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BUNNINGS

Flora and Fauna Assessment

For:

Bunnings Properties Pty Ltd

May 2013

Final

PO Box 2474

Carlingford Court 2118

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS

FINAL BUNNINGS PROPERTIES PTY LTD

14 MAY 2013

Report No. 13005RP1

The preparation of this report has been in accordance with the brief provided by the Client and has

relied upon the data and results collected at or under the times and conditions specified in the report.

All findings, conclusions or recommendations contained within the report are based only on the

aforementioned circumstances. The report has been prepared for use by the Client and no

responsibility for its use by other parties is accepted by Cumberland Ecology.

Revision Reviewed by Date Issued Revision Type

1 DR 30/04/13 Draft 2 CP 13/5/2013 Final draft 3 CP 14/5/2013 Final report

Approved by: David Robertson

Position: Director

Signed:

Date: 14 May, 2013

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS i


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Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction 1.1

1.2 Background 1.2

1.2.1 Location 1.2

1.2.2 Description of the Subject Land and Study Area 1.2

1.2.3 Geology, Soils and Topography 1.2

1.2.4 Current Zoning and Land Use 1.3

1.3 Proposal 1.4

1.4 Legislative Requirements 1.4

1.4.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 1.4

1.4.2 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 1.4

1.4.3 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

1.4

1.4.4 Local Planning Considerations 1.5

1.5 Terminology 1.6

2 METHODOLOGY

2.1 Literature Review 2.1

2.2 Database Analysis 2.1

2.3 Field Surveys 2.1

2.3.1 Flora Assessment 2.2

2.3.2 Fauna Assessment 2.3

2.4 Environmental Conditions 2.4

2.5 Limitations 2.4

3 RESULTS


3.2 Vegetation Types 3.1

3.2.1 General Features of the Vegetation 3.1

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Table of Contents (Cont'd)

3.2.2 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area 3.1

3.2.3 Blue Gum High Forest 3.2

3.2.4 Reconstructed Native (with exotics) 3.8

3.2.5 Planted Exotic/Native 3.10

3.2.6 Exotic Grassland 3.12

3.3 Flora 3.13

3.3.1 General Species 3.13

3.3.2 Threatened Species 3.13

3.3.3 Weeds 3.14

3.4 Fauna 3.15

3.4.1 Fauna Habitat 3.15

3.4.2 General Species 3.16

3.4.3 Threatened Species 3.17

4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT


4.2 Vegetation Communities 4.1

4.3 Flora 4.3

4.4 Fauna 4.3

4.4.1 Birds 4.3

4.4.2 Bats 4.4

4.5 Recommendations and Mitigation Measures 4.4

4.5.1 Pre-construction Measures 4.4

4.5.2 During Construction Measures 4.5

4.5.3 Long Term Management Strategies 4.5

4.5.4 Compensatory Strategies 4.5

5 CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

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Table of Appendices

A. FLORA SPECIES RECORDED

B. THREATENED FLORA LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ANALYSIS

C. FAUNA SPECIES RECORDED

D. THREATENED FAUNA LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ANALYSIS

E. ASSESSMENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE

E.1 Blue Gum High Forest E.1

E.2 Syzygium paniculatum (Magenta Lilly Pilly) E.3

E.3 Threatened Cockatoos E.5

E.4 Threatened Parrots E.8

E.5 Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua) E.12

E.6 Hollow Roosting Bats E.14

E.7 Cave Roosting Bats E.17

E.8 Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) E.20

F. FUTURE PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT LAYOUT SHOWING AVOIDANCE OF

MATURE SYDNEY BLUE GUM TREES

List of Tables

2.1 Survey Dates and Effort 2.2

2.2 Weather Conditions During Field Survey 2.4

3.1 Vegetation Types within Study Area and Subject Land 3.2

3.2 Area Occupied by Each Sydney Blue Gum Tree in the Study Area 3.3

3.3 Noxious Weeds and Weeds of National Significance within the Study Area 3.15

3.4 Likely Occurrence of Threatened Fauna Species 3.17

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List of Tables

4.1 Area of Impact to Sydney Blue Gum Trees within the Subject Land 4.2

4.2 Area of Impact to Vegetation Communities within the Subject Land (split into Subject Site and Landscape) 4.2

5.1 Flora Species Recorded within the Study Area A.1

5.2 Threatened Flora Likelihood of Occurrence Analysis B.1

5.3 Fauna Species Recorded within the Subject Land C.1

5.4 Threatened Fauna Likelihood of Occurrence Analysis D.1

List of Figures

1.1 Location of the Subject Land and Study Area 1.7

1.2 Development Layout of Future Proposal 1.8

2.1 Survey Locations 2.5

3.1 Sydney Metro Catchment Management Area Vegetation Mapping of the Subject Land and Study Area 3.19

3.2 Vegetation Communities within the Subject Land and Study Area 3.20

3.3 Threatened Flora and Fauna Species Recorded and Habitat Features within the Subject Land 3.21

4.1 Vegetation Communities Impacted (Subject Site) 4.7

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List of Photographs

3.1 Mature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 135) with Mown Grass Understorey Located North West of 3M Building 3.4

3.2 Mature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 150) with Mown Grass Understorey Located in North of the Subject Land 3.5

3.3 Immature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 148) within Reconstructed Vegetation 3.6

3.4 Area of Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 191) within Planted Exotic/Native 3.7

3.5 Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 91) within Planted Exotic/Native 3.8

3.6 Reconstructed Native (with exotics) Bordering the Subject Land along the Pacific Highway 3.10

3.7 Planted Exotic/Native - Looking to the West of the Study Area 3.11

3.8 Exotic Grassland Community – Looking North within Study Area 3.13

3.9 Syzygium paniculatum (Trees 222, 223 and 224) within the Subject Land 3.14

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS S.1


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Executive Summary

S1 Introduction

Cumberland Ecology has been engaged by Bunnings Properties Pty Ltd (the “Proponent”) to undertake a flora and fauna assessment for an Application for a Planning Proposal (the “Planning Proposal”) at 950 Pacific Highway, Pymble (Lot B DP 371406 and Lot 1 DP 718718) (hereafter referred to as the “Subject Land”).

The Subject Land is currently situated within Zone B7 (Business Park) pursuant to the Ku-ring-gai Planning Scheme Ordinance (KPSO). It is set within a commercial precinct and until recently has been used for office premises. In order to facilitate the future development of a Bunnings Warehouse on the Subject Land, the Planning Proposal seeks approval from Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council (KMC) to include ‘hardware and building supplies’ as a permissible land use with development consent in Zone B7 (Business Park).

The Subject Land is 1.85 hectares (ha) and currently contains two commercial buildings, a car parking area and landscaping (trees, shrubs and lawn areas). For the purposes of this flora and fauna assessment, flora and fauna habitats were considered within a wider area that contains the Subject Land and some contiguous land around it that could be affected by future redevelopment (the’Study Area’).

S2 Methods

The flora and fauna of the Subject Land is highly modified and so the investigations for this report were designed to focus on the potential occurrence of an endangered ecological community called Blue Gum High Forest, and various threatened species (mainly birds and bats) that could conceivably occur in a built up environment.

This report is based upon literature review, database interrogation and site survey information. Surveys conducted on 4, 5, 7 and 12 of February 2013 included:

Flora surveys: using random meanders of vegetation and targeted threatened flora searches; and

Fauna surveys including fauna habitat assessments and ultrasonic bat call detection.

S3 Results

S3.1 Vegetation Communities

Virtually all of the original native vegetation within the Subject Land has previously been cleared and the soil landscapes modified as part of the development process for the existing buildings. Vegetation within the Subject Land is comprised of six native trees (Eucalyptus



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saligna or Sydney Blue Gum), amid landscaped gardens and mown grassland. All but one of these trees appear to have regrown since European settlement has taken place. One individual is a large old tree of unknown age.

The Subject Land has been too highly modified for any native plant communities to remain and all vegetation is actively managed. The following vegetation types have been recognised and mapped:

"Remnant" Sydney Blue Gum Trees with Grass Understorey;

Sydney Blue Gum Trees within Reconstructed Vegetation;

Planted Sydney Blue Gum Trees;

Reconstructed Native (with exotics);

Planted Exotic/Native; and

Exotic Grassland.

Due to the presence of individuals of Sydney Blue Gum, the first three of these vegetation types conform to the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) listing of Blue Gum High Forest, a critically endangered ecological community (CEEC). That listing includes scattered trees without an understorey. However, as the vegetation is highly modified, none of these communities conform to the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) listing of Blue Gum High Forest, which only pertains to more intact remnants.

The Sydney Blue Gum trees on the Subject Land occur in a highly artificial environment with no substantial native understorey. They have low prospects for natural or assisted natural regeneration and are unlikely to recover without considerable levels of active management. Hence for this reason they are very limited as habitat.

S3.2 Flora and Fauna Species

A total of 108 flora species have been recorded within the Study Area, of which 55 are native to the locality, 53 are exotic. However, high proportion of the plants, including both native species and exotic species, has been planted for landscaping purposes. Three planted individuals of a threatened flora species, Syzygium paniculatum (Magenta Lilly Pilly), which is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and Vulnerable under the EPBC Act are located in the reconstructed native vegetation in the north of the Subject Land. However, these widely used for landscaping throughout Sydney and are not part of a naturally reproducing population.

Key fauna habitat features recorded within the Subject Land include: hollow-bearing trees, nest boxes, cockatoo feed trees, debris and leaf litter and nectar and fruit producing trees and shrubs.



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These key habitat features provide habitat for a variety of fauna including birds, bats, other mammals (ie possums) and some reptiles. However, due to its location and surrounding land use, the Subject Land is likely to support more hardy and mobile native species which are common within urban environments.

Ten threatened species and one threatened population are assessed as possibly making occasional use of the trees within the Subject Land. However, only one threatened vertebrate fauna species, the Grey-headed Flying-fox was found foraging over the Subject Land and one possibly recorded, the Eastern Bentwing-bat, during the field surveys.

S4 Impact Assessment

No immediate loss of threatened community or species or habitat would occur as part of the Planning Proposal. However, a future development application under the new zoning is proposed to be prepared. The Future Proposal will have an estimated total disturbance footprint to vegetation of 0.79 ha. The majority of the vegetation to be removed is Planted Exotic/Native and Exotic Grassland but also includes 0.11 ha of Blue Gum trees (measured via canopy cover), which is Blue Gum High Forest CEEC under the TSC Act.

The scattered trees to be removed are technically part of a CEEC; hence the Future Proposal may technically have a significant impact when evaluated via an Assessment of Significance. This is because theoretically any loss of CEEC trees may be viewed as clearing or modification of a "significant area of known habitat". However, in reality, the trees being removed currently exist in a context where their long term survival is questionable as they have little scope for natural regeneration and if damage or death occurred they would not have to be replaced. The scattered trees representing Blue Gum High Forest are already significantly modified habitat. Notwithstanding that, if a Species Impact Statement is required to be prepared to formally assess the impacts of the Future Proposal, the Species Impact Statement will be prepared at that time. In this case, the removal of the CEEC trees will need to be offset and regional biodiversity values will be promoted by an offset being secured offsite to the Subject Land.

The threatened flora species, Syzygium paniculatum known from the Subject land does not occur within the development footprint and therefore will not be impacted by the Future Proposal. Native flora and their habitat downstream (if water is discharged into Blackbutt Creek) has the potential to be indirectly impacted through increased runoff, erosion and sedimentation and weed invasion changing vegetation structure.

The Subject Land and Study Area is known to provide foraging habitat for the Grey-headed Flying Fox and may also provide habitat for a number of other threatened bat or bird species. This assemblage is mostly comprised of highly mobile species such as birds and bats that may utilise the Study Area as part of their foraging habitat, many being far ranging species that cover large areas. As with flora, habitat downstream has the potential to be indirectly impacted.

Ameliorative measures as part of the Future Proposal include during-construction measures and some long-term management strategies: pre-clearance fauna surveys, erosion and sediment control measures, pollution traps and regular removal of pollution, landscaping



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including species representative of Blue Gum High Forest and an appropriate compensatory offset package to account for the loss of four Sydney Blue Gums; which is currently being explored.

S5 Conclusion

The Planning Proposal will facilitate a Future Proposal resulting in removal of areas of modified vegetation that provides limited habitat for native species. The loss of four Sydney Blue Gum trees is not likely to be significant in term of a loss of habitat for threatened species. However, it may technically be significant because it could remove a significant area of known habitat for Blue Gum High Forest.

If required, a Species Impact Statement can be prepared to formally assess the impacts of the Future Proposal. In this case, the removal of the CEEC trees will need to be offset and regional biodiversity values will be promoted by an offset being secured offsite to the Subject Land. Potential offsets are currently under consideration by the Proponent. Other requirements for mitigation of the Future Proposal are minimal owing to the disturbed nature of the Subject Land. These are discussed within the report.

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS 1.1


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Chapter 1

Introduction

1.1 Introduction

Cumberland Ecology has been engaged by Bunnings Properties Pty Ltd (the “Proponent”) to undertake a flora and fauna assessment for an Application for a Planning Proposal (the “Planning Proposal”) at 950 Pacific Highway, Pymble (Lot B DP 371406 and Lot 1 DP 718718) (hereafter referred to as the “Subject Land”).

The Subject Land is currently situated within Zone B7 (Business Park) pursuant to the Ku-ring-gai Planning Scheme Ordinance (KPSO). It is set within a commercial precinct and until recently has been used for office premises. In order to facilitate the future development of a Bunnings Warehouse on the Subject Land, the Planning Proposal seeks approval from Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council (KMC) to include ‘hardware and building supplies’ as a permissible land use with development consent in Zone B7 (Business Park).

The purpose of this Flora and Fauna Assessment is to assess the implications of the Planning Proposal and future development of the Subject Land on native flora and fauna. The objectives are to:

Review relevant literature and databases to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Subject Land and surrounding area potentially impacted (hereafter referred to as the ‘Study Area’);

Describe the vegetation communities and fauna habitat characteristics of the Subject Land;

Identify any threatened species, populations or ecological communities existing on the Subject Land (as listed under the schedules of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act));

Assess the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species, populations or ecological communities on the Subject Land;

Assess the potential impact of the Planning Proposal on threatened communities, flora and fauna, including the completion of Assessments of Significance under Section 5A of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act); and



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Recommend mitigation measures to reduce or negate the impacts of the Planning Proposal on the flora and fauna values.

1.2 Background

During an onsite meeting with a KMC representative on 16 January 2013, concerns regarding potential impact to Eucalyptus saligna (Sydney Blue Gum) trees (forming Blue Gum High Forest, a critically endangered ecological community (CEEC)) present on the Subject Land. As such, KMC have requested a Flora and Fauna Assessment be undertaken to accompany the Planning Proposal.

1.2.1 Location

The Subject Land is located at 950 Pacific Highway, Pymble (Lot B DP 371406 and Lot 1 DP 718718), NSW. It is known locally as the 3M site. The Subject Land is wholly within the Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area (LGA). The Subject Land is approximately 1.85 hectares (ha) in size. It is bound to the north east by the Pacific Highway and to the south east by Ryde Road. The area surrounding the Subject Land is primarily existing commercial development with residential land further afield. An area of bushland is present to the west of the Subject Land at the end of Suakin Street, Pymble. The Study Area (including the Subject Land) has a total approximate area of 2.59 ha and encompasses the immediate area surrounding the Subject Land (Figure 1.1).

1.2.2 Description of the Subject Land and Study Area

The Subject Land has been developed essentially in its current form since the 1970s and currently contains two commercial buildings and car parking area. Landscaped areas containing planted native and exotic species along with mown lawn exists between the built areas.

The Study Area contains the Subject Land and a narrow area surrounding the Subject Land which could be affected by the further development of the site.

1.2.3 Geology, Soils and Topography

The locality is made up of both Hawkesbury Sandstone and Wianamatta Group shale geologies. The geology of the Subject Land is part of the Wianamatta Group geological landscape comprising shale with some sandstone beds (Rwl) (Bryan, 1966). An area of the Hawkesbury Sandstone geological landscape occurs approximately 0.13 km to the south of the Subject Land comprising sandstone quartz with some shale (Rh) (Bryan, 1966).

The Subject Land contains two soil landscapes including West Pennant Hills (wp) and Glenorie (gn). The western portion of the Subject Land lies within the West Pennant Hills (wp) soil landscape which comprises deep Red and Brown Podzolic Soils on upper and midslopes and Yellow and Brown Podzolic Soils on colluvial benches and yellow and Gleyed Podzolic Soils in drainage lines or poorly drained areas (Chapman and Murphy, 1989). The eastern portion of the Subject Land lies within the Glenorie (gn) soil landscape which



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comprises shallow to moderately deep Red Podzolic Soils on crests, moderately deep Red and Brown Podzolic Soils on upper slopes, deep Yellow Podzolic Soils on lower slopes and Humic Gleys, Yellow Podzolic and Gleyed Podzolic Soils along drainage lines (Chapman and Murphy, 1989).

The West Pennant Hills (wp) soil landscape’s topography is made up of steep sideslopes with slope generally greater than 20% up to 40% with primarily a south and south westerly aspects (Chapman and Murphy, 1989). The topography of the Glenorie (gn) soil landscape is typified by low rolling and steep hills with moderately inclined slopes of 10-15 degrees (Chapman and Murphy, 1989). The topography of the Subject Land has previously been modified for development, however it gently slopes in a south westerly direction. An embankment has been created along the boundaries of the Pacific Highway and Ryde Road. Blackbutt Creek is located approximately 400 m to the west and south west of the Subject Land. After meandering through the landscape and collecting water from various other creeks along the way, Blackbutt Creek eventually drains into Lane Cove River which meets with the Parramatta River and into Sydney Harbour (Department of Lands, 2006).

