Lockhart Shire Council...Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD and Council make...

Lockhart Shire Council The Rock pressure sewerage system

Review of Environmental Factors

May 2017

GHD | Report for Lockhart Shire Council - The Rock pressure sewerage system, 2316033 | i

Table of contents 1. Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Proposal identification .......................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Purpose of this report........................................................................................................... 1

1.3 Scope and limitations ........................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Assumptions ........................................................................................................................ 2

2. Needs and options considered....................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Need for the proposal .......................................................................................................... 4

2.2 Alternatives and options considered .................................................................................... 4

3. Description of the proposal ............................................................................................................ 5

3.1 The proposal ........................................................................................................................ 5

3.2 Design .................................................................................................................................. 5

3.3 Construction activities .......................................................................................................... 6

3.4 Compound and stockpile site ............................................................................................... 8

3.5 Public utility adjustment ....................................................................................................... 8

3.6 Property acquisition ............................................................................................................. 9

4. Statutory and planning framework ............................................................................................... 10

4.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 .......................................................... 10

4.2 State Environmental Planning Policies .............................................................................. 11

4.3 Local planning instruments ................................................................................................ 11

4.4 Other relevant state legislation .......................................................................................... 12

4.5 Commonwealth Legislation ................................................................................................ 13

4.6 Confirmation of statutory position ...................................................................................... 14

5. Stakeholder and community consultation .................................................................................... 15

5.1 Government agency involvement ...................................................................................... 15

5.2 Community involvement..................................................................................................... 15

6. Environmental assessment .......................................................................................................... 17

6.1 Biodiversity ......................................................................................................................... 17

6.2 Soils, water quality, hydrology and groundwater ............................................................... 27

6.3 Landuse and property ........................................................................................................ 31

6.4 Noise and vibration ............................................................................................................ 32

6.5 Air quality ........................................................................................................................... 35

6.6 Landscape and visual ........................................................................................................ 37

6.7 Aboriginal Heritage ............................................................................................................ 38

6.8 Non-Aboriginal Heritage..................................................................................................... 40

6.9 Traffic access ..................................................................................................................... 42

6.10 Socio-economic ................................................................................................................. 43

6.11 Waste management ........................................................................................................... 45

6.12 Climate change .................................................................................................................. 47

GHD | Report for Lockhart Shire Council - The Rock pressure sewerage system, 2316033 | ii

6.13 Demands on resources ...................................................................................................... 49

6.14 Cumulative impacts ............................................................................................................ 50

6.15 Summary of adverse effects .............................................................................................. 50

7. Environmental management ........................................................................................................ 61

7.1 Environmental management plan ...................................................................................... 61

7.2 Licensing and approvals .................................................................................................... 61

8. Conclusion.................................................................................................................................... 62

8.1 Justification ........................................................................................................................ 62

8.2 Objects of the EP&A Act .................................................................................................... 62

8.3 Conclusion ......................................................................................................................... 64

9. References ................................................................................................................................... 66

10. Terms and acronyms used in this REF ........................................................................................ 68

Table index Table 6.1: Survey effort for biodiversity assessment ............................................................................. 18

Table 6.2: Qualitative noise assessment ............................................................................................... 33

Table 6.3: Due diligence assessment .................................................................................................... 39

Table 6.4: Top employment occupations for the Lockhart LGA ............................................................. 44

Table 6.5: Summary of safeguards and management measures .......................................................... 52

Table 7.1: Summary of licensing and approval required ........................................................................ 61

Table 8.1: Objects of the EP&A Act ....................................................................................................... 62

Figure index

Figure 1.1: The proposal site .................................................................................................................... 3

Figure 6.1: Flora plot survey and vegetation communities .................................................................... 22

Figure 6.2: Box-Gum Woodland along Cornwall Street, looking south .................................................. 23

Figure 6.3: Introduced groundcover along the Olympic Highway road reserve, between Emily

Street and Park Street ....................................................................................................... 25

Appendices Appendix A – Consideration of clause 228 (2) factors and matters of natural environmental

significance

Appendix B – Flora and fauna survey species lists

Appendix C – Likelihood of occurrence

GHD | Report for Lockhart Shire Council - The Rock pressure sewerage system, 2316033 | iii

Appendix D – Database searches

Appendix E – Concept designs

Appendix F – Consultation

GHD | Report for Lockhart Shire Council – The Rock pressure sewerage system, 2316033 | 1

1. Introduction 1.1 Proposal identification

Lockhart Shire Council (Council) is proposing to construct a pressure sewerage system at The

Rock. The proposal will connect properties in the existing onsite septic (or aerated) systems to a

pressure sewer reticulated network.

The pressure sewerage system has been divided into two stages; Stage A and Stage B. This

Review of Environmental Factors (REF) is for the construction of Stage A of the system Figure

1.1)

For the purposes of this assessment, the following definitions are used:

The ‘proposal’ (being assessed by this REF) refers to the proposed construction of the

pressure sewerage system (see Figure 1.1)

The ‘proposal site’ refers to the area required for the construction of the proposal,

including construction activities and construction vehicle access. The proposal site also

includes the site compound and stockpile sites and any other areas that would be

disturbed by the proposal

The ‘study area’ refers to the area of impact and any additional areas, which are likely to

be affected by the proposal, either directly or indirectly. Generally, the study area includes

the area up to 500 metres from the proposal site

The ‘locality’ refers to the area within a 10 kilometre radius of the proposal.

1.2 Purpose of this report

This review of environmental factors (REF) has been prepared by GHD on behalf of Council to

assess the potential environmental impacts of the proposal. For the purposes of the proposal, Council is the proponent and determining authority under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning

and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

The purpose of the REF is to describe the proposal, to document the likely impacts of the

proposal on the environment, and to detail protective measures to be implemented as part of

the proposal.

The proposal has been assessed in the context of clause 228 of the Environmental Planning

and Assessment Regulation 2000, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act)

and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC

Act). In doing so, the REF helps to fulfil the requirements of section 111 of the EP&A Act that

Council examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible, all matters affecting or

likely to affect the environment by reason of the activity.

The findings of the REF would be considered when assessing:

Whether the proposal is likely to have a significant impact on the environment and

therefore the necessity for an Environmental Impact Statement to be prepared and

approval to be sought from the Minister for Planning and Environment under Part 5.1 of

the EP&A Act.

The significance of any impact on threatened species as defined by the TSC Act, in

section 5A of the EP&A Act and therefore the requirement for a Species Impact

Statement.


The potential for the proposal to significantly impact on a matter of national environmental

significance or Commonwealth land and the need to make a referral to the Australian

Government Department of the Environment and Energy (DotEE) for a decision by the

Commonwealth Minister for the Environment on whether assessment and approval is

required under the EPBC Act.

1.3 Scope and limitations

This report has been prepared by GHD for Lockhart Shire Council and may only be used and

relied on by Lockhart Shire Council for the purpose agreed between GHD and the Lockhart

Shire Council as set out in section 1.2 of this report.

GHD otherwise disclaims responsibility to any person other than Lockhart Shire Council arising

in connection with this report. GHD also excludes implied warranties and conditions, to the

extent legally permissible.

The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing this report were limited to those

specifically detailed in the report and are subject to the scope limitations set out in the report.

The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on conditions

encountered and information reviewed at the date of preparation of the report. GHD has no

responsibility or obligation to update this report to account for events or changes occurring

subsequent to the date that the report was prepared.

The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on assumptions

made by GHD described in this report (refer section 1.4 of this report). GHD disclaims liability

arising from any of the assumptions being incorrect.

1.4 Assumptions

Assumptions made by GHD when undertaking services and preparing the REF include (but are

not limited to):

The impact footprint of the proposal would be as presented in this report.

The safeguards and management measures detailed in section 6 would be

implemented.

#*

Park Street

YerongStreet

ScottStreet

Nicholas Street

Hill Street

Olympic Highway Mangoplah Road

Main Southern Railway

EmilyStreet

Milne Road

Burkes Creek

CornwallStreet

Crown LandCountry Regional Network rail line

CarsonRoad

© Land and Property Information 2015

510,000

510,000

6,096,

000

6,096,

000

G:\23\16033\GIS\Maps\Deliverables\TheRockFigure1.1_locality.mxd© 2017. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD and Council make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any wayand for any reason.

LEGEND0 150 30075

MetresMap Projection: Transverse Mercator

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

Lockhart Shire CouncilThe Rock pressure sewerage system

The proposal site Figure 1.1

Job NumberRevision A

23-16033

08 May 2017o Date

Data source: NSW Governmnet (LPI): Aerial photograph - 2015, creek - 2012. Created by:mjcotterill

Paper Size A3

Suite 3, Level 1, 161-169 Baylis Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Australia T 61 2 6923 7400 F 61 2 6971 9565 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com

The proposal

WOODEND

THE ROCK

MANGOPLAHTHORNLEIGH

URANQUINTY

MILBRULONG

BULLENBUNG

FRENCH PARK

YERONG CREEK

THE ROCK HILL

BELFRAYDENCOLLINGULLIE

Barometric loop#* The Rock Police Station (heritage)

Proposal siteCreek

The Rock Station and Yard (State listed)The Rock Station and Yard (LEP listed)


2. Needs and options considered 2.1 Need for the proposal

The properties located south of the Olympic Highway at The Rock are currently serviced by

onsite septic or aerated sewage systems. These systems are constrained by the requirement to

maintain constant grades and during high rainfall events. Excessive water from rainfall runoff

can significantly affect the performance of the receiving sewage treatment plants and can

overload transfer sewage pumping stations.

The objective of the proposal is to provide an efficient and cost-effective reticulated sewage

service for the properties located in the Stage A boundary of the proposal and to decommission

the existing onsite septic and aerated systems.

2.2 Alternatives and options considered

Two options were considered for the proposal; the do nothing option and the proposed

construction of a pressure sewerage system.

The do nothing option would involve leaving the existing onsite septic and aerated sewage

systems as is. This option would not improve the efficiency of the sewage service provided to

residents and would not provide a cost-effective benefit, as currently residents are responsible

for emptying their own systems. This option would not meet the objectives of the proposal and

is therefore not the preferred option.

2.2.1 Preferred option

The preferred option is the construction of the pressure sewerage system, due to the provision

of an efficient and cost-effective reticulated sewage service for the properties located in the

Stage A boundary of the proposal.


3. Description of the proposal 3.1 The proposal

It is proposed to construct a pressure sewerage system, south of the Olympic Highway at The

Rock, to provide properties with an efficient and cost-effective sewage service. The proposal

includes installation of the pressure sewer mains progressively along the alignment, with

connection of the existing residences to the system and discharging into the existing gravity

sewer system manhole at Cornwall Street (see Figure 1.1 and Appendix E).

Stage A of the pressure sewerage system is bounded by Milne Road, Mangoplah Road, Emily

Street and the Olympic Highway and consists of about 54 existing properties plus the Kings

Own Hotel-Motel. The existing properties are currently serviced by onsite sewage systems

which would be abandoned upon commission of the new reticulated system.

The proposal would require the underboring of the Olympic Highway, managed by Roads and

Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) and the Main Southern Railway, managed by the

Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) in the north-western section of the proposal site.

A designated compound site is not required for the proposal. The existing Council depot at The

Rock would be utilised for storage of materials and compound facilities.

It is anticipated that the proposal would commence in June 2017, with construction to be

completed by December 2017. It is expected that construction would be completed on one to

two properties per day.

3.2 Design

The proposal has been designed to connect the existing and any future dwellings within the

Stage A boundary to a pressure sewerage system for discharge into the existing gravity sewer

system on the northern side of the Olympic Highway. Dwellings on the northern side of the

highway are serviced by an existing pressure sewerage system. Stage A has been designed to

accommodate the connection of an additional 237 future lots.

Key features of the proposal include:

Polyethylene pipe with diameter between 50 millimetres and 75 millimetres

Air release valves at significant high points, enclosed in a fibreglass kiosk and surrounded

by concrete filled pipe bollards

Flushing points, including an on/off switch for flushing the system when required and non-

return valves to prevent sewage back-flow

Isolation valves, to isolate individual systems from the mains if required

Boundary kit, including grinder pump for macerating sewage into fine watery slurry for

discharge and five metres of pipeline for property connection.

A barometric loop to keep odours at a reasonable level. This would be enclosed by mesh

fencing with double gates for access

Discharge into the existing gravity sewer system manhole at Cornwall Street.

The pressure sewerage system route would be excavated using open trenches where located in

road reserve and Crown Land. Designated roads, including the Olympic Highway, the Main

Southern Railway and property access along the proposal alignment would be underbored with

horizontal direction boring (HDB) methods to minimise disruption to traffic and properties during

construction. The pressure sewer mains would be installed progressively along the alignment.


The construction footprint width would be about two metres either side of the pipeline with a

minimum trench width of 500 millimetres and variable pipeline depth, between 500 millimetres to

1,500 millimetres. Stage A is about 5,000 metres in total length.

The pipe would be located within the table drain for part of its alignment, between Park Street

and Hill Street. The alignment would be located adjacent to existing utilities in the vicinity (see

Appendix E).

3.3 Construction activities

It is anticipated that the construction period for the pressure sewerage system will be about six

months

3.3.1 Work methodology

Construction would be undertaken by a contractor in accordance with a construction

environmental management plan (CEMP). Construction would include the following activities:

Site establishment, including:

– Establish work site boundaries, including marking of the centreline of the alignment with

survey pegs, spray paint or similar

– Install erosion and sediment controls

– Set up temporary traffic controls as required

Installation of the pressure sewerage system, including:

– Locate existing utilities within the area of the alignment, including electricity, water main

and Telstra main

– Excavation of soil from the proposed footprint where trenching would occur,

progressively along the alignment

– Underboring roads, property accesses and the Main Southern Railway, progressively

along the alignment

– Install the sewer main progressively along the alignment. This will include excavation of

soil as indicated above, placement of bedding material, installation of polyethylene pipe,

placement of compacted sand over pipe and backfill material to surface level

– Install associated infrastructure progressively along the alignment, including flushing

points, air release valves, isolation valves, boundary kits

Construction of barometric loop, including chain mesh fence with double gates for security

(see Figure 1.1)

Decommissioning of existing on site systems, including removal or crushing of existing

tanks and back-filling the hole

Site clean-up and rehabilitation, including:

– Stabilising disturbed areas

– Removing temporary erosion and sedimentation controls

– Removing temporary traffic controls.

Construction hours

It is anticipated that the proposal would typically be completed within the following hours:

Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm

Saturday: 8am to 1pm


Sunday and Public Holidays: no work.

Plant and equipment

Plant and equipment needed for the proposal would include:

12 tonne excavator 3 tonne excavator

Tippers Skid steer

Boring machine Utility vehicles

3.3.2 Earthworks

Earthworks will include the area to be excavated for the installation of the pipeline and

associated infrastructure. The minimum width of the trench required for the pipeline is about 500

millimetres with the total length about 5,000 metres. The area of earthworks would therefore be

a minimum of about 2,500 square metres.

There is not expected to be an excess of fill from construction activities or any fill required to be

transported to the site for construction.

3.3.3 Materials

The following materials would be required for the construction of the proposal:

PE100, PN16 Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings:

– 2010 metres of 50 mm diameter




x5 – supply and installation of flushing kits (Type 1 Light Duty Trafficable Class B)

x7 – supply and installation of flushing kits (Type 2 Heavy Duty Trafficable Class D)

x60 – supply and installation of boundary kits (Supply at 450 and install at 250)

x54 – property connection (majority same side of street)

x6 – property connection (opposite side of street)

x1 – supply and installation of air valves (above ground)

x23 – supply and installation of isolation valves (50NB flanged)



Supply and installation of DN80 flow meter including pit & associated components

Supply / construct barometric loop

Underbore Olympic Highway and Main Southern Railway and install 200DIA sleeve pipe

including machine set up

Connection to existing sewerage system at M/H TR-A8

Supply and installation of DN50 check valve pit and associated components

Supply and Installation of on property Pressure Sewerage Units (PSU’s) including:


x50 – supply of simplex E-One Extreme PSU's, including standard control panels, tanks,

grinder pumps and accessories

x50 – installation of PSU systems

Supply and install Quad E-One Extreme PSU system at hotel site

Water may be required during construction for dust suppression. If required, water would be

sources from town water supply mains in the area.

3.3.4 Construction traffic management and access

Vehicle movements

The proposal would generate a number of heavy vehicle movements through the transport of

machinery, fuel, general provisions and materials. The majority of vehicle movements would be

for the transport of pipeline and associated infrastructure to the proposal site.

The number of heavy vehicle movements required to transport materials from the Council depot

to the proposal site would be approximately 700 vehicle movements over the six month

construction period. This includes 380 heavy vehicle movements.

Light vehicles would be required to transport staff to and from the proposal site. Light vehicles

would also be used in various roles on site.

Traffic management

Traffic controls would be put in place for works in the vicinity of all public roads. Traffic controls

would be in accordance with the Australian Standard 1742.3-2002: Manual of Uniform Traffic

Control Devices and the NSW Roads and Maritime Services ‘QA Specification G10 Traffic

Control at Worksites’. For works along the Olympic Highway and for underboring of the

highway, traffic may be restricted to one lane. A traffic management plan would be prepared to

ensure the proposal would be unlikely to cause any significant disruption to traffic.

Construction access management

Construction access to the proposal site would be via the Olympic Highway. The Council depot,

where materials would be stored, is on the northern side of the highway, with the majority of the

proposal site located on the southern side of the highway.

3.4 Compound and stockpile site

There would be no designated site compound or stockpile site required for the proposal. The

existing Council depot at The Rock would be utilised for storage of materials and compound

facilities.

The existing facilities at the depot include a site office, toilet facilities, secure bunded areas for

the storage of fuels and chemicals, designated parking and waste management areas.

Lengths of pipe may be stored along the pipeline route, adjacent to the trench in the section that

is being constructed. Storage would be temporary for the period of construction in each section

and any disturbed areas would be rehabilitated before the completion of construction.

3.5 Public utility adjustment

There are existing utilities located along various sections of the pipeline alignment. These

include the following:

Electricity

Water main


Telstra main

Following a survey of the study area, the existing services were located and the proposal

designed in order to avoid the utilities. This was achieved by locating the alignment adjacent to

other services and the existing table drain where required.

The contractor is required to locate the services on site prior to construction and modify the

alignment to avoid the utilities if necessary.

3.6 Property acquisition

The majority of construction would take place within Council owned road reserve. A small

portion of the proposal in the north-west is located on Crown Land in the form of a disused TSR

managed by Local Land Services. Council currently leases this land. There will be no need for

land acquisition as a formal easement would not be required.


4. Statutory and planning framework 4.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

4.1.1 Overview

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) provides the statutory basis

for planning and environmental assessment in NSW. The Minister for Planning and

Infrastructure, statutory authorities and local councils are responsible for implementing the

EP&A Act. The EP&A Act provides the framework for environmental planning and development

approvals and includes provisions to ensure that the potential environmental impacts of a

development are assessed and considered in the decision making process.

