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HEAD OFFICE: 420 Victoria Street, Brunswick VIC 3056 MELBOURNE: PO Box 298, Brunswick VIC 3056 GEELONG: PO Box 8048 Newtown VIC 3220

FINAL REPORT:

Flora and Fauna Assessment and Targeted

Golden Sun Moth Surveys: Western Avenue,

Tullamarine, Victoria ON BEHALF OF:

Transpacific Cleanaway Pty Limited January 2009

Ecology Partners Pty Ltd

Flora and Fauna Assessment and Golden Sun Moth Surveys: Western Avenue, Tullamarine, Victoria 1

Table of Contents

Summary...................................................................................................................... 4

1 Introduction............................................................................................................ 8

1.1 Background........................................................................................................ 8

1.2 Scope of Assessment ........................................................................................ 8

1.3 Study Area ......................................................................................................... 9

2 Methods .......................................................................................................... 10

2.1 Nomenclature................................................................................................... 10

2.2 Literature Review ............................................................................................. 10

2.3 Database Searches ......................................................................................... 10

2.4 Flora Assessment ............................................................................................ 10

2.5 General Fauna Survey..................................................................................... 11

2.6 Targeted Golden Sun Moth Targeted Surveys................................................ 11

2.7 Assessment Qualifications and Limitations ..................................................... 12

3 Results ............................................................................................................ 13

3.1 Flora Species ................................................................................................... 13

3.2 Ecological Vegetation Classes and Vegetation Types .................................... 13

3.3 Current Vegetation Condition .......................................................................... 13

3.4 Significant Flora Species and Communities .................................................... 14

3.4.1 National..................................................................................................................................14

3.4.2 State.......................................................................................................................................14

3.4.3 Regional and Local ...............................................................................................................14

3.4.4 Significant Communities......................................................................................................15

3.5 Fauna Species ................................................................................................. 15

3.6 Fauna Habitat .................................................................................................. 15

3.7 Golden Sun Moth Targeted Surveys ............................................................... 17

3.8 Significant Fauna ............................................................................................. 17

3.8.1 National..................................................................................................................................17

3.8.2 State.......................................................................................................................................19

3.8.3 Regional and Local ...............................................................................................................19

4 Ecological Significance of the Study Area.................................................. 21

4.1 Ecological Significance of Study Area ............................................................. 21

4.1.1 Reasons for Significance ............................................................................. 21

5 Environmental Policy and Legislation......................................................... 22

5.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 ................... 22


5.1.1 Matters of National Environmental Significance ................................................................23

5.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 ............................................................. 24

5.3 Planning and Environment Act 1987 ............................................................... 25

5.4 Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2002 ............................................. 26

5.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994....................................................... 27

5.6 Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy ........................................................................ 28

5.7 Hume City Council ........................................................................................... 28

5.8 Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan ...................................... 28

5.9 The Native Vegetation Framework .................................................................. 29

5.9.1 Net Gain.................................................................................................................................29

5.9.2 Applying Net Gain – The Three Step Approach..................................................................29

6 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures................................................ 31

6.1 Potential Impacts ............................................................................................. 31

7 Impact Minimisation Recommendations..................................................... 32

8 Conclusion...................................................................................................... 33

Figures ....................................................................................................................... 34

Appendices................................................................................................................ 37

References................................................................................................................. 56

Figures

Figure 1: Location of study area............................................................................................. 35

Figure 2: Ecological features within the study site. ................................................................ 36


Acknowledgments

We thank the following people for their contribution to the project.

Ian Prudden (Commercial and Industrial Property Pty Ltd) for site and project

information.

Department of Sustainability and Environment for the use of the data available on the

Atlas of Victoria Wildlife and Flora Information System.

Cover photo: Northern facing slope of the study area, Tullamarine, Victoria

The following Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. employees were

involved in the project and contributed to the report:

Aaron Organ, Ian Wheatland, Dan Weller, Jenna Forbes, Clare

Crane and Zed Senbergs.

Copyright © Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd.