The highest point on the Subject Land is in the northern corner at approximately 126 m above sea level (ASL). The south eastern corner is approximately 120 m ASL. The lowest points are located along the south west boundary of the Subject Land and ranges from approximately 115m to 117m ASL.

1.2.4 Current Zoning and Land Use

The Subject Land is currently situated within Zone B7 (Business Park) pursuant to the KPSO and has, until recently, has been used as office premises. The objectives of the zone are to provide a range of office and light industrial uses and to enable other land uses that provide facilities or services to meet the day to day needs of workers in the area. Currently, the following land uses are permissible with consent:

Business premises; Child care centres, Food and drink premises; Light industries; General industries; Hotel or motel accommodation; Neighbourhood shops; Office premises; Passenger transport facilities; Respite day care centres; Warehouse or distribution centres; Water reticulation systems

The nearby surrounding land is comprised of the same zoning and has been developed for that use. Special Activities (SP1) Military Uses adjoins wider the commercial area along with Environmental Conservation (E2) zoning. The broader locality is mainly made up of mixed residential zoning including Low, Medium and High Density (R2, R3 and R4). Open Space/Public Recreation (RE1) zoning and land use is scattered throughout the locality. Two National Parks are located within the boarder locality including Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the north east and Lane Cove National Park to the west and south west.



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1.3 Proposal

The Planning Proposal seeks to include ‘hardware and building supplies’ as a permissible land use with development consent in Zone B7 (Business Park) pursuant to the KPSO, which will enable a Bunnings Warehouse to be developed on the Subject Land. The Planning Proposal will not, at this stage, include removal of native vegetation located within the Subject Land. However, the Planning Proposal will in the future, facilitate a development application for the establishment of a Bunnings Warehouse (the “Future Proposal”). The Bunnings Warehouse development will include: demolition of existing improvements, removal of vegetation, cut and fill, establishment of warehouse building and associated roadways and car parks and landscaped areas (see Figure 1.2).

1.4 Legislative Requirements

The following State and Commonwealth legislation and local government requirements are relevant to this report:

1.4.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

The EP&A Act is the overarching planning legislation in NSW. The EP&A Act provides for the creation of planning instruments that guide land use and assessment of proposals. The EP&A Act also provides for the consideration of the environment and biodiversity values.

1.4.2 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

The TSC Act is the key piece of legislation in NSW relating to the protection and management of biodiversity and threatened species. The TSC Act aims to protect and encourage the recovery of threatened species, populations and communities that are listed under the Act through threat abatement and species recovery programs. The TSC Act requires consideration of whether a development or activity is likely to significantly impact threatened species, populations, communities or their habitat.

1.4.3 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The EPBC Act is the Commonwealth legislation relating to the protection and management of biodiversity and threatened species. Under the EPBC Act, any development, proposal or activity that is considered likely to have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance (including nationally threatened ecological communities, species and listed migratory species) requires approval from the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment (from the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPaC).



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1.4.4 Local Planning Considerations

i. Draft Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2013

The Draft Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2013 (KLEP 2013) was recently exhibited and maps the land uses, zones, objectives and provisions for Ku-ring-gai. The draft KLEP 2012 includes a Biodiversity Map that identifies key biodiversity areas within the LGA; these areas are subject to Clause 6.6 of the draft KLEP 2012.

The draft KLEP 2013 does not identify any areas of biodiversity significance on the Subject Land.

ii. Draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan (Pymble Business Park) 2012

The Draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan (Pymble Business Park) 2012 (KDCP 2012) was recently exhibited. The draft KDCP 2012 identifies Greenweb lands that are considered to contain significant strategic biodiversity values, support of native flora, fauna and ecological processes and have a particular focus on key vegetation communities, threatened populations, species and their habitats. Lands identified as Greenweb lands are classified as:

Category 2 Support for Core Biodiversity Lands;

Category 3 Landscape Remnant;

Category 4 Biodiversity Corridors and Consolidation; and

Category 5 Canopy Remnant.

There are no areas of Category 1 Core Biodiversity Lands within the Pymble Business Park.

The Subject Land contains two areas mapped as Category 5 – Canopy Remnant on 13R.1 Greenweb Map For Pymble Business Park. Category 5 – Canopy Remnant refers to areas containing key vegetation communities which are smaller than Category 3 – Landscape Remnants and are not in good or moderate condition. By definition, such mapped areas have no understorey and are considered likely to provide habitat only for urban and mobile species. Their ecosystem service is species diversity, maintenance of air quality, carbon storage and a sense of place (Ku-ring-gai Council, 2012). The suggested controls for Category 5 vegetation are as follows:

Retain trees identified as Category 5 Canopy Remnant; and

Planting within sites that include land mapped as Category 5 is to consist of not less than 50% locally native species. Species are to reflect relevant vegetation communities within the area and a mix of groundcover and shrub species is desirable.

The draft KDCP 2012 has not yet been adopted and as such is currently not in force. Consideration of the prevailing provisions will be made at the DA stage.



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1.5 Terminology

This report uses the following terminology:

CEEC Critically Endangered Ecological Community

EEC Endangered Ecological Community

EPBC Act Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

EP&A Act NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Future Proposal The Future Proposal of a Bunnings retail warehouse

KDCP 2012 Draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan (Pymble Business Park) 2012

KLEP 2013 Draft Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2013

KPSO Ku-ring-gai Planning Scheme Ordinance

LGA Local Government Area

Locality The area within a 5 km radius of the Subject Land

OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

Planning Proposal The action proposed (refer to Section 1.3)

Proponent Bunnings Properties Pty Ltd

SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy

SEWPaC Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

Study Area The Subject Land and any additional areas that are likely to be affected by the Planning Proposal, either directly or indirectly (see

Figure 1.1)

Subject Land Land contained within the boundaries of Lot B DP 371406 and Lot 1 DP 718718 (see Figure 1.1)

Subject Site Area of the Subject Land on which the Future Proposal will take place (see Figure 4.1)

TSC Act NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

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Figure 1.1. Location of the Subject Land and Study Area

Coordinate System: MGA Zone 56 (GDA 94)

Grid

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Image Source:Image © 2013 Sinclair Knight Merz

Data Source:The Native Vegetation of the Sydney MetropolitanCatchment Management Authority Area (Draft),

DECCW, 2009.

12.5 0 12.5 25 37.5 50 m



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Chapter 2

Methods

The flora and fauna of the Subject Land is highly modified and so the investigations for this report were designed to focus on the potential occurrence of an endangered ecological community called Blue Gum High Forest, and various threatened species (mainly birds and bats) that could conceivably occur in a built up environment.

2.1 Literature Review

To gain an understanding of the biodiversity values of the Subject Land and Study Area, the following documents have been reviewed for the preparation of this report:

Ku-ring-gai Planning Scheme Ordinance;

Draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan (Pymble Business Park) 2012;

Ku-ring-gai Council Biodiversity Strategy 2006; and

Ku-ring-gai Biodiversity and Riparian Lands Study 2013.

2.2 Database Analysis

Database analysis was conducted for the locality using both the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database (OEH, 2013a) and Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Populations and Communities (SEWPaC) Protected Matters Search Tool (SEWPaC, 2012a; SEWPaC, 2013). The Atlas of NSW Wildlife Database search facility was used to generate records of threatened flora and fauna species listed under the TSC Act within a 5 km radius of the Subject Land. The Protected Matters Search Tool was used to generate a list of known and potentially occurring flora, fauna and ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act within a 5 km radius of the Subject Land. The lists generated from these databases were reviewed against available knowledge of the Subject Land to ascertain the likelihood of occurrence of threatened species.

2.3 Field Surveys

A site inspection was undertaken on 4 February 2013 and included a general inspection within the Subject Land to obtain an overview of the nature and distribution of the vegetation



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and fauna habitats. Surveys were also undertaken for microchiropteran (small insectivorous) bats over several nights in February 2012. Further details of the field surveys are provided below. A summary of survey dates and effort is provided in Table 2.1. Based on the current land use and availability of recent ecological literature of the Subject Land, this was considered to be sufficient for an assessment of the Planning Proposal and Future Proposal.

Table 2.1 Survey Dates and Effort

Date Flora Random

Meander

Flora - Targeted

Searches

Habitat

Assessment Bat Survey

4/02/2013 8 hours 8 hours 8 hours 1.5 hours

5/02/2013 1.5 hours

7/02/2013 1.5 hours

12/02/2013 1.5 hours

TOTAL 8 hours 8 hours 8 hours 6 hours

2.3.1 Flora Assessment

The flora assessment undertaken within the Subject Land included:

Random meander transect surveys to detect flora species across the Subject Land including threatened flora considered likely to occur within the Subject Land and to define vegetation community boundaries; and

Targeted searches for endangered ecological communities (EECs) considered have potential to occur within the Subject Land.

Random meander transect surveys were focused on ground-truthing the flora of the Subject Land and Study Area in order to create a comprehensive flora species list. Identification and recording of vascular flora species present in each strata of the different vegetation communities was undertaken. The random meander included consideration of any threatened flora likely to occur at the Subject Land.

All vascular flora species observed were identified to species level where possible, and recorded. All vascular plants recorded or collected were identified using keys and nomenclature provided in Harden (1990-1993). Where known, taxonomic and nomenclatural changes have been incorporated into the results, these were derived from PlantNET (Botanic Gardens Trust, 2013).

Any tree numbers noted within this report are adopted from report prepared by Raintree Consulting Arboricultural Management (2013) ‘3M Site 950 Pacific Highway Pymble, Sydney NSW’.



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The Subject Land has been highly cleared and modified. No natural vegetation communities remain. However, several artificial vegetation types that include native species occur and these have been mapped. Vegetation types were described based on the dominant species and structure of community.

Floristic data from the mapped vegetation types supporting Sydney Blue Gum were compared with the floristic data within the Final Determination for ‘Blue Gum High Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ (hereafter referred to as ‘the Final Determination’) (NSW Scientific Committee, 2008; NSW Scientific Commitee, 2011) and community description provided by DECCW (NSW) (2009b) in their ‘The Native Vegetation of the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority Area. Draft’. Habitat and distribution was also compared with the Final Determination and descriptions.

No flora sampling quadrats were undertaken during the flora survey. Due to the size and layout of the largely artificial vegetation present within the Subject Land, sampling using flora quadrats was considered unnecessary and would not provide any additional information to that gained from the random meanders.

2.3.2 Fauna Assessment

i. Habitat assessment

Fauna habitat assessment was undertaken in conjunction with the flora survey. Fauna habitat assessment included consideration of important indicators of habitat condition and complexity including the occurrence of microhabitats such as tree hollows, fallen logs, rock and water sources. Structural features considered included the nature and extent of the understorey and ground stratum, extent of canopy and flowering characteristics.

Tree hollows are used as a general indication of habitat quality for arboreal fauna, and hollow dwelling birds and bats. Hollows observed during surveys were noted and details of the size and type were recorded.

Searches for indirect indicators of fauna use of the site such as droppings, diggings, footprints, scratches, nests, burrows, paths and runways were undertaken.

ii. Microchiropteran bat survey

Surveys for microchiropteran bats were undertaken over four evenings on 4 February 2013, 5 February 2013, 7 February 2013 and 12 February 2013. "Anabat" units were used to record ultrasonic bat calls. One Anabat unit was used both stationary and meandering within the Subject Land over the four nights (see Figure 2.1). The Anabat unit was positioned in suitable habitat which contained or was near to hollow bearing trees and where an open area existed, particularly where night lights are located which attract insects. On each night, the Anabat unit recorded from 8.00 PM until 9.30 PM (1.5 hours). I

iii. Incidental observations

Any incidental fauna species that were observed, heard calling or otherwise detected on the basis of tracks or signs were recorded and listed in the total species list for the Subject Land.



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2.4 Environmental Conditions

A summary of weather conditions in the locality of the Subject Land (Lane Cove weather station) during field surveys, as provided by the Bureau of Meteorology (2013), is shown in Table 2.2 below.

Table 2.2 Weather Conditions During Field Survey

Date Minimum Temp. °C Maximum Temp. °C Rainfall (mm)

4/02/2013 12.6 24.4 0.8

5/02/2013 16.1 25.4 0

7/02/2013 Not available 28.0 0

12/02/2013 18.5 21.8 19.4

2.5 Limitations

The flora and fauna of the Subject Land are highly simplified and cover a small area. There is little potential for threatened species to occur or make significant use of the Subject Land. For this reason, the information acquired for this investigation is considered adequate for impact assessment purposes.

The vertebrate fauna and vascular flora of the locality are well known based on the database of past records and various published reports. The above survey methods applied by Cumberland Ecology add to the existing database and have assisted in providing a clear indication of the likelihood of occurrence of various species within the Subject Land. The data obtained from database assessment and surveys of the Subject Land are believed to have furnished an appropriate level of information to support this assessment.

Flora surveys were conducted within the Subject Land during one inspection carried out in February 2013. The weather conditions leading up to the flora survey were generally favourable for plant growth and production of features required for identification of most species. Shrubs, grasses, herbs and creepers were identifiable in most instances, however, cultivars, if not readily identifiable we identified to genus level. Although considerable survey effort has taken place throughout the Subject Land, it is possible that some flora species have not been detected, particularly cryptic species. It is however considered that substantial information has been collected to assess issues including conservation significance of the flora, condition and viability of vegetation and likely impact on native vegetation.

Targeted fauna surveys were limited to bat surveys due to the size and contextual location of the Subject Land. Due to the nature of the Subject Land, previous experience and extensive records available from the Atlas of NSW Wildlife, it is believed that adequate fauna data was collected to meet the requirements of the investigation.

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Figure 2.1. Survey Locations


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Chapter 3

Results

3.1 Introduction

This Chapter provides the results of the flora and fauna surveys conducted during February 2013 on the Subject Land as well as the results of database searches. The Subject Land comprises remnant native vegetation, reconstructed native vegetation, landscaped areas and mown grassland surrounded largely by commercial development.

3.2 Vegetation Types

3.2.1 General Features of the Vegetation

The Subject Land has been previously developed for commercial purposes and comprises remnant native canopy trees, reconstructed native vegetation, landscaped gardens and mown grassland. Landscaping of the Subject Land has been undertaken since the establishment of the existing commercial building. The occurrence of weeds within the Subject Land is associated with disturbed areas and planted gardens.

3.2.2 Vegetation Communities within the Study Area

The Study Area is located within a part of the LGA which falls within the Sydney Metro Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) area. Vegetation within the SMCMA area has been mapped by DECCW (2009b). The DECCW (2009b) vegetation mapping of the Study Area and surrounding area is shown in Figure 3.1. A large portion of the Study Area and its surrounds is mapped as Urban Exotic/Native. Other vegetation communities mapped by DECCW (2009b) in the surrounding area include: Sydney Turpentine-Ironbark Forest and Blue Gum High Forest.

Ku-ring-gai Council’s LGA vegetation mapping completed in 2010 is not publicly available and therefore has not been reviewed as part of this assessment.

Four different vegetation types/communities were recorded within the Study Area and Subject Land. Descriptions of the communities identified are provided below and their distribution within the Study Area and Subject Land is shown in Figure 3.2. The area occupied by each vegetation community mapped in the Study Area and Subject Land is provided in Table 3.1 below. Specific area occupied by each Sydney Blue Gum tree in the



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Study Area is provided in Table 3.2. In addition to the vegetation present on the Subject Land, buildings and infrastructure occupy approximately 0.74 ha.

Table 3.1 Vegetation Types within Study Area and Subject Land

Vegetation Community Study Area (ha) Subject Land (ha)

Remnant Sydney Blue Gum Trees with Grass Understorey 0.08 0.08

Sydney Blue Gum Trees within Reconstructed Vegetation 0.02 0.02

Planted Sydney Blue Gum Trees 0.04 0.03

Reconstructed Native (with exotics) 0.31 0.20

Planted Exotic/Native 0.78 0.52

Exotic Grassland 0.27 0.27

TOTAL 1.50 1.11

3.2.3 Blue Gum High Forest

The first three vegetation types in Table 3.1 technically conform to the TSC Act Final Determination for Blue Gum High Forest as they contain scattered Sydney Blue Gums. In total six trees occur on the Subject Land and their canopy areas are shown in Table 3.2.

TSC Act Status: Critically Endangered Ecological Community (CEEC).

EPBC Act Status: The occurrence on the Subject Land does not conform to the EPBC Act listing of this community as it is too small and highly modified.

Blue Gum High Forest is a tall eucalypt forest characterised by an open mesic tree/shrub layer and an open moist groundcover. Blue Gum High Forest is described as being on a range of shale or shale influenced substrates underlain by Wianamatta Shales which receive 900 to 1300 mm of mean annual rainfall and elevation between 30m and 185m ASL (DECCW (NSW), 2009b). Most of the original range of Blue Gum High Forest has been cleared for urban development (Tozer et al., 2010) and consequently, this community is listed under both TSC Act and EPBC Act as a critically endangered ecological community. Prior to clearing, the Subject Land would have once contained Blue Gum High Forest which would have aligned with DECCW’s (2009b) and Ku-ring-gai Council’s (2010) descriptions for ‘Blue Gum High Forest’. The Blue Gum High Forest currently occurring within the Study Area is highly modified.

Figure 3.2 shows the occurrence and distribution of Blue Gum High Forest within the Study Area and Subject Land. Blue Gum High Forest, mainly comprised of the canopy species Eucalyptus saligna, is scattered throughout the Study Area. This Blue Gum High Forest takes three different condition variations within the Study Area and although the patches are lacking in typical floristics, all conform with the TSC Act CEEC listing ‘Blue Gum High Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ as described within the Final Determination (NSW Scientific Commitee, 2011). None of the patches conform with the Commonwealth’s EPBC Act critically endangered ecological community listing.