The EP&A Act contains three parts that impose requirements for planning approval. The main

two are as follows:

Part 4 provides for control of ‘local development’ that requires development consent from

the local Council.

Part 5 provides for control of ‘activities’ that do not require approval or development

consent under Part 4.

The need or otherwise for development consent is set out in environmental planning

instruments – State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs), or Local Environmental Plans

(LEPs).

4.1.2 Part 5 environmental assessment and determining authority

The proposal constitutes an activity and is permissible without development consent under

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (ISEPP) (see section 4.2.1). The

proposal is therefore subject to Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

Part 5 of the EP&A Act provides for the control of ‘activities’ that do not require development

consent or the approval of the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure.

Section 110 of the EP&A Act defines ‘determining authority’ as follows:

‘determining authority means a Minister or public authority and, in relation to any

activity, means the Minister or public authority by or on whose behalf the activity is or

is to be carried out or any Minister or public authority whose approval is required in

order to enable the activity to be carried out.’

The EP&A Act’s definition of ‘public authority’ (section 4) includes: ‘(a) a public or local authority

constituted by or under an Act’.

For the purposes of the proposal, Council is the determining authority in accordance with the

EP&A Act (see section 4.2.1).

The duties of the determining authority are set out in section 111 of the EP&A Act. Section 111(1) requires that a determining authority ‘…examine and take into account to the fullest

extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of that activity.’

Section 112 provides that a determining authority shall not approve or carry out an activity that

is likely to significantly affect the environment (including critical habitat) or threatened species,

populations or ecological communities, or their habitats, unless it has considered an

environmental impact statement in respect of the activity. In addition, if the proposal was to be

carried out on land that is critical habitat, or if the determining authority decides the proposal


would be likely to significantly affect a threatened species, population or ecological community

or its habitat, then it must obtain and consider a species impact statement.

Section 5A of the EP&A Act includes an assessment of significance, which uses seven factors

to assist in determining if the proposed development or activity ‘is likely to have a significant

effect on threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats’. These

seven factors must be taken into account by a consent or determining authority when

considering a development proposal or development application. This enables a decision to be

made as to whether there is likely to be a significant effect on the species, population or

ecological community, and hence if a species impact statement is required.

This REF has been prepared to consider whether the proposal would have a significant impact

on the environment under Section 111 of the EP&A Act. Factors that need to be taken into

account when considering the likely impact of an activity on the environment are outlined in

clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation and are discussed in Appendix A.

4.2 State Environmental Planning Policies

4.2.1 State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (ISEPP) aims to facilitate the effective

delivery of infrastructure across the State.

Clause 106 of the ISEPP states that development for the purpose of a sewage reticulation

system may be carried out by or on behalf of a public authority without consent on any land. As

the proposal is for a sewage reticulation system, it can be assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A

Act.

Therefore, the proposed construction works for the sewerage system is permitted without

consent.

4.3 Local planning instruments

4.3.1 Lockhart Local Environment Plan 2012

The proposal is located within the Lockhart Local Government Area. The environmental

planning instrument applicable to the Lockhart LGA is the Lockhart Local Environmental Plan

2012 (Lockhart LEP).

The majority of the proposal is located within the RU5 – Village land use zone, with a small

portion along Mangoplah Road in the east zoned as RU1 – Primary Production, and the

Olympic Highway and Main Southern Railway zoned as SP2 – Infrastructure.

Sewerage system works are permitted in the RU5 – Village zone with consent and prohibited in

the RU1 – Primary Production and SP2 – Infrastructure zones. However, the provisions of the

Lockhart LEP do not apply to the proposal due to the application of the State Environmental

Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (ISEPP). Nevertheless, consideration has been given to

the provisions of the Lockhart LEP.

The proposal is unlikely to alter the current land uses in the land use zones in which it occurs,

as the majority of the proposal is located underground.


4.4 Other relevant state legislation

4.4.1 Crown Lands Act 1989

The Crown Lands Act 1989 is the current legislation for the administration of State lands in

NSW. The objects of this Act are to ensure that Crown land is managed for the benefit of the

people of New South Wales and in particular to provide for:

A proper assessment of Crown land

The management of Crown land having regard to the principles of Crown land

management contained in this Act

The proper development and conservation of Crown land having regard to those

principles

The regulation of the conditions under which Crown land is permitted to be occupied,

used, sold, leased, licensed or otherwise dealt with

The reservation or dedication of Crown land for public purposes and the management

and use of the reserved or dedicated land

The collection, recording and dissemination of information in relation to Crown land.

Section 155 (1) of the Crown Lands Act 1989 states that a person shall not, without lawful

authority, clear, dig up or cultivate public land. As such, any works within Crown land that

includes these activities would require approval from the NSW Department of Industry - Lands.

The Crown Land in the north-western section of the proposal site is managed by the Local Land

Services and currently lease by Council. The Local Land Services have granted approval for the

proposal (see Appendix F).

4.4.2 Roads Act 1993

The objectives of this Roads Act 1993 are:

To set out the rights of members of the public to pass along public roads

To set out the rights of persons who own land adjoining a public road to have access to

the public road

To establish the procedures for the opening and closing of a public road

To provide for the classification of roads

To provide for the declaration of Roads and Maritime and other public authorities as

roads authorities for both classified and unclassified roads

To confer certain functions (in particular, the function of carrying out road work) on Roads

and Maritime and on other roads authorities

To provide for the distribution of the functions conferred by this Act between Roads and

Maritime and other roads authorities

To regulate the carrying out of various activities on public roads.

Under Section 138 of the Roads Act 1993 a person must not “erect a structure or carry out a

work in, on or over a public road, or dig up or disturb the surface of a public road” otherwise

than with the consent of the appropriate roads authority. The proposal would involve crossing

the Olympic Highway. As Roads and Maritime is the road authority, consent is required. Roads

and Maritime have granted approval for the proposal (see Appendix F).


4.4.3 Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) establishes, amongst other

things, the procedures for issuing of licences for environmental protection on aspects such as

waste, air, water and noise pollution control. The owner or occupier of premises engaged in

scheduled activities is required to hold an environment protection licence and comply with the

conditions of that licence.

The proposal would not involve any scheduled activities listed under Schedule 1 of the POEO

Act, therefore an application for an environment protection licence is not required.

With appropriate erosion and sediment controls implemented, the proposal is unlikely to cause

water pollution. Therefore, an environment protection licence under the POEO Act is not

required.

The POEO Act creates a number of pollution offences. If a ’pollution incident’ were to occur

during the proposal causing or threatening ’material harm’ to the environment, Council would be

obliged to notify the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) immediately.

4.4.4 National Park and Wildlife Act 1974

The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 provides the basis for legal protection and

management of Aboriginal sites within NSW, and for the management of National Parks estate.

Section 90 of the Act specifies that the Director-General may issue an Aboriginal heritage

impact permit in relation to a specified Aboriginal object, place, land, activity or person, or

specified types or classes of these. An Aboriginal heritage impact permit may be issued subject

to conditions, or unconditionally.

Aboriginal heritage impact permits must be obtained before the commencement of any project

that would, or would be likely to, impact on Aboriginal objects or places.

This REF concludes that the proposal would be unlikely to have a significant effect on an

Aboriginal object or Aboriginal place (see section 6.7). An Aboriginal heritage impact permit

would therefore not be required for the proposal.

4.4.5 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) lists a number of threatened

species, populations and ecological communities to be considered in deciding whether there is

likely to be a significant impact on threatened biota, or their habitats. If any of these could be

impacted by the proposal, an assessment of significance that addresses the requirements of

section 5A of the EP&A Act must be completed to determine the significance of the impact.

The potential for impacts on ecology have been considered in section 6.1. The assessment

concludes that the proposal would be unlikely to have a significant impact on any threatened

species, populations or ecological communities listed under the TSC Act. A species impact

statement is therefore not required.

4.5 Commonwealth Legislation

4.5.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Under the EPBC Act a referral to the Australian Government is required for proposed actions

that have the potential to significantly impact on matters of national environmental significance

or the environment of Commonwealth land. The impacts of the proposal on matters of national

environmental significance are considered in chapter 6 and Appendix A of this REF.


This REF finds that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any matters of

national environmental significance. Accordingly, it is considered that the approval of the

Australian Government Minister for the Environment is not required and that it is not necessary

to refer the proposal to DotEE.

4.6 Confirmation of statutory position

An assessment of the relevant statutory planning instruments has concluded that the proposal

can be assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act, by Council as the determining authority.


5. Stakeholder and community consultation 5.1 Government agency involvement

5.1.1 Information provided to government agencies

REF consultation has been undertaken with government agencies that may have an interest in

the proposal. Consultation was conducted by written notification requesting comments or issues

to be addressed during the preparation of the REF. A consultation letter and map were issued

on 20 March 2017. Agencies notified included:

Roads and Maritime

ARTC

Local Land Services.

5.1.2 Issues raised by government agencies

An email response to consultation was received from Local Land Services (see Appendix F).

There are no perceived issues for Local Land Services.

An email response was received by Roads and Maritime, including their specifications for works

in the road reserve of classified roads (see Appendix F). Comments relevant to the proposal

include:

Road crossings shall be as near as possible to right angles to the centreline of the road and

have a minimum depth of 1.0 metre below the invert of table drains, 1.2 metres below the

road surface and 750 millimetres elsewhere in the road reserve

Thrust boring or directional boring must be used for installation of any works under a state

road unless otherwise approved by Roads and Maritime. The work should be encased in a

pipe over the full width of the road formation to allow future maintenance of the works

without road disturbance

Pipes carrying pressurised water shall be sleeved under the road formation with all

associated above ground infrastructure located outside the road reserve

All materials and work methods used during the works must comply with or exceed the

relevant AS/NZ Standard, unless otherwise approved by Roads and Maritime

Traffic Control must be in accordance with “RMS Traffic Control at Worksites Manual”

The applicant shall give at least 48 hours’ notice to Roads and Maritime before

commencement of the work.

Ongoing consultation is occurring between Council and ARTC to obtain approvals required to

underbore the Main Southern Railway.

Consideration of these comments would be included in the detailed design of the proposal.

Roads and Maritime also included the licencing requirements for works on a state road (see

section 7.2 and Appendix F).

5.2 Community involvement

Council has conducted the following community consultation:

Two public meetings in 2013 and 2014, prior to development of the concept design


Letter drop to individual residences affected by the proposal

Ongoing consultation to occur includes:

Ongoing meetings with affected residents as the proposal progresses

Door knocking once the design survey has been completed

Connection to the pressure sewerage system is not compulsory for residents. Door knocking will

enable Council to discuss the benefits of connection to the system and gauge the interest of

residents prior to construction commencing.


6. Environmental assessment This chapter of the REF provides a detailed description of the potential environmental impacts

associated with the construction and operation of the proposal. All aspects of the environment

potentially impacted upon by the proposal are considered. This includes consideration of the

factors specified in the guidelines Is an EIS required? (DUAP 1999) as required under clause

228(1)(b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000. The factors

specified in clause 228(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 are

also considered in Appendix A. Site-specific safeguards are provided to ameliorate the

identified potential impacts.

6.1 Biodiversity

6.1.1 Methodology

Desktop review

The assessment included a review of background biodiversity information obtained from

database searches and reviews. These searches included:

OEH Atlas of NSW Wildlife database– licensed data for Lockhart local government area.

Search of all terrestrial threatened flora and fauna species (within a 10 kilometre radius of

proposal site) (searched March 2017) (OEH 2017a)

OEH (2017b) NSW threatened species, online profiles

DotEE (2017a) EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool – for a 10 kilometre radius

around the proposal site (searched March 2017)

DotEE (2017b) Species profile and threats database, online profiles

DPI – noxious weed declarations – Lockhart LGA control area (DPI 2017) (searched

March 2017).

Field surveys

Flora and fauna field surveys were conducted by an ecologist on 13 March 2017. Where appropriate, field surveys were conducted in accordance with the ‘Threatened Biodiversity

Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and Activities Working Draft’ (DEC

2004).

The primary objectives of the field surveys were to:

Determine the presence and/or potential for threatened flora and fauna species,

populations, ecological communities, listed under the NSW TSC Act and Commonwealth

EPBC Act, and their habitats to occur in the study area

Determine the value of the habitat in the study area for flora and fauna species,

particularly for threatened species and species of conservation significance, and describe

potential impacts that would result from the proposal

Describe the flora and fauna species, habitat, populations and ecological communities in

the study area in relation to their occurrence and quality in the locality. This included

ground truthing, reference to aerial photographs and vegetation mapping

Determine the condition and extent of vegetation removal required for the proposal.

Biodiversity survey effort for this proposal is summarised in Table 6.1.


Table 6.1: Survey effort for biodiversity assessment

Survey method Effort

Flora plot (see

Figure 6.1

One 20 metre by 50 metre plots (with a nested 20 metre by 20 metre plot) in the study area.

Flora transect A flora survey transect along all streets of the proposal site.

Fauna habitat assessment Potential fauna habitat identified within areas of potential vegetation clearing and adjacent areas.

Opportunistic fauna observations Opportunistic fauna observations for all fauna species encountered during flora surveys and habitat assessment.

Flora

Flora surveys were conducted in the study area using plot surveys (see Figure 6.1) and random

meandering transect surveys.

One 20 metre by 50 metre flora survey plot was surveyed. Within the plot the following

vegetation and habitat characteristics were recorded:

Description of vegetation

Groundcover species and abundance

Any signs of previous disturbance and grazing.

A flora survey transect was surveyed along all streets of the proposal site. As rare plants often

exist in discrete populations in specific areas, a random search can increase the probability of

finding rare plant populations. A random search effort also encompasses a greater portion of the

landscape, as the search is not limited to specific areas (only the stratification unit), and is

useful in surveying difficult terrain and irregular shaped search areas.

Survey timing and potential limitations

Surveys were undertaken outside the optimal survey period for some species. Surveys were

undertaken in mid-March 2017. Many plant species are not detectable at these times of the year

because they have finished flowering or have not yet flowered. For threatened flora species that

were not detectable at the time of the survey, but which had the potential to occur at the site, an

assessment was made of the suitability of the habitat for the species and its likelihood of

occurrence.

Some fauna species are mobile and transient in their use of resources. Consequently, it is likely

that not all species either resident or transitory to the site would have been recorded during field

surveys. The disadvantage of this limitation was reduced by undertaking database searches,

and by assessing the habitat value of the study area for threatened and migratory species

known to occur in the wider area to determine their likelihood of occurrence.

This survey was not designed to enable all species, either resident or transitory to the study

area, to be detected. Instead it was aimed at providing an overall assessment of the ecological

values of the study area with particular emphasis on threatened and migratory species to allow

an assessment of the potential impacts of the proposal. For those species of conservation

significance that were not detected but with the potential to occur in the study area, an

assessment of the likelihood of their occurrence was made based on known habitat

requirements.


Fauna

Fauna surveys comprised a habitat assessment for all fauna groups, observations of fauna

signs and opportunistic observations of fauna during flora surveys. Fauna habitat resources

were assessed to identify areas of potential habitat within the study area. Specific resources

such as shelter, basking, roosting, nesting and foraging sites for birds, bats, arboreal mammals,

amphibians, ground-dwelling mammals and reptiles were noted.

Habitat assessment

Habitat details recorded included presence or absence of:

Hollow-bearing trees (arboreal mammals, hollow-nesting birds and microchiropteran bats)

Woody debris (birds and reptiles)

Feed trees (e.g. Allocasuarina spp. and mistletoe)

Waterbodies (amphibians)

Nests (birds)

Rocky outcrops (reptiles)

Other features likely to provide potential habitat for threatened fauna.

Searches for potential mammal, amphibian, and reptile habitat were undertaken and recorded

during flora surveys.

Birds

Species observed at other times (such as during flora surveys) were recorded as opportunistic

observations.

Observations of fauna signs

Any indirect evidence of fauna (e.g. scats, feathers, fur, tracks, dens, nests, scratches, chew

marks and owl wash) was recorded and/or photographed.

Assessment of the likelihood of occurrence of listed biota

An assessment of the likelihood of occurrence and possibility of impact was completed for listed

species, populations and ecological communities with the potential to occur in the study area.

In assessing which of these species, populations and ecological communities are ‘likely’ to

occur within the study area (as described in ‘Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment:

Guidelines for Developments and Activities Working Draft’) (DEC 2004) the following factors

were taken into consideration:

The presence of potential habitat within the study area

Condition and approximate extent of potential habitat within the study area

Species occurrence within the locality and region (including results of current and

previous surveys and results of database searches and literature review).

In addition, the possibility of impact by the proposal on threatened biota likely to occur, or

present was assessed, and therefore whether an EP&A Act assessment of significance and/or

EPBC Act significance assessment is required to assess the significance of the impact. The

proposal is considered to have a low potential to impact on threatened biota likely to occur due

to the limited vegetation removal required. Therefore, no assessments of the significance of

impacts were required to be prepared.


Development of safeguards and management measures

Safeguards and management measures for the proposal were developed based on the site

conditions and the potential impacts of the proposal (see 6.1.4).

6.1.2 Existing environment

Flora species

Field surveys identified 58 flora species, of which 21 are native and 37 are introduced. These

species are listed in Appendix B.

The proposal predominantly occurs in roadside reserve along its length. The footprint occurs in

an area previously cleared of native vegetation with the groundcover dominated by introduced species including Wild Oats (Avena fatua), Paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), Kikuyu Grass

(Cenchrus clandestinus) and Bromes (Bromus spp.). Commonly occurring native species

include Red-leg Grass (Bothriochloa macra), Couch (Cynodon dactylon) and Windmill Grass

(Chloris truncata). Native groundcover species are more common further from the roadside,

adjacent to the proposal site.

Mature trees occur outside the proposed footprint of the pipeline and include Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora), Blakey’s Red Gum (E. blakelyi), White Box (E. albens), Grey Box (E.

microcarpa) and White Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla). Planted Plane Trees (Platanus sp.)

occur along the roadside reserve of the Olympic Highway.

The proposal footprint in the Crown Land in the north-western section of the proposal site

traverses mostly cleared open paddock, which has been heavily grazed. The scattered paddock

trees occurring are Grey Box. The groundcover is dominated by introduced species such as

Wild Oats and Bromes, with native Speargrass (Austrostipa scabra) also occurring.

Shrubs are sparse throughout the study area with only two native shrub species recorded,

Western Silver Wattle (Acacia decora) and Cootamundra Wattle (A. baileyana), which is not

locally endemic.

No threatened flora species listed under the TSC Act or EPBC Act were recorded in the study

area.

Noxious weeds

Two species listed as noxious for the Lockhart Shire Council control area were identified during

the field surveys; St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and Briar Rose (Rosa rubiginosa) (DPI

2017). Both species are class 4 locally controlled weeds, meaning the growth of the plant must

be managed in a manner that continuously inhibits the ability of the plant to spread.