This document is subject to copyright and may only be used for the

purposes for which it was commissioned. The use or copying of this

document in whole or part without the permission of Ecology Partners

Pty. Ltd. is an infringement of copyright.

Disclaimer

Although Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. have taken all the necessary

steps to ensure that an accurate document has been prepared, the

company accepts no liability for any damages or loss incurred as a

result of reliance placed upon the report and its contents.


SUMMARY

Introduction

Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. was commissioned by Transpacific Cleanaway Pty Ltd to

undertake a flora and fauna assessment, and targeted Golden Sun Moth surveys of land

located at Western Avenue, Tullamarine, Victoria.

The land assessed is generally bounded by Wright Street in the east, Tullamarine Freeway in

the south and Moonee Ponds Creek Melbourne Water Reserve (a 30 m riparian buffer zone) to

the north and includes a large land-fill site in the western half of the site.

The current assessment is required to identify any species of conservation significance and to

provide advice in relation to any potential impacts and mitigation measures associated with

potential future commercial and/or industrial development of the site. Implications of

Commonwealth and State Government environmental legislation and policy associated with

the proposed development have also been provided.

Methods

Biological databases maintained by the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE)

were reviewed, including the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife (AVW) and Flora Information

System (FIS). The presence of Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) within the wider study

area was reviewed using DSE’s Biodiversity Interactive Map, while information referring to

matters (such as listed taxa and ecological communities, Ramsar wetlands, etc) protected

under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act 1999)

was obtained from the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts

(DEWHA) Protected Matters Search Tool.

Flora

The botanical field investigation was undertaken on 5 November 2008, with the aim of

documenting the flora and vegetation types within the study area. The entire site was visually

assessed on foot, with all vascular plants recorded and the overall condition of vegetation

noted. Study area boundaries were mapped using an aerial photograph of the study area. A

list of flora species observed within the study area is also provided.

Fauna

A habitat assessment and fauna survey was conducted on 5 November 2008 to obtain

information on terrestrial fauna values within the study area and immediate surrounds. The

study area was visually assessed, with active searching undertaken to locate more cryptic

species. A list of fauna species recorded during the present survey was compiled and is

presented in the report.


Golden Sun Moth targeted surveys

The higher quality grassland areas within the study area were considered to support

potentially suitable habitat for the nationally-listed Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana, and

there are recent records for the species in the local region.

Targeted surveys involving four visits between 11 November 2008 and 13 January 2009

surveys were conducted to inform any requirement for a referral to the Commonwealth

Minister under the EPBC Act (1999) and future mitigation measures.

Results

Flora

Thirty six plant taxa (11 indigenous and 25 exotic) were recorded in the study area during the

assessment. Planted trees and shrubs were not recorded unless they were seen to be naturally

spreading on site.

Vegetation condition

Vegetation within the property is currently grazed or has been grazed by domestic livestock

and consists primarily of exotic pasture grasses and herbs. Indigenous vegetation present

within grazed areas is difficult to identify as reproductive or identifiable structures (i.e.

ligules, leaf blades and inflorescences) were not present during the assessment due to

intensive grazing and prolonged drought conditions. All surviving indigenous species within

the study area occur in low abundance, except for a few patches where Wallaby Grass occurs

with cover abundance up to seventy five percent.

Given the intense agricultural history, the highly modified nature and high cover of introduced

species with low levels of indigenous species (i.e. at least one life form or structure, such as

such as canopy layer, shrub layer, and ground cover is absent) within the study area,

vegetation is considered to be in poor condition.

Fauna

During the assessment a total of 82 fauna species were detected, comprising ten mammals

(four native, six introduced), 66 birds (56 native, ten introduced) three native reptiles and

three native frogs. All of these species are common throughout the local area.

The study area supports five habitat types: Modified native grassland, riparian woodland,

wetlands, planted trees and shrubs, and exotic grassland. The overall habitat value in the

study area ranges from low for exotic grassland to high for riparian woodland and modified

native grassland.