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Table 3.2 Area Occupied by Each Sydney Blue Gum Tree in the Study Area

Sydney Blue Gum Tree Number Area (ha)

150 0.03

135 0.05

191 0.02

148 0.01

120 0.01

91 0.02

TOTAL 0.14

i. Variant – Remnant Sydney Blue Gum Trees with Grass Understorey

Two large Eucalyptus saligna trees (Tree 135 and 150), which are likely to be remnant trees, exist within a mown grass area (see Photographs 3.1 and 3.2). There is no small tree or shrub stratum present beneath these trees. Mown grass is present in the groundcover stratum, this contains some native species including: Oxalis perennans, Dichondra repens (Kidney Weed), Cyperus gracilis (Slender Flat-sedge) and Oplismenus aemulus (Australian Basket Grass). The native grass, Cynodon dactylon (Couch) is present in the area. However, exotic grass is dominant and consists mainly of Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu) with Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass) also present.

Three of the species recorded within this community are included within the Final Determination, these are: Eucalyptus saligna, Oxalis perennans and Oplismenus aemulus.



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Photograph 3.1 Mature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 135) with Mown Grass Understorey Located North West of 3M Building



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Photograph 3.2 Mature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 150) with Mown Grass Understorey Located in North of the Subject Land



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ii. Variant – Sydney Blue Gum Trees within Reconstructed Vegetation

Two immature Eucalyptus saligna trees (Tree 148 and 120), shown on Figure 3.2, are located within the ‘Reconstructed Native (with exotics)’ vegetation community which forms a narrow strip along the boundary where Pacific Highway and Ryde Road (Tree 148 shown in Photograph 3.3). This area of vegetation has been planted for bank stabilisation (refer to Section 3.2.4). Besides Eucalyptus saligna, other native trees in this area include: Eucalyptus pilularis (Blackbutt), Angophora costata (Smooth-barked Apple). Small native trees are: Acmena smithii (Lilly Pilly) and Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum). Native groundcovers are present within this area and include: Lomandra longifolia (Spiny-headed Mat-rush) and Oplismenus aemulus.

Five of these species are included within the Final Determination but have been planted in this area, these are: Eucalyptus saligna, Eucalyptus pilularis, Lomandra longifolia, Pittosporum undulatum and Oplismenus aemulus.

Photograph 3.3 Immature Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 148) within Reconstructed Vegetation



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iii. Variant – Sydney Blue Gum Tree within Planted Exotic/Native

Two Eucalyptus saligna trees (Tree 91 and 191), shown on Figure 3.2, occur within planted exotic/native areas, with one tree being just outside of the north western portion of the Subject Land within the Study Area (Tree 191, see Photograph 3.4) and the other located to the south of the M3 building (Tree 91, see Photograph 3.5). These trees are set within landscaped garden beds which are both located near to large commercial buildings and a carpark area. Canopy overhang is present within the Subject Land from Tree 191. The landscaped garden bed beneath Tree 191 contains planted canopy species Eucalyptus grandis (Flooded Gum) and Archontophoenix cunninghamiana (Bangalow Palm), both are native species that would not naturally occur within the Study Area. Small trees in the garden bed include Ligustrum sinense (Small-leaved Privet) and Ligustrum lucidum (Large-leaved Privet) which are both class 4 Noxious Weeds (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013) within the LGA. The exotic and commonly used landscaping plant, Murraya paniculata (Murraya) is the only shrub present in this area. Cordyline sp. and Musa sp. (Banana) which are both exotic to the area are shrub stratum monocots. Groundcover species include diocitic herbs such as weedy Conyza sp. and monocotic species Tradescantia fluminensis (Wandering Jew) which is also a class 4 Noxious Weed within the LGA (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013).

The garden bed area beneath Tree 91 contains Rhododendron sp. (Azalea) only.

Only one species, Eucalyptus saligna, is included within the Final Determination in these areas.

Photograph 3.4 Area of Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 191) within Planted Exotic/Native



14 MAY 2013

Photograph 3.5 Eucalyptus saligna (Tree 91) within Planted Exotic/Native

3.2.4 Reconstructed Native (with exotics)

TSC Act Status: Not listed.

EPBC Act Status: Not listed.

Reconstructed Native (with exotics) is an artificial native vegetation community established following construction which has taken place on the Pacific Highway and Lane Cove Road. As a result, this vegetation does not resemble any known native vegetation community but rather contains an assortment of planted endemic native, planted non-endemic native and exotic species.

Figure 3.2 shows the occurrence and distribution of Reconstructed Native (with exotics) within the Study Area and Subject Land. This community is bordered by the Pacific Highway and Ryde Road. In this community, planted native trees emerge above planted native shrubs and groundcovers. Weedy exotic species and landscaping plants have also been planted within this community. The main structural features of this community are shown in Photograph 3.4 below.



14 MAY 2013

A mixture of canopy trees occur in this community including locally indigenous natives: Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine), Eucalyptus pilularis and Angophora costata. Non locally indigenous natives include: Brachychiton acerifolius (Flame Tree), Eucalyptus microcorys (Tallowwood), Eucalyptus robusta (Swamp Mahogany), Corymbia maculata (Spotted Gum), Eucalyptus grandis (Flooded Gum) and Acmena smithii. Exotic species include: Jacaranda mimosifolia (Jacaranda), Magnolia sp. and Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor Laurel), the latter of which is a Class 4 Noxious Weed in the LGA (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013).

Small tree species are less abundant than canopy species and include natives: Acacia floribunda (White Sally Wattle) and Syzygium paniculatum (Brush Cherry). Syzygium paniculatum (Brush Cherry) is a threatened species, outside of its known habitat. Exotic small tree species present are: Ligustrum sinense (Small-leaved Privet) which is a Class 4 Noxious Weed in the LGA and Olea europaea subsp. cuspidate (African Olive).

The shrubs present in this community include native species such as: Kunzea sp., Pittosporum undulatum; Banksia spinulosa, Grevillea linearifolia (Linear-leaf Grevillea) and Hakea salicifolia (Willow-leaved Hakea). Exotic species are present also including the landscaping plants: Nandina domestica (Japanese Sacred Bamboo) and Lantana montevidensis (Trailing Lantana).

The groundcover stratum contains a mixture of native and exotic species. Exotic herbs include Conyza sp. and Sida rhombifolia (Paddy’s Lucerne). Native grasses Cynodon dactylon (Couch), Oplismenus aemulus (Australian Basket Grass) are present with exotic grass Ehrharta erecta (Panic Veldtgrass). Other monocots inclue the native, Lomandra longifolia (Spiny-headed Mat-rush) and exotics Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant) and Asparagus aethiopicus (Asparagus Fern). One fern is present, Nephrolepis cordifolia (Fishbone Fern) and is a common weedy garden escapee. No native climbers are present, however a number of exotic climbers are, including: Araujia sericifera (Moth Vine), Hedera helix (English Ivy), Campsis x tagliabuana (Trumpet Creeper) and Ipomoea cairica (Morning Glory) which is a Class 4 Noxious Weed in the LGA (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013).



14 MAY 2013

Photograph 3.6 Reconstructed Native (with exotics) Bordering the Subject Land along the Pacific Highway

3.2.5 Planted Exotic/Native



Planted Exotic/Native includes all species which have been planted for the purpose of landscaping between buildings, in open spaces and on streetscapes. A wide array of exotic and native species have been planted and make up this community. Figure 3.2 shows the occurrence and distribution of Reconstructed Native (with exotics) within the Study Area. This community is shown in Photograph 3.5.

Canopy trees which exist in this planted community are, natives including: Casuarina glauca (Swamp Oak); Ficus oblique (Small-leaved Fig) and Diploglottis cunninghamii (Native Tamarind). Exotic trees are abundant and include: Liquidambar styraciflua (Liquid Amber), Schinus areira (Pepper Tree), Ceiba speciosa (Chorisia), Corymbia citriodora (Lemon-scented Gum), Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia (Desert Ash) and noxious weed Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor Laurel). Small trees include the native Melia azedarach (White Cedar), Callistemon sp. (a Bottlebrush) and Acmena smithii (Lilly Pilly) as well as the exotic: Schinus areira (Pepper Tree), Ligustrum sinense (Small-leaved Privet), Ligustrum lucidum (Large-leaved Privet) and Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm).



14 MAY 2013

Shrubs present include native: Callistemon sp. and Leptospermum sp.. Exotics shrubs planted include common landscaping plants: Rhododendron sp. (Azelea), Nandina domestica (Japanese Sacred Bamboo), Monstera deliciosa (Fruit Salad Plant), Murraya paniculata (Murraya), Camellia sp.; Gardenia sp. and Ochna serrulata (Mickey Mouse Plant) which is a Class 4 Noxious Weed in the LGA (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013).

Dicotic herbs in the groundcover include the native Vinca major (Greater Periwinkle) and exotic Conyza sp.and Lycopersicon esculentum (Tomato). Monocotic herbs include: the native Centella asiatica (Indian Pennywort), Commelina cyanea (Native Wandering Jew), Cyperus gracilis (Slender Flat-sedge) and Lomandra sp. and the exotic Agapanthus praecox (African Lily), Chlorophytum comosum (Spider Plant), Asparagus aethiopicus and Tradescantia fluminensis. Grasses include the native Cynodon dactylon and Oplismenus aemulus along with the exotic Ehrharta erecta (Panic Veldtgrass). Ferns present within this area include the native Asplenium australasicum (Bird's Nest Fern) and Calochlaena dubia (Rainbow Fern) as well as exotic and common garden escapee Nephrolepis cordifolia (Fishbone Fern).

Climbers located within this area are the native Cissus antarctica (Kangaroo Vine) and the exotic Araujia sericifera (Moth Vine), Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) and Acetosa sagittata (Rambling Dock).

Photograph 3.7 Planted Exotic/Native - Looking to the West of the Study Area



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3.2.6 Exotic Grassland



Exotic Grassland includes all mown grassed areas within the Study Area. These areas are mown regularly and maintained. Common exotic and native species occur within this grassland community. Figure 3.2 shows the occurrence and distribution of Exotic Grassland within the Study Area and Subject Land. The exotic grassland community is shown in Photograph 3.6 below.

Besides the occurrence of two remnant Eucalyptus saligna and some planted immature eucalypts, canopy trees, small trees and shrubs are absent from this community. Groundcovers alone comprise this community. Dicotic herbs present are the native, Oxalis perennans as well as exotics, Conyza sp., Euchiton involucratus (Star Cudweed), Sonchus oleraceus (Common Sowthistle) and Paronychia brasiliana (Chilean Whitlow Wort). Monocotic herbs and grasses include natives, Dichondra repens (Kidney Weed), Cyperus gracilis (Slender Flat-sedge), Cynodon dactylon (Couch) and Oplismenus aemulus along with exotic grasses Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu) and Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass). The exotic grasses were dominant throughout, however natives Cyperus gracilis and Oplismenus aemulus were fairly prominent in shady areas such as beneath large well shaded trees. No ferns or climbers were recorded.



14 MAY 2013

Photograph 3.8 Exotic Grassland Community – Looking North within Study Area

3.3 Flora

3.3.1 General Species

A total of 108 flora species have been recorded within the Study Area. Of those species, 55 are native species, some of which are locally indigenous. There is a total of 53 exotic species, many of which are planted landscaping species and some are noxious weeds. A species list for the Study Area is provided in Appendix A.

3.3.2 Threatened Species

Site assessment and desktop analysis based on habitat and/or known presence within the locality indicated that none of the threatened species have potential to naturally occur on the Subject Land (see Appendix B). This is due to the land being cleared previously and modified as exotic mown lawn and landscaped gardens or reconstructed bushland for soil stabilisation.

Three planted individuals of a threatened flora species, Syzygium paniculatum which is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and Vulnerable under the EPBC Act were recorded within the Subject Land. The locations of these individuals are shown in Figure 3.3. This species’ natural habitat is subtropical and littoral rainforest on sandy soils or stabilised dunes near the sea (Botanic Gardens Trust, 2013), therefore for it to be present within the Study Area it



14 MAY 2013

would have been planted. These three specimens currently have Hedera helix (English Ivy) growing up their trunks and branches and are currently at risk of being smothered.

Photograph 3.9 Syzygium paniculatum (Trees 222, 223 and 224) within the Subject Land

3.3.3 Weeds

The Subject Land contains nine noxious weeds (see Table 3.3) which occur scattered across the Subject Land in vegetated areas but predominantly in landscaped garden bed areas. All of these species are Class 4 noxious weeds in the LGA (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013). Two of the nine noxious weeds are also Weeds of National Significance (WONS).



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Table 3.3 Noxious Weeds and Weeds of National Significance within the Study Area

Common Name Scientific Name Noxious Weed

Category WONS

Camphor Laurel Cinnamomum camphora 4 No

Small-leaved Privet Ligustrum sinense 4 No

Large-leaved Privet Ligustrum lucidum 4 No

Mickey Mouse Plant Ochna serrulata 4 No

Trailing Lantana Lantana montevidensis 4 Yes

Asparagus Fern Asparagus aethiopicus 4 Yes

Wandering Jew Tradescantia fluminensis 4 No

Morning Glory Ipomoea sp. 4 No

Rambling Dock Acetosa sagittata 4 No

3.4 Fauna

3.4.1 Fauna Habitat

Key habitat features recorded within the Subject Land include:

Hollow-bearing trees;

Nest boxes;

Cockatoo feed trees;

Debris and leaf litter; and

Nectar and fruit producing trees and shrubs.

These key habitat features provide habitat for a variety of fauna, including some species that are listed as threatened under the TSC Act. Habitat features are considered in more detail below in subsequent subheadings.

i. Hollow-bearing trees

Two small tree hollows (approximately 10 cm diameter opening) are present within the Subject Land and their locations are shown on Figure 3.3. Habitation of the hollows is likely to be by a small parrot species such as Rainbow Lorikeet as that species had common presence at the Subject Land or possibly hollow roosting microbat species. One of the tree hollows is present within a large remnant Eucalyptus saligna (Sydney Blue Gum) and is



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approximately 3 metres above the ground. The second tree hollow is contained in a Cinnamomum camphora tree and is approximately 4.5 m above the ground.

ii. Nest boxes

Two medium mammal sized nest boxes (approximately 10 cm diameter opening) are present within the Subject Land and their locations are shown on Figure 3.3. These nest boxes may be utilised as nesting habitat for medium arboreal mammals or medium parrots. One nest box is present within a landscaped garden area next to a building in the west of the Subject Land and is approximately 3 m above the ground. This nest box is currently habituated by the Common Ringtail Possum, where two juveniles were recorded. A second nest box is present within a Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor Laurel) tree in the east of the Subject Land and is approximately 2.5 m above the ground. Nest Box B does not contain any material indicative of habitation.

iii. Cockatoo feed trees

Several individuals of Casuarina glauca exist within a planted garden bed which is located between two buildings in the Study Area. The fruit produced on these trees may provide occasional foraging resources for the Glossy Black-cockatoo and other cockatoos. The Glossy Black-cockatoo is dependent on species of Casuarina and Allocasuarina trees for their food source. The quantity of feed produced by these Casuarina glauca is low and therefore is a limited food resource, which, within its context is unlikely to be regularly used.

iv. Debris and leaf litter

Debris and leaf litter are present within landscaped garden beds and the ‘Reconstructed Native (with exotics)’ community area in the Study Area. Fallen logs are not present, which is likely due to both the maintenance regime of the landscaped areas and the lack of tree maturity within the ‘Reconstructed Native (with exotics)’ community. The debris and leaf litter are habitat features which provide potential shelter for amphibians, reptiles (mainly skinks given the urban environment) and terrestrial mammals.

v. Nectar and fruit producing trees and shrubs

Nectar and fruit producing trees and shrubs occur across the Subject Land. These would provide foraging habitat for a range of species including blossom-dependant birds, arboreal mammals and flying-foxes. A number of large Ficus microcarpa (Figs) are present within the northern and south western portions of the Subject Land which provide a large amount of fruit which is a favourable food source for flying-foxes. On all survey nights Grey Headed Flying Foxes were recorded foraging within the same trees.

3.4.2 General Species

Numerous vertebrate fauna species are known to occur within the locality. The habitat provided by the Subject Land is likely to be used by fauna species such as birds, bats, other mammals (ie possums) and some reptiles. Due to its location and surrounding land use, the Subject Land is likely to support more hardy native species which are common within urban



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environments. Habitat occurring within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Lane Cove National Park, Dalrymple – Hay Nature Reserve, Sheldon Forest and Rofe Park which occur within the locality to the Subject Land would support a much higher diversity of fauna species.

A list of species recorded within the Study Area is provided in Appendix C. Five birds were recorded and included common and urban adapted birds: Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen), Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina), Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala) and Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus).

Two species of reptile were recorded: Eastern Striped Skink (Ctenotus robustus) and Garden Skink (Lampropholis delicata); these are common species.

One non-flying species of mammal, Common Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrines) was recorded within the Subject Land. Two juvenile Common Ringtail Possums were recorded sheltering in Nest Box A. One non-threatened bat, Gould's Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii), was recorded (probable recording) within the Subject Land. Evidence of exotic European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in the form of a burrow was recorded.

3.4.3 Threatened Species

A number of threatened fauna species have been recorded from the locality and have the potential to occur within the Subject Land. Analysis of the likelihood of occurrence within the Subject Land for each threatened fauna species recorded within the locality or which has habitat within the locality is provided in Appendix D. In summary, ten threatened species and one threatened population are assessed has having potential to at least forage occasionally within the Subject Land (Table 3.4).

