Macquarie | Brisbane | Cairns
Appendix 2. Flora species recorded during field survey _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Family Species Common Name Exotic species
Alliaceae Agapanthus spp. X
Apiaceae Centella asiatica Indian Pennywort
Apiaceae Hydrocotyle peduncularis A Pennywort
Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax
Asteraceae Coreopsis lanceolata Coreopsis X
Asteraceae Coronidium scorpioides Button Everlasting
Asteraceae Hypochaeris radicata Catsear X
Caprifoliaceae Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle X
Cyperaceae Gahnia sieberiana Red-fruit Saw-sedge
Dennstaedtiaceae Pteridium esculentum Bracken
Dilleniaceae Hibbertia spp.
Ericaceae Epacris longiflora Fuchsia Heath
Ericaceae Leucopogon lanceolatus
Fabaceae (Faboideae) Daviesia ulicifolia Gorse Bitter Pea
Fabaceae (Faboideae) Dillwynia retorta
Fabaceae (Faboideae) Platylobium formosum
Fabaceae (Faboideae) Pultenaea scabra
Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia longifolia
Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood
Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia terminalis Sunshine Wattle
Geraniaceae Geranium solanderi Native Geranium
Haloragaceae Gonocarpus spp. Raspwort
Haloragaceae Gonocarpus teucrioides Germander Raspwort
Iridaceae Patersonia spp.
Lamiaceae Clerodendrum tomentosum Hairy Clerodendrum
Lauraceae Cassytha pubescens Downy Dodder-laurel
Lobeliaceae Pratia purpurascens Whiteroot
Lomandraceae Lomandra filiformis Wattle Matt-rush
Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat-rush
Malaceae Cotoneaster spp. X
Myrtaceae Eucalyptus oreades Blue Mountains Ash
Myrtaceae Eucalyptus piperita Sydney Peppermint
Myrtaceae Eucalyptus radiata Narrow-leaved pappermint
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Family Species Common Name Exotic species
Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sieberi Silvertop Ash
Myrtaceae Leptospermum polygalifolium Tantoon
Myrtaceae Leptospermum squarrosum
Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea Blue Flax-lily
Phormiaceae Dianella prunina
Pittosporaceae Billardiera scandens Hairy Apple Berry
Plantaginaceae Plantago spp. Plantain
Plantaginaceae Veronica plebeia Trailing Speedwell
Poaceae Echinopogon caespitosus Bushy Hedgehog-grass
Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Couch X
Poaceae Eragrostis curvula African Lovegrass X
Poaceae Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog X
Poaceae Microlaena stipoides Weeping Grass
Poaceae Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu Grass X
Poaceae Poa affinis
Poaceae Poa labillardierei Tussock grass
Proteaceae Banksia ericifolia Heath-leaved Banksia
Proteaceae Banksia serrata Old-man Banksia
Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia
Proteaceae Hakea dactyloides Finger Hakea
Proteaceae Persoonia lanceolata Lance Leaf Geebung
Proteaceae Persoonia levis Broad-leaved Geebung
Proteaceae Petrophile pulchella Conesticks
Ranunculaceae Clematis glycinoides Headache Vine
Rosaceae Acaena novae-zelandiae Acaena
Rosaceae Rubus fruticosus Blackberry complex X
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Appendix 3. Location of hollow-bearing trees _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Latitude Longitude
1 -33.66176341 150.2781015
2 -33.65890183 150.2788955
3 -33.66466749 150.2792903
4 -33.66459633 150.2792201
5 -33.66459633 150.2792201
6 -33.66449269 150.2791379
7 -33.66384992 150.2783847
8 -33.66787776 150.2801718
9 -33.65981353 150.2784765
10 -33.66092816 150.2784116
11 -33.66648037 150.2803343
12 -33.666208 150.280225
13 -33.66575169 150.2802523
14 -33.66575169 150.2802523
15 -33.66573983 150.2801289
16 -33.66485524 150.2793119
17 -33.66337026 150.2780303
18 -33.66787776 150.2801718
19 -33.6684818 150.2798773
20 -33.66902486 150.2799304
21 -33.66916832 150.2799433
22 -33.66943516 150.2798605
23 -33.66144934 150.2781097
24 -33.66124964 150.2782018
25 -33.66124964 150.2782018
26 -33.66124964 150.2782018
27 -33.66124964 150.2782018
28 -33.64367983 150.2840521
29 -33.64377124 150.2840082
30 -33.64377124 150.2840082
31 -33.64402542 150.2839102
32 -33.6445956 150.2836121
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Appendix 4. Assessments of Significance _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Assessments of significance (Seven Part Tests) have been conducted below for the following items of
threatened biodiversity under the TSC Act:
Needle Geebung (Persoonia acerosa)
Note: Unless otherwise stated – the habitat and general ecological information contained in these
assessments of significance has been taken from the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH)
Threatened Species Profiles database (DECC 2005) and/or the Commonwealth Department of the
Environment (DoE) SPRAT database (SEWPAC 2012):
http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl
Definitions
The following definitions are taken from the OEH Threatened Species Assessment Guidelines: The
Assessment of Significance (DECC 2007) and have been adopted for this assessment.