The critically endangered Golden Sun Moth was not detected within the study area during

targeted surveys, and therefore the species is not considered to be present.


There is also potential for the nationally vulnerable Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis

(moderate likelihood of occurrence) at a waterbody in the north-west corner of the study area,

although at this stage this area is not proposed to be impacted by the proposed development.

One state significant species (Hardhead Aythya australis) was detected during the present

assessment, and it is likely that additional state significant waterbirds may utilise the same

waterbody present in the north west of the study area.

No regionally significant fauna species were detected during the present assessment.

Conservation Significance

The majority of the study area is devoid of remnant native vegetation and supports few, if any;

ecological values or significance for flora and fauna.

However, areas of the study area that support native grasses provide potential habitat for the

Golden Sun Moth and targeted surveys have been undertaken.

Areas adjacent to the study area along the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek support Creekline

Grassy Woodland (EVC 68) which is listed as endangered within the Victorian Volcanic

Plains bioregion. These areas also support significant habitat for a high number of fauna

species.

Legislative and Policy Implications

A Planning Permit from the Hume City Council is required to clear or disturb any native

vegetation within the study area.

During the present assessment, no national or state significant flora and fauna species or

ecological communities were recorded. However, populations of the critically endangered

Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana have been recorded within the local region. Targeted

surveys across potentially suitable habitat for this EPBC Act-listed species were undertaken

and results are included within this report. Presence of an EPBC Act-listed species would

prompt a referral to the Commonwealth Minister before any potentially adverse impacts

arising from development proposals could proceed.

Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

The primary impacts to flora and fauna values may arise from the removal or disturbance of

remnant vegetation adjacent to the study area. In particular, with reference to the nationally

vulnerable Growling Grass Frog along the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek and the waterbody

in the north-west corner of the study area. Whilst these aquatic habitats are not proposed to be

developed, measures should be undertaken to protect these areas during construction.

However, if this is not possible, targeted Growling Grass Frog surveys should be carried out

to assess the status of this species at these sites.


The confirmed presence of the species may also require a referral to the Commonwealth

Minister for consideration under the EPBC Act.

Information relating to potential direct and indirect impacts on ecological values within the

study area is provided in Section 6, while mitigation measures are outlined in Section 7.

Further Requirements

A Planning Permit from Hume City Council is required to clear or disturb any native

vegetation within the study area.


1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Ecology Partners Pty. Ltd. was commissioned by Transpacific Cleanaway Pty Ltd to

undertake a flora and fauna assessment of a site located at Western Avenue, Tullamarine,

Victoria. Targeted surveys for the nationally threatened Golden Sun Moth were also

undertaken across potentially suitable habitat within the study area.

The land assessed is generally bounded by Wright Street in the east, Tullamarine Freeway in

the south and Moonee Ponds Creek Melbourne Water Reserve (a 30 m riparian buffer zone) to

the north and includes a large land-fill site in the western half of the site.

The flora and fauna assessment was undertaken to identify any species of conservation

significance and to provide advice in relation to any potential impacts and mitigation

measures associated with the proposed development. Implications of Commonwealth and

State Government environmental legislation and policy associated with the proposed re-

zoning have also been provided.

1.2 Scope of Assessment

The following tasks for the flora and fauna assessment and targeted Golden Sun Moth surveys

were completed:

A review of relevant flora and fauna databases (e.g. Atlas of Victorian Wildlife

[AVW], Flora Information System [FIS]) and available literature;

A site assessment, to identify flora and fauna habitat values within the study area,

including any areas of remnant native vegetation or fauna habitat which pose a

potential constraint to future development of the site;

An identification of any significant communities or populations of indigenous flora

and fauna species;

Information on potential impacts to ecological values at a national, state, regional and

local level associated with the development of the site; and,

Targeted Golden Sun Moth surveys given that there are currently several documented

records of this species in the local area (AVW) and the presence of potentially suitable

habitat within the study area; and,

Mitigation measures which should be considered prior to, during and after

construction.