Table 3.4 Likely Occurrence of Threatened Fauna Species

Common Name Scientific Name TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Birds

Gang-gang Cockatoo Callocephalon fimbriatum

V - 25 Possible

Gang-gang Cockatoo population in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai Local Government Areas

Callocephalon fimbriatum

E2 - 23 Possible

Glossy Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami

V - 5 Possible

Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla V - 4 Possible

Swift Parrot Lathamus discolour E E 4 Possible



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Table 3.4 Likely Occurrence of Threatened Fauna Species

Common Name Scientific Name TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Powerful Owl Ninox strenua V - 65 Possible

Mammals

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat

Saccolaimus flaviventris

V - 3 Possible

Eastern Freetail-bat Mormopterus norfolkensis

V - 6 Possible

Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus

V V 884 Present

Little Bentwing-bat Miniopterus australis V - 2 Possible

Eastern Bentwing-bat Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis

V - 22 Likely (Possible recording)

One threatened vertebrate fauna species, the Grey-headed Flying-fox was recorded during this survey (see Figure 3.3). On each evening of survey, numerous Grey-headed Flying-foxes were observed flying over the Subject Land and were also recorded foraging in large Ficus microcarpa trees present in the northern portion of the Subject Land. Another threatened species of microchiropteran bat, Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus orianae oceanensis) (see Figure 3.3) was possibly recorded on the Subject Land. This species would utilise the Subject Land as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range.

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Figure 3.3. Threatened Flora and Fauna Species Recorded and Habitat Features within the Subject Land


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Chapter 4

Impact Assessment

4.1 Introduction

This chapter provides a detailed analysis of the potential impacts of the Planning Proposal on the ecological values the Study Area, in particular, threatened communities and species. This analysis includes a discussion of both direct and indirect impacts of the Planning Proposal.

The Planning Proposal seeks to include ‘hardware and building supplies’ as a permissible land use with development consent in Zone B7 (Business Park) pursuant to the KPSO. The Planning Proposal will not, at this stage, include removal of native vegetation located within the Subject Land. Some of the vegetation within the Study Area consists of Blue Gum High Forest CEEC. Some vegetation within the Study Area provides known foraging habitat for the Grey-headed Flying Fox (recorded utilising this habitat) and potential foraging habitat for other threatened species such as the Glossy Black Cockatoo (although very limited). Potential habitat for naturally occurring threatened flora species is very low. Three individuals of a planted (or derived thereof) threatened flora species, Syzygium paniculatum are present within the Subject Land. One species of threatened microchiropteran bat, Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis (now Miniopterus orianae oceanensis) has been recorded (possible recording) and is likely to forage at the Study Area.

No immediate loss of threatened community or species or habitat would occur as part of the Planning Proposal. However, future development application under the new zoning is proposed to take place, this is described in Section 1.3. Impacts which take account of future development impacts are discussed in more detail below.

4.2 Vegetation Communities

The Future Proposal will have an estimated total disturbance footprint to vegetation of 0.79 ha. The vegetation to be disturbed by the Future Proposal includes several Sydney Blue Gums in three vegetation types that conform to NSW TSC Act listed ‘Blue Gum High Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ (see Figure 4.1).

Sydney Blue Gum trees to be removed and their canopy area/spread are provided in Table

4.1. The area of Sydney Blue Gum Trees to be removed represents a total 79% of the occurrence within the Study Area.



14 MAY 2013

The majority of the vegetation to be removed is Planted Exotic/Native and Exotic Grassland. Table 4.2 below provides areas of vegetation removal (Subject Site) as part of the Future Proposal. Reconstructed Native (with exotics), is mostly contained within the Landscape area where any vegetation that can be retained (across the Subject Land) will be retained.

A Section 5A assessment (Assessment of Significance) has been completed for Blue Gum High Forest and is provided in Appendix E.

The scattered trees to be removed are technically part of a CEEC, hence the Future Proposal may technically have a significant impact when evaluated via an Assessment of Significance. This is because theoretically any loss of CEEC trees may be viewed as clearing or modification of a "significant area of known habitat". However, in reality, the trees being removed currently exist in a context where their long term survival is questionable as they have little scope for natural regeneration and if damage or death occurred they would not have to be replaced. The scattered trees representing Blue Gum High Forest are already significantly modified habitat. Notwithstanding that, if a Species Impact Statement is required to be prepared to formally assess the impacts of Future Proposal, the Species Impact Statement will be prepared at that time. In this case, the removal of the CEEC trees will need to be offset and regional biodiversity values will be promoted by an offset being secured offsite to the subject land.

Table 4.1 Area of Impact to Sydney Blue Gum Trees within the Subject Land

Sydney Blue Gum Tree Number Area (ha)

150 0.03

135 0.05

148 0.01

91 0.02

TOTAL TO BE REMOVED 0.11

Table 4.2 Area of Impact to Vegetation Communities within the Subject Land (split into Subject Site and Landscape)

Vegetation Community Subject Site (ha) Landscape (ha)

Reconstructed Native (with exotics) 0.03 0.14

Planted Exotic/Native 0.39 0.12

Exotic Grassland 0.26 0.01

TOTAL 0.68 0.27



14 MAY 2013

4.3 Flora

Based on habitat and/or known presence within the locality, none of the threatened species known from the locality have potential to naturally occur on the Subject Land. This is due to the land being cleared previously and modified as exotic mown lawn and landscaped gardens or reconstructed bushland for soil stabilisation. However, three planted individuals of a threatened flora species, Syzygium paniculatum were recorded within the Subject Land (see Figure 3.3). This species’ natural habitat is subtropical and littoral rainforest on sandy soils or stabilised dunes near the sea (Botanic Gardens Trust, 2013), therefore for it to be present within the Study Area it would have been planted or grown from a planted individual.

Therefore, no habitat for naturally occurring threatened species will be impacted as a result of the Future Proposal. Although the three Syzygium paniculatum recorded on the Subject Land are essentially planted specimens, these specimens will be avoided. Building overshadow may be a potential indirect impact caused to the three Syzygium paniculatum but this is unlikely to place them at risk. Further to that, their conservation significance is low due to their current location which is self limiting, that they are outside of their natural range and habitat and they are currently smothered with Hedera helix (English Ivy).

4.4 Fauna

The Subject Land forms habitat for a range of native fauna species particularly those known from urban environments. The Subject Land and Study Area are known to provide foraging habitat for the Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) and Eastern Bentwing-bat and may also provide habitat for a number of other threatened bat or bird species (see Table

3.4). This assemblage is mostly comprised of highly mobile species such as birds and bats that may utilise the Study Area as part of their larger foraging range. These are discussed in more detail below.

Habitat downstream (if water is discharged into Blackbutt Creek) has the potential to be indirectly impacted. Indirect impacts include increased runoff, erosion and sedimentation and weed invasion changing vegetation and therefore habitat structure.

4.4.1 Birds

No threatened bird species have been recorded within the Subject Land. However, approximately 0.59 ha of foraging habitat for a number of potentially occurring threatened bird species will be directly impacted due to removal of habitat as part of the Future Proposal. This includes suitable habitat for five threatened species which have been assessed as having possible occurrence.

The habitat available for the species which have been assessed as having possible occurrence is a very small area of potential foraging habitat which may be used from time to time as part of a much larger foraging range. Two tree hollows are present, one is within a large remnant Eucalyptus saligna and it is possible but unlikely that this hollow would provide nesting habitat for the threatened Little Lorikeet. There is no nesting habitat available within the Subject Land for any of the threatened Cockatoos or Owl listed in Table 3.4 as no tree



14 MAY 2013

hollows large enough for these species exists and trees are generally too small or not mature enough to form suitable nesting habitat.

The potential impacts to threatened bird habitat within the Study Area are not considered to cause any significant impact. Notwithstanding that, those considered to potentially occur have been assessed by the Section 5A assessments (Assessment of Significance) which are provided in Appendix E. These assessments indicate that it is unlikely that the Future Proposal would have a significant detrimental impact upon any listed threatened bird species.

4.4.2 Bats

One threatened bat species, Grey-headed Flying-fox was recorded using the Subject Land as foraging habitat. A number of large Ficus microcarpa are present within the northern and south western portions of the Subject Land which provide a large amount of fruit which is a favourable food source for flying-foxes. This foraging habitat will be removed as a result of the Future Proposal.

Another threatened bat, the Eastern Bentwing-bat, was possibly recorded on the Subject Land. Another three threatened bat species were assessed as having possible occurrence on the Subject Land: Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat, Eastern Freetail-bat and Little Bentwing-bat. The habitat available for these species is a very small area of potential foraging habitat which may be used from time to time as part of a much larger foraging range. Potential roosting habitat is only available for one species, Little Bentwing-bat in small tree hollows present (no cave or cave like structures are present). A small amount of foraging habitat and potential roosting habitat for one of the species will be directly impacted by removal of habitat as part of the Future Proposal.

The impact to threatened bat habitat within the Study Area is not considered to cause any significant impact. Notwithstanding that, those potentially occurring threatened microbat species have been assessed by the Section 5A assessments (Assessment of Significance) which are provided in Appendix E. These assessments indicate that it is unlikely that the Future Proposal would have a significant detrimental impact upon any listed threatened bat species.

4.5 Recommendations and Mitigation Measures

Ameliorative measures as part of the Future Proposal include pre- and during-construction measures and some long-term management strategies. These are discussed below.

4.5.1 Pre-construction Measures

Pre-clearance fauna surveys to check for any nesting or roosting fauna and move to adjacent habitat is warranted due to the presence nest boxes (one of which was occupied) and tree hollows on the Subject Land.



14 MAY 2013

Erosion and sediment control measures, should be installed prior to construction, and will be monitored throughout construction.

4.5.2 During Construction Measures

Potential impacts to flora and fauna occurring in the construction phase relating to the Future Proposal and which can be managed include: runoff, sedimentation, erosion and pollution. The Subject Land gently slopes in a south westerly direction and precautions need to be taken to minimise the impacts down slope and at the storm water discharge area. Sediment control and reduction measures should be implemented to reduce sediment runoff into urban stormwater systems in order to mitigate affect to environments receiving such stormwater.

During development, precautions should be taken to ensure that no pollution escapes the construction site. Pollution traps and regular removal of pollution to an off-site location would assist to minimise pollution impacts.

4.5.3 Long Term Management Strategies

Any landscaping should include species representative of Blue Gum High Forest. A list of species could be derived from the Final Determination ‘Blue Gum High Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion’ (NSW Scientific Committee, 2008).

Long term sediment and erosion controls should be part of the design of the development.

4.5.4 Compensatory Strategies

Several scattered trees within the Subject Land are technically a highly modified and degraded form of Blue Gum High Forest. Although these trees have been mapped as Greenweb Category 5 Canopy Remnant under the draft KDCP 2012, under the Future Proposal, they are not proposed to be retained.

A plan shown in Appendix F displays how significantly the Future Proposal would be impacted by the retention of these trees and it is believed by the Proponent that their avoidance would render the Future Proposal unfeasible. Given the social and economic benefits which the Proponent believes the Future Proposal will bring to the area, they wish to seek an appropriate compensatory offset package that will provide no net loss of biodiversity and in particular, will address the predicted future loss of Blue Gum trees.

There are two main biodiversity offsetting approaches for many development projects: in situ conservation or off-site conservation. The opportunities for in situ conservation are often limited for many projects whereas off-site biodiversity offsetting options are more readily available.

Typically, off-site offsetting involves land acquisition and the implementation of appropriate and targeted management plan to improve the biodiversity values of the land. Such lands are required to be protected via an appropriate legal mechanism, such as entering into of a conservation agreement under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Since 2007, Proponents have also been able to secure off-site offsets by aquiring and retiring biodiversity credits under the BioBanking Scheme (Part 7A of the EP&A Act), which allows the



14 MAY 2013

Proponent to make a one-off financial contribution to a trust fund without being responsible for the ongoing management of the conservation property.

The composition of the compensatory offset package is yet to be determined and will be developed in consultation with KMC and/or other relevant agencies.



14 MAY 2013

Chapter 5

Conclusion

The Planning Proposal seeks to include ‘hardware and building supplies’ as a permissible land use within development consent in Zone B7 (Business Park) under the KPSO. This will facilitate a Future Proposal resulting in removal of areas of modified vegetation that provides limited habitat for native species. The loss of four Sydney Blue Gum trees is not likely to be significant in term of a loss of habitat for threatened species. However, it may technically be significant because it could remove an area of known habitat for Blue Gum High Forest.

If required, a Species Impact Statement will be prepared to formally assess the impacts of the Future Proposal at the time of the Development Application.

It is anticipated that the predicted removal of the CEEC trees will need to be addressed through an appropriate compensatory offset. There is potential for an appropriate off-site biodiversity offset to be secured can adequately address the loss of Blue Gum trees. Potential offsets are currently under consideration by the Proponent.

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References

Botanic Gardens Trust (2013). "PlantNET." Retrieved 2012, from http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/search_plant_net.

Bryan (1966). 1:250 000 Geological Sheet SI/56-05 3rd edition. Geological Survey of New South Wales, Sydney.

Bureau of Meteorology (2013). Daily Weather Observations - Lane Cove NSW. Commonwealth of Australia.

Chapman, G. A. and Murphy, C. L. (1989). Soil Landscapes of the Sydney 1:100000 sheet. Soil Conservation Service of NSW, Sydney.

Churchill, S. (2008). Australian Bats. Allen & Unwin, Crowes Nest, NSW.

DEC (NSW) (2005a). Eastern Freetail-bat - profile. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville, NSW.

DEC (NSW) (2005b). Powerful Owl - profile. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

DEC (NSW) (2005c). Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat - profile. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville, NSW.

DEC (NSW) (2006). Recovery Plan for the Large Forest Owls: Powerful Owl Ninox strenua; Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa; Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

DECCW (NSW) (2009a). Draft National Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus. Department of Environment and Climate Change, Sydney, NSW.

DECCW (NSW) (2009b). The Native Vegetation of the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority Area. Draft. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. Hurstville, NSW.

Department of Lands (2006). Topoview Raster 2006. Department of Lands, Sydney.

Harden, G. J. (1990-1993). Flora of NSW Volumes 1-4. New South Wales University Press, Kensington.

Kennedy, S. and Tzaros, C. (2005). "Foraging ecology of the swift parrot Lathamus discolor in the Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands of Victoria." Pacific Conservation Biology 11: 158-173.

Kokot, M. A. (2013). 3M Site 950 Pacific Highway, Pymble Sydney NSW. Preliminary Development Tree Assessment Report. RainTree Consulting Arboricultural Management, Avalon.

http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/search_plant_net

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14 MAY 2013

Ku-ring-gai Council (2010). Mapping and Assessment of Key Vegetation Communities Across the Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area, Volume 2: Vegetation Communities Ku-ring-gai Council, Gordon, NSW.

Ku-ring-gai Council (2012). Draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan (Pymble Business Park) 2012.

Law & Chidel (2011). Forest Bats in NSW. Industry & Investment, Forest Science Centre.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (2013). Noxious Weed Declarations for Ku-ring-gai Council.

NSW Scientific Commitee (2011). Blue Gum High Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion - Determination to make a minor amendment to Part 2 of Schedule 1A of the Threatened Species Conservation Act.

NSW Scientific Committee (2001). Gang-gang cockatoo population, Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai Local Government Areas - endangered population listing. Department of Environment and Conservation (NSW), Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee (2008). Blue Gum High Forest - critically endangered ecological community listing. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

NSW Scientific Committee (2009). Little Lorikeet - vulnerable species listing. Department of Environment and Climate Change, Hurstville, NSW.

OEH (2012a). Eastern Bentwing-bat - profile. Office of Environment and Heritage, Hurstville.

OEH (2012b). Koala - profile. Office of Environment and Heritage, Hurstville.

OEH (2012c). Little Bentwing-bat - profile. Office of Environment and Heritage, Hurstville.

OEH (2012d). National Recovery Plan Magenta Lilly Pilly Syzygium paniculatum. Office of Environment and Heritage, Sydney.

OEH (2013a). "Atlas of NSW Wildlife." Retrieved 2013, from http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/atlaspublicapp/UI_Modules/ATLAS_/AtlasSearch.aspx.

OEH (2013b). Syzygium paniculatum - Profile. Office of Environment and Heritage, Hurstville.

Pizzey, G. and Knight, F. (2003). The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia. HarperCollins Publishers Pty Ltd, Australia.

Saunders, D. L. and Heinsohn, R. (2008). "Winter habitat use by the endangered, migratory Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) in New South Wales, Australia." Emu 108: 81-89.

SEWPaC (2011). Lathamus discolor in Species Profile and Threats Database. Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra.

SEWPaC (2012a). "EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool." Retrieved 2012, from http://www.environment.gov.au/arcgis-framework/apps/pmst/pmst-coordinate.jsf.

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/atlaspublicapp/UI_Modules/ATLAS_/AtlasSearch.aspx

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/atlaspublicapp/UI_Modules/ATLAS_/AtlasSearch.aspx

http://www.environment.gov.au/arcgis-framework/apps/pmst/pmst-coordinate.jsf

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14 MAY 2013

SEWPaC (2012b). "Litoria aurea in Species Profile and Threats Database." Retrieved 03/07/2012, from http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1870.

SEWPaC (2013). "EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool." Retrieved 2013, from http://www.environment.gov.au/arcgis-framework/apps/pmst/pmst-coordinate.jsf.

Swift Parrot Recovery Team (2001). Swift Parrot Recovery Plan. Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment, Hobart, TAS.

