NATIVE VEGETATION COUNCIL NVC Meeting 229 – 2-3 September 2020 via Microsoft Office Teams Video Conference

MINUTES

Present:

Presiding Member Emily Jenke Members Maurice Roche

Natalie Sommerville John Neal Bob Hill Ross Sawers Catherine Hollingsworth

Apologies: nil In Attendance: Director, Heritage and Native Vegetation Merridie Martin A/Manager, Native Vegetation Branch Sarah Reachill Coordinator, Assessments and Stakeholder Liaison Adam Schutz Coordinator, Assessments Andrew Groom (Item 8) Native Vegetation Officer Peter Farmer (Item 9) A/Coordinator, Governance and Policy (Minutes) Sue Agars

Acknowledgment Member Natalie Sommerville acknowledged the traditional lands that the NVC were meeting upon, Elders of the Kaurna land, and leaders past, present and future. Natalie reminded Council that their decisions and what they are doing is important and relevant to what happens on Country. 1. Meeting open

The Presiding Member, Emily Jenke, opened Day 1 of Native Vegetation Council (NVC) meeting 229 at 9.00am, welcoming members of the NVC, and staff of the Native Vegetation Branch (NVB) of the Department of Environment and Water.

There were no apologies. Emily Jenke advised she would leave the meeting early on Day 1 (1.00pm) due to previous committments.

2. Confirmation of Agenda

Item for Approval

Emily Jenke provided an overview of the Agenda for Meeting 229. There were no additional items added to the Agenda.

APPROVED 3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest

Emily Jenke declared a potential conflict of interest for Item 9 - Lake Hawdon referral (Hurst), and advised she would leave the meeting early on Day 1 due to previous committments.

There were no other declared conflicts of interest

4. Presiding Member update Item for Noting

Emily Jenke requested nominations for member/s to take dot points for the NVC Communique. Bob Hill volunteered for Day 1, Catherine Hollingsworth Day 2.

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Emily advised she had continued to meet with Landscape Board Chairs re: overview of the Native Vegetation Act and NVC role and function. Emily advised a couple of Chairs had requested Emily to meet with the whole Board/s, and requested interest by other NVC members for their involvement. A/Manager NVB, Sarah Reachill and Emily are still to meet to Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association on Friday 3 September, as requested by the Minister. Emily advised that the Heritage Agreement launch had occurred and it was great to get the project underway. Strong partnership of organisations heading up management of the program and the Minister is excited about the program as it provides an opportunity to talk. The intention is to push hard to grow and expand the commitment from government. Discussion around concerns re: amount of money being spent on Administration roles. Sarah advised she had raised with Nature Foundation SA, however roles are considered critical to getting on-ground works happening. Part of the roles is to build upon current demand. Emily advised she had attended the Bushfire Recovery Taskforce meeting along with Bob Hill. Some of the challenges and issues were discussed at the meeting such as fencing and fencing support on Kangaroo Island, but this has been placed on hold until next meeting. Process of appointing Branch Manager to backfill Russell Seaman’s role in progress. Russell due to return to the role on 1 April 2021. Merridie advised formal Departmental approach to filling the role due to the length of time. Emily advised she had attended Riverlands and Murraylands Local Government Association meeting via video conference as guest speaker. Some issues with local government, but created better understanding around the role of the NVC. Interest in the roadside native vegetation management but had not read the Guidelines. Discussion around NVC delegation to Landscape Boards – no changes in terms of what NVC are asking of regions. Formalisation of function of NVC and Landscape Boards in progress with Landscape Boards still separating from Corporate Services (DEW). Strong advice that when approaching Landscape Boards, it be made clear what outcomes are being sought.