1.3 Study Area

The study area is located to the west of the intersection of Western Avenue and Wright Street,

Tullamarine, Victoria, approximately 22 kilometres north west of the Melbourne CBD

(Melway Ref:5 6E) and includes the land-fill area in the west of the site. The properties are

currently zoned as Farming (FZ3) and have Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) under the

Hume City Council planning scheme.

Areas adjacent to the study area along the reaches (within 30 metres) of Moonee Ponds Creek

are zoned Public Use Only, and Service and Utility (PUZ1), and have an Environmental

Significance Overlay (ESO2).

The study area is relatively flat towards the south; however, the site slopes down to the north

to Moonee Ponds Creek.

According to the DSE Biodiversity Interactive Map (www.dse.vic.gov.au) the study area is

within the Port Philip and Westernport Catchment boundary and in the Victorian Volcanic

Plain bioregion. The Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion extends from Portland in the west to

Craigieburn in the east and from Clunes in the north to Colac in the south. The Victorian

Volcanic Plain landscape has been radically altered within the last 150 years; approximately

4.5% of the land area still has a cover of native vegetation.


2 METHODS

2.1 Nomenclature

Common and scientific names of vascular plants follow the FIS (2007) and the Census of

Vascular Plants of Victoria (Walsh and Stajsic 2007). Vegetation community names follow

the DSE EVC benchmarks (www.dse.vic.gov.au) and Oates and Taranto (2001).

Terrestrial and aquatic vertebrate fauna (mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish) follow

the AVW (2007).

2.2 Literature Review

Information from the FIS AVW and EVC Benchmarks for the study area, and other relevant

literature, such as McDougall (1987) and Oates and Taranto (2001) and Hill et. al. (2006) was

reviewed.

2.3 Database Searches

Both the FIS (2007) and AVW (2007) biological databases maintained by DSE, were

reviewed to obtain a list of species previously recorded within 10 kilometres of the study area.

The presence of EVCs within the study area was reviewed using the DSE Biodiversity

Interactive Map (www.dse.vic.gov.au).

Information referring to matters (listed taxa and ecological communities, Ramsar wetlands,

etc.) protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 was

obtained from the DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool: http://www.environment.

gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/index.html.

2.4 Flora Assessment

The botanical field assessment was undertaken on 5 November 2008 with the aim of

documenting the flora and vegetation types within the study area.

The entire site was visually assessed on foot, with all vascular plants recorded and the overall

condition of vegetation noted. Vegetation boundaries were mapped using a feature survey of

the study area.

Remnant vegetation in the local area was also reviewed to assist in determining the original

vegetation within the study area. EVCs were determined by reference to DSE pre-1750 and

extant EVC mapping (www.dse.vic.gov.au). The significance assessment criteria of taxa and

vegetation communities are presented in Appendix 1.


2.5 General Fauna Survey

A habitat assessment and fauna survey was conducted on 5 November 2008 during warm fine

conditions (average temperature of 25oC) to obtain information on terrestrial fauna values

within the study area and immediate surrounds. The study area was visually assessed, with

active searching undertaken to locate more cryptic species (e.g. Golden Sun Moth, Striped

Legless Lizard). A list of fauna species recorded during the present survey was compiled and

is presented in the report.

The area was visually assessed for fauna, and observers also listened for calls and searched for

other signs such as nests, feathers, remains of dead animals, droppings and footprints. Habitat

features including ground cover and vegetation composition and structure and the presence of

tree hollows and fallen ground debris were also noted.

Any other features likely to be important for fauna, such as surface and embedded rock

outcropping, rock walls and wetlands/ waterbodies, were also assessed.

Additionally, a brief visual assessment of the adjacent areas outside of the study site was

undertaken to determine whether there was suitable habitat (principally for rare or threatened

species) in the immediate area, and to determine the likelihood of significant species utilising

these areas.

An inventory of all fauna species recorded during the survey and a description of habitats and

their overall quality was documented.