Subject site: the area to be directly affected by the proposed development.
Project Area: the subject site and any additional areas which may potentially be affected by the proposed
development either directly or indirectly.
Direct impacts: those that directly affect the habitat and/or individual plants and animals and cannot be
avoided or mitigated.
Indirect impacts: those that affect species, populations or ecological communities in a manner other than
through direct loss or disturbance. These can usually be avoided or mitigated.
Local population: the population of a particular species that occurs in the locality.
Locality: the area within 10 km of the study area
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Needle Geebung (Persoonia acerosa)
Description
Needle Geebung is listed as vulnerable under the TSC Act. It occurs in dry sclerophyll forest, scrubby low-woodland and heath on
low fertility soils. Recorded only on the central coast and in the Blue Mountains, from Mt Tomah in the north to as far south as Hill
Top where it is now believed to be extinct. Mainly occurs in the Katoomba, Wentworth Falls and Springwood areas.
1. In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction
A number of records of Needle Geebung occur within the locality, with the nearest record situated 1 km north of the project area
(Atlas of NSW Wildlife). This species was not detected during field surveys and the habitat in the project area does not represent
preferred habitat. It is therefore concluded that the proposal is unlikely to result in an adverse effect on the life cycle for this species
such that a viable local population is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.
2. In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction
n/a
3. In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:
1. Is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or
2. Is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction
n/a
3. In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:
1. The extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and
2. Whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and
3. The importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.
Approximately 0.66 ha of vegetation will be removed for the proposed clearing works, comprising three vegetation communities:
Eucalyptus sieberi-Eucalyptus piperita
Modified bushland
Eucalyptus oreades open-forest/tall open-forest.
The additional clearing required involves the removal or trimming of a narrow strip of vegetation along the road corridor, some of
which provides potential habitat for Needle Geebung. The age and condition of vegetation varied throughout the study area,
however an obvious edge effect was evident along the length of the study area, associated with the road and due to the long,
narrow shape of the project area. The clearing proposed is considered to be negligible within the context of extant vegetation and
potential habitat surrounding the study area, where a number of records exist for this species. It is therefore considered that the
proposed works will not result in habitat fragmentation for this species. The proposal is unlikely to substantially reduce the extent
of local habitat availability, nor would it isolate or fragment populations or individuals of this species such that a decline would
eventuate.
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Needle Geebung (Persoonia acerosa)
4. Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly)
Critical habitat declarations in NSW include:
1. Gould's Petrel - critical habitat declaration; 2. Little penguin population in Sydney's North Harbour; 3. Mitchell's Rainforest Snail in Stotts Island Nature Reserve; and 4. Wollemi Pine. None of these areas of critical habitat will be affected by the proposal. Under the TSC Act, the Director-General maintains a Register of critical habitat. To date, no critical habitat has been declared for
the Needle Geebung.
5. Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a Recovery Plan or Threat Abatement Plan
No approved recovery plan exists for the Needle Geebung.
6. Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a Key Threatening Process (KTP) or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a KTP
The only KTP relevant to the Needle Geebung that may be exacerbated by the proposal is:
1. Clearing of native vegetation
Conclusion
The local occurrence of the Needle Geebung is unlikely to be significantly affected by the proposal as:
1. The species was not recorded in the project area. 2. The species has not been previously recorded in the project area (nearest record 1 km north). 3. No important habitat will be affected (conclusion from D above). 4. One KTP is of relevance to this species. The vegetation clearing proposed is considered to be negligible within the context
of extant vegetation surrounding the study area providing potential habitat for this species.
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Appendix 5. EPBC Act Significant Impact Criteria (EPBC Act) _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Significant Impact Criteria assessments been conducted below for the following items of threatened
biodiversity under the EPBC Act:
Needle Geebung (Persoonia acerosa)
Note: Unless otherwise stated – the habitat and general ecological information contained in these assessments
has been taken from the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) Threatened Species Profiles database
(DECC 2008) and/or the Commonwealth SPRAT database (SEWPaC 2012):
http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/
http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl
Definitions
‘Habitat critical to the survival of a species or ecological community’ refers to areas that are necessary:
for activities such as foraging, breeding, roosting, or dispersal
for the long-term maintenance of the species or ecological community (including the maintenance of species essential to the survival of the species or ecological community, such as pollinators) to maintain genetic diversity and long term evolutionary development, or
for the reintroduction of populations or recovery of the species or ecological community.
Such habitat may be, but is not limited to: habitat identified in a recovery plan for the species or ecological
community as habitat critical for that species or ecological community; and/or habitat listed on the Register of
Critical Habitat maintained by the minister under the EPBC Act.
An ‘important population’ is a population that is necessary for a species’ long-term survival and recovery. This
may include populations identified as such in recovery plans, and/or that are:
key source populations either for breeding or dispersal
populations that are necessary for maintaining genetic diversity, and/or populations that are near the limit of the species range.
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Needle Geebung (Persoonia acerosa)
Criteria (Vulnerable Species) Address of Criteria Likelihood
An action is likely to have a significant impact on a vulnerable species if there is a real chance or possibility that it will:
Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species
Approximately 0.66 ha of vegetation will be impacted by the proposed clearing works, involving the
removal or trimming of a narrow strip of vegetation along the road corridor, some of which provides
potential habitat for Needle Geebung. The clearing proposed is considered to be negligible within the
context of extant vegetation surrounding the study area, where a number of records exist for this
species. This species was not detected during field surveys, with the closest record situated 1 km north
of the project area. Given the lack of records within the project area and minimal clearing required, it is
considered unlikely that the proposed work would lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an
important population of the species. The proposal is unlikely to substantially reduce the extent of local
habitat availability, nor would it isolate or fragment populations or individuals of this species such that
a decline would eventuate.
None
Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population No impacts are expected to occur on known occurrences of occupied habitat. The project would not
result in a reduced area of occupancy of an important population. There is no population present
within the project area.
None
Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations
The project will not lead to the fragmentation of habitat for this species given the lack of records within
the project area and minimal area of potential habitat to be removed.
None
Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species The areas of potential habitat are limited, and is not considered to be critical to the survival of the
species.
Unlikely
Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population The project would not remove any known occurrences of this species. It is considered that the proposal
is unlikely to disrupt breeding cycles of an important population.
None
Modify, destroy, remove or isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline
The impacts of the proposal are limited to a narrow strip of vegetation along the road corridor. It is
considered unlikely that the proposal would result in habitat degradation leading the species to
decline. The habitat present in the study area constitutes potential habitat only.
Unlikely
Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat
The proposal would not lead to the incursion of invasive species into the potential habitat of the
Needle Geebung.
Unlikely
Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline, or The project would not introduce disease that may cause the species to decline. Unlikely
Interfere substantially with the recovery of the species. The project is considered to result in impacts of limited extent which would not interfere substantially
with the recovery of the species.
Unlikely
Conclusion: The proposed action is unlikely to have a significant impact on the Needle Geebung.
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