NOTED

5. Native Vegetation Branch Manager update Item for Noting

Sarah Reachill advised it had been a very busy period since last NVC meeting. Key updates are around NVC membership, with current membership due to expire on 28 February 2020. Nominations will be sought. Nominations also being sought for membership to the State Bushfire Coordination Committee (current member Maurice Roche). Maurice was thanked for his wisdom and experience as NVC member on the SBCC to date. New nominations for membership include Emily Jenke as member on the SBCC, and Merridie Martin as deputy (in line with higher level executive, and Presiding Members now being appointed to SBCC). Grants Program update – 72 Grant applications received, total of $400k applied for in grants. Sarah advised a lot of interest as mail out was received by Heritage Agreement owners. Closing date for applications has been extended to 5 October 2020. The first round of monitoring of BCE sites Northern and Yorke has started, and will end by 30 September 2020. Results to be provided to NVC at next meeting. Status of current compliance matters queried. Update provided and seeking CSO advice to work through most efficient and effective way of getting outcomes and clearing the slate with compliance individuals. Cross-agency considerations and meeting to be held. Discussion around changes to Pastoral Act which will affect stock rates. NVC advised consultation around changes to Act will be conducted. Partnering with DEM. Discussion

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around changes to allow for tenure, and goats allowed on country and compliance must be ensured. Conversations held with Pastoral Board in March 2020. Landscape Board meeting with Pastoral Board in coming weeks to discuss issues with stocking rates. Legislative changes would be detrimental to Rangelands and it is important NVC are forward- thinking and alert to potential changes.

Action: Coordinator Governance and Policy to initiate consultation for Pastoral Act changes - to

go to NVC for comment/review when released. Form small working party to take back to the NVC.

NOTED 6. Decline of Vegetation Extent on Eyre Peninsula (action item)

Item for Noting

Adam Schutz advised item was raised as a result of Action from last meeting. Advised there were not many studies which show remnancy rate of Eyre Peninsula. First study in 2016 shows de-forestation rates for SA. Jordan Report conducted in 1972 which showed high levels of clearance and loss of Native Vegetation. History of trends and Policy response reviewed. Clearance since 1984 reviewed. Study 2003 to 2017 across feeding and nesting resources for the South Eastern Red-tailed Black Cockatoo reviewed. Condition of vegetation reviewed. Discussion around trends as reviewed of concern. Further work to be done around using known information i.e. Red-tailed Black Cockatoo study. Concern around loss of understory and ecosystem which cannot be restored. Consistency of information is required, along with a strategy around monitoring. Question around how to progress – possible OOS discussion for 2 hours. Further suggestion for research grant.

Action: Sarah and Adam to consider strategy for incorporating monitoring of native vegetation into

NVC Strategy for tangible outcomes, or holding OOS to discuss next steps forward.

NOTED

7. Regulation Application for Clearance - ElectraNet Item for Decision

Guest speaker presentation: Alicia Wright, Jon Mussared, David Tansell, Andrew Johnston (Proponents) Electranet The Presiding Member welcomed the guest speakers, and provided an overview of the item for Decision. NVC Members provided introductions to the guest speakers.

Role of ElectraNet provided. Review of the Project provided, which includes essential service to EP. Existing line close to full capacity with asset condition 53 years old causing reliability issues, and limited potential to meet increasing demand. Development consent received July 2020. Approx. 500 new structures required with access tracks, stringing pads and access corridor. Construction components reviewed. Route selection process and purchase of easements from 2013 reviewed. Community Engagement and consultation period reviewed. Process for ground stringing overviewed. Mitigation hierarchy and design overviewed. Low impact clearance to be implemented wherever possible. Drones can be used for stringing wires but with limitation to avoid sagging and tangling with vegetation. Rehabilitation and restoration factors reviewed. Offset and on-ground SEB’s reviewed with progress payments into fund to be made to secure approval. Discussion around concerns by NGO’s around clearances and inadequate survey conducted – does not take everything into account. Adequate mitigation to NV clearance issues may not offset clearances. Alicia advised that full NV survey was conducted in 2013. Query around any issues raised through Community Consultation – Alecia to forward feedback outside of the meeting. Advised project is very wanted by Community, with positive benefits of local employment.