2.6 Targeted Golden Sun Moth Targeted Surveys

Golden Sun Moth is listed as critically endangered under the Environment Protection and

Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The species is a diurnal moth generally

found in areas of remnant indigenous grassland, particularly where wallaby grasses

Austrodanthonia spp. dominate the ground layer, but is also known to use areas dominated by

exotic grass species. The species is known to be active from November to early January and

emergence can vary between sites and according to weather conditions.

Targeted surveys were undertaken for Golden Sun Moth within the study area between 11

November 2008 and 13 January 2009. These surveys were undertaken in accordance with

DSEs draft survey protocol (A. Webster pers comm..). Surveys were carried out between

11am and 3pm on warm, relatively calm, sunny days with a minimum temperature of 20oC, in

weather conditions considered suitable for detecting the species. Surveys were undertaken by

field personnel experienced in the identification and key habitat requirements of the species.

Surveys comprised walking the entire site and surveying suitable grassland habitat searching

for moths. The location of any moth sightings was recorded on a hand-held GPS unit (with

+/- 5 metres accuracy) and later mapped on a site plan for reporting purposes.


In addition, several other sites in northern Melbourne known to support the species were

surveyed on the same day as the surveys within the study area, and this was undertaken to

demonstrate that weather conditions were conducive to flying males and therefore detection of

the species.

2.7 Assessment Qualifications and Limitations

Terrestrial flora and fauna data collected during the field survey and information obtained

from relevant sources (e.g. biological databases and relevant literature) were reviewed. This

information was considered sufficient to provide an assessment of the ecological values within

the study area, to determine the likely presence of significant taxa and communities, and any

potential impacts of the proposed development.

Plant species cover and diversity varies with each season and across years, depending on the

amount and timing of rainfall, on-site grazing pressure etc. As the study area has an extensive

agricultural history and is currently grazed by domestic livestock (horse and cattle) many

indigenous species were difficult to identify as reproductive or identifiable structures (i.e.

ligules, leaf blades and inflorescences) were not present.

Nevertheless, although the objective of the assessment was to document flora and fauna

species and communities within the study area and to identify any potential impacts associated

with the proposed development, an assessment of the interaction of species over a longer

survey period was beyond the scope of this study. The short duration of the survey meant that

migratory, transitory or uncommon fauna species may have been missed.

Thus, it is possible that a small number of additional common fauna species of conservation

significance may have been detected had the fauna assessment been conducted over a greater

number of days.


3 RESULTS

3.1 Flora Species

Present assessment

Thirty six plant taxa (11 indigenous and 25 exotic) were recorded in the study area during the

assessment. Planted trees and shrubs were not recorded unless they were seen to be naturally

spreading within the study area.

Database searches and other information

Additional significant flora species that have been recorded within a 10 kilometre radius of the

study area or their habitats as potentially occurring as derived from respective Commonwealth

and State databases are listed in Appendix 2.2.

3.2 Ecological Vegetation Classes and Vegetation Types

Two ecological vegetation classes (EVC) were likely to have existed within the study area

before European settlement: Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55_61) and Creekline Grassy

Woodland (EVC 68). This is consistent with the pre-1750 DSE vegetation mapping for the

region (www.dse.vic.gov.au) and Oates and Taranto (2001). During the site assessment, no

remnant patches of vegetation were identified within the study area. However, modified

patches of remnant Creekline Grassy Woodland were located adjacent to the study area along

the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek. Creekline Grassy Woodland has a conservation status of

endangered EVC within the Victorian Volcanic Plains.

3.3 Current Vegetation Condition

Vegetation within the study area in the eastern portion of the study area is currently grazed or

has been grazed by domestic livestock and consists primarily of exotic pasture grasses and

herbs. Indigenous vegetation present within grazed areas is difficult to identify as

reproductive or identifiable structures (i.e. ligules, leaf blades and inflorescences) were not

present during the assessment due to intensive grazing and prolonged drought conditions.