Tozer, M. G., Turner, K., Keith, D. A., Tindall, D., Pennay, C., Simpson, C., MacKenzie, B., Beukers, P. and Cox, S. (2010). "Native vegetation of southeast NSW: a revised classification and map for the coast and eastern tablelands." Cunninghamia 11(3): 359-406.

http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1870

http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=1870

http://www.environment.gov.au/arcgis-framework/apps/pmst/pmst-coordinate.jsf



14 MAY 2013

Appendix A

Flora Species Recorded

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14 MAY 2013

Table 5.1 Flora Species Recorded within the Study Area

Family E

xo

tic

(*)

Scientific Name Common Name Incidentals

Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Trees

Altingiaceae * Liquidambar styraciflua Liquid Amber X

X

Anacardiaceae * Schinus areira Pepper Tree X

X

Bignoniaceae * Jacaranda mimosifolia Jacaranda X

X

Bombacaceae * Ceiba speciosa Chorisia X

X

Casuarinaceae Casuarina glauca Swamp Oak X

X

Cupressaceae * Cupressus ?lusitanica X

X

Cupressaceae * Cupressus sp. Conifer X

X

Juglandaceae * Carya illinoensis Pecan X

X

Lauraceae * Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel X

X X

Magnoliaceae * Magnolia sp. X

X

Malvaceae Brachychiton acerifolius Flame Tree X

X

Moraceae Ficus microcarpa var hilli Hills Fig X

X

Myrtaceae * Corymbia citriodora Lemon-scented Gum X

X

Myrtaceae Syncarpia glomulifera Turpentine X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus microcorys Tallowwood X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus pilularis Blackbutt X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus saligna Sydney Blue Gum X X



14 MAY 2013


Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Myrtaceae Melaleuca leucadendra Weeping Paperbark X

X

Myrtaceae Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark X

X

Myrtaceae Angophora costata Smooth-barked Apple X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus botryoides Southern Mahogany X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus robusta Swamp Mahogany X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus grandis Flooded Gum X X X

Myrtaceae Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus ?elata River Peppermint X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus paniculata X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus piperita X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus punctata X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sp. X

X

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sp. (?stringybark) X

X

Myrtaceae Acmena smithii Lilly Pilly X

X

Oleaceae * Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia Desert Ash X

X

Platanaceae * Platanus x hispanica London Plan Tree X

X

Proteaceae * Stenocarpus sinuatus Firewheel Tree X

X



14 MAY 2013


Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Rosaceae * Pyrus calleryana Ornamental Pear X

Sapindaceae Diploglottis cunninghamii Native Tamarind X

X

Ulmaceae * Celtis sinensis Japanese Hackberry X

X

Small Trees

Anacardiaceae * Schinus areira Pepper Tree X

X

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina sp. X

X

Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia decurrens X

X

Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia schinoides X

X

Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) Acacia floribunda White Sally Wattle X

X

Meliaceae Melia azedarach White Cedar X

X

Myrtaceae Callistemon sp. 1 A Bottlebrush X

X

Myrtaceae Acmena smithii Lilly Pilly X

X X

Myrtaceae Syzygium paniculatum Brush Cherry X

X

Oleaceae * Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet X X X X

Oleaceae * Ligustrum lucidum Large-leaved Privet X X

X



14 MAY 2013


Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Oleaceae * Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata African Olive X

X

Ulmaceae * Ulmus parvifolia Chinese Elm X

X

Shrubs

Ericaceae * Rhododendron sp. Azelea X

X

Flacourtiaceae Xylosma sp. X

X

Malaceae * Pyracantha sp. X

X

Myrtaceae Kunzea sp. X

X

Myrtaceae Callistemon sp. 2 A Bottlebrush X

X

Myrtaceae Leptospermum ?juniperinum Prickly Tea-tree X

X

Nandinaceae * Nandina domestica Japanese Sacred Bamboo X

X X

Ochnaceae * Ochna serrulata Mickey Mouse Plant X

X

Pittosporaceae Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum X

X

Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa Hairpin Banksia X

X

Proteaceae Banksia spinulosa var. collina Hairpin Banksia X

X

Proteaceae Grevillea linearifolia Linear-leaf Grevillea X

X

Proteaceae Hakea salicifolia Willow-leaved Hakea X

X

Rubiaceae * Gardenia sp. Gardenia X

X



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Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Rutaceae * Murraya paniculata Murraya X X

X

Theaceae * Camellia sp. X

X

Verbenaceae * Lantana montevidensis Trailing Lantana X

X

Herbs - Dicots

Apocynaceae Vinca major Greater Periwinkle X

X

Araceae * Monstera deliciosa Fruit Salad Plant X

X

Asteraceae * Conyza sp. X X X X X

Asteraceae * Euchiton involucratus Star Cudweed X

X

Asteraceae * Sonchus oleraceus Common Sowthistle X X

X

Caryophyllaceae * Paronychia brasiliana Chilean Whitlow Wort X

X

Malvaceae Sida rhombifolia Paddy's Lucerne X

X

Oxalidaceae * Oxalis sp. X X

X

Oxalidaceae Oxalis perennans X X

X

Solanaceae * Lycopersicon esculentum Tomato X

X

Herb and other

Monocots

Alliaceae * Agapanthus praecox African Lily X

X



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Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Anthericaceae * Chlorophytum comosum Spider Plant X

X X

Apiaceae Centella asiatica Indian Pennywort X

X

Arecaceae Archontophoenix cunninghamiana Bangalow Palm X X

Asparagaceae * Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern X

X X

Asteliaceae * Cordyline sp. X X

Commelinaceae Commelina cyanea Native Wandering Jew X

X

Commelinaceae * Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew X X

X

Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens Kidney Weed X X

X

Cyperaceae Cyperus gracilis Slender Flat-sedge X X

X X

Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat-rush X

X

Lomandraceae Lomandra sp. X

X

Musaceae * Musa sp. Banana X X

Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Couch X X X X X

Poaceae * Ehrharta erecta Panic Veldtgrass X

X X

Poaceae * Eleusine indica Crowsfoot Grass X

X

Poaceae Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic X

X

Poaceae Oplismenus aemulus Australian Basket Grass X X X X X



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Family E

xo

tic

(*)


Blue Gum

High Forest

Reconstructed

Natives (with

exotics)

Planted

Exotic/Native

Exotic

Grassland

Poaceae * Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu X X

X

Poaceae * Stenotaphrum secundatum Buffalo Grass X X

X

Herbs - Ferns

& Allies

Aspleniaceae Asplenium australasicum Bird's Nest Fern X

X

Cyatheaceae * Cyathea sp. X

X

Davalliaceae * Nephrolepis cordifolia Fishbone Fern X

X X

Dicksoniaceae Calochlaena dubia Rainbow Fern X

X

Climbers

Apocynaceae * Araujia sericifera Moth Vine X

X X

Araliaceae * Hedera helix English Ivy X X X

Bignoniaceae * Campsis x tagliabuana Trumpet Creeper X

X

Convolvulaceae * Ipomoea sp. Morning Glory X

X

Moraceae * Ficus pumila Creeping Fig X

X

Polygonaceae * Acetosa sagittata Rambling Dock X

X

Vitaceae Cissus antarctica Kangaroo Vine X

X

X = Present * = Exotic Species Bold = Threatened Species



14 MAY 2013

Appendix B

Threatened Flora Likelihood of Occurrence

Analysis

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14 MAY 2013

Table 5.2 Threatened Flora Likelihood of Occurrence Analysis

Family Scientific Name Common

Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius

Habitat Requirements Likelihood of Occurrence

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina glareicola

E E - Restricted to a few small populations in and around Castlereagh NR, north-east of Penrith, NSW. Total range approximately 36 km². Grows on tertiary alluvial gravels, with yellow clayey subsoil and lateritic soil. The soils are low fertility and strongly to very strongly acidic. Median annual rainfall is 803 mm (measured at the University of Western Sydney), with a summer peak. Found in the Castlereagh open woodland community, with Eucalyptus parramattensis, E. fibrosa, E. sclerophylla, Angophora bakeri and Melaleuca decora. Common associated understorey species include Melaleuca nodosa, Hakea dactyloides, H.sericea, Dillwynia tenuifolia, Micromyrtus minutiflora, Acacia elongata, A. brownei, Themeda australis and Xanthorrhoea minor.

Unlikely. Subject Land is outside of species' usual range and soils are not suitable. Subject Land has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


Elaeocarpaceae Tetratheca glandulosa

V V 20 Restricted to the following LGAs: Baulkham Hills, Gosford, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Pittwater, Ryde, Warringah, and Wyong. Current north-south range is approximately 65km. Associated with shale sandstone transition habitat where shale cappings occur over sandstone. Vegetation structure varies from heaths and scrub to woodlands/open woodlands, and open forest. Vegetation communities correspond broadly to Benson & Howell’s Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland (Map Unit 10ar).

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. None detected during survey.

Fabaceae (Mimosoideae)

Acacia bynoeana Bynoe's Wattle

E1 V - Found in central eastern NSW, from the Hunter District (Morisset) south to the Southern Highlands and west to the Blue Mountains. Occurs in heath or dry sclerophyll forest on sandy soils. Seems to prefer open, sometimes slightly disturbed sites such as trail margins,

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land's soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


edges of roadside spoil mounds and in recently burnt patches. Associated overstorey species include Red Bloodwood, Scribbly Gum, Parramatta Red Gum, Saw Banksia and Narrow-leaved Apple.

Fabaceae (Mimosoideae)

Acacia pubescens

Downy Wattle

V V - Occurs at 151 known sites, in 14 LGAs including Auburn, Bankstown, Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Canterbury, Fairfield, Hawkesbury, Holroyd, Liverpool, Parramatta, Rockdale, Strathfield, Sutherland and Wollondilly. Occurs on alluviums, shales and at the intergrade between shales and sandstones in a variety of plant communities, including Cooks River/ Castlereagh Ironbark Forest, Shale/ Gravel Transition Forest and Cumberland Plain Woodland.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Geraniaceae Pelargonium striatellum

Omeo Storksbill

E E - Known from only 3 locations in NSW, with two on lake-beds on the basalt plains of the Monaro and one at Lake Bathurst. A

Unlikely. Subject Land is outside of species’ known range and no suitable habitat is present. Subject Land has been



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


population at a fourth known site on the Monaro has not been seen in recent years. Occurs at altitudes between 680 to 1030 m. Known to occur in the LGAs of Goulburn-Mulwaree, Cooma-Monaro, and Snowy River, but may occur in other areas with suitable habitat; these may include Bombala, Eurobodalla, Palerang, Tumbarumba, Tumut, Upper Lachlan, and Yass Valley LGAs. It has a narrow habitat that is usually just above the high-water level of irregularly inundated or ephemeral lakes, in the transition zone between surrounding grasslands or pasture and the wetland or aquatic communities.

cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Haloragaceae Haloragodendron lucasii

E1 E - Confined to a very narrow distribution on the north shore of Sydney (small area in Ku-ring-gai chase) and is associated with dry sclerophyll forest. It is reported to grow in moist sandy loam soils in

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land's soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


sheltered aspects, and on gentle slopes below cliff-lines near creeks in low open woodland. It is associated with high soil moisture and relatively high soil-phosphorus levels. It is highly clonal, which implies the true population size may be considerably smaller than expected.

within 5km radius.

Lamiaceae Prostanthera marifolia

Seaforth Mintbush

CE CE - Currently only known from the Sydney suburb of Seaforth and has a very highly restricted distribution within Sydney Basin Bioregion. All known sites are within an area of 2x2 km. Two of the sites are within the LGA of Manly and one site is in the LGA of Warringah. Occurs in localised patches in or in close proximity to the endangered Duffys Forest ecological community. Located on deeply weathered clay-loam soils associated with ironstone and scattered shale lenses, a soil type which only occurs on

Unlikely. Subject Land is outside of species’ known range and no suitable habitat is present. The Subject Land is previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


ridge tops.

Moraceae Streblus brunonianus (Streblus pendulinus)

Whalebone Tree

- E Occurs from Cape York Peninsula to Milton, south-east NSW, as well as Norfolk Island. On the Australian mainland, found in warmer rainforests, chiefly along watercourses. The altitudinal range is from near sea level to 800 m above sea level. The species grows in well developed rainforest, gallery forest and drier, more seasonal rainforest.

Unlikely. No suitably moist habitat is present within the Subject Land. The Subject Land is previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Myrtaceae Callistemon linearifolius

Netted Bottle Brush

V - 3 For the Sydney area, recent records for this species are limited to the Hornsby Plateau area near the Hawkesbury River. There are currently only 5-6 populations in the Sydney area, of the 22 populations recorded in the past. Three of these are reserved in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Lion Island Nature Reserve, and Spectacle Island Nature Reserve. Further north it has been recorded from Yengo National Park. It grows in dry sclerophyll

Unlikely. Subject Land is not within usual range within Sydney area and has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


forest on the coast and adjacent ranges.

Myrtaceae Darwinia biflora V V 59 Occurs in sandstone ridge top woodlands where the weathered shale-capped ridges intergrade with Hawkesbury Sandstone. Canopy cover ranging from 0–30% appears to be beneficial for success. Found on gentle slopes near the crests of ridges or on sheet rock with moss beds. It exists on Lucas Heights Soil Landscapes that intergrade with Gymea or Hawkesbury Soil Landscapes; these are described as residual soil landscapes meeting colluvial or erosional soil landscapes.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land's soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey.

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus camfieldii

Camfield's Stringybark

V V 11 The localised and scattered distribution of this species includes sites at Norah Head (Tuggerah Lakes), Peats Ridge, Mt Colah, Elvina Bay Trail (West Head), Terrey Hills, Killara, North Head, Menai, Wattamolla and a few other sites in Royal National Park. It is associated with poor




14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


coastal country in shallow sandy soils overlying Hawkesbury Sandstone and coastal heath mostly on exposed sandy ridges.

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus nicholii

Narrow-leaved Black Peppermint

V V 2 Although this species is widely planted as an urban street tree and in gardens, it is quite rare in the wild. It is confined to the New England Tablelands of NSW, where it occurs from Nundle to north of Tenterfield, largely on private property. It grows in dry grassy woodland, on shallow and infertile soils, mainly on granite.

Unlikely. The Subject Land is outside of species’ natural range. No suitable habitat, Subject Land's soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey.

Myrtaceae Leptospermum deanei

V V - Occurs in the Hornsby, Warringah, Ku-ring-gai and Ryde LGAs. It is associated with woodland on lower hill slopes or near creeks. Sandy alluvial soil or sand over sandstone. It occurs in Riparian Scrub - e.g. Tristaniopsis laurina, Baechea myrtifolia; Woodland - e.g. Eucalyptus haemstoma; and Open Forest - e.g. Angophora costata, Leptospermum

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land's soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


trinervium, Banksia ericifolia.

Myrtaceae Melaleuca biconvexa

Biconvex Paperbark

V V - Found in NSW in scattered and dispersed populations in the Jervis Bay area in the south and the Gosford-Wyong area in the north. Generally grows in damp places, often near streams or low-lying areas on alluvial soils of low slopes or sheltered aspects.

Unlikely. Subject Land is outside of usual distribution, no suitably damp areas present, soils are not suitable and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Myrtaceae Melaleuca deanei

Deane's Paperbark

V V 5 Grows in heath on sandstone and occurs in two distinct areas, in the Ku-ring-Gai/ Berowra and Holsworthy/ Wedderburn areas respectively. There are also more isolated occurrences at Springwood (in the Blue Mountains), Wollemi National Park, Yalwal (west of Nowra) and Central Coast (Hawkesbury River) areas.


Myrtaceae Syzygium paniculatum

Magenta Lilly Pilly

E1 V 4 This species is found only in NSW, in a narrow, linear coastal strip from Bulahdelah to Conjola State Forest. On the south coast, it occurs on grey soils

Planted individuals recorded. However, Subject Land is outside of known natural range and it has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


over sandstone, restricted mainly to remnant stands of littoral (coastal) rainforest. On the central coast, the species occurs on gravels, sands, silts and clays in riverside gallery rainforests and remnant littoral rainforest communities.

disturbed.

Orchidaceae Caladenia tessellata

Thick Lip Spider Orchid

E V - In NSW, Sydney area (old records), Wyong, Ulladulla and Braidwood. Populations in Kiama and Queanbeyan are presumed extinct. Generally found in grassy sclerophyll woodland on clay loam or sandy soils, though the population near Braidwood is in low woodland with stony soil.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Orchidaceae Cryptostylis hunteriana

Leafless Tongue Orchid

V V - Known historically from a number of localities on the NSW south coast and observed in recent years at many sites between Batemans Bay and Nowra (although it is uncommon at all sites). Also recorded at Nelson Bay, Wyee,

Unlikely. No suitable swamp-heath or sandy soils habitat within the Subject Land. Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


Washpool National Park, Nowendoc State Forest, Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park and Ben Boyd National Park. Does not appear to have well defined habitat preferences and is known from a range of communities, including swamp-heath and woodland. Larger populations typically occur in woodland dominated by Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus sclerophylla), Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) and Black Sheoak (Allocasuarina littoralis); appears to prefer open areas in the understorey of this community and is often found in association with the Large Tongue Orchid (C. subulata) and the Tartan Tongue Orchid (C. erecta). Grows in swamp-heath on sandy soils, chiefly in coastal districts, south from the Gibraltar Ra.

radius.

Poaceae Deyeuxia E E - A highly restricted NSW endemic known Unlikely. Subject Land lacks the EPBC



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


appressa only from two pre-1942 records in the Sydney area. Was first collected in 1930 at Herne Bay, Saltpan Creek, off the Georges River, south of Bankstown. Was then collected in 1941 from Killara, near Hornsby. Has not been collected since and may now be extinct in the wild due to the level of habitat loss and development that has occurred within these areas. The species is reported to occur on wet ground. The distribution of this species overlaps with the following EPBC Act-listed threatened ecological communities: Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, Cumberland Plain Woodlands and Turpentine-Ironbark Forest in the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

Act listed communities which the species' distribution is associated with. Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Rutaceae Asterolasia elegans

E E - Occurs north of Sydney, in the Baulkham Hills, Hawkesbury and Hornsby local government areas. Also likely to occur in the western part of Gosford LGA. Occurs

Unlikely. Subject Land outside of known range and lacks suitable sandstone habitat. Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


on Hawkesbury sandstone. Found in sheltered forests on mid- to lower slopes and valleys, e.g. in or adjacent to gullies which support sheltered forest.

disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.