Vegetation communities

Vegetation communities in the study area are shown in Figure 6.1. Areas of woodland that

contain a canopy dominated by Yellow Box and/or Blakely’s Red Gum, such as along

Mangoplah Road and Cornwall Street (see Figure 6.2), are classified as the threatened

ecological community White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland (Box-Gum

Woodland), which is listed as endangered under the TSC Act and critically endangered under

the EPBC Act if more stringent criteria are met. Due to the degraded groundcover in the patch

along Cornwall Street, it only qualifies for listing under the TSC Act due to the presence of

canopy species. The proposal would be located adjacent to the Box-Gum Woodland along

Cornwall Street.

Areas of woodland that contain a canopy dominated by Grey Box, such as along Scott Street

and Milne Road, are classified as the threatened ecological community Inland Grey Box


woodland in the Riverina, NSW South Western Slopes, Cobar Peneplain, Nandewar and

Brigalow Belt South bioregions (Grey Box Woodland), which is listed as endangered under the

TSC Act. To qualify for listing under the EPBC Act more stringent criteria must be met. The

proposal would be located adjacent to the Grey Box Woodland along Scott Street, therefore a

determination of the woodland classification was not undertaken.

!(

Park Street

YerongStreet

ScottStreet

Nicholas Street

Hill Street

Olympic Highway Mangoplah Road

Main Southern Railway

EmilyStreetMilne Road

CornwallStreet

Burkes Creek

CarsonRoad

Country Regional Network rail line

© Land and Property Information 2015

510,000

510,0006,096,

000

6,096,

000

G:\23\16033\GIS\Maps\Deliverables\TheRockFigure6.1_SurveyVegComms.mxd© 2017. Whilst every care has been taken to prepare this map, GHD and Council make no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and cannot accept liability and responsibility of any kind (whether in contract, tort or otherwise) for any expenses, losses, damages and/or costs (including indirect or consequential damage) which are or may be incurred by any party as a result of the map being inaccurate, incomplete or unsuitable in any way and for any reason.

LEGEND0 150 30075

MetresMap Projection: Transverse Mercator

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

Lockhart Shire CouncilThe Rock pressure sewerage system

Flora plot and vegetation communities Figure 6.1

Job NumberRevision A

23-16033

08 May 2017o Date

Data source: NSW Governmnet (LPI): Aerial photograph - 2015, creek - 2012. Created by:mjcotterill

Paper Size A3

Suite 3, Level 1, 161-169 Baylis Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Australia T 61 2 6923 7400 F 61 2 6971 9565 E [email protected] W www.ghd.com

Barometric loop!( Flora survey plot

Proposal siteCreek

Box-Gum Woodland (TSC Act only)Grey Box Woodland (TSC Act only)


Figure 6.2: Box-Gum Woodland along Cornwall Street, looking south

Fauna

Surveys undertaken by GHD identified 22 fauna species, of which three are introduced, the

Common Starling (Turdus merula), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) and Feral Pigeon

(Columba livia). These species are listed in Appendix B. The trees within the study area provide

habitat for a number of bird species and all fauna species recorded during surveys were birds.

Commonly recorded birds included the Galah (Eolophus roseicapillus), Sulphur-crested

Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) and Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen). No threatened species

of bird were recorded during current surveys, however, the Grey-crowned Babbler

(Pomatostomus temporalis temporalis) was recorded during surveys for the environmental

planning overview (Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd, 2017). The species is listed as

vulnerable under the TSC Act and was observed foraging in Pine Street, immediately to the

west of the Stage A proposal site.

No mammals were recorded during field surveys; however native mammals likely to occur include the Eastern Grey Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), Common Brushtail Possum

(Trichosurus vulpecula) and White-striped Freetail Bat (Tadarida australis). Introduced

mammals likely to occur include the Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Cat (Felis catus) and European Rabbit

(Oryctolagus cuniculus).

No amphibian species were heard calling within the study area, this may have been due to high

temperatures. The dams, creek and drainage lines in the study area provide potential habitat for

amphibians.


No species of reptile were recorded during surveys, however species likely to occur include

skinks such as the Tree Skink (Egernia striolata) and snakes such as the Eastern Brown Snake

(Pseudonaja textilis).

Fauna habitat

Fauna habitat in the study area occurs mainly in remnant native vegetation along roadsides and

Burkes Creek to the north, on private properties, and within the cemetery boundary in the south-

eastern section of the study area. There is marginal habitat provided by grasslands through the

surrounding heavily grazed paddocks

Remnant vegetation in the study area provides foraging and breeding habitat for a variety of

bird species.

Grey-crowned Babblers, and other species, are likely to use vegetation corridors in the study

area as corridors for movement. The connectivity of these corridors aids in facilitating the

movement of a range of fauna across the landscape, including woodland birds, mammals and

other fauna.

Hollow-bearing trees occur throughout the study area. Hollow-bearing trees in the study area

are likely to provide roosting and nesting habitat for microchiropteran bats (such as the White-

striped Freetail Bat), arboreal mammals (such as the Common Brushtail Possum) and a range

of woodland birds.

Grassland areas in the study area are likely to provide foraging habitat for mammals such as the

Eastern Grey Kangaroo. Grassy areas are also likely to provide foraging habitat for woodland

birds, including threatened species such as the Superb Parrot (Polytelis swainsonii).

Woody debris in the study area is likely to provide suitable habitat for commonly occurring

reptiles such as skinks and snakes.

Threatened biota

Threatened biota observed during surveys

No threatened species were recorded during current field surveys. However, the Grey-crowned

Babbler was recorded during surveys for the environmental planning overview in Pine Street,

adjacent to the proposal site.

Likelihood of threatened biota occurring in the study area

The literature review, database search and field surveys identified a number of species and two

ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act and/or TSC Act known or likely to occur in

the study area (see Appendix C).

6.1.3 Potential impacts

Potential direct impacts

Construction

Vegetation removal

The proposal would remove about 2,500 square metres of mostly introduced groundcover

vegetation (see Figure 6.3). Groundcover would be removed where the trench is excavated for

laying of the pipe and installation of associated infrastructure.

The loss of groundcover vegetation may represent a loss of foraging habitat for some fauna

species; however, the habitat is marginal due to the dominance of introduced groundcover

species and its previous disturbance, with better quality habitat available outside the proposal

site in the study are and locality. The groundcover would also be allowed to regenerate


following completion of the proposal. No trees would be removed by the proposal. The native

plantings predominantly comprising Lomandra and Atriplex species located along the road

reserve between Emily Street and Park Street would be avoided.

Figure 6.3: Introduced groundcover along the Olympic Highway road reserve, between Emily Street and Park Street

Potential indirect impacts

Water quality, chemical and fuel impacts on flora and fauna

The proposal has the potential to cause impacts to native flora and fauna through spills of fuels

and chemicals. This may occur during refuelling operations or during preparation and use of

chemicals for weed management. Spills could potentially contaminate habitat for species

dependent on drainage lines such as frogs.

The proposal site does not occur in the vicinity of any creeks or dams, however it would be

located adjacent to and within the table drain along part of its alignment. With the

implementation of safeguards it is unlikely that the proposal could cause sedimentation or water

quality impacts which could reach downstream waterbodies.

The proposal could also potentially affect flora through spray drift during application of

herbicides.

These impacts would be unlikely to be substantial due to the limited area of impact and the

implementation of safeguards detailed in section 6.1.4.

Weeds

The groundcover vegetation in the study area contains a range of introduced species. The

proposal has the potential to further introduce and spread weeds in the study area through the

movement of machinery and light vehicle traffic and disturbance associated with earthworks.


Two noxious weeds were identified within the study area. The proposal has the potential to

spread these weeds into new areas and to introduce new noxious weed species to the area.

The implementation of safeguards detailed in section 6.1.4 would limit the potential for the

spread of weeds associated with the proposal.

Disturbance of fauna

The proposal has the potential to temporarily affect the use of the study area by fauna as a

result of increased disturbance during construction. The use of machinery may temporarily deter

some fauna species such as birds from using potential habitat in the study area during

construction.

Cumulative impacts

The proposal would cause impacts additional to those that have occurred due to previous land

use activities in the study area; including agricultural activities and construction and

maintenance of roads (e.g. the Olympic Highway) and utilities.. Given the small scale of

vegetation removal involved, and the degraded nature of the groundcover vegetation proposed

to be removed, it is unlikely that the proposal would cause significant cumulative ecological

impacts.

Key threatening processes

No key threatening processes listed under the TSC Act or EPBC Act are relevant to the

proposal due to the removal of vegetation being limited to mostly introduced groundcover

species.

Summary of impact assessment

The literature review, database search and field surveys identified 17 birds, three mammals,

one frog, five plants and two ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act and/or TSC Act

known or likely to occur in the study area. The proposal is considered to have a low potential to

impact on threatened biota likely to occur due to the limited vegetation removal required.

Therefore, no assessments of the significance of impacts were required to be prepared.

The proposal is unlikely to impact on any threatened ecological communities or threatened

species due to the minor nature of impacts of the proposal, its location in a previously disturbed

environment, the retention of all trees, and the presence of additional, higher quality habitat

outside of the proposal site.

6.1.4 Safeguards and management measures

Impact Safeguard Responsibility

and timing

Loss of native vegetation habitat

All staff will be inducted and informed of the limits of

vegetation clearing and the areas of vegetation to be

retained. Areas of vegetation not to be removed will be

clearly marked prior to construction. No trees would be

removed

Temporary exclusion fencing will be erected to prevent

encroachment and clearing of remnant vegetation

beyond the construction footprint

Stockpiles of construction materials will be restricted to

existing cleared areas and not within areas of

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction



and timing

adjoining native vegetation. Stockpiles would be

moved daily as the works progress along the

alignment.

Spread of weeds

Noxious weed control measures will be implemented

as part of the CEMP to prevent their spread in the

study area

Declared noxious weeds will be managed according to

requirements under the NSW Noxious Weeds Act

1993

Soil disturbance will be avoided as much as possible to

minimise the potential for spreading weeds and

generating sediment

Vehicle and machinery wash/brush downs may be

required to ensure that noxious weed species are not

spread to previously non-infested areas.

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction

Chemical and fuel impacts on native vegetation

Any herbicides used for weed control will be applied to

the manufacturer's specifications and as outlined in

the manufacturers Material Safety Data Sheet

Broad spectrum non-selective herbicides (residual

herbicides) will not be used. Herbicides selected for

use will be appropriate for the species being treated

Spraying of herbicides will not be undertaken in windy

weather or within such distance of a watercourse as

will permit any of the herbicide to enter the water

Safeguards for preventing and managing spills of fuels

and chemicals will be implemented as detailed in

section 6.2.3 of this REF.

Project manager

Construction

6.2 Soils, water quality, hydrology and groundwater


Topography and geology

The study area is located in the Brokong Plains Mitchell Landscape, which is comprised of

Quaternary alluvial plains (Mitchell 2002). This landscape is 93 percent cleared and is therefore

considered an over-cleared landscape (>70 per cent cleared). The general elevation is 170

metres above sea level. Local relief is less than 10 metres (Mitchell 2002).

The geology of the study area falls within an unnamed geological unit from the Quaternary

period. This unit comprises unconsolidated riverine deposits of clay, silt, sand and gravel, and

includes flood plains and black soil plains (NSW Department of Mineral Resources 2002).

The terrain of the study area is generally flat to gently undulating. Elevation is about 236 metres

above sea level.


Soils

Soil types

The Brokong Plains Mitchell Landscape contains red-brown texture-contrast soils (Mitchell

2002).

Acid sulphate soils

There are no known occurrences of acid sulphate soils in the study area. Based on mapping of

acid sulphate soils for NSW (OEH 2013), it is unlikely that these would occur in the study area.

Acid sulphate soils are generally confined to coastal areas, although they can occur at inland

locations where there is poor drainage. No such environments are known to be present in the

study area.

Soil contamination

A search of the EPA contaminated land register did not find any declared contaminated sites

located in or near the study area (see Appendix D).

Land use in the study area is characterised by residential and rural properties. These land uses

indicate minimal potential for contamination in the study area. Agricultural practices dominate

the landscape outside the study area.

Flooding

Flooding within The Rock is caused from both Burkes Creek and overland flooding from

Flowerpot Hill, which is located to the south of the town. Numerous flood events have occurred

at The Rock with records extending as far back 1891, with significant recent flooding in October

2010 and March 2012.

Hydrology and water quality

Hydrology

The township of The Rock is located on the floodplain of Burkes Creek, which is a tributary of

Bullenbong Creek, with its confluence about 25 kilometres north-west of The Rock. Burkes

Creek has a catchment area of about 630 square kilometres at The Rock and travels from east

to west through the town. The catchment extends about 45 kilometres to the south-east and

includes the towns of Mangoplah, Pulletop, Burrandana and Westby.

Surface water quality

In the Lockhart Shire there are six creeks that are classified as protected streams, including

Burkes Creek. Water quality is largely influenced by adjacent land use with water clarity being

poor due to sediment runoff into the creeks and the creeks moving sediment load. Burkes Creek

also receives licensed discharge from The Rock treatment works (LSC 2012).

Agricultural runoff may contain farm chemicals and fertilisers that degrade water quality.

Agricultural runoff may also contain manure from stock, which can increase:

Biochemical oxygen demand

Levels of nutrients such as nitrogen

Levels of bacteria such as faecal coliforms.

Operation of roads leads to the build-up of contaminants (such as oil and heavy metals) on road

surfaces and roadside corridors.


Groundwater

There are no registered groundwater bores located in the study area of the proposal. The

nearest groundwater bore with recorded depth to watertable is about nine kilometres south-west

of the study area. The recorded groundwater level is 51.8 metres.

In general, the depth to the watertable would vary with season, rainfall, elevation, proximity to

creeks and presence of aquifers. The watertable may be closer to the ground surface in the

vicinity of Burkes Creek, however, the proposal is not located near the creek and due to the

nature of the works it is unlikely the watertable would be intercepted during construction.


Topography and soils

Vegetation removal

About 2,500 square metres of mostly introduced groundcover vegetation would be removed as

part of the proposal. Vegetation removal and earthworks would expose soils to weathering

processes, increasing the risk of erosion and sedimentation. Disturbed areas along the proposal

site would be stabilised after construction completion.

Earthworks

The proposal would involve earthworks over the length of the pipeline alignment for excavation

of the trench, as well as for installation of associated infrastructure such as boundary kits.

Earthworks would potentially affect soils, however is unlikely to affect topography due to the

minor nature of the works.

Where the trench is excavated, the topsoil layer and a proportion of the surficial geology would

be removed, exposing the underlying geologic layers. Loose soil, stored beside the trench to be

used as backfill, may be eroded during rainfall events by runoff, increasing the potential for

mass movements of soils and sedimentation of local drainage lines. This may in turn influence

the vegetation and habitat of adjacent areas by smothering groundcover vegetation and

changing soil surface characteristics.

Vehicle movements, including machinery and support vehicles

Machinery and support vehicles used for the construction of the proposal would be driven off

road and would have the potential to transport excess material onto sealed roads.

Stockpiling

Excavated material would be store beside the trench to be used as backfill after the pipe is laid.

Loose soil material could erode in periods of high rainfall or windy conditions. This risk would be

managed by backfilling the trench immediately after the pipe is laid in each section, minimising

the storage of soil required.

Soil contamination

There is potential for chemical and fuel spills during construction, which may result in localised

contamination of soils. The potential for contamination is considered to be low provided the

safeguards and management measures outlined in section 6.2.3 are implemented.

Surface water quality

The introduction of pollutants from construction of the proposal into the surrounding

environment, if uncontrolled, could potentially have the following impacts on the water quality of

drainage lines and dams:


Increased sediment load and organic matter causing adverse impacts to water quality in

drainage lines and dams, such as increased turbidity. Provided safeguards and

management measures are implemented, the proposal would be unlikely to contribute

significant amounts of sediment and organic matter

Gross pollutants (large waste items) entering drainage lines and dams in the study area

Reduced water quality in drainage lines and dams due to an influx of man-made

substances.

Construction activities could introduce additional materials to the local drainage lines and dams,

particularly during high rainfall events. Contaminants could include rubbish and construction

materials, and fuel or chemicals from accidental spills. Spills could occur during refuelling or

through leaking of hydraulic and lubricating oil from plant and equipment.

The potential for construction water quality impacts to the surrounding drainage lines and dams

is considered to be moderate due to the potential for soil erosion and sedimentation during

construction, particularly when construction occurs adjacent to table drains.

6.2.3 Safeguards and mitigation measures


and timing

Soil erosion, sedimentation and water quality

A soil and water management plan will be prepared as

part of the CEMP for the proposal in accordance with the Blue Book - Soils and Construction - Managing

Urban Stormwater Volume 1 (Landcom 2004)

The soil and water management plan will include but

not be limited to:

– A primary erosion and sedimentation control plan

and a maintenance schedule for ongoing

maintenance of temporary erosion and sediment

controls

– An incident emergency spill plan which will include

measures to avoid spillages of fuels, chemicals,

and fluids onto any surfaces or into any

adjacent/nearby waterways.

If considered necessary, an accredited soil

conservationist may be engaged to provide advice

during development and implementation of the soil

and water management plan. The soil conservationist

may regularly review and inspect works throughout the

construction phase.

Project manager

Pre-construction

Soil erosion and sedimentation

Sediment and erosion controls will be installed before

the commencement of earthworks

Erosion and sedimentation controls will be checked

and maintained regularly during construction

High risk soil erosion activities such as earthworks will

not be undertaken immediately before or during high

rainfall or wind events

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Erosion and sediment control measures will be

maintained until the works are complete and areas are

stabilised.

Soil and water contamination

All fuels, chemicals, and liquids will be stored at least

50 metres away from any drainage lines in bunded

fuel trailers and utility vehicles. If storage in the

compound site is necessary, fuels, chemicals and

liquids will be stored in an impervious bunded area

The refuelling of plant and planned maintenance of

machinery and plant will be undertaken 50 metres

away from waterways

Emergency spill kits will be kept on-site at all times

All staff will be inducted about incident and emergency

procedures and made aware of the locations of

emergency spill kits

Should a spill occur during construction, the

emergency spill plan will be implemented. The EPA

will be notified as per Part 5.7 of the POEO Act.

Project manager

Construction

6.3 Landuse and property


Land uses in the study area consist of (see Figure 1.1):

Rural holdings used for agriculture including grazing and cropping

Residences surrounding the proposal site

Crown Land in the north-western section of the study area

The Rock Station and Yard heritage item in the northern section of the study area

The Rock town centre north and east of the proposal site

Existing roads, including the Olympic Highway, Mangoplah Road, Scott Street, Emily

Street, Park Street, Hill Street, Cornwall Street and Milne Road

Burkes Creek located north of the study area

The Main Southern Railway in the northern section of the study area

The Country Regional Network rail line managed by John Holland in the north-western

section of the study area

The proposal site is predominantly located within Council owned road reserve. The proposal

would also be located in the Olympic Highway road reserve, managed by Roads and Maritime,

land operated by the ARTC, and Crown Land leased by Council in the west and northern

sections of the study area.



Property acquisition

The construction of the proposal would not require a formal easement along the alignment,

therefore no property acquisition is required. Concurrence from Local Land Services, who

manage the Crown Land in the north-western section of the study area, has been given for

construction of the proposal. Roads and Maritime and the ARTC has also given verbal

permission for the proposal to be constructed on their respective lands. Ongoing formal

consultation will continue to occur with Roads and Maritime and ARTC to gain the relevant

approvals prior to construction commencing.