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Query around development approval obtained (NV approval obtained in July 2020). Route selection consultation process queried. Statutory approvals to be reviewed and provided by Alecia. Discussion around longevity of the project i.e. will the project be updated in 50 years. Alecia advised strategic easement will allow existing line to be removed and new or secondary line go in to its place. Decision about where the line should go has been in place since 2013 including Native Title negotiations for parcels of land through route selection process. Discussion around other processes for stringing lines i.e. Helicopter and possible amount of native vegetation saved. Discussion around other use of tracks i.e. Fire/maintenance. Bushfire risk built into engineering standards. Access tracks at Secret Rocks used for pre and post fire maintenance. The guest speakers were thanked for their presentation and they left the meeting.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that (subject to conditions) the NVC endorse the use of Native Vegetation Regulation 12(34) to clear up to 192.021 ha of native vegetation as described in the Eyre Peninsula Transmission Line application including report titled: EBS Ecology (2019) Eyre Peninsula Transmission Line Native Vegetation Assessment. Report to ElectraNet. EBS Ecology, Adelaide.

It is however suggested that the NVC provide in principle support for the proposal subject to detail of the SEB Strategy being provided to NVC within an agreed timeframe for review and consideration. Noting, the Native Vegetation Branch will need to seek advice to ensure that such an approach is permissible in accordance with the requirements of the Native Vegetation Regulations for the achievement of a Significant Environmental Benefit. The Presiding Member advised request for in-principle support by ElectraNet. Discussion around risk mitigation. Suggestion for request further information from ElectraNet around proposed methodology to minimise clearance (i.e. use of helicopter). NVC advised might be worthwhile seeking review release date before responding. Query around high quality SEB to be focus. Query around ElectraNet currently using helicopters to inspect lines. Resolution The NVC resolved that they will need to give further consideration to the ElectraNet Regulation Application for Clearance before moving towards a decision.

NOT APPROVED

Issues for further consideration: use of helicopter, and alignment – need to understand real impact of current route chosen, and any other options for routes. Issue of old infrastructure not being removed and left to deteriorate. Council to propose specific questions for Adam to take to ElectraNet. Request for clarification around data to support claim that going around Conservation Parks is equal to the current route in order to make decision. In addition, successful and monitored re-vegetation (rather than scarifying) to be conducted rather than just natural regeneration. Focus into Conservation Park and Heritage Agreement areas. Question around how long ElectraNet will be monitoring. Query around environmental performance for ElectraNet. Adam advised new-comer to building lines etc. with some history of over-clearance. Performance is however improving.

Action: Adam/Sarah to draft questions to Electranet seeking further information to support their

clearance application (to be reviewed by NVC before sending).

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8. Managing Native Vegetation Guidelines – SA CFS and NVC `how to reduce the impact of bushfires’ Item for Approval Andrew Groom, Coordinator Assessments advised the Guidelines had been a long time in the development state, and incorrect information had been displayed on CFS website following regulation change. Updates consistent with previous Guidelines have now been completed in consultation with DEW Fire and CFS. Adam advised Royal Commission into Bushfire season may have some impact in future. Discussion and amendments suggested: query around `other approvals required’ to be made clearer i.e. for different distances CFS or NVC approval required. Possible add extra box to provide clear definition. epth of information re: ecological traditional burning practices needs strengthening and developing further. Suggestion to use the terminology and implement as a `method’ of controlling bushfire. Bob advised information provided in `other considerations’ was not consistent. To be amended. Adam advised current version with minor amendments to be made available on internet later today, with other larger changes to be made over time with final review by NVC. Any further changes to be sent to Andrew Groom.

Recommendation: That the Native Vegetation Council endorse the updated Guide ‘Managing Native Vegetation, How to reduce the impact of bushfire and the steps you need to take’ (April 2020) as a standard under Native Vegetation Regulation 10(2)(b) subject to minor and ongoing changes as indicated.

Moved: Bob Hill Seconded: John Neal CARRIED

APPROVED

The Presiding Member Emily Jenke advised she has a potential conflict of interest for Item 9

and would leave the meeting at this time. Emily requested Council vote to appoint Robert Hill as Chair for remainder of Day 1, Meeting 229 as she had to leave the meeting early due to previous committments.