Thymelaeaceae Pimelea curviflora var. curviflora

V V 4 Confined to the coastal area of the Sydney and Illawarra regions. It occurs on shaley/lateritic soils over sandstone and shale/sandstone transition soils on ridgetops and upper slopes amongst woodlands. Also recorded in Illawarra Lowland Grassy Woodland habitat at Albion Park on the Illawarra coastal plain. It is usually recorded as rare with only 2 sites with estimates of 300 plants, and most sites with only a few plants or estimates of <100 plants. Inconspicuous cryptic habit as it is fine and scraggly and often grows amongst dense grasses and sedges. Confined to coastal areas around Sydney on sandstone.

Unlikely. Subject Land lacks suitable sandstone habitat. Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey.

Thymelaeaceae Pimelea spicata E E - Occurs in two disjunct areas; the Unlikely. Subject Land is outside of



14 MAY 2013



Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km

Radius


Cumberland Plain (Narellan, Marayong, Prospect Reservoir areas) and the Illawarra (Landsdowne to Shellharbour to northern Kiama). In both the Cumberland Plain and Illawarra environments this species is found on well-structured clay soils. On the inland Cumberland Plain sites it is associated with Grey Box and Ironbark. In the coastal Illawarra it occurs commonly in Coast Banksia open woodland with a better developed shrub and grass understorey.

known range. Subject Land has been previously cleared and landscaped and is therefore disturbed. None detected during survey. Not previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013

Appendix C

Fauna Species Recorded

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS C.1


14 MAY 2013

Table 5.3 Fauna Species Recorded within the Subject Land

Class Family

Ex

oti

c

Sp

ec

ies (

*)

Scientific Name Common Name

4/0

2/2

01

3

5/0

2/2

01

3

7/0

2/2

01

3

12

/02

/20

13

Aves

Artamidae Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie H, S H, S H, S H, S

Artamidae Strepera graculina Pied Currawong H, S H, S H, S H, S

Halcyonidae Dacelo novaeguineae Laughing Kookaburra H, S

Meliphagidae Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner H, S H, S H, S H, S

Psittacidae Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet H, S

Reptilia

Scincidae Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink S

Scincidae Lampropholis delicata Garden Skink S

Mammalia

Leporidae * Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit E

Miniopteridae Miniopterus orianae oceanensis Eastern Bentwing Bat BE (Po)

Pseudocheiridae Pseudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail Possum S

Pteropodidae Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying Fox H, S H, S H, S H, S

Vespertilionidae Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat BE (Pr)

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS C.2


14 MAY 2013

KEY Bold Threatened Species

* Exotic X Present E Evidence – burrow, scratching, scats etc H Heard S Sighted BE Bat Echolocation Device

De Definite - no other calls similar

Pr Probable - some other calls similar but calls demonstrate a number of species’ unique characteristics

Po Possible - other similar calls in this range and no unique characteristics displayed



14 MAY 2013

Appendix D

Threatened Fauna Likelihood of Occurrence

Analysis

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS D.1


14 MAY 2013

Table 5.4 Threatened Fauna Likelihood of Occurrence Analysis

Class Family Scientific

Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Amphibia Hylidae Litoria aurea Green and Golden Bell Frog

E1 V 3 This species occurs in marshes, dams and stream sides with reedy vegetation, particularly bullrushes (Typha spp.) and spikerushes (Eleoacharis spp.). In NSW, the species does not inhabit fast flowing streams (SEWPaC, 2012b)

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks water source with reedy vegetation and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed.

Amphibia Hylidae Litoria littlejohni

Littlejohn's Tree Frog

V V - Breeds in the upper reaches of permanent streams and in perched swamps. Non-breeding habitat is heath based forests and woodlands where it shelters under leaf litter and low vegetation, and hunts for invertebrate prey either in shrubs or on the ground. Breeding is triggered by heavy rain and can potentially occur all year, but is usually from late summer to early spring when conditions are favourable.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks nearby stream and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.

Amphibia Myobatrachidae

Pseudophryne australis

Red-crowned Toadlet

V 47 This species occurs on Triassic sandstones of the Sydney basin in

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


steep escarpment areas with permanently moist soaks or dense ground vegetation/litter near ephemeral headwater stream beds. It is usually restricted to the upper parts of ridges and to areas with open woodland and heath vegetation.

soaks and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed.


Heleioporus australiacus

Giant Burrowing Frog

V V 1 Population largely confined to the sandstone geology of the Sydney Basin and extending as far south as Ulladulla. Found in heath, woodland and open dry sclerophyll forest on a variety of soil types except those that are clay based. Eat mainly invertebrates including ants, beetles, cockroaches, spiders, centipedes and scorpions. Breeding habitat of this species is generally soaks or pools within first or Creeks. They are also commonly recorded from 'hanging swamp' seepage lines and where small pools form from the collected

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks suitable sandstone geology and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


water.


Mixophyes balbus

Stuttering Frog E E - Found in rainforest and wet, tall open forest in the foothills and escarpment on the eastern side of the Great Dividing Range. Outside the breeding season adults live in deep leaf litter and thick understorey vegetation on the forest floor. Feed on insects and smaller frogs. Breed in streams during summer after heavy rain.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks stream and thick understorey and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.


Mixophyes iteratus

Giant Barred Frog E E - Forage and live amongst deep, damp leaf litter in rainforests, moist eucalypt forest and nearby dry eucalypt forest, at elevations below 1000 m. Breed around shallow, flowing rocky streams from late spring to summer. Females lay eggs onto moist creek banks or rocks above water level, from where tadpoles drop into the water when hatched. Feed primarily on large insects and spiders.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks stream habitat and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Reptilia Elapidae Hoplocephalus bungaroides

Broad-headed Snake

E V - This species is largely confined to Triassic and Permian sandstones, including the Hawkesbury, Narrabeen and Shoalhaven groups, within the coast and ranges in an area within approximately 250 km of Sydney. Shelters in rock crevices and under flat sandstone rocks on exposed cliff edges during autumn, winter and spring. Moves from the sandstone rocks to shelters in hollows in large trees within 200m of escarpments in summer.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks sandstone habitat and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. The Subject Land is set within an urban landscape. None previously recorded within 5km radius.

Reptilia Varanidae Varanus rosenbergi

Rosenberg's Goanna

V 4 The distribution of this species in NSW is confined to Sydney sandstone in Wollemi NP, Goulburn, ACT and south-west slopes. A Hawkesbury sandstone outcrop specialist, it inhabits woodlands, dry open forests and heathland. Shelters in burrows, hollow logs, rock crevices and outcrops and termite mounds are

Unlikely. No suitable habitat present, Subject Land lacks sandstone habitat and has been cleared and landscaped previously and therefore disturbed. The Subject Land is set within an urban landscape.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


critical for nesting. There is a requirement for large areas of habitat.

Aves Accipitridae

Erythrotriorchis radiatus

Red Goshawk CE V - Inhabit open woodland and forest, preferring a mosaic of vegetation types, a large population of birds as a source of food, and permanent water, often found in riparian habitats along or near watercourses or wetlands. In NSW, preferred habitats include mixed subtropical rainforest, Melaleuca swamp forest and riparian Eucalyptus forest of coastal rivers. Breeding territories are traditionally used from year to year. Mainly eat medium to large birds, but they also take mammals, reptiles and insects. In winter in eastern Australia, the birds appear to move from nesting sites in the ranges to coastal plains, where they are associated with permanent wetlands.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is within an highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed and lacking rich prey potential. None previously recorded within 5km radius.

Aves Accipitrida Hieraaetus Little Eagle V - 4 This species has widespread Unlikely. No suitable habitat,



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


e morphnoides distribution across mainland Australia and New Guinea. Partly migratory, the juveniles are dispersive and the adults are mainly sedentary. Often seen over woodland and forested lands and open country, extending into the arid zone. It tends to avoid rainforest and heavy forest. Occupies habitats rich in prey within open eucalypt forest. It nests in mature living trees in woodland or along tree-lined watercourses. Feeds on terrestrial mammals.

the Subject Land is within an highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed and lacking rich prey potential.

Aves Cacatuidae Callocephalon fimbriatum

Gang-gang Cockatoo

V - 25 In NSW, this species is distributed from the south-east coast to the Hunter region, and inland to the Central Tablelands and south-west slopes. In summer, it is generally found in tall mountain forests and woodlands, particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet sclerophyll forests. In winter, it may occur at lower altitudes in drier more open eucalypt

Possible. Very limited suitable foraging habitat present. Foraging habitat may be used as part of a much larger foraging area. The Subject Land is within an highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed and would not be



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


forests and woodlands, and often found in urban areas. It moves to lower altitudes in winter, preferring more open eucalypt forests and woodlands, particularly in box-ironbark assemblages, or in dry forest in coastal areas. It favours old growth attributes for nesting and roosting.

favoured. No suitably large hollows are present for nesting.

Aves Cacatuidae Callocephalon fimbriatum

Gang-gang Cockatoo population in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai Local Government Areas

E2 23 The population is believed to be largely confined to an area bounded by Thornleigh and Wahroonga in the north, Epping and North Epping in the south, Beecroft and Cheltenham in the west and Turramurra/South Turramurra to the east.

Possible. Very limited suitable foraging habitat present. Foraging habitat may be used as part of a much larger foraging area. The Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed and would not be favoured. No suitably large hollows are present for nesting.

Aves Cacatuidae Calyptorhynchus lathami

Glossy Black-Cockatoo

V - 5 Distributed along the coast and the Great Dividing Range up to 1000m.

Possible. Very small area of sub-optimal foraging habitat in



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Inhabits open forest and woodlands in which stands of she-oak species, particularly Black She-oak, Forest She-oak or Drooping She-oak occur. It feeds almost exclusively on the seeds of several species of she-oak (Casuarina and Allocasuarina species). It is dependent on large hollow-bearing eucalypts for nest sites.

form of casuarina glauca set between two buildings which may be used as part of a much larger foraging area. The Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed and would not be favoured. No suitably large hollows are present for nesting.

Aves Columbidae

Ptilinopus superbus

Superb Fruit-Dove V - 4 Occurs principally from north-eastern in Queensland to north-eastern NSW. Inhabits rainforest and similar closed forests where it forages high in the canopy, eating the fruits of many tree species such as figs and palms. It may also forage in eucalypt or acacia woodland where there are fruit-bearing trees.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.

Aves Neosittidae Daphoenositta chrysoptera

Varied Sittella V - 1 Distribution is nearly continuous in NSW from the coast to the far west.

Possible (but unlikely). Very limited, small area of potential



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Inhabits eucalypt forests and woodlands, especially rough-barked species and mature smooth-barked gums with dead branches, mallee and Acacia woodland. Feeds on arthropods gleaned from crevices in rough or decorticating bark, dead branches, standing dead trees and small branches and twigs in the tree canopy. A cup-shaped nest of plant fibres and cobwebs is constructed in an upright tree fork high in the living tree canopy, and it often re-uses the same fork or tree in successive years.

suboptimal habitat available. The Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.

Aves Pardalotidae

Dasyornis brachypterus

Eastern Bristlebird E E - Habitat characterised by dense, low vegetation including heath and open woodland with a heathy understorey. Feeds on a variety of insects, particularly ants. Nests are elliptical domes constructed on or near the ground amongst dense vegetation (OEH 2012).

Unlikely. No suitable dense vegetation habitat, the Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Aves Petroicidae Petroica boodang

Scarlet Robin V - 1 In NSW, it occurs from the coast to the inland slopes. After breeding, some disperse to the lower valleys and plains of the tablelands and slopes. Some birds may appear as far west as the eastern edges of the inland plains in autumn and winter. Lives in dry eucalypt forests and woodlands. The understorey is usually open and grassy with few scattered shrubs.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.

Aves Psittacidae Glossopsitta pusilla

Little Lorikeet V - 4 Wide distribution across coastal and Great Divide regions of eastern Australia; much of the species' core habitat is in NSW. Nomadic movements are influenced by food and habitat availability. It inhabits dry growth and logged sclerophyll forests in the eastern part of its range, and in remnant woodland patches on the western slopes. It roosts in treetops distant from feeding areas and shows high nest site fidelity, using small

Possible. Small area of suboptimal habitat including forage and small tree hollow. The Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


hollows in smooth barked eucalypts and riparian trees. It feeds on flowering eucalypts and paperbarks, and mistletoe fruits.

Aves Psittacidae Lathamus discolor

Swift Parrot E E 4 In NSW, mostly occurs on the coast and south west slopes. On the mainland it occurs in areas where eucalypts are flowering profusely or where there are abundant lerp (from sap-sucking bugs) infestations. Favoured feed trees include winter flowering species such as Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta), Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata), Red Bloodwood (C. gummifera), Mugga Ironbark (E. sideroxylon), and White Box (E. albens). Commonly used lerp infested trees include Inland Grey Box (E. macrocarpa), Grey Box (E. moluccana) and Blackbutt (E. pilularis). It breeds in Tasmania during spring and summer, migrating in the

Possible. Small area of suboptimal forage habitat which may provide occasional foraging habitat during autumn and winter.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


autumn and winter months to south-eastern Australia from Victoria and the eastern parts of South Australia to south-east Queensland.

Aves Psittacidae ^^Polytelis swainsonii

Superb Parrot V V 1 Found throughout eastern inland NSW. On the South-western Slopes their core breeding area is roughly bounded by Cowra and Yass in the east, and Grenfell, Cootamundra and Coolac in the west. Birds breeding in this region are mainly absent during winter, when they migrate north to the region of the upper Namoi and Gwydir Rivers. Inhabit Box-Gum, Box-Cypress-pine and Boree Woodlands and River Red Gum Forest.

Unlikely. No suitable habitat and Subject Land is outside of usual distribution. The Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.

Aves Strigidae Ninox strenua Powerful Owl V - 65 In NSW, widely distributed throughout the eastern forests from the coast inland to tablelands, with scattered, mostly historical records on the western slopes and plains. It inhabits a range of vegetation types, from

Possible. Very limited suitable foraging habitat present. The Subject Land may provide occasional foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land lacks



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


woodland and open sclerophyll forest to tall open wet forest and rainforest. It requires large tracts of forest or woodland habitat but can occur in fragmented landscapes as well. Breeds and hunts in open or closed sclerophyll forest or woodlands and occasionally hunts in open habitats. Roosts by day in dense vegetation. The main prey items are medium-sized arboreal marsupials. It nests in large tree hollows (at least 0.5m deep), in large eucalypts (diameter at breast height of 80-240 cm) that are at least 150 years old.

rich prey potential as it is within an highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. No suitably large tree hollows present for breeding.

Mammalia Burramyidae

Cercartetus nanus

Eastern Pygmy-possum

V - 1 In NSW it extents from the coast inland as far as the Pillaga, Dubbo, Parkes and Wagga Wagga. Found in a broad range of habitats from rainforest through sclerophyll (including Box-Ironbark) forest and woodland to heath, but in most areas

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Subject Land is surrounded by



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


woodlands and heath appear to be preferred, except in north-eastern NSW. Feeds largely on nectar and pollen collected from banksias, eucalypts and bottlebrushes; an important pollinator of heathland plants such as banksias; soft fruits are eaten when flowers are unavailable. Shelters in tree hollows, rotten stumps, holes in the ground, abandoned bird-nests, Ringtail Possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) dreys or thickets of vegetation, (eg. grass-tree skirts); nest-building appears to be restricted to breeding females; tree hollows are favoured but spherical nests have been found under the bark of eucalypts and in shredded bark in tree forks.

residential areas and predation by cats would be currently threatening. Only one previous record within 5km radius.

Mammalia Dasyuridae Dasyurus maculatus

Spotted-tailed Quoll V E 4 Restricted within its former distribution to eastern Australia. Inhabits a range of habitat types, including rainforest,

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


open forest, woodland, coastal heath and inland riparian forest, from the sub-alpine zone to the coastline. Uses hollow-bearing trees, logs, caves, crevices and rocky cliff-faces as den sites. It has a large home range from 750 ha (female) to 3500 ha (males), generally traversing ranges along densely vegetated creeklines. This ground and tree-climbing nocturnal mammal may raid bird and arboreal mammal nests, and consumes a variety of prey, including gliders, possums, small wallabies, rats, birds, bandicoots, rabbits and insects; also eats carrion and takes domestic fowl.

environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.

Mammalia Emballonuridae

Saccolaimus flaviventris

Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat

V - 3 Wide-ranging species found across northern and eastern Australia. In the most southerly part of its range - most of Victoria, south-western NSW and adjacent South Australia - it is a rare visitor in late summer and autumn.

Possible (but unlikely). Small area of potential forage habitat occurs within the Subject Land which may provide occasional foraging habitat. The Subject Land is a small area within a



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


There are scattered records of this species across the New England Tablelands and North West Slopes. Roosts singly or in groups of up to six, in large tree hollows and buildings; in treeless areas they are known to utilise mammal burrows. When foraging for insects, flies high and fast over the forest canopy, but lower in more open country. Forages in most habitats across its very wide range, with and without trees; appears to defend an aerial territory.

highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. No suitably large tree hollows present for roosting. Low number of records within 5km radius.

Mammalia Macropodidae

Petrogale penicillata

Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby

E V - In NSW this species occurs from the Queensland border in the north to the Shoalhaven in the south, with the population in the Warrumbungle Ranges being the western limit. It occupies rocky escarpments, outcrops and cliffs with a preference for complex structures with fissures, caves and ledges, often facing north. It

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


feeds on vegetation in and adjacent to rocky areas eating grasses and forbs as well as the foliage and fruits of shrubs and trees. Highly territorial and have strong site fidelity with an average home range size of about 15ha.

Mammalia Molossidae Mormopterus norfolkensis

Eastern Freetail-bat V - 6 Distributed along the east coast from southern QLD to southern NSW. Inhabits dry sclerophyll forest and woodland east of the Great Dividing Range. Forages on insects. It roosts singly and communally, mainly in tree hollows but will also roost under decorticating bark or in man-made structures.