Indirect impacts on land use

The proposal has the potential to indirectly affect land use through impacts relating to soil and

water contamination, air quality and noise. These impacts are assessed in sections 6.2.3, 6.4.4

and 6.5.3. The proposal is unlikely to cause significant long-term indirect impacts to land use.

6.3.3 Safeguards and mitigation measures

Impact Safeguard Timing and

responsibility

Land use disruption

Affected landowners and stakeholders, including the

Local Land Services - Riverina, Roads and Maritime

and ARTC will be consulted on an ongoing basis

regarding the status and timing of construction.

Pre-construction

and construction

Council

6.4 Noise and vibration

6.4.1 Methodology

The Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC 2009) states that construction works with a

duration of more than three weeks should be subject to a quantitative assessment of noise

impacts. It is anticipated that the construction period for the pressure sewerage system will be

about six months; however, the proposal would be constructed progressively along the

alignment, with construction in each area expected to occur over a period less than three

weeks.

Due to the equipment, methodology and timing, these works are only likely to generate low

levels of noise. Therefore, a qualitative assessment of the potential noise impacts of the

proposal has been undertaken.


The study area is located on the southern side of The Rock township and surrounded by

farmland. The topography of the study area is generally flat to gently undulating.

Sensitive receivers with the potential to be affected by noise impacts during construction of the

proposal include residents near the proposal site. Numerous residences are located directly

adjacent to the proposal site, with the pipeline to be generally located within the nature strip of

each property (see Figure 1.1). Existing noise levels in the study area would primarily be

influenced by passing traffic on the Olympic Highway and other local roads, trains on the Main

Southern Railway, and by other noise associated with rural town environments.



A qualitative noise assessment of potential noise sources adapted from the Interim Construction

Noise Guideline (DECC 2009) is provided in Table 6.2.

Table 6.2: Qualitative noise assessment

Noise Source Questions relating to noise heard at residences Is examination of work practices necessary?

Is noise loud in absolute terms, or relative to other noises in the area?

Does the noise include tones or impulses?

Does the noise occur at times that interfere with sleep or comfort?

Tip trucks Yes Yes, reversing alarms

No Yes

Light vehicles No Yes, reversing alarms

No No

Excavators Yes Yes, reversing alarms

No Yes

Directional drilling machine

No Yes, drilling noise No Yes

It is anticipated that the proposal would typically be completed within the following hours:

Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm.

Saturday: 8am to 1pm.

Sunday and Public Holidays: no work.

Generally, noise impacts during construction would be intermittent and short-term. With the

implementation of the appropriate safeguards as detailed below, and considering the standard

working hours to be employed, the proposal would be unlikely to have a significant noise impact

on sensitive receivers.



and timing

Construction noise and vibration impacts

A noise and vibration management plan will be

prepared as a section of the construction

environmental management plan. The plan will include

proposed environmental control measures for all high

noise and vibration generating activities

A community relations program would be prepared as

part of the CEMP to ensure that sensitive receivers

are informed on the progress of the construction

works. Notifications would be undertaken in

accordance with the community liaison program.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Construction noise from inappropriate practices

Inductions for the work crew would include the specific

noise issues and mitigation measures required for the

site. The induction would include:

Project manager

Construction



and timing

– all relevant project specific and standard noise

mitigation measures

– relevant approval conditions

– permissible hours of work

– location of nearest sensitive receivers

– construction employee parking areas

– designated loading/ unloading areas and

procedures

– site opening/closing times (including deliveries)

– behavioural practices including:

– avoiding the use of outdoor radios when

working outside the recommended

standard hours

– avoiding shouting and slamming doors

– where practical, operating machines at

low speed or power and switching off

when not being used rather than left idling

for prolonged periods

– minimising reversing alarms

avoiding dropping materials from height and avoiding

metal to metal contact on material.

Construction noise impacts

Where the predicted and/or measured construction

noise is greater than the noise affected level, works

would be conducted in accordance with the ICNG and

all reasonable and feasible practices would be

undertaken to minimise noise

Site setup and dismantling would occur during

standard work hours, reducing noise impacts to

sensitive receivers where possible. The site setup

would seek to maximise the distance between plant

and equipment and any residences and other noise

sensitive receivers where practicable. For example,

vehicle movements and generator storage would be

located as far as possible from residences

Use quieter noise emitting construction methods

where practicable

Machines found to produce excess noise compared to

industry best practice would be removed from the site

or stood down until repairs or modifications can be

made

Ensure that truck engine brakes usage is minimised

when entering or leaving the work sites or work areas

Project manager

Construction



and timing

adjacent to residential properties and on construction

traffic routes

Any noise complaints would be addressed

immediately in accordance with a standard resolution

procedure. Property owners/occupiers potentially

impacted by the construction works would be informed

in advance of the proposed work and provided a

contact phone number for any complaints or concerns

during the construction period.

6.5 Air quality


Air quality

The proposal site is located in an urban, semi-rural setting, predominantly on the southern side

of the Olympic Highway, adjacent to residential properties and properties used for agriculture.

Sources of air pollution in the study area are likely to include:

Emissions from vehicles on local roads

Dust from vehicles travelling on unsealed roads

Dust from agricultural activities

Smoke from paddock stubble burn-off in agricultural areas, as well as from wood fires.

Search results from the national pollutant inventory managed by DotEE (2017c) indicate there

are no industrial facilities in The Rock catchment (postcode 2655).

The most commonly reported atmospheric emissions in the catchment are:

Total nitrogen

Total phosphorus.

Sensitive receivers

Sensitive receivers with the potential to be affected by air quality impacts during construction of

the proposal include residents near the proposal site. Numerous residences are located along

the length of the proposal site, predominantly along Emily Street and Scott Street (see Figure

1.1).


Construction

During construction the following activities would potentially result in air quality impacts:

Clearing of groundcover vegetation

Earthworks

Storing spoil for backfill

Transport and handling of soils and materials


Use of construction vehicles, generating exhaust fumes.

Potential air quality impacts during construction would predominantly be from the generation of

dust. Dust generation could result in health impacts to nearby receivers.

Given the close distances of the proposed earthworks to sensitive receivers, it is expected the

proposal would cause short term air quality impacts at residences.

Dust could be generated by construction vehicles travelling along parts of the unsealed

proposal site alignment, including the lane between Emily Street and Scott Street, and the

Crown Land. The impacts of dust generation would be short-term, during the construction phase

only and would be controlled using the safeguards detailed in section 6.5.3.

Machinery and other construction vehicles would emit exhaust fumes. The impact of these

emissions would be temporary in nature and limited to the construction phase.

Overall, potential air quality impacts during construction would be moderate and short-term.



and timing

General air quality impacts

Construction activities will be managed to minimise the

emission of dust, smoke, and other substances.

Project manager

Construction

Dust Air quality impacts relating to dust generated by

construction vehicles will be monitored

Exposed surfaces will be watered regularly to

minimise dust emissions, if required

During periods of high winds, dust generating activities

will cease

Stabilisation of disturbed surfaces will take place as

soon as practicable

Areas that may generate dust will be managed to

suppress dust emissions.

Project manager

Construction

Other emissions

Plant and machinery will be turned off when not in use

as much as possible and will be fitted with emission

control devices complying with Australian Design

Standards

Construction plant and equipment will be maintained in

a good working condition in order to limit impacts on

air quality

No burning of any materials will occur

During transportation, loads will be adequately

covered.

Project manager

Construction


6.6 Landscape and visual


The landscape character of the study area is generally defined by urban development and rural

properties used for agriculture. The study area is generally flat to gently undulating.

There is remnant native woodland vegetation located adjacent to the proposal site in the road

reserves of the Olympic Highway, Mangoplah Road, Milne Road, Scott Street and Cornwall

Street. Patches of remnant woodland also occur in the southern and western sections of the

study area on private properties, and east of the Crown Land. Native woodland in the study

area provides aesthetic visual character.

Key receivers in the study area include residences along the proposed alignment of the

pressure sewerage system. The proposal site would also be visible from the following roads

(see Figure 1.1):

Olympic Highway

Mangoplah Road

Milne Road

Scott Street

Cornwall Street

Emily Street

Hill Street

Park Street

Carson Road

Nicholas Street

Pine Street.


Construction

Visual impacts during construction would generally be associated with:

Plant and equipment

Earthworks

Temporary storage of pipe along the alignment.

These have the potential to temporarily affect views for residents and local road users.

Residents and road users would be affected by views of the construction of the proposal,

including earthworks, construction plant and equipment and the temporary storage of pipe along

the alignment as it is being progressively laid.

The visual impacts of construction works would be temporary and relatively small-scale. It is

anticipated that reinstatement of disturbed areas would reduce the visual impacts in the short to

medium term after construction.

Operation

The construction of proposal is unlikely to greatly impact upon visual amenity for residents along

the alignment. The proposed air valves located at various points along the alignment would be


visible for residents during operation; however these are small in size and unlikely to intrude on

the amenity of the area. The barometric loop to be located in the Crown Land would be located

at least 100 metres from the nearest sensitive receiver and therefore unlikely to obstruct any

views in the study area.

It is unlikely that the proposal would cause any substantial obstruction of existing views due to

the small scale of the infrastructure to be installed and the majority of the proposal being located

underground.



and timing

Visual impacts of proposal

The footprint for construction works will be kept to a

minimum to minimise earthworks and maintain existing

groundcover vegetation wherever possible

Sites disturbed by earthworks will be stabilised as

soon as possible after construction.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction

Visual impacts of construction works

The work site will be left in a tidy manner at the end of

each work day.

Project manager

Construction

6.7 Aboriginal Heritage

6.7.1 Methodology

In assessing the potential impact of the proposal on Aboriginal heritage, the Due Diligence

Code of Practice for the Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales (DECCW 2010)

was followed.

The proposal is not defined as a low impact activity under the National Parks and Wildlife

Regulation 2009 (NPW Regulation) as it involves excavation of soil. The due diligence process

is therefore relevant to the proposal.

A search of the NSW Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) was

undertaken on 27 March 2017 for the proposal.

The study area generally has a high level of disturbance. Surveys were not required; as it is

likely that previous disturbance has removed any existing sites of Aboriginal heritage.


The results of the AHIMS search indicate that no Aboriginal objects or Aboriginal places have

been recorded in or near the proposal site, and no Aboriginal places have been declared in or

near the site (see Appendix D).

The study area is located within the Murray-Darling Basin. Aboriginal people have occupied this

part of Australia for up to 50,000 years, with early occupation focused on the resources of

freshwater lakes and rivers and their floodplains. The Rock is located within the boundary of

Wiradjuri Country. Burkes Creek, which runs along the northern boundary of the town, may


have been a landscape feature of significance for the local Aboriginal community, providing

opportunities for fishing and hunting.

The archaeology of the Lockhart Shire is part of a distinctive pattern found on the Riverine Plain.

Artefacts that have been found on the Riverine Plain include fired clay balls and stone tools.

Scarred trees are widespread at various locations throughout the shire and burials are also

common (LSC 2012).

The study area and proposal site have been substantially modified by agricultural activities and

the development of roads. The proposed pressure sewerage system is located in areas that

have been cleared of native vegetation. No trees that could potentially bare Aboriginal scars

would be removed by the proposal.


The due diligence assessment process detailed in the Due Diligence Code of Practice for the

Protection of Aboriginal Objects in New South Wales (DECCW 2010) was followed for the

proposal as outlined in Table 6.3.

Table 6.3: Due diligence assessment

Due diligence matter Response

1. Will the activity disturb the ground surface or any culturally modified trees?

Yes – the proposal would disturb the ground surface for the construction of the pressure sewerage system; however the proposal site is located in previously disturbed land. No trees would be removed by the proposal.

2a. Are there any relevant confirmed site records or other associated landscape feature information on AHIMS?

The results of the AHIMS search indicate that no Aboriginal objects or Aboriginal places have been recorded in or near the study area, and no Aboriginal places have been declared in or near the study area.

2a. Are there any other sources of information of which a person is already aware?

There are no other known studies of the area relevant to the proposal.

2b. Are there landscape features that are likely to indicate presence of Aboriginal objects?

No landscape features such as rock shelters, sand dunes, permanent waterways, waterholes or wetlands are present in the study area. The proposal is located on land that has been previously disturbed by clearing and road development. Because the site has previously been disturbed, no further investigation of Aboriginal heritage is necessary.

No Aboriginal sites were identified during the current study, and the study area was assessed

as holding little potential for the existence of undetected Aboriginal sites. It is unlikely that the

proposal would have any impacts on sites of Aboriginal heritage.



and timing

Potential impacts to unexpected finds

In the event of an unexpected find of an Aboriginal

heritage item (or suspected item), all works in the

vicinity of the find must cease and the site supervisor

will be contacted immediately for advice on how to

proceed

Council and

Project manager

Construction



and timing

If the origin of the find cannot be determined quickly,

or if it is determined that the find is of Aboriginal origin,

immediately notify the following authorities or

personnel of the discovery:

– OEH (Queanbeyan Office): ph. 131 555 or (02)

9995 5555

– Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Land Council

(LALC): ph. (02) 6921 4095.

Facilitate, in co-operation with the appropriate

authorities and Wagga Wagga LALC:

– The recording and assessment of the finds

– Fulfilling any legal constraints arising from the

find(s). This will include complying with OEH

directions

– The development and conduct of appropriate

management strategies. Strategies will depend on

Aboriginal consultation and the assessment of the

significance of the find(s).

Where the find(s) are determined to be Aboriginal

objects as defined by the NPW Act, any re-

commencement of construction related ground surface

disturbance may only resume in the area of the find(s)

following compliance with any consequential legal

requirements and gaining written approval from OEH

(as required).

Potential impacts to unexpected human remains

Cease all ground surface disturbance in the area of

the find(s) immediately by notifying machinery

operators in the immediate vicinity of the find(s). Also

avoid touching the discovered remains

Inform the site supervisor as soon as possible to

organise for a qualified professional opinion (usually

the police in the first instance)

Create a buffer zone of 50 metres by 50 metres

around the find spot. No authorised entry or earth

disturbance will be allowed until the discovery has

been assessed.

Council and

Project manager

Construction

6.8 Non-Aboriginal Heritage

6.8.1 Methodology

Heritage databases were searched on 28 March 2017 to identify any heritage items recorded in

the study area, including the following:

Australian Heritage database, for items and places of national heritage significance

NSW State Heritage Inventory, for items and places of State heritage significance


Heritage Schedule 5 of the Lockhart LEP for zoning and local heritage information.


History of European settlement

The Lockhart Shire was proclaimed in 1906, after Charles Sturt, who was tracing the course of

the Murrumbidgee River, recorded the first European sighting of The Rock and Galore Hill. By

the 1830’s squatters were occupying large areas of land and the era of large stations and

pastoralism began (LSC 2015).

The Lands Department subdivided substantial areas of former leasehold land into small

holdings of about 200 hectares or a little more. It was not long before most of the station owners

also subdivided substantial areas of freehold land into small blocks and by 1915 the bulk of the

land within Lockhart Shire was held by small settlers. The town of Lockhart, which was to

become Shire Headquarters, was only surveyed in 1897.

Heritage sites

Three listed heritage items are located in the study area; The Rock Conservation Area, The

Rock Police Station and The Rock Station and Yard. The Rock Station and Yard is listed on the

Lockhart LEP, the state government section 170 register (The Rock Railway Precinct) and on the NSW Heritage Act 1977. The boundary for the site listed on the LEP occurs within the study

area, with the proposal site traversing through its boundary. The western boundary extent for

the site as listed under the Heritage Act 1977 is located further to the east than the LEP

boundary and therefore not within the proposal site (see Figure 1.1).

The Rock Police Station is located about 150 metres north of the proposal site on the corner of

Nicholas Street and Emily Street. The Rock Urban Conservation Area, listed on the Lockhart

LEP is located north of the proposal site. This area is unlikely to be impacted by the proposal.


It is unlikely that any items of heritage significance would be impacted by the proposal, however

the proposal would involve construction within the gazetted boundary of The Rock Station and

Yard area, as listed under the Lockhart LEP. The proposal is unlikely to impact on any important

features of the heritage listed item and construction within the boundary would be limited to

underboring and trenching within previously disturbed land. No approvals are required for

construction to occur in the LEP listed boundary.



and timing

Potential impacts to unexpected finds

In the event of an unexpected find of a non-Aboriginal

heritage item (or suspected item), all works in the

vicinity of the find must cease and the site supervisor

will be contacted immediately for advice on how to

proceed

Works will not recommence until the heritage value

and associated protection and any approval

requirements have been determined

Council and

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Council will notify OEH if any item (or suspected item)

of non-Aboriginal heritage is found during construction

to determine the appropriate course of action.

6.9 Traffic access


The proposal site is located in the road reserve of the Olympic Highway and numerous local

roads, including Mangoplah Road, Milne Road, Emily Street, Scott Street and Cornwall Street

(see Figure 1.1). The Olympic Highway is zoned as SP2 – Infrastructure, a state road, and

therefore the responsibility of Roads and Maritime. All other roads along the proposal site are

locally classified roads and the responsibility of Council.


Construction of the proposal would be undertaken so that impacts to traffic would be minimised

as much as possible.

Construction access to the proposal site would be via the Olympic Highway and the local roads

in which the proposal would be constructed adjacent to. Construction traffic would travel from

the Council depot in The Rock township north of the proposal site where construction machinery

and site facilities would be located.

The proposal would generate a number of heavy vehicle movements through the transport of

machinery, fuel, general provisions and materials across the duration of the project. The number

of heavy vehicle movements required is about 380 over the six month construction period.

Light vehicles would be required to transport staff to and from the proposal site. Light vehicles

would also be used in various roles on site.

This number of vehicle movements generated by the proposal would be unlikely to significantly

affect traffic on local roads.

Traffic controls would be put in place for works within road reserves. During the construction

period traffic speed would be reduced and potentially restricted to one lane if required. All roads

would be underbored for installation of the pipe to avoid the closure of roads and disruption to

traffic. The Olympic Highway would remain open for the duration of the construction period.

Consultation with Roads and Maritime has been undertaken to ensure the proposal would be

unlikely to cause any significant disruption to traffic. Construction methods are to be consistent

with Roads and Maritime’s requirements (see section 5.1.2).

Property access

There would be no changes to property accesses during construction and operation. Property

accesses would be underbored in order to avoid disruption to residences. All access would be

maintained throughout construction.




and timing

Construction

impacts to

traffic

A traffic management plan would be prepared in

accordance with the Australian Standard 1742.3-2002:

Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices and the

NSW Roads and Maritime Services ‘QA Specification

G10 Traffic Control at Worksites’

The traffic management plan would include measures

to provide safe access points to work areas from the

adjacent road network, safety barriers where

necessary, temporary speed restrictions when

necessary, specific controls for partial road closures

and changed road conditions, adequate sight

distances and prominent warning signage. The plan

would also include measures to restrict public access

to the proposal site

Continued consultation with Roads and Maritime

would be conducted to ensure works along the

Olympic Highway are managed as per Roads and

Maritime requirements.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Construction impacts to traffic and property access

The traffic management plan would be implemented

during construction

All property accesses would be maintained throughout

the construction period.