Moved: John Neal Seconded: Maurice Roche CARRIED

Emily Jenke left the meeting at 1.00pm. Robert Hill Chair for remainder of Day 1. 9. NVAP Referral: Lake Hawdon pivot application for clearance

Item for Decision Proponent: David Hurst David Hurst provided an overview of the reasons for the application – to make existing land

more productive. Has a history of revegetation on the property and advised ground water is too salty to utilise for cropping purposes. Maurice queried draw-down levels re: using pivot every season. David advised levels drop towards end of season but then refill. Not possible to pipe water out to the site – need for power and infrastructure. Only large trees remaining (mainly Stringy Barks) nearing end of their life. Tea Trees are also slowly disappearing. Discussion around no visible sign of regeneration – David advised this was due to stock and the trees would return if property was de-stocked. Query around re-planting with protection/tree guards. Query around possibility of future pivots. Possible one more pivot in the future as restricted by water licensing.

David was thanked for the discussion and presentation of what he was planning. Advised

Council would deliberate and advise the outcome. David left the meeting and thanked the Council for their time and consideration.

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NVC were advised offsets were sufficient for pivot clearance to progress. 10% loss of trees in pivot area lost over last 10-12 years, however trees remaining may potentially house birds.

Resolution

The NVC resolved to not approve the recommendation for the (Hurst) Lake Hawdon pivot application for clearance.

NOT APPROVED 10. Day 1 Meeting 229 Close 2.30pm

11. Day 2 Meeting 229 Open

Presiding Member, Emily Jenke opened the meeting at 9.00am, and welcomed returning members of the NVC, and staff of NVB to Day 2 of Meeting 229.

Emily acknowledged the Council were meeting on various traditional lands, and Elders past and present were acknowledged.

12. Review items and Decisions from Day 1

Robert Hill advised he had taken notes for the NVC Meeting 229 Communique. Discussion around the decline in vegetation for Eyre Peninsula with more work to be done. Other reflections include that Microsoft Office Teams is more difficult than Zoom for general public to utilize, and more practice is recommended before the meeting for new users. Request for the NVB to consider better options for online meetings. Discussion around presumption of approval for clearances ie. EP for power lines – received permissions from Barngarla but NVC clearances seem to be assumed. Also assumed variances on HA’s. Suggestion for communications to be issued for improvement to process. Pattern of larger companies leaving consultation with NVC to the last minute – pressure tactic and strategy to get their applications approved. Suggestion for Industry to drive better engagement.

Action: Adam/Sarah to re-visit formula for calculating SEB’s looking at loadings for conservation areas and threatened species. Need to address loadings with conservation ratings and areas that have been set aside for conservation.

Robert Hill advised he would need to leave the meeting early today (2pm finish).

13. Regulation Application: Port Wakefield overpass

Item for Decision Rebecca Giles, Catherine Gray, and Dallas Keane (Port Augusta to Port Wakefield Alliance)

Presentation. The Presiding Member welcomed the guest speakers, and Council provided roundtable introductions. Acknowledgement of Country provided. Overview of project and reasoning behind the proposed development provided. Key works is to improve traffic flow and safety through Port Wakefield. Will increase local works, and opportunity for Aboriginal employment and business – key focus. Looking to commence end of September 2020 to be completed by end 2022. Constraints include existing road network and local business interests, existing native and amenity vegetation in road reserves, greenfield nature of project locations, land use and acquisition, and Aboriginal heritage interests in and near the current road reserve. Alternative bypass routes overviewed. Project context and vegetation impacts overviewed. No referral to the EPBC Act as species affected are listed as vulnerable. Impact minimization methods reviewed. SEB offset via 5 staged payments up to $709k. Landscaping and re-vegetation works to be implemented.

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Request for clarification on threatened ecological area (.27ha representing a very small proportion). Tension between valuable native vegetation and impacts on small communities. Discussion around traditional owner permission and inadequacy of SEB process. Condition pg. 456-457 rehabilitation to be placed in conditions. Adam Schutz to update Conditions. Recommendation that the NVC endorse the maximum clearance area of 35.839 ha and 4

scattered trees (subject to the amended conditions)