Possible. Limited suitable foraging habitat present. The Subject Land may provide occasional foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Two small tree hollows present which could provide roosting habitat.

Mammalia Muridae Pseudomys novaehollandi

New Holland Mouse - V 2 Has been found from coastal areas and up to 100 km inland on sandstone

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land lacks



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


ae country from sea level up to around 900 m above sea level. Soil type may be an important indicator of suitability of habitat, with deeper top soils and softer substrates being preferred for digging burrows, such as open heathland, open woodland with a heathland understorey or vegetated sand dunes. Due to the largely granivorous diet of the species, sites where the species is found are often high in floristic diversity, especially leguminous perennials. Seeds form a main component of its diet, though leaves, fungi and invertebrates are consumed based on seasonal or floristic characteristics of individual sites. Young are born diurnally in nest burrows.

sandstone geology/soil and is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.

Mammalia Peramelidae

Isoodon obesulus obesulus

Southern Brown Bandicoot (eastern)

E1 E 88 Found in south-eastern NSW, east of the Great Dividing Range south from the Hawkesbury River. Is largely

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land lacks sandy soils and is a small area within



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


crepuscular (active mainly after dusk and/or before dawn). It is generally only found in heath or open forest with a heathy understorey on sandy or friable soils. It feeds on a variety of ground-dwelling invertebrates and the fruit-bodies of hypogeous (underground-fruiting) fungi. Foraging for food often create distinctive conical holes in the soil. Males have a home range of approximately 5-20 hectares whilst females forage over smaller areas of about 2-3 hectares. Nests may be located under Grass trees Xanthorrhoea sp., blackberry bushes and other shrubs, or in rabbit burrows. The upper surface of the nest may be mixed with earth to waterproof the inside of the nest.

an highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.

Mammalia Phascolarctidae

Phascolarctos cinereus

Koala V V - In NSW it mainly occurs on the central and north coasts with some populations in the west of the Great

Unlikely. No suitable habitat, the Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


Dividing Range. Inhabit eucalypt woodlands and forests. Feed on the foliage of more than 70 eucalypt species and 30 non-eucalypt species, but in any one area will select preferred browse species (OEH, 2012b).

environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.

Mammalia Potoroidae Potorous tridactylus tridactylus

Long-nosed Potoroo V V - In NSW it is generally restricted to coastal heaths and forests east of the Great Dividing Range, with an annual rainfall exceeding 760 mm. Inhabits coastal heaths and dry and wet sclerophyll forests. Dense understorey with occasional open areas is an essential part of habitat, and may consist of grass-trees, sedges, ferns or heath, or of low shrubs of tea-trees or melaleucas. A sandy loam soil is also a common feature. Fruit-bodies of hypogeous (underground-fruiting) fungi are a large component of the diet. Also eat roots, tubers, insects and

Unlikely. No suitable coastal heath and forest habitat. The Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. None previously recorded within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


their larvae and other soft-bodied animals in the soil. Mainly nocturnal, hiding by day in dense vegetation. Home range sizes ranging between 2-5 ha.

Mammalia Pteropodidae

Pteropus poliocephalus

Grey-headed Flying-fox

V V 884 This species is distributed within 200km of the east coast of Australia. It inhabits subtropical and temperate habitats including mangroves, rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and swamps. It migrates up to 50km according to the availability of native fruits, nectar and pollen and roosts in large “camps” which are generally within 20km of a food source and commonly found in gullies close to water and dense vegetation.

Present. Several large figs on the Subject Land provide regular foraging habitat. This would be utilised as part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land does not comprise a breeding camp.

Mammalia Vespertilionidae

Chalinolobus dwyeri

Large-eared Pied Bat

V V 1 Found mainly in areas with extensive cliffs and caves, from Rockhampton in Queensland south to Bungonia in the NSW Southern Highlands. Generally

Unlikely. No suitable well-timbered habitat and no cave or rocky habitat. The Subject Land is a small area within a



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


rare with a very patchy distribution in NSW, and are found in well-timbered areas containing gullies. Roosts in caves (near their entrances), crevices in cliffs, old mine workings and in the disused, bottle-shaped mud nests of the Fairy Martin (Petrochelidon ariel), frequenting low to mid-elevation dry open forest and woodland close to these features. Females have been recorded raising young in maternity roosts (c. 20-40 females) from November through to January, in roof domes in sandstone caves and overhangs. They remain loyal to the same cave over many years. In the Sydney basin, common in areas of high fertility soils in wet sclerophyll forests along edges of sandstone escarpments (Churchill, 2008).

highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.


Falsistrellus tasmaniensis

Eastern False Pipistrelle

V - 1 Distributed along south-east coast and ranges of Australia. Inhabit moist

Unlikely. No suitably moist and timbered habitat, one small



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius


habitats with trees taller than 20 m. Generally roosts in eucalypt hollows, but has also been found under loose bark on trees or in buildings. Prey on insects above or just below tree canopy. Forages up to 12 km from roost sites.

eucalypt hollow. The Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Only one previous record within 5km radius.


Miniopterus australis

Little Bentwing-bat V - 2 East coast and ranges of Australia from Cape York in Queensland to Wollongong in NSW. Moist eucalypt forest, rainforest, vine thicket, wet and dry sclerophyll forest, Melaleuca swamps, dense coastal forests and banksia scrub. Generally found in well-timbered areas. Roost in caves, tunnels, tree hollows, abandoned mines, stormwater drains, culverts, bridges and sometimes buildings during the day, and at night forage for small insects beneath the canopy of densely vegetated habitats.

Possible. Limited foraging and roosting habitat (2 small hollows) available. The Subject Land would be part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed. Low number of records within 5km radius.



14 MAY 2013



Name Common Name

TSC Act

Status

EPBC Act

Status

OEH

Records

5km Radius



Miniopterus schreibersii oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-bat

V - 22 Distributed along the east and north-east coast of Australia. Inhabits forested valleys but is also found in rainforests, wet/dry schlerophyll forests, monsoon forests, open woodlands, paperbark forests & open grasslands. Roosts in caves, tunnels and other artificial structures. Maternity caves have specific temperature and humidity regimes. It preys on flying insects above the treetops in forested areas and disperses within 300km of maternity caves in non-breeding season.

Likely (Possible recording). Limited foraging habitat available. The Subject Land would be part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land is a small area within a highly urbanised environment, has been cleared and landscaped previously and is therefore disturbed.

* Species exclusive to wetland and marine habitats or which are exclusively migratory species from EPBC protected matters search have been omitted

KEY

CE Critically Endangered E Endangered Ex Extinct M Migratory V Vulnerable



14 MAY 2013

Appendix E

Assessments of Significance

CUMBERLAND ECOLOGY © - BUNNINGS E.1


14 MAY 2013

E.1 Blue Gum High Forest

Blue Gum High Forest is listed as a CEEC under the TSC Act and EPBC Act. The local occurrence of Blue Gum High Forest is comprised of a total of six Eucalyptus saligna trees with very few understorey species. Two of the Eucalyptus saligna trees are mature old trees and the remaining four are much smaller and less mature. The trees are currently set within a highly urbanised environment and have very little scope for regenerating naturally. However, as the Final Determination of the TSC Act lists scattered trees, these individuals do form a part of the listed community.

A total four Eucalyptus saligna trees comprising two mature and two smaller less mature trees are proposed to be removed as part of the Future Proposal.

Under current conditions there is no requirement to actively manage the trees and if they are damaged or lost (in a storm or drought) they need not be replaced. There is also little potential for them to naturally regenerate. Notwithstanding that, the Proponent is seeking to offset the loss of the trees if the Future Proposal is approved. Owing to the size of the Subject Land and the scale of the development, the compensatory measures are proposed off site.

(a) In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

Not applicable.

(b) In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

Not applicable.

(c) In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:

(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or

(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction

Four of six scattered trees comprising Blue Gum High Forest will be removed as part of the Future Proposal. The removal of these four trees is unlikely to place this local occurrence at risk of extinction. This is because other scattered trees comprising Blue Gum High Forest will remain on the Subject Land and in the locality. Moreover, the trees being removed currently exist in a context where their long term survival is questionable as they have little



14 MAY 2013

scope for natural regeneration and if damage or death occurred they would not have to be replaced. The Future Proposal is unlikely to adversely modify the composition of the local occurrence so that it would be placed as risk of extinction as the extent of Blue Gum High Forest in the Study Area is already adversely modified.

(d) In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:

(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and

(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality.

A total of approximately 0.11 ha of modified and disturbed Blue Gum High Forest will be permanently removed, which represents 79% (canopy cover) of the local occurrence of this community.

The scattered Eucalyptus saligna trees that will be removed are already isolated and fragmented from others in the wider locality as they exist between buildings and major roadways. Accordingly, their removal will not result in the fragmentation of habitat for this community.

The habitat which will be removed as part of the Future Proposal is not considered to be important habitat for this community. However, as the trees are part of a highly cleared and modified CEEC it can be argued that their removal would constitute a significant loss or modification of habitat.

(e) Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly),

There is no critical habitat for Blue Gum High Forest currently listed by the Director-General of the OEH.

(f) Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plans,

There is no Recovery Plan or Threat Abatement Plan relevant to Blue Gum High Forest.

(g) Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process.

The Future Proposal may potentially impact Blue Gum High Forest through the following process:



14 MAY 2013

Clearing of native vegetation as this directly reduces the abundance of genetic diversity.

The Future Proposal exacerbates the impact of this key threatening process, particularly in terms of the local occurrence of Blue Gum High Forest. However, only a very small area will be subject to this process and the small area of canopy trees to be removed contribute little long term conservation value to the community within the wider locality.

Conclusion

The local occurrence of Blue Gum High Forest is comprised of a total of six scattered Eucalyptus saligna trees, both mature and immature with very few understorey species. They are set within a highly urbanised environment and have very little scope for regenerating naturally or long term survival. A total of approximately 0.11 ha of canopy cover/tree cover will be permanently removed, which represents 79% (canopy cover) of the local occurrence.

This removal is not likely to be ecologically significant. Notwithstanding that, it could still be considered a technically significant impact due to the loss of trees from a CEEC. As such a Species Impact Statement (SIS) may need to be prepared.

Regardless of whether an SIS is prepared, an appropriate offset package is currently being explored and this will aid the security of the Blue Gum High Forest community in the wider locality, if not the local occurrence.

E.2 Syzygium paniculatum (Magenta Lilly Pilly)

Syzygium paniculatum is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act and Vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Syzygium paniculatum is found only in NSW, in a narrow, linear coastal strip from Bulahdelah to Conjola State Forest. On the south coast, it occurs on grey soils over sandstone, restricted mainly to remnant stands of littoral (coastal) rainforest. On the central coast, the species occurs on gravels, sands, silts and clays in riverside gallery rainforests and remnant littoral rainforest communities (OEH, 2013b).

Three planted individuals are present within the Subject Land. The Subject Land is outside of known natural range and it has been previously cleared and landscaped.


The Future Proposal will avoid removal of the three planted Syzygium paniculatum and will not remove natural habitat for this species as the Subject Land is outside of its natural range and does not constitute its normal habitat. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction.

(b) In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the



14 MAY 2013

endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

Not applicable.



(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

Not applicable.





No natural habitat for this species will be removed or modified as a result of the Future Proposal as this species is currently located outside of its natural range and habitat presumably as planted specimens. For these reasons also, no natural habitat for this species will become fragmented or isolated as a result of the Future Proposal. Again, for the reasons above, the in situ habitat of the planted specimens is not considered to be important for the long term survival of these species.

(e) Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly).

No critical habitat for this species has been identified by the Director-General of OEH.

(f) Whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan.

No state recovery plan has been drafted for this species. The National Recovery Plan Magenta Lilly Pilly Syzygium paniculatum (OEH, 2012d) exists. The Future Proposal will not threaten any of the specific recovery objectives provided within the recovery plan.



14 MAY 2013


The Future Proposal is unlikely to potentially impact the three specimens through any key threatened process.

Conclusion

The Future Proposal will avoid removal of the three planted Syzygium paniculatum and will not remove natural habitat for this species as the Subject Land is outside of its natural range and does not constitute its normal habitat. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction. No natural habitat will be removed or modified and no natural habitat for this species will become fragmented or isolated as a result of the Future Proposal. In situ habitat of the planted specimens is not considered to be important for the long term survival of the species and no significant impact on the viability of any population in the locality will occur.

E.3 Threatened Cockatoos

This Assessment of Significance refers to the threatened cockatoos set out below which have been grouped for the purpose of this Assessment of Significance.

Gang-gang Cockatoo (Callocephalon fimbriatum) including Gang-gang Cockatoo population in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai Local Government Areas; and

Glossy Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami)

The Gang-gang Cockatoo is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. The Gang-Gang Cockatoo population in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai LGAs is listed as Endangered under the TSC Act. The Gang-gang Cockatoo is distributed from southern Victoria through south- and central-eastern New South Wales. In NSW, the Gang-gang Cockatoo is distributed from the south-east coast to the Hunter region, and inland to the Central Tablelands and south-west slopes (DEC (NSW), 2005g). In summer, the Gang-gang Cockatoo is generally found in tall mountain forest and woodlands, particularly in heavily timbered and mature wet sclerophyll forests. In winter, this species may occur at lower altitudes in drier more open eucalypt forests and woodlands, and often found in urban areas (DEC (NSW), 2005f).

The Glossy Black Cockatoo is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act (NSW Scientific Committee, 2004b). The Glossy Black Cockatoo is sparsely distributes along the east coast and immediate inland districts from western Victoria to Rockhampton in Queensland (NSW NPWS, 1999). The Glossy Black Cockatoo characteristically inhabits forests on sites with low soil-nutrient status, reflecting the distribution of its key food resource Allocasuarina spp, predominately Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and Black She-oak (Allocasuarina littoralis) in eastern populations (NSW NPWS, 1999). Secondary food sources include wood-boring grubs, Angophora fruit, Acacia seeds and, near Sydney, sunflower seeds (Blakers et al., 1984).



14 MAY 2013

The Gang-gang Cockatoo (including members of the Gang-Gang Cockatoo population in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai LGAs) and Glossy Black Cockatoo are assessed as having possible occurrence on the Subject Land as limited foraging habitat is present. No breeding habitat is present.

(a) In the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

The Gang-gang Cockatoo and Glossy Black Cockatoo require large tree hollows for nesting. There are no suitable hollow-bearing trees on the Subject Land. The species is likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land.

(b) In the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

The endangered population potentially occurring on the Subject Land occurs in the Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai LGAs. The population encompasses, but is not restricted to, Pennant Hills Park and parts of Lane Cove National Park (NSW Scientific Committee, 2001). This group is significant because it is the only known Gang-gang Cockatoo breeding population in the Sydney metropolitan area.

There are no suitable hollow-bearing trees on the Subject Land. The species is likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land.




Not applicable.





14 MAY 2013



Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed as part of the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.

As the habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment, fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal.

Habitat within the Subject Land is not important for the Gang-gang Cockatoo and Glossy Black Cockatoo in the locality as it a small area of suboptimal habitat within a disturbed context. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain old growth areas which include hollow-bearing trees, and therefore contain much higher quality breeding habitat.


No critical habitat for these species has currently been identified by the Director-General of the OEH.


No recovery plan has been prepared for these species.


The Future Proposal may potentially impact the Gang-gang Cockatoo and Glossy Black Cockatoo through the following processes:

Clearing of native vegetation as this directly reduces the abundance of foraging and possible future nesting habitat.

The Future Proposal may also potentially exacerbate the following processes and cause indirect impact on the species:

Infection by Psittacine circoviral (beak and feather) disease affecting

endangered psittacine species as it infects and kills cells in the beak and feathers and loss of habitat reduces resilience to the disease; and



14 MAY 2013

Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi as vegetation that are utilised by this species may be susceptible and may be killed or damaged due to the introduction of contaminated soils.

Clearing of native vegetation will result in removal of a very small area of potential foraging habitat for the species. This is considered insignificant in relation to the amount of potential habitat provided in the wider locality.

There no trees bearing hollows large enough for this species to utilise for breeding.

Removal of a small amount of suboptimal habitat for this species is unlikely to increase the effects of Psittacine circoviral disease, but is nonetheless worth mentioning.

There are no signs that Phytophthora cinnamomi is currently impacting vegetation on the Subject Land. It is not likely that the process will be exacerbated as a result of the Future Proposal as vegetation to be retained in the Study Area will have sedimentation fencing where appropriate to reduce the risk of introducing or spreading contaminated soil in the event of an outbreak.

Conclusion

Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of these species at risk of extinction. The habitat within the Subject Land set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact these species through clearing of native vegetation, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.

E.4 Threatened Parrots

Due to their similar habitat requirements, the following parrot species have been grouped for this Assessment of Significance:

Little Lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla); and

Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor).

The Little Lorikeet (Glossopsitta pusilla) is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. The Little Lorikeet is a nectarivorous species endemic to eastern mainland Australia. In NSW, the species is most commonly found in dry, open sclerophyll forests and woodlands dominated by eucalypts, from the coast to the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range and extending westwards to the vicinity of Albury, Parkes, Dubbo and Narrabri (Pizzey and Knight, 2003). The species has been found in both old-growth and logged forests in the eastern part of their range, and in remnant woodland patches and roadside vegetation on the western slopes, where it forages in the canopy. It is generally thought to be nomadic in response to food availability, though in some areas it is considered resident, particularly



14 MAY 2013

during breeding season from April to December (NSW Scientific Committee, 2009). The species feeds on nectar and pollen in the tree canopy, particularly on profusely-flowering eucalypts. It breeds in tree hollows with openings of approximately 3cm at heights of 2-15m in living trees, occupying the same hollow over many years.

The Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) is listed as Endangered under both the TSC and EPBC Acts. The Swift Parrot only breeds in Tasmania and migrates to south-eastern Australia from March to October (Pizzey and Knight, 2003). In NSW they are found in dry sclerophyll eucalypt forests and woodlands such as box-gum woodlands (SEWPaC, 2011). The species is semi nomadic in winter and generally found in Victoria and New South Wales with other populations found in south-eastern Queensland. The timing of their migration causes a heavy reliance on abundant lerp infestations and winter flowering eucalypts: Eucalyptus robusta, Corymbia maculata, C. gummifera, E. sideroxylon, and E. albens (Kennedy and Tzaros, 2005) (Saunders and Heinsohn, 2008). The species has high site fidelity and returns to sites on a cyclic basis. However, this site fidelity depends on availability of foraging resources.

No Little Lorikeet or Swift Parrot individuals have been recorded during field surveys. They are assessed as having possible occurrence on the Subject Land as a small area of suboptimal habitat including forage (during autum and winter only for the Swift parrot) and small tree hollow (only possibly utilised by Little Lorikeet).

a) In the case of a threatened species, whether the lifecycle of the species is likely to be disrupted such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction.

The Little Lorikeet requires small tree hollows for nesting, preferably in smooth barked species. There is one suitable hollow-bearing tree on the Subject Land for the Little Lorikeet. The Swift Parrot does not breed in New South Wales. While there is one potentially suitable tree hollow available to the Little Lorikeet, this is more likely to be occupied by urban aggressive species such as the Rainbow Lorikeet sighted within the Subject Land. Both species are likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and in the case of Little Lorikeet, very limited breeding habitat on the Subject Land.

b) In the case of an endangered population, whether the lifecycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population is likely to be disrupted such that the viability of the population is likely to be significantly compromised,

Not applicable.

c) In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:




14 MAY 2013


Not applicable.

d) In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:




Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal including one tree hollow contained in a smooth barked species. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.

As the habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal.

Habitat on the Subject Land is not important for these species in the locality. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain much higher quality habitat.

e) Whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or indirectly).

No critical habitat for these species has been identified by the Director-General of OEH.

f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan.

A Recovery Plan for the Swift Parrot (Lathamus discolor) has been prepared: Recovery Plan 2001-2005 prepared by the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment for the Commonwealth government in (Swift Parrot Recovery Team, 2001). The general aims of this plan include the protection and enhancement of key breeding and foraging habitats for the species. As the Subject Land is not key breeding or foraging habitat, the Future Proposal is not inconsistent with the Recovery Plan. No threat abatement has been prepared for the Swift Parrot.



14 MAY 2013

No recovery plan or threat abatement has been prepared for the Little Lorikeet.

g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of a key threatening process.

The Future Proposal may potentially impact the Swift Parrot and Little Lorikeet through the following processes:

Clearing of native vegetation as this directly reduces the abundance of foraging and possible nesting habitat.

Loss of hollow-bearing trees as this as this directly reduces the abundance of possible nesting habitat.

The Future Proposal may also potentially exacerbate the following processes and cause indirect impact on the species:

Infection by Psittacine circoviral (beak and feather) disease affecting

endangered psittacine species as it infects and kills cells in the beak and feathers and loss of habitat reduces resilience to the disease; and

Infection of native plants by Phytophthora cinnamomi as vegetation that are utilised by this species may be susceptible and may be killed or damaged due to the introduction of contaminated soils.

Clearing of native vegetation will result in removal of a very small area of potential foraging habitat for these species (and very limited nesting habitat for the Little Lorikeet). This is considered insignificant in relation to the amount of potential habitat provided in the wider locality.

There is only one tree hollow which the Little Lorikeet could utilise for breeding but is unlikely to do so.

Removal of a small amount of suboptimal habitat for this species is unlikely to increase the effects of Psittacine circoviral disease, but is nonetheless worth mentioning.

There are no signs that Phytophthora cinnamomi is currently impacting vegetation on the Subject Land. It is not likely that the process will be exacerbated as a result of the Future Proposal as vegetation to be retained in the Study Area will have sedimentation fencing where appropriate to reduce the risk of introducing or spreading contaminated soil in the event of an outbreak.

Conclusion

Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat and one suboptimal tree hollow for the Little Lorikeet within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of these species at



14 MAY 2013

risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land. The habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact these species through clearing of native vegetation and loss of hollow-bearing tree, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.

E.5 Powerful Owl (Ninox strenua)

The Powerful Owl is distributed from Mackay to south western Victoria, mainly on the coastal side of the Great Dividing Range. This species occurs in many vegetation types from woodland and open sclerophyll to tall open wet forest and rainforest. It requires large tracts of native vegetation but can survive in fragmented landscapes. It roosts in dense vegetation and nests in large tree hollows (DEC (NSW), 2005b). The Powerful Owl is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act.

The Powerful Owl is assessed as having possible occurrence on the Subject Land as very limited suitable foraging habitat is present.


The Powerful Owl is a bird of prey which generally requires a dense canopy and shrub layer for foraging and roosting and large tree hollows for nesting. There are no suitable hollow-bearing trees on the Subject Land. The species is likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. The Powerful Owl is a highly mobile species that accesses resources from across a wide area and this species would not depend upon resources contained on the Subject Land for its survival. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land.


Not applicable.

c) In the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed:




14 MAY 2013


Not applicable.

d) In relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community:




Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.


Habitat on the Subject Land is not important for the Powerful Owl in the locality as it a small area of suboptimal habitat within a disturbed context. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain old growth areas which include hollow-bearing trees, and therefore contain much higher quality breeding habitat.


No critical habitat for this species has currently been identified by the Director-General of the OEH.


A recovery plan has been prepared for large forest owls, including the Powerful Owl. The ultimate aim of the recovery plan is to ensure that the species it covers persist in the wild in NSW in each region where they presently occur (DEC (NSW), 2006). The Future Proposal is not considered to threaten the objectives of that Recovery Plan. No Threat Abatement Plan exists for this species.



14 MAY 2013

(g) Whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process

The Future Proposal may potentially impact the Gang-gang Cockatoo and Glossy Black Cockatoo through the following processes:

Clearing of native vegetation as this directly reduces the abundance of foraging and possible future nesting habitat.


Conclusion

Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of Powerful Owl at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land. The habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact the species through clearing of native vegetation, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.

E.6 Hollow Roosting Bats

The Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris) is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. It is found in a range of habitats including forest, agricultural and urban areas. It requires tree hollows, buildings, abandoned mammal dens or burrows for roosting (DEC (NSW), 2005c). Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bats forage on insects from 2m to 25m above the ground, depending on the environment (Law & Chidel, 2011).

The Eastern Freetail-bat (Mormopterus norfolkensis) is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. It is distributed along the east coast from southern QLD to southern NSW. The species inhabits dry sclerophyll forest and woodland east of the Great Dividing Range. It roosts singly and communally, mainly in tree hollows but will also roost under decorticating bark or in man-made structures (DEC (NSW), 2005a).

Both are assessed as having possible occurrence on the Subject Land as limited suitable foraging habitat is present. Two small tree hollows present could provide roosting habitat for the Eastern Freetail-bat.



14 MAY 2013


The Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat and Eastern Freetail-bat both require tree hollows for nesting. There are two hollow-bearing trees on the Subject Land. However, due to the highly urban setting of the Subject Land, these species are likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. The area of potential habitat to be removed is small and the species are mobile and would have the ability to utilise surrounding habitat. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and breeding habitat on the Subject Land.


Not applicable.




Not applicable.





Approximately 0.79 ha (including vegetated and grassland habitat) of potential foraging habitat and two suboptimal tree hollows within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential foraging habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.



14 MAY 2013


Habitat on the Subject Land is not important for the Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat and Eastern Freetail-bat in the locality as it a small area of suboptimal habitat within a disturbed context. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain old growth areas which include hollow-bearing trees, and therefore contain much higher quality breeding habitat.


No critical habitat for these species has been identified by the Director-General of OEH.


No specific recovery plan or threat abatement has been prepared for these species in NSW.


The Future Proposal may potentially impact these hollow-roosting bats through the following processes:

Clearing of native vegetation as this directly reduces the abundance of foraging and possible nesting habitat.

Loss of hollow-bearing trees as this as this directly reduces the abundance of possible nesting habitat.

Clearing of native vegetation will result in removal of a very small area of potential foraging and roosting habitat for these species. This is considered insignificant in relation to the amount of potential habitat provided in the wider locality.

There is two suboptimal tree hollows which these could utilise for roosting but are unlikely to do so due to the context of the environment in the Subject Land.

Conclusion

Approximately 0.79 ha of potential foraging habitat and two suboptimal tree hollows within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential foraging habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of these species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and roosting habitat on the Subject Land.



14 MAY 2013

The habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact these species through clearing of native vegetation and loss of hollow bearing trees, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.

E.7 Cave Roosting Bats

This Assessment of Significance refers to the threatened microchiropteran bats set out below which have been grouped for the purpose of this Assessment of Significance.

Little Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus australis) (also roosts in hollows); and

Eastern Bentwing-bat (Miniopterus orianae oceanensis).

The Little Bentwing-bat is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. The Little Bentwing-bat occurs on the east coast and ranges from Cape York in Queensland to Wollongong in NSW. It roosts in caves, tunnels, tree hollows, abandoned mines, stormwater drains, culverts, bridges and sometimes buildings during the day. At night they forage for small insects beneath the canopy of densely vegetated habitats. Only five nursery sites /maternity colonies are known in Australia (OEH, 2012c).

The Eastern Bentwing-bat is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act. The Eastern Bentwing-bat occurs along the east coast of Australia. It roosts in caves, derelict mines, stormwater tunnels, buildings and other man made structures. It forages above the canopy in forested areas. The Eastern Bentwing-bat forms maternity colonies in caves and populations usually centre on such caves (OEH, 2012a).

The Little Bentwing-bat was not recorded on the Subject Land, however the Subject Land has foraging and roosting habitat available to the species. The Eastern Bentwing-bat was recorded (possible recording) on the Subject Land by echolocation. The Subject Land has potential foraging habitat available which may be used from time to time as a part of a much larger foraging range. No roosting or maternity cave habitat is available on the Subject Land for the Eastern Bentwing-bat.


The Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat both require caves, tunnels abandoned mines, stormwater drains, culverts (and for the Little Bentwing-bat, tree hollows also) for roosting. There are no suitable cave, tunnels, drains etc on the Subject Land. Two hollow-bearing trees are present on the Subject Land. Due to the lack of roosting habitat and the highly urban setting of the Subject Land, these species are likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. The area of potential habitat to be removed is small and the species are mobile and would have the ability to utilise



14 MAY 2013

surrounding habitat. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and breeding habitat on the Subject Land.


Not applicable.




Not applicable.





Approximately 0.79 ha of potential foraging habitat and two suboptimal tree hollows within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential foraging habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.


Habitat on the Subject Land is not important for the Little Bentwing-bat and Eastern Bentwing-bat in the locality as it a small area of suboptimal habitat within a disturbed context. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai



14 MAY 2013

Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain old growth areas which include hollow-bearing trees, and therefore contain much higher quality breeding habitat.


No critical habitat for these species has currently been identified by the Director-General of the OEH.


No specific recovery plans have been prepared for these species. No threat abatement plans are relevant to these species.


The Future Proposal may contribute to or exacerbate the key threatening processes relevant to these species:

Clearing of native vegetation as this reduces the abundance of foraging and possible roosting habitat (for the Little Bentwing-bat).

Clearing of native vegetation will result in removal of a very small area of potential foraging (and roosting habitat for one of the two species) for these species. This is considered insignificant in relation to the amount of potential habitat provided in the wider locality.

Conclusion

Approximately 0.79 ha of potential foraging habitat (and two tree hollows of potential roosting habitat for one of the two species) within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential foraging habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of these species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and roosting habitat on the Subject Land. The habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact these species through clearing of native vegetation and loss of hollow bearing trees, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.



14 MAY 2013

E.8 Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)

The Grey-headed Flying-fox is listed as Vulnerable under the TSC Act (NSW Scientific Committee, 2004c)and the EPBC Act. The Grey-headed Flying-fox is distributed along the east coast from Bundaberg in Queensland to Melbourne, Victoria. It occurs as far west as the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in northern NSW. It occurs in subtropical and temperate rainforests, tall sclerophyll forests and woodlands, heaths and swamps. Grey-headed Flying-foxes migrate according to the availability of native fruits, nectar and pollen. They roost in large “camps” which are generally within 20km of a food source (NSW NPWS, 2001b).

The Grey-headed Flying-fox was recorded on the Subject Land foraging. Several large figs on the Subject Land provide regular foraging habitat which would be utilised as part of a much larger foraging range. The Subject Land does not comprise a breeding camp.


The Subject Land does not contain a Grey-headed Flying-fox camp and so only consists of foraging habitat for the species. The species is likely to use the Study Area only as foraging habitat as part of a much larger foraging range. Therefore the Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of the species at risk of extinction because there is very limited foraging and no breeding habitat on the Subject Land.


Not applicable.




Not applicable.





14 MAY 2013



Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land.

As the habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. Further to that, the Grey-headed Flying-fox is highly mobile able to travel large distances.

Habitat on the Subject Land is not important for the Grey-headed Flying-fox in the locality as it a small area of habitat. Much larger areas of potential habitat occur throughout the local population’s range, including within conservation reserves such as Lane Cove National Park and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Both of these reserves contain much higher quality habitat in general.


No critical habitat for this species has currently been identified by the Director-General of the OEH.


No state recovery plan or threat abatement plan has been prepared for this species.

The National Draft Recovery Plan for the Grey-headed Flying-fox (DECCW (NSW), 2009a) is applicable. The Future Proposal is not considered to threaten the objectives of that Recovery Plan. No Threat Abatement Plan exists for this species.


The Future Proposal may potentially impact the Grey-headed Flying-fox through the following processes:

Clearing of native vegetation as this reduces the abundance of foraging habitat.



14 MAY 2013


Conclusion

Approximately 0.59 ha of potential foraging habitat within the Subject Land is proposed to be removed with the Future Proposal. Approximately 0.26 ha of potential habitat will remain around the boundary of the Subject Land. The Future Proposal is not likely to place a viable local population of these species at risk of extinction because there is limited foraging and no breeding camp on the Subject Land. The habitat within the Subject Land is set within a highly urbanised environment and is therefore fragmented and somewhat isolated from large tracts of bushland, it is not anticipated that further fragmentation or isolation will occur as a result of the Future Proposal. While the Future Proposal may potentially impact these species through clearing of native vegetation, this will not have a significant impact on the viability of these species or population in the locality.



14 MAY 2013

Appendix F

Future Proposal Development Layout

Showing Avoidance of Mature Sydney Blue

Gum Trees

20.5

65

59.435

08’ 20"

42.6

95

08’

20"

16.235

44.535

08’ 20"

25.2

3

08’

20"

24.385

16’

47.2

25

11’

40"

16.73

21.715

08’20"

28.555

30’45"

29.43

47’

30"

31.66

58’

40"

11.23

11.975

9.3

45

9.6

85

17.9

85

49.9

15

04’

10"

19.5

65

87.64

08’ 20"

16.2

4.3

75

59.435

08’ 20"

1.825ha

HIGHWAY

RY

DE R

OA

DBRID

GE S

TR

EE

T

DEVELOPMENT

COMMERCIAL

ADJOINING

DEVELOPMENT

COMMERCIAL

ADJOINING

to Architects for clarification.

Verify dimensions from site and refer any discrepancies

Do not scale from this drawing.

the project for which it was provided.

Associates Pty Ltd , Sydney and shall be used only for

without the written permission of John R Brogan &

copied nor reproduced in part or in whole in any form

of John R Brogan & Associates Pty Ltd and shall not be

This drawing and the design shown herein is the property

EMAIL:

PH: (02) 9 221 2833 FAX: (02) 9 251 4741

A.B.N. 93 003 284 759 [email protected]

JOHN R. BROGAN & ASSOCIATES

ARCHITECTS, PLANNERS & COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS

37 PITT ST. SYDNEY NSW

PTY. LIMITED

2000

SCALE : PROJ. NO.

DATE :

AMD NO.

DRG. NO.

CA

D

RE

F :

Micr

ost

ati

on J

NO. AMENDMENT DATENO. AMENDMENT DATE

O

O

O

O

0100

100

mm

on origin

al A1

APR 10

DOCUMENT RECORD ISSUE

AT TIME OF BUILDING COMPLETION

COSTRUCTION DRAWING CURRENT

N

TR

UE

NO

RT

H

1258

PYMBLE, NSW, 2073PACIFIC HWY & MONA VALE ROAD

BU

NN

IN

GS

CO

MM

ER

CI

AL

&

RE

TA

IL

DE

VE

LO

PM

EN

T,

PY

MB

LE,

NS

W,

20

73 -

PL

OT

TE

D

27

-M

ar

ch

-2

01

3

P1 PRELIMINARY 01.01.13

3M SITE REDEVELOPMENT

1:400

CITY

27

-M

ar

ch

-2

01

3


P 102

P5WAREHOUSE LEVEL 1PLANNING OUTLINE

PRELIMINARY 21.02.13P2

PRELIMINARY 15.03.13P3


PRELIMINARY P5 25.03.13

50m

30m0m

10m

"A" - REFER SURVEY

EASEMENT FOR SUPPORT

15M WIDE PROTECTION ZONE

TREE NO.# 135 WITH

(APPROX AREA 750m2)

TREE SANCTUARY

(APPROX AREA 850m2)

TREE SANCTUARY

10.8 M WIDE PROTECTION ZONE

TREE NO.# 150 WITH

3.6 M WIDE PROTECTION ZONE

TREE NO.# 148 WITH

ISOLATED BY TREE SANCTUARY

OF WAREHOUSE

’LINK’ TO WESTERN END

bunnings flora and fauna assessment - ku-ring-gai … · responsibility for its use by other...

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