Project manager

Construction

6.10 Socio-economic

6.10.1 Existing Environment

The town of The Rock is located about 30 kilometres south-west of Wagga Wagga. The town

provides essential services, such as medical and community facilities, shopping and schools.

The Rock is located within the Lockhart LGA.

Census data

The 2011 Census (ABS 2012) provides the following core demographic data about The Rock:

At the time of the 2011 Census there were 2,998 people in the Lockhart LGA. This

includes 1,054 residents at The Rock

The number of dwellings was 397, with an average household size of three.

The proportion of people aged 19 years or under was 26.5 per cent.

The proportion of people aged 60 years or older was 26.4 per cent.

The median weekly household income was $907.

The proportion of households with two motor vehicles was 40.2 per cent.

People of Australian Aboriginal descent comprised 2.3 per cent of the population.

The top employment occupations for the Lockhart LGA (ABS 2011) are provided in Table 6.4.


Table 6.4: Top employment occupations for the Lockhart LGA

Industry Number employed Percentage of people employed

Managers 84 18.1

Technical and trades 77 16.6

Labourers 58 12.5

Professionals 56 12.1

Clerical 51 11.0

The area surrounding The Rock mainly comprises rural land use. In 2011 the agriculture,

forestry and fishing industry employed 11.2 per cent of all people employed in the Lockhart LGA

(ABS 2011).

Land uses in the study area are listed in section 6.3. Land use in the study area is characterised

by urban development and agricultural land use, including grazing and cropping.


During construction there would be a potential reduction in amenity for residences as a result of

construction activities. Potential impacts on amenity have been assessed in the following

sections of the REF:

Land use and property (section 6.3)

Noise and vibration (section 6.4)

Air quality (section 6.5)

Visual (section 6.6).

The construction of the pressure sewerage system includes five metres of pipe and a boundary

kit for connection of each property to the system. While it is not compulsory for residents to

connect to the system, should they wish to do so additional pipe required to connect household

facilities to the system would be at the expense of the resident.

Potential impacts are expected to be minimal (see section 6.3).

Beneficial impacts

The proposal would provide improved sewage management facilities for the affected residents

at The Rock. The new infrastructure would provide a cost effective and efficient sewerage

system



and timing

General impacts to properties

Potentially affected property owners will be contacted

before the commencement of works. Residents will be

notified via door knocks providing information on the

proposed works, working hours and a contact name

Council

Pre-construction



and timing

and number should any complaints wish to be

registered.

6.11 Waste management

6.11.1 Policy setting

Council is committed to ensuring responsible management of unavoidable waste and to

promoting the reuse of such waste through appropriate measures. This is done in accordance

with the resource management hierarchy principles contained in the Waste Avoidance and

Resource Recovery Act 2001. The resource management hierarchy principles in order of priority

as outlined in the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 are:

Avoidance of unnecessary resource consumption

Resource recovery (including reuse, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery)

Diversion of Green waste, metal waste and E-waste

Disposal

Chemclear implemented in 2017 to collect unwanted agricultural chemicals.

By adopting the above principles, Council encourages the most efficient use of resources and

reduces cost and environmental harm.


The proposal is unlikely to generate large quantities of waste. Waste would potentially be

generated from the following sources, some of which would be recycled or reused:

Green waste from vegetation clearing. Noxious weed material would be separated from

native green waste

Chemicals and oils

Waste water from wash-down and bunded areas

Excess construction materials

Waste from decommissioned septic/aeration tanks by individual residences

Redundant erosion and sediment controls

Paper and office waste from site and management facilities

General waste from staff (lunch packaging etc).

The potential to reuse materials would be investigated during detailed design. The proposal is

not expected to generate large amounts of waste, as excavated soil for the trench would be

used as fill once the pipe is laid.

Liquid and solid waste would be removed by tanker or truck and disposed of off-site at a facility

that is licensed and able to accept those wastes for storage, reuse or disposal. Fuel and

chemical storage areas would be bunded and protected in accordance with the specifications

set out by OEH and WorkCover.


Any spoil material that cannot be used on site would be classified in accordance with the ‘Waste

Classification Guidelines’ (EPA 2014) and disposed of at an approved materials recycling or

waste disposal facility.

Materials not reused would be removed to a licensed or approved facility. The impacts of waste

generation at the site are considered to be low, and would be minimised.



and timing

General waste impacts

A waste management plan will be included as part of

the CEMP.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

General waste impacts

Resource management hierarchy principles will be

followed:

– Avoid unnecessary resource consumption as a

priority

– Recover resources as far as is practicable

(including reuse of materials, reprocessing, and

recycling and energy recovery)

– Disposal is undertaken as a last resort (in

accordance with the Waste Avoidance and

Resource Recovery Act 2001).

Site inductions will be undertaken (and recorded) by a

site supervisor for all staff, to provide a thorough

knowledge of all key environmental/safety issues,

including waste disposal protocols.

Wastes will be managed and classified in accordance

with the ‘Waste Classification Guidelines’ (EPA 2014)

and managed in accordance with the POEO Act

All waste will be disposed of at appropriately approved

and licensed facilities

Garbage receptacles will be provided and recycling of

materials encouraged. Rubbish will be transported to

an appropriate waste disposal facility

Where appropriate, excess materials will be disposed

of according to the following (in order):

– Use remaining materials as directed by the

property owner

– Disposal at an approved materials recycling or

waste disposal facility

– As otherwise provided for by the relevant waste

legislation.

Waste material will not be left on site once the works

have been completed.

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction


6.12 Climate change

6.12.1 Policy setting

Climate change refers to the warming temperatures and altered climatic conditions associated

with the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. There is a need to understand

climate change and the effect it could have on all existing and potential new projects and

infrastructure. In NSW, responses to climate change are provided in various policy and

guideline documents such as the NSW Greenhouse Plan (NSW Government 2005b).

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change produces global climate change projections.

In Australia both the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) have produced regional downscaled projections for

Australia. In 2008, the NSW Government published refined climate change projections for each

region in NSW. This work was carried out by researchers at the Climate Change Research

Centre, University of New South Wales.


Existing climate

The Rock area receives an average annual rainfall of 565.9 millimetres. Rainfall is spread

evenly throughout the year with a maximum in June (BOM 2017).

The mean maximum temperature for Wagga Wagga, the closest weather station, is 21.8

degrees Celsius. The mean minimum temperature is 9.6 degrees Celsius (BOM 2017).

Climate change

The former Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (now OEH), in partnership

with the Climate Change Research Centre at the University of New South Wales, developed

regional climate projections for NSW based on preliminary analyses of global modelling data.

The projections have been developed for ‘State Plan regions’ throughout NSW (OEH 2014).

The proposal occurs in the Murray Murrumbidgee Region, which includes the NSW side of the

Murray River, as well as the Murrumbidgee and Lachlan rivers.

By 2039, annual rainfall in the Murray Murrumbidgee Region is projected to increase in summer

and autumn and decrease in spring. Severe fire weather is projected to increase across the

region during spring and summer, and decrease during autumn.

Maximum temperatures are projected to increase in the near future by 0.4 to one degrees

Celsius and in the far future by 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius. The number of hot days is projected

to increase, while the number of cold nights will decrease.


Potential impacts of climate change on the proposal

Fluctuations in rainfall and temperature caused by climate change are expected to be variable in

nature. There is the potential for climate change to cause short-term and long-term impacts.

Impacts could therefore occur during both the construction and operation phases of the

proposal.

Construction

Increases in temperatures may reduce work capacity and increase the risk of heat stress for site

workers.


There may be impacts to various construction activities from climate change, such as increased

temperatures interfering with the laying of concrete for flushing points etc.

There may be an increase in extreme weather events, such as intense rainfall interfering with

construction timeframes or dry, hot weather conducive to generation of dust.

Increased summer rainfall may result in increased flooding and erosion risks at the site and

associated sediment loss.

Operation

Increases in temperature may affect the integrity of the proposal infrastructure in the long-term.

This may occur either directly or through evaporative changes and changes in soil moisture

content and soil instability, which in the long term may affect structures.

Changes in rainfall intensity may result in the following impacts in the long term:

Increased potential for localised flooding

Drainage and stormwater impacts

Changes to flora and fauna species and distribution, including pest and weed species

Erosion impacts, resulting in sediment loss from the site

Watercourse impacts, including changes to channel structure and other characteristics near

the proposal site resulting from changed hydrological conditions.

Potential impacts of the proposal on climate change

Construction

Impacts of the proposal on climate change during construction would include the release of the

following greenhouse gases:

Carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide would be generated from liquid fuel use in plant and

vehicles (diesel, petrol) during construction and disposal and transport of materials

Methane would be released from landfilling any carbon based waste

Various greenhouse gas emissions would be associated with the extraction and production

of materials used in the construction of the pipeline.

Operation

Maintenance activities would be undertaken as necessary. Maintenance activities are expected

to be infrequent and there would therefore be a negligible change in vehicle emissions resulting

from maintenance activities for the proposal.



and timing

Greenhouse emissions

Investigations into opportunities for reducing

greenhouse emissions during construction and

operation of the proposal would be undertaken during

the detailed design and construction planning phase.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Greenhouse emissions

Delivery of materials with full loads would be

undertaken from local suppliers where possible

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Appropriately sized construction equipment, plant and

vehicles would be used

Regular servicing of equipment would be undertaken

to maintain optimal performance, and to minimise

down time (which can improve overall efficiency)

The layout of access, machinery and facilities would

be designed to minimise movement

Investigation of alternative fuels and power sources

would be undertaken and implemented, where

appropriate

Energy efficiency and related carbon emissions of

vehicle and plant equipment would be considered,

where possible

Material and waste supply and departure scheduling

would be undertaken to optimise full loads and

minimise required vehicle trips.

6.13 Demands on resources


The proposal would require the use of a number of resources, including:

Resources associated with the operation of construction machinery, and motor vehicles

(this includes a variety of resources, the major one being diesel and petrol)

Pipe required to construct the system, including connection to residents and the existing

gravity sewer main

Other materials required for the construction of various components of the proposal

including flushing points, boundary kits, barometric loop etc.

Construction water (for concrete and dust suppression). This would be likely sourced from

the local potable supply.

The quantities of materials required for the proposal are detailed in section 3.3.3.

The materials required during the proposed construction works are not currently restricted

resources. However, materials such as metals and fuels are considered non-renewable and

would be used conservatively.

Materials would be sourced from local and commercial suppliers, where possible. Excess

materials would be disposed of in accordance with safeguards and management measures

outlined in section 6.11.3.




and timing

Resource consumption

The procurement of materials would be limited to the

quantities required for the proposal

Procurement would endeavour to use materials and

products with a recycled content where that material or

product is cost and performance effective.

Project manager

Construction

6.14 Cumulative impacts


Developments in the locality with which the proposal has the potential to have cumulative

impacts include:

Agricultural development, including grazing and cropping, which has transformed the land

in the study area over the last 170 years

Maintenance of linear infrastructure projects including roads, powerlines and services that

have been constructed in the study area and locality.

There are no other known major developments occurring concurrently or planned in the locality.


The developments outlined in section 6.14.1 above would be likely to have cumulative impacts

in relation to soils and water quality, visual amenity, noise and air quality impacts.

Disturbance associated with the proposal could facilitate the spread of weeds in the study area,

which is already heavily influenced by the spread of weeds associated predominantly with road

and agricultural development.

The proposal would be likely to have relatively minor cumulative impacts in relation to these

factors.


It is considered that the potential for adverse cumulative impacts is most effectively addressed

by the application of the individual safeguards recommended throughout the REF. A summary

of all recommended safeguards is in Table 6.5

6.15 Summary of adverse effects

The main adverse effects of the proposal would include:

Potential for soil erosion during storage of soil from excavation of the trench, to be used as

fill for the pipeline

Potential construction noise impacts on nearby residences

Potential for a reduction in air quality caused by the generation of dust during construction

Other changes in amenity and environmental risks including visual impacts and waste.


Table 6.5: Summary of safeguards and management measures


and timing

Biodiversity - Loss of native vegetation habitat

All staff will be inducted and informed of the limits of vegetation clearing and the areas of

vegetation to be retained. Areas of vegetation not to be removed will be clearly marked prior to

construction. No trees would be removed

Temporary exclusion fencing will be erected to prevent encroachment and clearing of remnant

vegetation beyond the construction footprint

Stockpiles of construction materials will be restricted to existing cleared areas and not within areas

of adjoining native vegetation. Stockpiles would be moved daily as the works progress along the

alignment.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Biodiversity - Spread of weeds

Noxious weed control measures will be implemented as part of the CEMP to prevent their spread in

the study area

Declared noxious weeds will be managed according to requirements under the NSW Noxious

Weeds Act 1993

Soil disturbance will be avoided as much as possible to minimise the potential for spreading weeds

and generating sediment

Vehicle and machinery wash/brush downs may be required to ensure that noxious weed species

are not spread to previously non-infested areas.

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction

Biodiversity - Chemical and fuel impacts on native vegetation

Any herbicides used for weed control will be applied to the manufacturer's specifications and as

outlined in the manufacturers Material Safety Data Sheet

Broad spectrum non-selective herbicides (residual herbicides) will not be used. Herbicides selected

for use will be appropriate for the species being treated

Spraying of herbicides will not be undertaken in windy weather or within such distance of a

watercourse as will permit any of the herbicide to enter the water

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Safeguards for preventing and managing spills of fuels and chemicals will be implemented as

detailed in section 6.2.3 of this REF.

Soils, water quality, hydrology and groundwater - Soil erosion, sedimentation and water quality

A soil and water management plan will be prepared as part of the CEMP for the proposal in

accordance with the Blue Book - Soils and Construction - Managing Urban Stormwater Volume 1

(Landcom 2004)

The soil and water management plan will include but not be limited to:

– A primary erosion and sedimentation control plan and a maintenance schedule for ongoing

maintenance of temporary erosion and sediment controls

– An incident emergency spill plan which will include measures to avoid spillages of fuels,

chemicals, and fluids onto any surfaces or into any adjacent/nearby waterways.

If considered necessary, an accredited soil conservationist may be engaged to provide advice

during development and implementation of the soil and water management plan. The soil

conservationist may regularly review and inspect works throughout the construction phase.

Project manager

Pre-construction

Soils, water quality, hydrology and groundwater - Soil erosion and sedimentation

Sediment and erosion controls will be installed before the commencement of earthworks

Erosion and sedimentation controls will be checked and maintained regularly during construction

High risk soil erosion activities such as earthworks will not be undertaken immediately before or

during high rainfall or wind events

Erosion and sediment control measures will be maintained until the works are complete and areas

are stabilised.

Project manager

Construction

Soils, water quality, hydrology and groundwater - Soil and water contamination

All fuels, chemicals, and liquids will be stored at least 50 metres away from any drainage lines in

bunded fuel trailers and utility vehicles. If storage in the compound site is necessary, fuels,

chemicals and liquids will be stored in an impervious bunded area

Project manager

Construction



and timing

The refuelling of plant and planned maintenance of machinery and plant will be undertaken 50

metres away from waterways

Emergency spill kits will be kept on-site at all times

All staff will be inducted about incident and emergency procedures and made aware of the

locations of emergency spill kits

Should a spill occur during construction, the emergency spill plan will be implemented. The EPA

will be notified as per Part 5.7 of the POEO Act.

Landuse and property - Property acquisition

Affected landowners and stakeholders, including the Local Land Services - Riverina, Roads and

Maritime and ARTC will be consulted on an ongoing basis regarding the status and timing of

acquisition and construction.

Council

Pre-construction

and construction

Noise and vibration - Construction noise and vibration impacts

A noise and vibration management plan will be prepared as a section of the construction

environmental management plan. The plan will include proposed environmental control measures

for all high noise and vibration generating activities

A community relations program would be prepared as part of the CEMP to ensure that sensitive

receivers are informed on the progress of the construction works. Notifications would be

undertaken in accordance with the community liaison program.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Noise and vibration - Construction noise from inappropriate practices

Inductions for the work crew would include the specific noise issues and mitigation measures

required for the site. The induction would include:

– all relevant project specific and standard noise mitigation measures

– relevant approval conditions

– permissible hours of work

– location of nearest sensitive receivers

– construction employee parking areas

Project manager

Construction



and timing

– designated loading/ unloading areas and procedures

– site opening/closing times (including deliveries)

– behavioural practices including:

– avoiding the use of outdoor radios when working outside the recommended standard

hours

– avoiding shouting and slamming doors

– where practical, operating machines at low speed or power and switching off when not

being used rather than left idling for prolonged periods

– minimising reversing alarms

avoiding dropping materials from height and avoiding metal to metal contact on material.

Noise and vibration - Construction noise impacts

Where the predicted and/or measured construction noise is greater than the noise affected level,

works would be conducted in accordance with the ICNG and all reasonable and feasible practices

would be undertaken to minimise noise

Site setup and dismantling would occur during standard work hours, reducing noise impacts to

sensitive receivers where possible. The site setup would seek to maximise the distance between

plant and equipment and any residences and other noise sensitive receivers where practicable. For

example, vehicle movements and generator storage would be located as far as possible from

residences

Use quieter noise emitting construction methods where practicable

Machines found to produce excess noise compared to industry best practice would be removed

from the site or stood down until repairs or modifications can be made

Ensure that truck engine brakes usage is minimised when entering or leaving the work sites or

work areas adjacent to residential properties and on construction traffic routes

Any noise complaints would be addressed immediately in accordance with a standard resolution

procedure. Property owners/occupiers potentially impacted by the construction works would be

Project manager

Construction



and timing

informed in advance of the proposed work and provided a contact phone number for any

complaints or concerns during the construction period.

Air quality - General air quality impacts

Construction activities will be managed to minimise the emission of dust, smoke, and other

substances.

Project manager

Construction

Air quality - Dust Air quality impacts relating to dust generated by construction vehicles will be monitored

Exposed surfaces will be watered regularly to minimise dust emissions, if required

During periods of high winds, dust generating activities will cease

Stabilisation of disturbed surfaces will take place as soon as practicable

Areas that may generate dust will be managed to suppress dust emissions.

Project manager

Construction

Air quality - Other emissions

Plant and machinery will be turned off when not in use as much as possible and will be fitted with

emission control devices complying with Australian Design Standards

Construction plant and equipment will be maintained in a good working condition in order to limit

impacts on air quality

No burning of any materials will occur

During transportation, loads will be adequately covered.