Moved: John Neal Seconded: Catherine Hollingsworth CARRIED

APPROVED

14. Regulation Application: Joy Baluch Bridge duplication

Item for Decision Guest Speakers: Rebecca Giles, Catherine Gray, and Dallas Keane (Port Augusta to Port Wakefield Alliance) Presentation – Joy Baluch Bridge duplication – Native Vegetation Clearance Application Rebecca advised key element of the project is duplication of bridge, plus upgrade of existing bridge and construction of the shared use path. Construction to commence late October, and complete late in 2022. General environmental constraints include Upper Spencer Gulf Marine Park, Threatened Ecological Community (TEC), Non-Aboriginal heritage, Native Title, working on water. Other alternatives considered not appropriate. Determined that duplication of bridge on the North side as close as possible to existing bridge is best option. Vegetation impacts reviewed. Avoiding impact to native vegetation methods reviewed. Minimising construction impacts and landscaping/re-vegetation reviewed. Discussion aroun proportion of TEC that will be impacted and what will happen to old bridge. Not looking to impact existing bridge or temporary wharf. Monitoring of existing structure to be ongoing during construction works. EPBC list advice at around 18Ha of Threatened Ecological Community (TEC). Concern around significant impacts if old bridge was to be removed. Heritage assessment has been completed around old bridge and barge. Query around acquisition of houses – advised that 2 houses had already been acquired by department last year, and demolished in preparation for the works. Query around predicted sea level rise – design upgrading height rise to half a metre for next 100 years. Query around potential for foot traffic on vegetation. Clarification around Minute sent out – keen to progress with time constraints. TEC for upper Spencer Gulf to be provided. Emily thanked the guest speakers for their presentation. Discussion around one of the better balanced presentations/applications received to date however commencement date causing pressure for Decision from NVC. Request for addition of CMP to conditions. Recommendation that the Native Vegetation Council endorse (subject to conditions) the

clearance of 1.195ha of native vegetation under Regulation 12, Schedule 1 Clause 32 - Works on behalf of the Commissioner of Highways to facilitate the Joy Baluch AM Bridge duplication.

Moved: Natalie Sommerville Seconded: Bob Hill CARRIED

APPROVED

Discussion around like-for-like SEB’s as a standard policy position of the Council. Sarah advised targeted grants towards indigenous groups which would have good outcomes for

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NVC. Nomination for sea-grass or marine rehabilitation options as there is a Native Title claim in the Bridge area. Possible target mangroves or threatened ecological community. For further discussion.

15. Keelty Review into 2019-20 Bushfire season - update

Item for Noting Merridie Martin provided an overview and update of the Review, and advised positive comments and findings for the Native Vegetation Council. Merridie advised the first part of Recommendation 5 was relevant to NVC. Merridie advised meeting with CFS, and feeding into the Royal Commission through working group. Training in Native Vegetation Clearance Assessments and formal comparison of 10/50 clearance framework to be completed. Code of Practice for Fuel Hazard Reduction on Private Land being developed - educating the community around fuel hazard reduction. There is

however a longer term issue around fire behavior in the landscape, and a need to work through understanding fire behavior. Discussion around next steps as result of Royal Commission and engagement with Kangaroo Island Council as a joint approach with CFS and DEW Fire Management Branch. KI had advised they will adopt the roadside management guidelines, with additional requirements to be advised i.e. What is to be cleared, where, and how. Recommendation that the Native Vegetation Council: 1. Note the relevant findings and recommendations of the Independent Review of 2019-20 SA

Bushfire Season. NOTED

2. Note the State Government arrangements for implementation of the recommendations and current status of the State Government response.

NOTED 3. Endorse the proposed actions in response to the relevant findings and recommendations

of the Independent Review of 2019-20 SA Bushfire Season. ENDORSED

4. Note the status of the Royal Commission into Natural Hazards.

NOTED 5. Note the recent engagement with the Kangaroo Island Council.

NOTED

No further discussion.

16. Amendment to Roadside Management Guidelines – Eyre Peninsula Item for Noting Guest Speaker: Peter Scott, Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association

Emily advised Council she was travelling to Eyre Peninsula with Sarah Reachill tomorrow and that decision on this item will need to be delayed until after trip and further discussion with EP LGA. Roundtable introductions of Council members provided. Peter advised issue is clarity of communication and advising what each party needs. Clarification needed about root stock of native vegetation from outside of clearance envelope. EP Regional Roadside Vegetation Management Plan reviewed. Advised large number of roads with small amount of people in area. Discussion around how to measure and classify the road, and how to maintain moving forward. Classification of roadway is important with agreement on clearance envelope. Advised need to clarify `how do we define an envelope of clearance for agricultural machinery to pass, and how to deal with seedlings inside clearance envelope – when can they be removed and how.