Identifiable indigenous vegetation consisted of River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis,

Lightwood Acacia implexa, Berry Saltbush Atriplex semibaccata, Ruby Saltbush Enchylaena

tomentosa, Nodding Saltbush Einadia nutans, Pink Bindweed Convolvulus erubescens, Jersey

Cudweed Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum, Mallow Malva spp. and scattered Wallaby-grass

Austrodanthonia spp., Kangaroo Grass Austrostipa spp. and Tussock Grass Poa spp. All

surviving indigenous species occur in low abundances except for a few patches where

Wallaby Grasses occur with cover abundance up to 90%. These patches of Wallaby Grass are

predicted to have recolonised the area after intense disturbance, and is not considered remnant

native vegetation and is considered ‘degraded treeless vegetation’.


One large old Lightwood and one medium old River Red Gum also exist within the study

area. In areas adjacent to the study area, along Moonee Ponds Creek, are areas supporting

Creekline Grassy Woodland, which is currently listed as endangered within the Victorian

Volcanic Plain bioregion. Throughout this area are six large to very large old River Red-

gums.

Given the intense agricultural history of the study area, the highly modified nature, and high

cover of introduced species with low levels of indigenous species (i.e. at least one life form or

structure, such as such as canopy layer, shrub layer, and ground cover is absent), vegetation

within the study area is considered to be in poor condition. All indigenous species within the

study area (except the few remnant trees) are know to be highly tolerant of disturbance, and

were considered to have re-colonised the area.

3.4 Significant Flora Species and Communities

No significant flora species were recorded during the current assessment. Additional

significant flora species documented as occurring within the local area (i.e. 10 kilometres

surrounding the study area), and their likely occurrence within the study area are listed in

Appendix 2.2.

3.4.1 National

No nationally significant flora species were identified within the study area during the

assessment. An additional nine nationally significant flora species have previously been

documented in the local area (i.e. 10 kilometres surrounding the study area) (FIS 2007)

(DEWHA – Protected Matters Search Tool). These species are listed in Appendix 2.2. Given

the highly modified nature of the study area, and lack of suitable habitat, it is unlikely that any

flora species of national significance would occur within the study area.

3.4.2 State

No state significant flora species were recorded within the study area during the present

assessment. An additional forty seven state significant flora species have previously been

documented in the local area (i.e. 10 kilometres surrounding the study area) (FIS 2007)

(DEWHA – Protected Matters Search Tool). These species are listed in Appendix 2.2. Given

the highly modified nature of the study area, and lack of suitable habitat, it is unlikely that any

flora species of national significance would occur within the study area.

3.4.3 Regional and Local

A small number of regionally significant flora species were recorded within the study area

during the present assessment (Appendix 2.1). All other indigenous species are considered to

be of local significance due to the depletion of native vegetation in the local area.


3.4.4 Significant Communities

There are no significant communities located within the study area.

Remnants of one vegetation community (Creekline Grassy Woodland) exist adjacent to the

study area, occurring along the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek. Although this EVC has a

bioregional conservation status of endangered (www.dse.vic.gov.au) it is currently not listed

as threatened under the EPBC Act or the FFG Act.

3.5 Fauna Species

Present assessment

The study area supports habitat for a number of native fauna species. During the assessment

82 species were detected, comprising 10 mammals (four native, six introduced), 66 birds (56

native, 10 introduced) three native reptiles and three native frogs (Appendix 3.1). All

recorded species are common throughout the local area.

Database searches (AVW and DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool)

Terrestrial fauna species identified on Commonwealth and State databases, that are known to

occur, or have the potential to occur within the study area, are summarised in Appendix 3.2.

Within a 10 kilometre radius of the study area 307 individual species have been documented

(AVW 2007), with a high number of records for all fauna groups. A considerable proportion

of these species (primarily common birds, grassland and riparian specialist fauna) are likely to

use habitats within the study area.

An additional eight fauna species have been identified as potentially occurring, or their

habitats as potentially occurring, within the study area (EPBC Act Protected Matters Search

Tool) (Appendix 3.2).

3.6 Fauna Habitat

The study area supports five habitat types: Modified native grassland, remnant riparian

woodland, wetlands, planted trees and shrubs, and exotic grassland. The overall habitat value

in the study area ranges from low for exotic grassland, to high for remnant riparian woodland

(Appendix 1).