Project manager

Construction

Landscape and visual -Visual impacts of proposal

The footprint for construction works will be kept to a minimum to minimise earthworks and maintain

existing groundcover vegetation wherever possible

Sites disturbed by earthworks will be stabilised as soon as possible after construction.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction



and timing

Landscape and visual -Visual impacts of construction works

The work site will be left in a tidy manner at the end of each work day. Project manager

Construction

Aboriginal heritage - Potential impacts to unexpected finds

In the event of an unexpected find of an Aboriginal heritage item (or suspected item), all works in

the vicinity of the find must cease and the site supervisor will be contacted immediately for advice

on how to proceed

If the origin of the find cannot be determined quickly, or if it is determined that the find is of

Aboriginal origin, immediately notify the following authorities or personnel of the discovery:

– OEH (Queanbeyan Office): ph. 131 555 or (02) 9995 5555

– Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC): ph. (02) 6921 4095.

Facilitate, in co-operation with the appropriate authorities and Wagga Wagga LALC:

– The recording and assessment of the finds

– Fulfilling any legal constraints arising from the find(s). This will include complying with OEH

directions

– The development and conduct of appropriate management strategies. Strategies will depend on

Aboriginal consultation and the assessment of the significance of the find(s).

Where the find(s) are determined to be Aboriginal objects as defined by the NPW Act, any re-

commencement of construction related ground surface disturbance may only resume in the area of

the find(s) following compliance with any consequential legal requirements and gaining written

approval from OEH (as required).

Council and

Project manager

Construction

Aboriginal heritage - Potential impacts to unexpected human remains

Cease all ground surface disturbance in the area of the find(s) immediately by notifying machinery

operators in the immediate vicinity of the find(s). Also avoid touching the discovered remains

Inform the site supervisor as soon as possible to organise for a qualified professional opinion

(usually the police in the first instance)

Council and

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Create a buffer zone of 50 metres by 50 metres around the find spot. No authorised entry or earth

disturbance will be allowed until the discovery has been assessed.

Non-Aboriginal heritage - Potential impacts to unexpected finds

In the event of an unexpected find of a non-Aboriginal heritage item (or suspected item), all works

in the vicinity of the find must cease and the site supervisor will be contacted immediately for

advice on how to proceed

Works will not recommence until the heritage value and associated protection and any approval

requirements have been determined

Council will notify OEH if any item (or suspected item) of non-Aboriginal heritage is found during

construction to determine the appropriate course of action.

Council and

Project manager

Construction

Traffic management - Construction impacts to traffic

A traffic management plan would be prepared in accordance with the Australian Standard 1742.3-

2002: Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices and the NSW Roads and Maritime Services ‘QA

Specification G10 Traffic Control at Worksites’

The traffic management plan would include measures to provide safe access points to work areas

from the adjacent road network, safety barriers where necessary, temporary speed restrictions

when necessary, specific controls for partial road closures and changed road conditions, adequate

sight distances and prominent warning signage. The plan would also include measures to restrict

public access to the proposal site

Continued consultation with Roads and Maritime would be conducted to ensure works along the

Olympic Highway are managed as per Roads and Maritime requirements.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Traffic management - Construction impacts to traffic and property access

The traffic management plan would be implemented during construction

All property accesses would be maintained throughout the construction period.

Project manager

Construction



and timing

Socio-economic - General impacts to properties

Potentially affected property owners will be contacted before the commencement of works.

Residents will be notified via door knocks providing information on the proposed works, working

hours and a contact name and number should any complaints wish to be registered.

Council

Pre-construction

Waste management - General waste impacts

A waste management plan will be included as part of the CEMP. Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Waste management - General waste impacts

Resource management hierarchy principles will be followed:

– Avoid unnecessary resource consumption as a priority

– Recover resources as far as is practicable (including reuse of materials, reprocessing, and

recycling and energy recovery)

– Disposal is undertaken as a last resort (in accordance with the Waste Avoidance and Resource

Recovery Act 2001).

Site inductions will be undertaken (and recorded) by a site supervisor for all staff, to provide a

thorough knowledge of all key environmental/safety issues, including waste disposal protocols.

Wastes will be managed and classified in accordance with the ‘Waste Classification Guidelines’

(EPA 2014) and managed in accordance with the POEO Act

All waste will be disposed of at appropriately approved and licensed facilities

Garbage receptacles will be provided and recycling of materials encouraged. Rubbish will be

transported to an appropriate waste disposal facility

Where appropriate, excess materials will be disposed of according to the following (in order):

– Use remaining materials as directed by the property owner

Project manager

Pre-construction

and construction



and timing

– Disposal at an approved materials recycling or waste disposal facility

– As otherwise provided for by the relevant waste legislation.

Waste material will not be left on site once the works have been completed.

Climate Change - Greenhouse emissions

Investigations into opportunities for reducing greenhouse emissions during construction and

operation of the proposal would be undertaken during the detailed design and construction

planning phase.

Council and

Project manager

Pre-construction

Climate Change - Greenhouse emissions

Delivery of materials with full loads would be undertaken from local suppliers where possible

Appropriately sized construction equipment, plant and vehicles would be used

Regular servicing of equipment would be undertaken to maintain optimal performance, and to

minimise down time (which can improve overall efficiency)

The layout of access, machinery and facilities would be designed to minimise movement

Investigation of alternative fuels and power sources would be undertaken and implemented, where

appropriate

Energy efficiency and related carbon emissions of vehicle and plant equipment would be

considered, where possible

Material and waste supply and departure scheduling would be undertaken to optimise full loads

and minimise required vehicle trips.

Project manager

Construction

Demands on resources - Resource consumption

Investigations into opportunities for reducing greenhouse emissions during construction and

operation of the proposal would be undertaken during the detailed design and construction

planning phase.

Project manager

Construction


7. Environmental management 7.1 Environmental management plan

A number of safeguards and management measures have been identified in order to minimise

adverse environmental impacts, including social impacts, which could potentially arise as a

result of the proposal. Should the proposal proceed, these management measures would be

applied during the construction of the proposal.

A construction environmental management plan (CEMP) and relevant environmental sub-plans

would be prepared to describe safeguards and management measures identified. These plans

would provide a framework for establishing how these measures would be implemented and

who would be responsible for their implementation.

The plans would be prepared before the construction of the proposal. The CEMP would be a

working document, subject to ongoing change and updated as necessary to respond to specific

requirements.

7.2 Licensing and approvals

The proposal would require the following approvals:

Table 7.1: Summary of licensing and approval required

Requirement Timing

Under Section 138 of the Roads Act 1993 consent would be required for works in the Olympic Highway area. Consent would be required from Roads and Maritime. A Road Occupancy Licence (ROL) is required for any works that have the potential to disrupt traffic flow on any State Road. A temporary Speed Zone Authorisation (SZA) may be applied for as part of the ROL for work requiring a temporary reduction in speed on a state road.

Consent has been granted from Roads and Maritime. A ROL must be obtained prior to work in the vicinity of the highway that would disrupt traffic flow, with a SZA required for a temporary reduction in speed on the highway. Applications for the ROL must be submitted at least ten working days prior to commencement of work.

Consent would be required from ARTC for works within the Main Southern Railway corridor.

Council is in contact ARTC regarding the project. Council are working with ARTC to provide all information required to obtain approval to construction in the Main Southern Railway corridor.

Under section 155 (1) of the Crown Lands Act 1989 consent would be required for works within Crown land. Consent would need to be obtained from the Local Land Services.

Consent has been granted from the Local Land Services for work in the Crown land leased by Council.


8. Conclusion 8.1 Justification

The proposal is required to provide improved sewerage management facilities for affected

residents of The Rock. The proposal would provide residents with an efficient and cost-effective

sewerage service.

There would be a number of adverse environmental impacts as a consequence of the proposal.

These impacts are mostly considered short-term, being directly related to construction activities.

The primary impacts during construction include:

Removal of about 2,500 square metres of groundcover that is mainly dominated by

introduced species

Potential construction noise impacts on nearby residences

Potential for a reduction in air quality caused by the generation of dust during construction

Other changes in amenity and environmental risks including visual impacts and waste.

Due to the small scale of the proposal and the proposed design measures and safeguards, the

proposal would be unlikely to cause significant environmental impacts during construction. No

trees would be removed by the proposal.

Where possible, impacts would be avoided or minimised through the implementation of site-

specific safeguards. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant long-term impact on the

environment or the community. On balance, it is considered that the adverse environmental

impacts of the proposal are outweighed by the benefit of the proposal and that the proposal is

therefore justified.

8.2 Objects of the EP&A Act

The objects of the EP&A Act are listed in Table 8.1.

Table 8.1: Objects of the EP&A Act

Object Comment

5(a)(i) To encourage the proper management, development and conservation of natural and artificial resources, including agricultural land, natural areas, forests, minerals, water, cities, towns and villages for the purpose of promoting the social and economic welfare of the community and a better environment.

The proposal would remove about 2,500 square metres of groundcover most of which is dominated by introduced species. The proposal could potentially cause the further spread of weeds in the study area.

The proposal has the potential to cause impacts to residences in the study area during construction through noise and generation of dust.

5(a)(ii) To encourage the promotion and co-ordination of the orderly economic use and development of land.

Council is undertaking consultation and environmental assessments required to properly plan and develop the proposal without undue impacts on the local economy.

5(a)(iii) To encourage the protection, provision and co-ordination of communication and utility services.

Water and communications utility services exist in the vicinity of the proposal, as detailed in section 3.5. Council would consult with the relevant service providers to address issues relating to potential public utility adjustment.


Object Comment

5(a)(iv) To encourage the provision of land for public purposes.

The proposal would temporarily affect access to some residences during the construction period. These periods of delays are expected to be short in duration with affected residents notified two weeks prior to construction.

5(a)(v) To encourage the provision and co-ordination of community services and facilities.

The proposal is unlikely to substantially affect the use of community facilities by the public.

5(a)(vi) To encourage the protection of the environment, including the protection and conservation of native animals and plants, including threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats.

The proposal would remove about 2,500 square metres of groundcover most of which is dominated by introduced species. The proposal could potentially cause the spread of weeds in the study area. The proposal would be unlikely to have a significant impact on any listed species, population or ecological community.

5(a)(vii) To encourage ecologically sustainable development.

Ecologically sustainable development is considered in Sections 8.2.1 – 8.2.4 below.

5(a)(viii) To encourage the provision and maintenance of affordable housing.

Not relevant to the proposal

5(b) To promote the sharing of the responsibility for environmental planning between different levels of government in the State.

Not relevant to the proposal

5(c) To provide increased opportunity for public involvement and participation in environmental planning and assessment.

Council has undertaken consultation for the proposal as described in chapter 5. This has included consultation with stakeholders and the community.

8.2.1 The precautionary principle

This principle states that “if there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of scientific

certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental

degradation”.

The environmental consequences of the proposal have been assessed as accurately as

possible using appropriate specialists in relevant disciplines where required. The assessment

involved analysis and interpretation of the potential environmental impacts associated with the

proposal. This process has enabled the impacts of the proposal to be predicted within a

reasonable degree of certainty. All predictions, however, contain a degree of variability, which

reflects the variable nature of the environment.

The proposed works are not anticipated to result in serious or irreversible damage. Under the

proposal, as a requirement of the CEMP, environmental monitoring will be undertaken as a

precautionary measure to reduce any uncertainty regarding the potential for environmental

damage. No mitigation measures or management mechanisms would be postponed as a result

of a lack of information.


8.2.2 Intergenerational equity

The principle states that ”the present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and

productivity of the environment is maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations”.

The proposal would have a major long-term benefit for future generations by providing improved

sewerage management facilities.

The proposal would benefit future generations by ensuring that proposed works do not give rise

to significant long-term adverse impacts. Potential impacts would be minimised by the

implementation of appropriate safeguards.

Should the proposal not proceed, the principle of intergenerational equity may be compromised,

as future generations would inherit a sub-standard level of sewerage management

infrastructure.

8.2.3 Conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity

This principle states that the “diversity of genes, species, populations and communities, as well

as the ecosystems and habitats to which they belong, must be maintained and improved to

ensure their survival”.

An assessment of the existing local environment has been undertaken in order to identify and

manage any potential impacts of the proposal on local biodiversity. The proposal would involve

the removal of about 2,500 square metres groundcover which is dominated by introduced

species. The proposal is considered unlikely to significantly impact on any species, population

or ecological community listed under the TSC Act or EPBC Act.

An ecological assessment and appropriate site-specific safeguards are provided in section 6.1

of this REF. Safeguards include consideration of design impacts upon biodiversity, vegetation

management and weed management.

8.2.4 Improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms

This principle requires that “costs to the environment should be factored into the economic costs

of a project”.

The REF has examined the environmental consequences of the proposal and identified

mitigation measures for areas which have the potential to experience adverse impacts.

Requirements imposed in terms of implementation of these mitigation measures would result in

an economic cost to Council. The implementation of mitigation measures would increase both

the capital and operating costs of the proposal. This signifies that environmental resources have

been given appropriate valuation.

The design for the proposal has been developed with an objective of minimising potential

impacts on the surrounding environment. This indicates that the concept design for the proposal

has been developed with an objective to minimise environmental impacts.

8.3 Conclusion

Council proposes to construct a pressure sewerage system, south of the Olympic Highway at

The Rock, to provide properties with an efficient and cost effective sewerage service. The

proposal includes installation of the pressure sewer mains progressively along the alignment,

with connection of the existing residences to the system and discharging into the existing gravity

sewer system manhole at Cornwall Street.

The proposal is required to establish modern sewerage management infrastructure and improve

facilities for the residents of The Rock.


The proposal is subject to assessment under Part 5 of the EP&A Act. The REF has examined

and taken into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the

environment by reason of the proposed activity.

The proposal as described in this REF best meets the project objectives but would still result in

impacts relating to biodiversity, soils, land use, noise, air quality and other environmental

factors.

Adverse environmental effects would be minimised through the implementation of safeguards

and mitigation measures outlined in this REF. The proposal would have beneficial impacts by

providing modernised sewerage management infrastructure to the residents of The Rock.

On balance, it is considered that the adverse environmental impacts of the proposal are

outweighed by the beneficial effects and that the proposal is therefore justified.

This REF concludes that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any species,

population or ecological community listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act

1995. A species impact statement is not therefore required.

This REF finds that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant environmental impact and

therefore an Environmental Impact Statement is not required.

This REF finds that the proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on any matter of national environmental significance listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999. A referral to the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability,

Environment, Water, Population and Communities is not therefore required.


9. References ABS, 2012, Regional population data, 2011 Census. Second release, Australian Bureau of

Statistics. Data compiled by Profile.ID.

BOM, 2017, Climate statistics for Australian sites. Bureau of Meteorology, website accessed

February 2017. URL:http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_072150.shtml

DEC, 2004, Threatened Biodiversity Survey and Assessment: Guidelines for Developments and

Activities – Working Draft. Department of Environment and Conservation, November 2004.

DECC, 2007, Threatened species assessment guidelines: the assessment of significance.

Department of Environment and Climate Change, Sydney.

DECC, 2009, Interim Construction Noise Guideline. Department of Environment and Climate

Change, Sydney.

DECCW, 2010, Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation requirements for proponents 2010.

Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, Sydney.

DotE, 2013, Matters of National Environmental Significance: Significant impact guidelines 1.1,

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Department of Environment,

Water, Heritage and the Arts, Commonwealth of Australia.

DotEE, 2017a, Protected Matters Search Tool. Department of the Environment, online

database, accessed January 2017, URL:

http://www.environment.gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/index.html.

DotEE, 2017b, Species Profile and Threats Database. Department of Sustainability,

Environment, Water, Population and Communities, online database, accessed January 2017,

URL: http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl.

DotEE, 2017c, National Pollutant Inventory. Department of the Environment, online database,

accessed January 2017, URL: http://www.npi.gov.au/.

DPI, 2017, Noxious Weed Declarations. NSW Department of Primary Industries, online

database, accessed January 2017. URL: http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/pests-

weeds/weeds/noxweed.

Environmental Assessments Pty Ltd, 2017, Environmental Planning Overview – Proposed

pressure sewerage system – The Rock, NSW. Report prepared for Lockhart Shire Council,

February 2017.

EPA, 2014, Waste classification guidelines. NSW Environment Protection Authority, November

2014.

Keith, D. A., 2004, Ocean shores to desert dunes, the native vegetation of New South Wales

and the ACT. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurtsville, NSW.

Lockhart Shire Council (LSC), 2015, Squatters and settlers. Website accessed March 2017,

URL: http://visitlockhartshire.com.au/heritage/squatters-settlers.aspx.

Lockhart Shire Council (LSC), 2012, State of the Environment Report, June 2012.

Mitchell, P.B., 2003, NSW ecosystems database mapping unit descriptions. Unpublished report

to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Department of Mineral Resources, 2002, NSW Statewide Geology. GIS dataset,

Geological Survey of New South Wales.


OEH, 2017a, Atlas of NSW Wildlife database – licensed data for Lockhart local government

area, Office of Environment and Heritage.

OEH, 2017b, Threatened Species: Species, Populations and Ecological Communities of NSW.

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, online database, accessed January 2017, URL:

http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/index.aspx.

OEH, 2014c, Vegetation Information System, VIS Classification 2.1. Website accessed January

2017. URL: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/NSWVCA20PRapp/LoginPR.aspx.

Office of Water, 2010, Pinneena 3.2 Groundwater works. Spatial data from New South Wales

groundwater data archive.


10. Terms and acronyms used in this REF AEP Annual Exceedance Probability

AHD Australian Height Datum

AHIMS Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System

ARI Annual Recurrence Interval

Biota The flora and fauna of a region.

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

DECC Department of Environment and Climate Change, now OEH (see below)

DECCW NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, now OEH (see below)

DotEE Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Energy

DSEWPaC Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Populations and Communities, now DotE (see above)

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

EP&A Regulation Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000

EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

ESD Ecologically sustainable development. Development which uses, conserves and enhances the resources of the community so that ecological processes on which life depends, are maintained and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased.

GHD GHD Pty Ltd

Hydrology Term given to the study of the rainfall and runoff process; in particular, the evaluation of peak flows, flow volumes and the derivation of hydrographs for a range of floods.

ISEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007

LALC Local Aboriginal Land Council

LEP Local Environmental Plan

LGA Local government area

Likely Taken to be a real chance or possibility.

Locality The area within a 10 kilometre radius of the proposal.

NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974

NSW New South Wales

OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Proposal site The area that would be directly impacted by the proposal.


REF Review of environmental factors

SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy

Study area The area of impact and any additional areas, which are likely to be affected by the proposal, either directly or indirectly. Generally this includes the area up to 500 metres from the proposal boundary.

Threatened species A species specified in Schedule 1 Part 1 (endangered species), Part 4

(presumed extinct) and Schedule 2 (vulnerable species) of the TSC Act, in

Schedule 4 (endangered species), 4A (critically endangered species) and

Schedule 5 (vulnerable species) or under the EPBC Act.

TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

Unlikely Taken to be an unlikely or remote possibility of occurring.

GHD | Report for Lockhart Shire Council - The Rock pressure sewerage system, 2316033

Appendices


Appendix A – Consideration of clause 228 (2) factors and matters of natural environmental significance

Clause 228(2) factors

In addition to the requirements of the guideline ‘Is an EIS required?’ as detailed in the REF, the

following factors, listed in clause 228(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment

Regulation 2000, have also been considered to assess the likely impacts of the proposal on the

natural and built environment.