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Discussion around clearance of self-seeded trees in a cost effective way before they become too large. High impact removal methods causing concern to NVC. Spraying is considered high risk although farmers currently spray their properties 3-4 times per year without affecting native vegetation. Discussion around good case for measuring from the centre line of roads. Most effective and convenient way of clearance, but not necessarily most desirable, is to grade or spray. Consideration to areas of important vegetation on roadsides, and good road design which will have good results over time. Broad scale spraying not to be encouraged as this creates weed resistance. Sarah queried existing road categories and upgrades which can be local Council approved. Suggestion for NVC and EP LGA to work together to define the issue in relation to native vegetation clearance – what the envelopes will be, what roads, and then decide on re-growth maintenance. Opportunity to involve regional transport strategy. Possibly define some key routes which may not trigger approval process. For further consideration and discussion. Sarah and Emily to engage with Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association, with decision deferred to OOS. NVC to be updated with any progress. Recommendation that the Native Vegetation Council:

1. Consider the application by Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association (EP LGA), District Council Tumby Bay and District Council Elliston, to amend the roadside guidelines to incorporate an additional 1 metre of clearance beyond the road verge.

2. Consider the application by EP LGA, District Council Tumby Bay and District Council of Elliston to amend the roadside guidelines to incorporate the use of high impact methods such as herbicide use and heavy machinery.

NOT APPROVED

Resolution

The NVC resolved that the decision be deferred to OOS. Emily Jenke and Sarah Reachill to further engage with EP LGA. NVC to be updated with any progress.

NOTED 17. New Assessment Templates

Item for Approval Adam Schutz advised there had been a host of different templates which are no longer appropriate and required updating or replacing. The new design is intended to reflect current Regulations and standards, and improve turnaround time for approvals. Feedback provided on templates. Adam acknowledged for his work to date. Action: Members to consider the templates and send to Adam and discuss any changes required. Recommendation: that the Native Vegetation Council approve the new Assessment Report and Decision templates (subject to changes as requested by members).

Moved: Catherine Hollingsworth Seconded: Bob Hill CARRIED

APPROVED

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18. Native Vegetation Council Strategy Item for Discussion

Guest Speaker: Mary-Anne Healy, Director Strategy, DEW Emily Jenke advised that the Native Vegetation Strategy ties in with Nature Conservation

Strategy Mary-Anne Healy had been asked to provide an overview of the Consevation Strategy so that there was an opportunity to develop Strategy’s in-sync with each other.

Presentation: SA Nature Conservation Strategy

Mary-Anne thanked the Council for inviting her to provide an overview of the draft SA Nature Conservation Strategy. Background to development of the strategy provided. Mary-Anne advised the Nature Conservation Strategy 2020 will have 2 components, a Directions Statement – the government’s vision and goals (which is currently with the Minister for Environment and Water), and an Action Plan – a process to develop actions involving stakeholders and partners, and identifying actions that may involve one or multiple organisations.

Mary-Anne advised there was a need to transform the way we are working, from `using’ the

environment, to one of more balance and nurturing, and halting the decline of native vegetation. Need to recognize how we can achieve economic prosperity through caring for nature. Currently we risk to losing species and whole ecological communities.

Connections to other Strategy’s include: SA’s Climate Change Strategy, State Wellbeing

Strategy, Wildlife and Habitat Bushfire Recovery Taskforce, and Landscape Strategy (state and regional), SOE Environmental Report cards, and will now include the Native Vegetation Council Strategy.

Workshop to be held on 9 September with Landscape Boards, DEW Boards and Councils,

Traditional Owners, Environmental NGOs, and partners (LGA, PPSA, and TICSA). Some resulting actions may form base of budget bids and partnerships.