Factor Impact

a. Any environmental impact on a community?

Residences in the study area would potentially be affected during construction by noise from construction plant, machinery and vehicles as well as air quality impacts through generation of dust. Visual impacts would occur from earthworks, machinery and temporary stockpiling of materials along the alignment. These impacts would be short-term and would be minimised through the implementation of safeguards detailed in sections 6.4.4, 6.5.3 and 6.6.3.

Short-term minor negative

The proposal would affect the use of the Crown Land in the short-term by trenching through a grazed paddock. Following completion of construction there would be no restrictions on land use.


The construction of the proposal would have visual impacts during the construction period due to the excavation required for the pipe. These impacts would be minor and limited to the construction period.


The proposal would improve waste management systems for multiple residents at The Rock, reducing costs of septic systems for residents and improving waste management infrastructure.

Long-term positive

b. Any transformation of a locality?

The construction of the proposal would have minor short-term visual impacts through the excavation of the site for the pipe. The impacts would be temporary, limited to the construction period and minimised by underboring roads and accesses.


c. Any environmental impact on the ecosystems of the locality?

The proposal would remove about 2,500 square metres of predominantly introduced groundcover. No trees would be removed as part of the proposal. The proposal could potentially cause the further spread of weeds in the study area. Safeguards to minimise impacts would be implemented as described in section 6.1.4. The proposal would be unlikely to have a significant impact.


d. Any reduction of the aesthetic, recreational, scientific or other environmentalquality or value of a locality?

Residences in the study area would potentially be affected during construction by construction impacts as detailed in (a) above.


e. Any effect on a locality, place or building having aesthetic, anthropological,archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, scientific or social significanceor other special value for present or future generations?


The proposal is unlikely to impact on any sites or sites with potential heritage or other social values. Safeguards to avoid or minimise impacts on heritage would be implemented as detailed in sections 6.7.4 and 6.8.4.

Nil

f. Any impact on the habitat of protected fauna (within the meaning of the NationalParks and Wildlife Act 1974)?

The proposal wouldn’t remove habitat of protected fauna. Nil.

g. Any endangering of any species of animal, plant or other form of life, whetherliving on land, in water or in the air?

The proposal would not endanger any species of animal, plant or other form of life.

Nil.

h. Any long-term effects on the environment?

The proposal is unlikely to cause any negative long-term effects on the environment due to the retention of all trees and the proposal site being located on previously disturbed land.

Nil

The proposal would improve waste management infrastructure, as described in (a) above.

Long-term positive

i. Any degradation of the quality of the environment?

Residences in the study area could potentially be affected by construction impacts as described in (a) above.


j. Any risk to the safety of the environment?

There is potential for safety to be reduced during the construction of the proposal. Traffic management safeguards described in section 6.9.3 would address safety risks in relation to work near roads. Standard safety measures would be implemented to restrict public access to the proposal site during construction.


k. Any reduction in the range of beneficial uses of the environment?

The proposal wouldn’t acquire any private property. Nil.

l. Any pollution of the environment?

Emily Street, Scott Street, Railway Street, Nicholas Street, Milne Road, Mangoplah Road and a short section of the Olympic Highway residences could potentially be affected by construction impacts as described in (a) above.


During construction the proposal could potentially result in soil and water pollution, including pollution of the drainage lines in the study area. Pollution could result from sedimentation or chemical and fuel spills. Management of soil and water quality impacts would be undertaken in accordance with the safeguards outlined in section 6.2.3.


Waste generated during construction could also pollute the environment. Waste would be managed in accordance with the safeguards outlined in section 6.11.3.


m. Any environmental problems associated with the disposal of waste?

The proposal would be unlikely to generate contaminated waste during construction. Other waste streams generated during construction are common and would pose no difficulty in their disposal. Waste would be recycled wherever possible. Waste would be managed in accordance with the safeguards outlined in section 6.11.3.

Nil


n. Any increased demands on resources (natural or otherwise) that are, or are likelyto become, in short supply?

All resources required for the proposal are readily available and are not in short supply.

Nil

o. Any cumulative environmental effect with other existing or likely future activities?

The cumulative effects of the proposal are discussed in section 6.14. Short-term cumulative impacts relate to soils and water quality, visual amenity and air quality impacts. The proposal would be likely to have relatively minor cumulative impacts in relation to these factors.


p. Any impact on coastal processes and coastal hazards, including those underprojected climate change conditions?

The proposal is not located within a coastal area, and would not cause any impact on coastal processes and coastal hazards.

Nil

Matters of national environmental significance

Factor Impact

a. Any impact on a World Heritage property?

The proposal would not have any impact on a World Heritage property. There are no World Heritage properties within 10 kilometres of the proposal.

Nil

b. Any impact on a National Heritage place?

The proposal would not have any impact on a National Heritage place. There are no National Heritage places located within 10 kilometres of the proposal.

Nil

c. Any impact on a wetland of international importance?

The proposal would not have any impact on a wetland of international importance.

Nil

d. Any impact on listed threatened species or communities?

The proposal would not have any impact on a threatened species or community.

Nil

e. Any impacts on listed migratory species?

The proposal is unlikely to affect any species listed as migratory under the EPBC Act.

Nil

f. Any impact on a Commonwealth marine area?

The proposal is not located near a marine area and would be unlikely to have an impact on a marine area.

Nil

g. Does the proposal involve a nuclear action (including uranium mining)?

The proposal does not involve a nuclear action. Nil

h. Any impact on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park?

The proposal would not result in any impacts to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park due to its distance from the park.

Nil


Factor Impact

i. Any environmental impact on a water resource, in relation to coal seam gasdevelopment and large coal mining development?

The proposal is not a coal seam gas or large coal mining development. Nil

j. Additionally, any impact (direct or indirect) on Commonwealth land?

The proposal is located near the following Commonwealth Land:

Australian Telecommunications Commission

Australian Telecommunications Corporation

The proposal would be unlikely to have an impact on these

Commonwealth lands.

Nil

k. The environment, where Commonwealth agencies are proposing to take action?

Council is not a Commonwealth agency. Nil

Appendix B – Flora and fauna survey species lists

Flora species recorded

* Introduced species

Present along transect

All numbers are per cent cover

r Less than one per cent cover, few individuals

+ Less than one per cent cover, numerous individuals

P1 Plot 1

Scientific Name Common Name Incidentals P1

Acacia baileyana Cootamundra Wattle

Acacia decora Western Silver Wattle

Alternanthera pungens* Khaki Weed r

Austrostipa aristiglumis Plains Grass

Austrostipa scabra Speargrass 1

Avena fatua* Wild Oats <1

Bothriochloa macra Red Grass 10

Brachychiton populneus Kurrajong

Bromus catharticus* Prairie Grass +

Bromus diandrus* Great Brome +

Callitris glaucophylla White Cypress Pine

Carthamus lanatus* Saffron Thistle

Cenchrus clandestinus* Kikuyu Grass

Centaurium erythraea* Common Centaury +

Chenopodium melanocarpum Black Crumbweed

Chloris truncata Windmill Grass 2

Cirsium vulgare* Spear Thistle

Conyza bonariensis* Flaxleaf Fleabane <1

Cotoneaster sp.* Cotoneaster

Cynodon dactylon Couch 2

Cyperus eragrostis* Umbrella Sedge +

Echium plantagineum* Paterson’s Curse

Eleusine tristachya* Goose Grass +


Eragrostis cilianensis* Stinkgrass <1

Erodium botrys* Long Storksbill

Eucalyptus albens White Box

Eucalyptus blakelyi Blakely’s Red Gum r

Eucalyptus melliodora Yellow Box

Eucalyptus microcarpa Grey Box

Heliotropium europaeum* Potato Weed

Hypericum perforatum* St John’s Wort

Hypochaeris radicata* Flatweed <1

Jacaranda mimosifolia* Jacaranda

Juncus usitatus

Lactuca serriola* Prickly Lettuce

Melia azedarach White Cedar Tree

Melilotus sp.* +

Modiola caroliniana* Red-flowered Mallow

Panicum effusum Hairy Panic +

Paspalum dilatatum* Paspalum 10

Passiflora sp.* Passionfruit

Phalaris aquatica* Canary Grass

Fraxinus sp.* Ash

Plantago lanceolata* Lambs Tongue 2

Platanus sp.* Plane Tree

Polygonum aviculare* Wireweed

Portulaca oleracea Pigweed

Romulea rosea* Onion Grass

Rosa rubiginosa* Sweet Briar

Rumex brownii Swamp Dock r

Rhytidosperma caespitosum Ringed Wallaby Grass

Rhytidosperma setaceum Small-flowered Wallaby Grass <1

Schinus areira* Pepper Tree

Setaria sp. *

Solanum nigrum* Black-berry Nightshade


Trifolium angustifolium* Narrow-Leaf Clover +

Trifolium arvense* Hare’s Foot Clover

Verbascum virgatum* Twiggy Mullein

Fauna species recorded

* Introduced species

Scientific Name Common Name

Birds

Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie

Corvus coronoides Australian Raven

Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo Shrike

Sturnus vulgaris* Common Starling

Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon

Platycercus eximius Eastern Rosella

Columba livia* Feral Pigeon

Eolophus roseicapillus Galah

Passer domesticus* House Sparrow

Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis

Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra

Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella

Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark

Falco cenchroides Nankeen Kestrel

Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner

Trichoglossus moluccanus Rainbow Lorikeet

Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattlebird

Cacatua galerita Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy Wren

Corcorax melanorhamphos White Winged Chough

Egretta novaehollandiae White-faced Heron

Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail

Appendix C – Likelihood of occurrence

An evaluation of the likelihood and extent of impact to threatened and migratory fauna recorded from within

the Federation LGAs (TSC Act threatened species); and within a 10 kilometre radius of the Subject site

(EPBC Act threatened and migratory species). Records are from a search of the Office of Environment

and Heritage (OEH) Wildlife Atlas, and the EPBC Environmental Reporting Tool available from the

Department of the Environment (DotE) website. Ecology information has been obtained from the

Threatened Species Profiles on the NSW OEH website

(http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedspecies/) and from the Species Profiles and Threats

Database on the Commonwealth DotE website (http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-

bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl).

Status

National - Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

NSW - NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and Fisheries Management Act 1994.

E Endangered

CE Critically Endangered

V Vulnerable

Mi Migratory

Listed species, populations and ecological communities that may occur in the study area

Species / community Status* Act

Ecological communities

Grey Box grassy woodlands and derived native grasslands of south-eastern Australia

E EPBC TSC

White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum grassy woodland and derived native grassland

CE E

EPBC TSC

Flora

A Speargrass

Austrostipa wakoolica

E EPBC

TSC

Mueller Daisy

Brachyscome muelleroides

V EPBC

TSC

Sand-hill Spider-orchid

Caladenia arenaria

E EPBC

TSC

Woolly Ragwort

Senecio garlandii

V TSC

Slender Darling-pea

Swainsona murrayana

V EPBC

TSC

Birds

Barking Owl

Ninox connivens

V TSC

Blue-billed Duck

Oxyura australis V TSC

Brolga

Grus rubicunda

V TSC

Black Falcon

Monarcha melanopsis

V TSC

Brown Treecreeper (eastern subspecies)

Climacteris picumnus victoriae

V TSC

Flame Robin

Petroica phoenicea

V TSC

Fork-tailed Swift

Apus pacificus

Mi EPBC

Glossy Black Cockatoo (Riverina population)

Calyptorhynchus lathami

EP/V TSC

Grey-crowned Babbler (eastern subspecies)

Pomatostomus temporalis temporalis

V TSC

Species / community Status* Act

Latham’s Snipe

Gallinago hardwickii

Mi EPBC

Little Eagle

Hieraaetus morphnoides

V TSC

Painted Honeyeater

Grantiella picta

V EPBC

TSC

Pink Robin

Petroica rodinogaster

V TSC

Spotted Harrier

Circus assimilis

V TSC

Superb Parrot

Polytelis swainsonii

V EPBC

TSC

Swift Parrot

Lathamus discolor

E EPBC

TSC

Turquoise Parrot

Neophema pulchella

V TSC

Mammals

Grey-headed Flying Fox

Pteropus poliocephalus

V TSC

South-eastern Long-eared Bat

Nyctophilus corbeni

V EPBC TSC

Squirrel Glider population in the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area

Petaurus norfolcensis

EP/V TSC

Amphibians

Sloane’s Froglet

Crinia sloanei

V TSC

Appendix D – Database searches

Home ∠ Topics ∠ Heritage places and items ∠ Search for heritage

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Press F12 on your keyboard to display the developer tools

On the developer tools menu, select Browser Mode then select Internet Explorer 9

Your original settings will be restored when you close the browser window.We are working to resolve this issue and apologise for the inconvenience.

Search for NSW heritageReturn to search page where you can refine/broaden your search.

Statutory listed itemsInformation and items listed in the State Heritage Inventory come from a number of sources. This means that there may be several entries for the same heritage item in the database. For clarity, the search results have been divided into three sections.

• Section 1 - contains Aboriginal Places declared by the Minister for the Environment under the NationalParks and Wildlife Act. This information is provided by the Heritage Division.

• Section 2 - contains heritage items listed by the Heritage Council of NSW under the NSW Heritage Act. Thisincludes listing on the State Heritage Register, an Interim Heritage Order or protected under section 136 of theNSW Heritage Act. This information is provided by the Heritage Division.

• Section 3 - contains items listed by local councils on Local Environmental Plans under the EnvironmentalPlanning and Assessment Act, 1979 and State government agencies under s.170 of the Heritage Act. Thisinformation is provided by local councils and State government agencies.

Section 1. Aboriginal Places listed under the National Parks and Wildlife Act.Your search returned 1 record.

Aboriginal place name

Local government area

Local Aboriginal Land Council

Latitude Longitude Gazettal date and page numbers

Comments

The Rock

Nature Reserve (Kengal)

Lockhart Wagga Wagga

-35.2754454586 147.076124578 05/20/2005p. 1770

Located entirely within Rock Nature Reserve

Section 2. Items listed under the NSW Heritage Act. Your search returned 1 record.

Item name Address Suburb LGA SHR

The Rock Station and yard group

Main Southern railway The Rock

Lockhart 01268

Section 3. Items listed by Local Government and State Agencies. Your search returned 16 records.

12

Page 1 of 2Search for NSW heritage | NSW Environment & Heritage

28/03/2017http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/heritageapp/heritagesearch.aspx

Item name Address Suburb LGA Information source

Ashcroft Cemetery

Lockhart Lockhart LGOV

Brookong Cemetery


Catholic Church

Yerong Creek

Lockhart LGOV

Chinese Crossing

Noske Lane Yerong Creek

Lockhart LGOV

Galore Hill Nature Reserve


Grandstand and Public Bar

Lockhart Showground


Lutheran Church and Cemetery

Pleasant Hills

Lockhart LGOV

Lutheran Church and Cemetery

Milbrulong Lockhart LGOV

Mittagong Church

Mittagong Lockhart LGOV

Old Urangeline Woolshed


The Rock Nature Reserve


The Rock Police Station and Official Residence

Nicholas Street, Corner Emily Street

The Rock Lockhart SGOV

The Rock Railway Precinct

Railway Street The Rock

Lockhart SGOV

The Rock Railway Precinct

Railway Street The Rock

Lockhart SGOV

The Rock Railway Station Building

The Rock

Lockhart LGOV

Yerong Creek Police Station and Official Residence

21 Plunkett Street Yerong Creek

Lockhart SGOV

There was a total of 18 records matching your search criteria.

Key:LGA = Local Government AreaGAZ= NSW Government Gazette (statutory listings prior to 1997), HGA = Heritage Grant Application, HS = Heritage Study, LGOV = Local Government, SGOV = State Government Agency.Note: While the Heritage Division seeks to keep the Inventory up to date, it is reliant on State agencies and local councils to provide their data. Always check with the relevant State agency or local council for the most up-to-date information.

Page 2 of 2Search for NSW heritage | NSW Environment & Heritage

28/03/2017http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/heritageapp/heritagesearch.aspx

Lockhart Local Environmental Plan 2012Current version for 5 August 2016 to date (accessed 28 March 2017 at 08:47)

Schedule 5

Schedule 5 Environmental heritage(Clause 5.10)

Part 1 Heritage items

Locality Item name Address Property description Significance Item no

Bidgeemia Urangeline Station outbuildings

Old Urangeline Lot 2, DP 528687 Local I13

Bidgeemia Urangeline woolshed Old Urangeline Lot 2, DP 528687 Local I12

Brookong Brookong Cemetery ‘Brookong’, adjacent to Lockhart-Urana Road

Lot 1, DP 1143616 Local I1

Lockhart Showground Lot 122, DP 756429 Local I4

Lockhart St Mary’s Catholic Church 55 Ferrier Street Lots 9 and 10, Section 6, DP 758621

Local I3

Milbrulong Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery

Lockhart The Rock Road Part of Lot 70, DP 756429 Local I5

Milbrulong Bethlehem Lutheran Church and hall

Lockhart The Rock Road Part of Lot 70, DP 756429; Lot 1, DP 652304

Local I6

Osborne Mittagong Union Church County Boundary Road Lot 1, DP 315289 Local I11

Pleasant Hills Pleasant Hills Community Hotel

Corner of Cullen and Manson Streets

Lots 6 and 7, DP 9145 Local I9

Pleasant Hills St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Henty Pleasant Hills Road Lot 1, DP 515164 Local I7

Pleasant Hills Pleasant Hills Lutheran Cemetery

Henty Pleasant Hills Road Lot 1, DP 515164 Local I8

The Rock The Rock Station and yard Main Southern Railway State I10

Tootool Ashcroft Cemetery Part of Lot 6, DP 754566 Local I2

Yerong Creek St Ignatius’ Catholic Church

Plunkett Street Lot 1, DP 113831 Local I14

Part 2 Heritage conservation areas

Name of heritage conservation area Identification on Heritage Map Significance

Lockhart Urban Conservation Area Shown by a red outline with red hatching and labelled “C1”

Local

The Rock Urban Conservation Area Shown by a red outline with red hatching and labelled “C2”

Local

Yerong Creek Urban Conservation Area Shown by a red outline with red hatching and labelled “C3”

Local

Part 3 Archaeological sites

Locality Item name Address Property description Significance Item no

Yerong Creek Chinese Crossing Noskes Lane Local A1

Page 1 of 1Lockhart Local Environmental Plan 2012 - NSW Legislation

28/03/2017http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/






The Rock Station and yard groupItem details

Name of item: The Rock Station and yard group

Type of item: Complex / Group

Group/Collection: Transport - Rail

Category: Railway Platform/ Station

Location: Lat: -35.2716562760 Long: 147.1183520800

Primary address: Main Southern railway, The Rock, NSW 2655

Local govt. area:

Lockhart

Local Aboriginal Land Council:

Wagga Wagga

Boundary: The listing boundary extends from the level crossing at the north east end of the site, down each property boundary of the railway site and crossing the tracks in a line extending John St to intersect with Olympic St.

All addresses

Street Address Suburb/town LGA Parish County Type

Main Southern railway

The Rock

Lockhart Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name Owner Category Date Ownership Updated

RailCorp State Government

16 Nov 98

Statement of significance:

12

Page 1 of 4The Rock Station and yard group | NSW Environment & Heritage

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The railway site is part of an area designated as an urban conservation area in the Town. The railway contributes by forming a strong south-eastern boundary to the area intersecting the town at an oblique angle and crossing the significant main street also at an oblique angle. The station is located just off the axis of the main street and contributes a strong visual element to the form of the town. The station building dates from the period of the towns prosperity and is one of the few remaining unaltered structures from that period.

Note: There are incomplete details for a number of items listed in NSW. The Heritage Division intends to develop or upgrade statements of significance and other information for these items as resources become available.

Description

Physical description:

BUILDINGS railway station - type 4, standard roadside timber, 1880 residence - station master's, type 5,brick, 1880 STRUCTURES platform face - brick, 1880 crane and platform ARTEFACTS platform signs

Current use: Antique Shop

Former use:

Railway Station

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev) New South Wales theme Local theme

3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies

Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements

(none)-

Assessment of significance

SHR Criteria f)[Rarity]

This item is assessed as historically rare. This item is assessed as arch. rare. This item is assessed as socially rare.

Assessment criteria:

Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the

level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act

Description Title Comments Action date



57(2) Exemption to allow work

Standard Exemptions

SCHEDULE OF STANDARD EXEMPTIONS HERITAGE ACT 1977 Notice of Order Under Section 57 (2) of the Heritage Act 1977

I, the Minister for Planning, pursuant to subsection 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales, do by this Order:

1. revoke the Schedule of Exemptions to subsection 57(1) of the Heritage Act made under subsection 57(2) and published in the Government Gazette on 22 February 2008; and

2. grant standard exemptions from subsection 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977, described in the Schedule attached.

FRANK SARTOR Minister for Planning

Sydney, 11 July 2008

To view the schedule click on the Standard Exemptions for Works Requiring Heritage Council Approval link below.

Sep 5 2008

Standard exemptions for works requiring Heritage Council approval

Listings

Heritage Listing Listing Title

Listing Number

Gazette Date

Gazette Number

Gazette Page

Heritage Act - State Heritage Register

01268 02 Apr 99 27 1546

Heritage Act - s.170 NSW State agency heritage register

References, internet links & images

Type Author Year Title Internet Links

Tourism 2007 The Rock Station and yard group

View detail

Tourism Attraction Homepage

2007 The Rock Station and yard group

View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.



(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source

The information for this entry comes from the following source:

Name: Heritage Office

Database number:

5012245

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please

send your comments to the Database Manager.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of the Heritage Division or respective copyright owners.








The Rock Nature Reserve (Kengal)Item details

Name of item: The Rock Nature Reserve (Kengal)

Type of item: Complex / Group

Group/Collection: Aboriginal

Category: Place of significance

Location: Lat: -35.2754454586 Long: 147.076124578

Primary address:

, The Rock, NSW 2655

Local govt. area: Lockhart

Local Aboriginal Land Council:

Wagga Wagga

Hectares (approx):

347

All addresses

Street Address Suburb/town LGA Parish County Type

The Rock

Lockhart Primary Address

Statement of significance:

Why is it an Aboriginal Place? Kengal Aboriginal Place is a Dreaming place, a lookout, and a ceremonial site for the Wiradjuri Aboriginal people and descendents.

Why is it important to Aboriginal People? The Rock Hill was traditionally known as 'Yerong', meaning the place of a male initiation site. As such, it was taboo for women and uninitiated males to enter the area, therefore, keeping knowledge of the place a secret. Ossie

12

Page 1 of 4The Rock Nature Reserve (Kengal) | NSW Environment & Heritage


Ingram, a Wiradjuri Elder, explains, 'Knowledge about the Rock Hill is not everyday knowledge - it has a spiritual meaning. It is what we are. [It is a] secret knowledgewhich relates to the making of mena place of initiation.' Kengal Aboriginal Place contains the Rock Hill or 'Kengal' (meaning 'sloping hill'), a name given to an early explorer of the region, Charles Sturt, by two Wiradjuri guides from Wantabadgery.

Kengal was created by Baiame (Biamai), the creator in Wiradjuri culture and traditional law. According to local oral histories, Biamai was sent to the Wiradjuri to teach the people how to make fire and spears. Oral histories say that when settlers arrived in the area, they said something which made Biamai (the creator) go away. Baiame left his male and female dingo companions who still today lay in wait for Baiame's return, forming the Rock Hill-Kengal in the physical landscape.

Kengal remained an important place for Aboriginal people throughout the post-1788 era, despite the impacts to the local Wiradjuri people, culture, language and population of a smallpox outbreak inadvertently brought by Eora traders in the 1790s and loss of resources due to colonial settler land claims. Wiradjuri cultural visits to Kengal continued up until the 1950s. In 1962, the area was gazetted as a nature reserve which has since helped to protect the natural values of the area.

Today, the settlements surrounding the Rock Nature Reserve-Kengal Aboriginal Place have seen a drastic increase in Aboriginal populations, which in turn has brought about an increasing appreciation and respect for the site. It continues to be a place which is often visited by local Aboriginal people to maintain and re-establish links to land and culture. Jim Ingram and David Tout explain the importance of Kengal to contemporary Aboriginal people stating, 'The Rock Hill... tells and reminds the Wiradjuri who they are, what to do and why they need to follow the Law. Many of the descendants of Wiradjuri people today forget where they come from. They don't understand what it means to be Wiradjuri.'

Date significance updated: 14 May 15

Note: There are incomplete details for a number of items listed in NSW. The Heritage Division intends to develop or upgrade statements of significance and other information for these items as resources become available.

Description

Physical description:

What's on the ground? The Yerong Walking Trail starts at the western base of the Rock Hill and winds up to the top of the outcrop. A scar tree used to make a large shield or coolamon can be found within the boundaries of the Nature Reserve while another scar tree and two artefact scatters can be found within adjacent properties. Beyond this area there are recorded campsites, fire hearths, ochre quarries and stone arrangements.

Nature of the environment The Rock Hill or Kengal within the Rock Nature Reserve-Kengal Aboriginal Place is a large eroding outcrop of sedimentary rock and is a prominent physical feature in the Western Plains region of NSW. The area is home to Open Box and Cypress Pine Woodland as well as several plant species including the vulnerable woolly ragwort. Many plant and animal species found at Kengal today were used for traditional Wiradjuri practices and were culturally significant.

Further information:

Located entirely within Rock Nature Reserve

Current use:



Falling within a Nature Reserve, the area is used for conservation purposes and is open for public recreational activities that do not harm the natural or heritage values of the area. These activities include walking, rock climbing, and abseiling.

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev) New South Wales theme Local theme

2. Peopling-Peopling the continent

Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present.

Aboriginal Culture-

Listings

Heritage Listing Listing Title

Listing Number

Gazette Date

Gazette Number

Gazette Page

NPW Act - Aboriginal Place

20 May 05 57 1770

References, internet links & images

Type Author Year Title Internet Links

Written Kabaila, Peter

1998 'The Rock', pp. 78-85, in Wiradjuri Places: The Macquarie River basin and some places revisited,:

Electronic NSW Government

2005 Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales

View detail

Written Office of Environment and Heritage, Sydney

National Parks and Wildlife Service, The Rock Nature Reserve

View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source

The information for this entry comes from the following source:



Name: Heritage Office

Database number:

5062904

File number: NPWS 1992/P/0811 & DOC 05/0648

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please

send your comments to the Database Manager.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of the Heritage Division or respective copyright owners.



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AHIMS Web Services (AWS)Search Result Purchase Order/Reference : 001

Client Service ID : 273642

Date: 28 March 2017GHD Pty Ltd

161 -169 Baylis Street

Wagga Wagga New South Wales 2650

Dear Sir or Madam:

AHIMS Web Service search for the following area at Lat, Long From : -35.1634, 147.636 - Lat, Long To :

-35.1613, 147.7431 with a Buffer of 200 meters, conducted by Alexandra Williams on 28 March 2017.

Email: [email protected]

Attention: Alexandra Williams

The context area of your search is shown in the map below. Please note that the map does not accurately

display the exact boundaries of the search as defined in the paragraph above. The map is to be used for

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A search of the Office of the Environment and Heritage AHIMS Web Services (Aboriginal Heritage Information

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3 Marist Place, Parramatta NSW 2150

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Register of the National Estate(Non-statutory archive)

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Appendix E – Concept designs

Pressure System Solutions Pty Ltd

Unit 1/47-51 Lorraine Street

Peakhurst NSW 2210

Sydney Australia

T: +61 2 9584 1177

F: +61 2 9584 1477

E: [email protected]

www.pssolutions.net.au

ABN 57 097 164 899

Design E

ngineering C

onsultants

Cad File No: J:\700-Projects\702-Current projects\161205 The Rock\720-Design\721-Drawings\730-Street mains\The Rock_S401-S403_Setout & Change of Direction Details.dwg

Plotted by:

Srust Date: 12/04/2017 2:27:17 PM



Peakhurst NSW 2210

Sydney Australia

T: +61 2 9584 1177

F: +61 2 9584 1477



ABN 57 097 164 899

Design E

ngineering C

onsultants


Plotted by:

Srust Date: 5/04/2017 3:35:11 PM



Peakhurst NSW 2210

Sydney Australia

T: +61 2 9584 1177

F: +61 2 9584 1477



ABN 57 097 164 899

Design E

ngineering C

onsultants


Plotted by:

Srust Date: 5/04/2017 3:45:20 PM

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Plotted by:

PSS_User1 Date: 2017-04-28 3:13:16 PM

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Cad File No: J:\700-Projects\702-Current projects\161205 The Rock\720-Design\721-Drawings\730-Street mains\The Rock_S101-S109.dwg

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Srust Date: 6/04/2017 9:57:33 AM

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Srust Date: 12/04/2017 2:16:03 PM

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Sydney Australia

T: +61 2 9584 1177

F: +61 2 9584 1477



ABN 57 097 164 899

Design E

ngineering C

onsultants

Cad File No: J:\700-Projects\702-Current projects\161205 The Rock\720-Design\721-Drawings\730-Street mains\The Rock_S001_Masterplan Drawing.dwg

Plotted by:

Srust Date: 13/04/2017 11:42:34 AM

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Sydney Australia

T: +61 2 9584 1177

F: +61 2 9584 1477



ABN 57 097 164 899

Design E

ngineering C

onsultants

Cad File No: J:\700-Projects\702-Current projects\161205 The Rock\720-Design\721-Drawings\730-Street mains\The Rock_S000_Cover Sheet.dwg

Plotted by:

Srust Date: 12/04/2017 2:00:59 PM

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Appendix F – Consultation

20 March 2017

Michael Irons Property Manager Australian Rail Track Corporation 20 Station Place Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

Our ref: 2316033-42741 Your ref:

Dear Michael

Sewerage system at The Rock Review of Environmental Factors

Lockhart Shire Council (Council) proposes to construct a pressure sewerage system at The Rock by connecting properties within the system to a pressure sewer reticulated network. The proposal is

required to upgrade the existing onsite septic (or aerated) systems. The pressure sewerage system has been divided into two stages; Stage A and Stage B. This REF is for the construction of Stage A of the system (see Figure 1).

Stage A of the pressure sewerage system is bounded by Milne Road, Mangoplah Road, Emily Street and the Olympic Highway, and consists of about 45 existing properties plus the Kings Own Hotel-Motel. The existing properties are currently serviced by onsite sewage systems, with the objective of the proposal to

connect these properties to the proposed pressure sewerage system and abandon the existing onsite treatment systems.

The scope of the proposal includes:

Excavation of the pressure sewer system route with open trenches or in some instances with

horizontal direction boring (HDB) methods

Installation of the pressure sewer mains progressively along the alignment

Pipe diameter between 50 millimetres and 75 millimetres

About 5,000 metres in total length of new system

Construction footprint width about two metres either side of the pipeline alignment

Variable pipeline depth, between 500 millimetres to 1,500 millimetre with a minimum trench width of

500 millimetres


The proposal would cross the Olympic Highway which is zoned SP2 (infrastructure) and is managed by NSW Roads and Maritime Services. It would also cross the Main Southern Railway managed by the

Australian Rail Track Corporation. The crossing would occur in the north-western section of the proposal

2 2316033/Consultation letter_2

site via horizontal direction boring. Council has initiated the consultation process to assist in facilitating

an efficient and mutually beneficial outcome for these sections of the proposal.

Following the railway crossing the pipeline would be located in Crown Land, which is currently leased by Council.

GHD has been engaged by Council to prepare a review of environmental factors (REF) for the proposal, in accordance with of Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007.

We would like to provide you with the opportunity to comment on the proposal to assist in preparation of the REF. It would be appreciated if your organisation could provide comments on issues that you see as needing to be addressed from your companies perspective by Monday 3 April 2017.

We would be pleased to provide further information if required. In this regard, Leigh Maloney or myself may be contacted on (02) 6923 7433 or by email [email protected] and [email protected]

Sincerely GHD Pty Ltd

Melissa Cotterill

+61 2 6923 7433

Figure 1: The Stage A proposal site (indicated by red line)

1

Leigh Maloney

From: Steve Wallace <[email protected]>Sent: Monday, 1 May 2017 12:56 PMTo: Michael Irons (InTouch)Cc: John GeppertSubject: The Rock Rail CrossingAttachments: The Rock_S301_Railway Crossing Plan & Longsection-S301-[B].pdf; The Rock_S101-

S109-S101-[C].pdf

Hi Michael As previously discussed PS Solutions has been commissioned by Lockhart Shire Council to undertake the pressure sewerage system design for the Eastern side of The Rock village. The project encompasses a crossing of the Rail corridor with a 200mm PE conduit pipe and 75mm pumped sewer product pipe.

The selected location has been surveyed and detail design undertaken in accordance with ARTC and Australian Standards. Please find attached drawings.

Can you please advise the process required for formal approval of the design and construction of the crossing.

Thank you and regards

Steve

Steve Wallace Technical Director – Pressure System Solutions PL Unit 1, 47 – 51 Lorraine Street Peakhurst, Sydney, NSW PH: +61 2 9584 1177, M: +61 403 823 013 E: [email protected]

20 March 2017

Johnathon Tasker Regional Asset Manager Roads and Maritime Services 193 Morgan Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650


Dear Johnathon














500 millimetres












Melissa Cotterill

+61 2 6923 7433

1

Leigh Maloney

From: Steve Wallace <[email protected]>Sent: Monday, 1 May 2017 12:16 PMTo: [email protected]: John GeppertSubject: FW: The Rock sewerage system consultationAttachments: The Rock_S401-S403_Setout & Change of Direction Details-S403-[B].pdf; The

Rock_S101-S109-S102-[B].pdf; The Rock_S401-S403_Setout & Change of Direction Details-S401-[B].pdf; The Rock_S000_Cover Sheet-S000-[B].pdf; The Rock_S101-S109-S105-[B].pdf; The Rock_S101-S109-S106-[B].pdf; The Rock_S401-S403_Setout & Change of Direction Details-S402-[B].pdf; The Rock_S101-S109-S101-[C].pdf; The Rock_S301_Railway Crossing Plan & Longsection-S301-[B].pdf

Hi Natalie Further to the email on 12/4/17 please find attached all The Rock pressure sewerage system drawings for mains along the Olympic highway including the Highway crossing plan and long section.

I would appreciate your review and approval or comments.

Thank you for your assistance with this matter. Regards Steve


From: Steve Wallace [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, 12 April 2017 3:43 PM To: '[email protected]' <[email protected]> Cc: 'John Geppert' <[email protected]> Subject: FW: The Rock sewerage system consultation

Hi Natalie As discussed we have updated the pressure sewerage system design drawings for The Rock village. The drawings indicate pipes located in the Olympic Highway. Can you please review and advise if in accordance with RMS requirements or where any deviations exist.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me should further information be required.

Regards Steve

Steve Wallace

2

Technical Director – Pressure System Solutions PL Unit 1, 47 – 51 Lorraine Street Peakhurst, Sydney, NSW PH: +61 2 9584 1177, M: +61 403 823 013 E: [email protected]

From: Steve Wallace [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, 27 March 2017 11:22 AM To: '[email protected]' <[email protected]> Cc: 'John Geppert' <[email protected]> Subject: FW: The Rock sewerage system consultation

Hi Natalie As discussed please find attached a copy of selected The Rock pressure sewerage system design drawings where the service pipe is proposed to be located within the Olympic Hwy road reserve. The main has been setout being mindful of RMS requirement to locate the pipe as far from the road centreline as possible, however it cannot always be adjacent to the property boundaries due to other services and Table drains etc.

Please advise a convenient time to meet at your offices on Wednesday morning.

Thank you and regards

Steve


From: HOLMES Natalie M [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, 22 March 2017 11:58 AM To: Melissa Cotterill <[email protected]> Cc: Jonathan Tasker (InTouch) <[email protected]>; MORIARTY Paul D <[email protected]> Subject: RE: The Rock sewerage system consultation

Hi Melissa

Thanks for your email regarding notification of the upcoming works for the Sewerage Reticulation System at The Rock and impending REF for Stage A.

Could you please advise where the pipe will be located in the Olympic Highway road reserve between Mangoplah Road and Hill Street. RMS’ preference is for the pipe to be located on the road reserve boundary or within private property.

For the purposes of planning for any associated environmental risks, I have attached RMS’ Annexure A which details our conditions and should also be incorporated into Council’s plans and designs.

Please note RMS has minimum depths for utilities in the road reserve, detailed in the annexure, and these are to minimise future conflicts with the asset during RMS maintenance works as well as protecting RMS’ assets. Please also

3

note the RMS requires the pipe to be sleeved where it crosses the Olympic Highway at Hill Street as the pipe will be carrying sewerage under pressure.

If you have any further queries please don’t hesitate to contact myself or RMS Road Maintenance Planner Nicholas Glenn on 02 69236555.

Kind regards

Natalie Holmes Asset Officer South West Region Asset Management | Network NSW | Journey Management T 02 6923 6676 M 0400 008 322 www.rms.nsw.gov.au Every journey matters

Roads and Maritime Services 193-195 Morgan Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650

20 March 2017

Ron Tilyard A/ranger TSRs Riverina Local Land Services 24 Darnell-Smith Drive Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga NSW 2650


Dear Ron














500 millimetres












Melissa Cotterill

+61 2 6923 7433

GHD

Suite 3, Level 1 161-169 Baylis Street T: 61 2 6923 7400 F: 61 2 6971 9565 E: [email protected]

© GHD 2017

This document is and shall remain the property of GHD. The document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

2316033-70551/https://projects.ghd.com/oc/Canberra/refseweragesystematt/Delivery/Documents/REF - The Rock sewerage system.docx

Document Status

Revision Author Reviewer Approved for Issue Name Signature Name Signature Date

Draft A M. Cotterill L. Maloney L. Maloney 02/05/2017

FINAL M. Cotterill L. Maloney L. Maloney 22/05/2017

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