Emily advised NV Strategy is being developed and provided an update on the draft. Four

outcomes to achieve reviewed along with focus areas to achieve outcomes. Key risks to be considered along with mitigation. Broad engagement plan to be developed. Looking to establish a clear and concise direction for Council. Discussion around importance of framing directions around sustainable economic development. Natalie advised there was an issue of not understanding of what we currently have and the condition it is in. Need to establish what we want to keep and what can be let go. Mary-Anne noted the discussion by members, thanked the members for their time, and left the meeting. Query around how to show people that things are declining over time. Emily advised she will keep working with Sarah and work towards aligning the NVC Strategy with the Nature Conservation Strategy. Natalie Sommerville left the meeting (1.35pm)

19. Native Vegetation Seedbank

Item for Discussion

Bob Hill advised item had resulted from discussion in Bushfire Taskforce meeting. Discussion around rare and endangered plant species, and seedbanks which only hold a small amount of seed. Greening Australia are developing resources for future projects on the East Coast of Australia. Potential exists for plantations which would become economic adventures, and may help revegetate following catastrophic events. Trees for Life keen to develop project and Conservation Volunteers Australia have also expressed interest. Potential to produce on a

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broad scale. Discussion around advocating for support to further scope project to investigate potential outcomes. Project could be incorporated into off-setting, BCE etc. and conditioning Crown Lands. Need for Industry investment. Good opportunities for BCE providing access to species. Query around getting Nature SA involved. Action: Adam and Sarah to consult with Bob Hill around developing concept for Native Vegetation Seedbank. Bob Hill left the meeting (1.56pm).

20. Activity Report of the Compliance Unit, Native Vegetation Branch Item for Noting

Council noted current compliance matters. No further discussion. NOTED

21. Advice on Clearance (s28) decision under Regulation Exemption

Item for Noting Upcoming matters reviewed.

NOTED

22. Advice on Heritage Agreement Decisions made under delegated authority Item for Noting

Reviewed. Nil significant matters. NOTED

23. Advice on Roadside Vegetation Management Plans under delegated authority Item for Noting

Nil.

NOTED

Administration

24. Native Vegetation Fund Budget update EOFY 2019-20 Item for Noting

Senior Business Officer, Cerise Curnow, provided a review of the Native Vegetation Fund to EOFY 2019-20.

Report 1 – remaining balances - Native Vegetation SEB Grant Fund 2019-20

Report reviewed. No further discussion.

Report 2 – Outstanding funding – SEB and regional based fencing and incentive grants

Remaining commitments reviewed. Remaining payments to be carried over to 2021 financials – to be reviewed in the November meeting. No further discussion.

Report 3 – Native Vegetation Management Unit Program Budget 2019-20

Cerise advised OOS paper sent to members re: adjustment budget – approved. Compliance budget now fully expended. Compliance and investigation costs down, budget to remain same for next financial year. Remaining balance to be carried over as per paper to 2021. No further discussion.

Moved: John Neal Seconded: Ross Sawers CARRIED

NOTED

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25. Key Points for NVC Communique Item for Decision

Bob Hill and Catherine Hollingsworth to draft Communique for Meeting 229 days 1 and 2 respectively.

26. Previous Minutes, Meeting 228 9-10 June 2020

Item for Endorsement

The Minutes of NVC Meeting 228 were reviewed Out of Session. Amendment to spelling of Goyder’s Line. There were no further amendments, and the Minutes of Meeting 228 were accepted as a true and accurate record.

Moved: John Neal Seconded: Maurice Roche CARRIED

ENDORSED

27. Actions Meeting 228 9-10 June 2020

Item for Noting

Current and outstanding actions were reviewed. There were no actions arising.

NOTED Action: A/Coorinator Governance and Policy to send out Red-tailed Black Cockatoo Report

recieved to members via Basecamp for review. Discussion around Basecamp to hold library of reports/studies that can be used as references

for members. Adam raised the proposed changes to NV Regulations there is a map which delineates areas

of concern, and Minister is supportive. City of Marion want to expand areas for protection on Crown, council and private land.

28. Next meeting

Emily thanked the members of Council and Branch staff for their support over the last two days of meeting 229. Next meeting to be held on Wednesday 4 November 2020, with venue to be confirmed, or

via video conference. 29. Meeting 229 Closed at 2.24pm MINUTES CONFIRMED ……………………………………….. ……………………………………. Emily Jenke Sue Agars Presiding Member A/Coordinator, Governance and Policy (Minutes) Native Vegetation Council Native Vegetation Branch 4/11/2020 30/7/2020