Modified native grassland

This habitat type is characterised by an open sward of indigenous grasses (predominately

Austrodanthia spp.), interspersed with exotic grasses and shrubs.


Modified native grassland provides habitat for a diversity of native species including a range

of grassland birds (Richards Pipit) and ground-dwelling fauna. Areas of habitat with a high

percentage cover of native grass also have the potential to support the nationally significant

Golden Sun Moth.

Riparian Woodland

Moonee Ponds Creek runs along the northern boundary of the study area, and supports a

number of remnant River Red-gums and other indigenous vegetation. This area is of

moderate habitat value for fauna. Within the study area, Moonee Ponds Creek contains a

number of deep, slow moving pools, as well as wider, shallower marsh areas with an

exceptional cover of in-stream vegetation.

Several mature River Red-gums which are associated with Plains Grassy Woodland EVC are

present with the study area. The majority of these trees are over 100 years old and support

varying sized hollows.

Remnant trees like those present along Moonee Ponds Creek at the northern boundary,

provide an important source of food for nectar-feeding woodland birds, such as lorikeets,

honeyeaters and wattlebirds. The trees also provide shelter and dispersal habitat for a suite of

native fauna and nesting sites and vantage points for raptors and other open country birds (e.g.

Brown Goshawk, Whistling Kite). Tree hollows provide a valuable roosting, nesting and

foraging resource for several birds (including owls), arboreal mammals (Common Brushtail

Possum) and insectivorous bats. Common reptiles and frogs are also expected to use

microhabitats under these trees, including leaf litter and coarse woody debris, for protection,

breeding and foraging. Remnant River Red-gums are of high habitat value for fauna,

especially those which support hollows.

Wetlands

There is a large permanent water body immediately adjacent to the site’s north-western

boundary. Although this area is not proposed for development (I. Prudden pers comm.) it has

the potential to support several species of frogs including Growling Grass Frog Litoria

reniformis and it provides important habitat for a suite of waterbirds such as the state

significant Hardhead Aythya australis, Chestnut Teal Anas castanea and Eurasian Coot Fulica

atra. Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus was also observed utilising this area, and

have not been previously recorded within the local area (10 kilometre radius) (AVW 2007).

Planted trees and shrubs

Planted trees and shrubs grow in several areas throughout the study area. This habitat, along

the southern boundary of the site, provides foraging and breeding habitat for several common

native bird species, while larger trees may also be frequently used as roost sites for birds and

microchiropteran bats. Fallen bark and ground debris around the base of such trees provides

habitat for reptiles.


Along the paddock boundaries in the eastern section of the study area, plantations of Box

thorn / Sweet Briar provide an important source of refuge for small bird species such as

thornbills and wrens.

Exotic grassland

This habitat type dominates the study area. Although not indigenous, the grassland provides

foraging habitat and refuge for reptiles, small mammals and grassland bird species.

3.7 Golden Sun Moth Targeted Surveys

The site was surveyed on four occasions between 11 November 2008 and 13 January 2009

during suitable weather conditions, and during periods when Golden Sun Moth was known to

be flying at other sites in the vicinity of the study area (Greenvale, Craigieburn and/or

Wollert) (Table 1). Despite ideal weather conditions and confirmed activity of the species at

the reference sites the species was not detected within the study area during surveys. In

addition, the species was not detected immediately adjacent to the study area during recent

targeted surveys of the species on Melbourne Airport land (Hatt et al. 2008).

Table 1. Golden Sun Moth survey results within the study area.

Survey Times Date Golden Sun Moths recorded

Start Finish

Temperature (

oC)

Wind (0-3) Cloud Cover (%)

11/11/08 None 12:30 14:45 30 1 10

11/12/08 None 12:20 14:20 25 2 0

24/12/08 None 12:30 13:30 27 1 1

13/01/09 None 13:00 14:30 30 1 0

3.8 Significant Fauna

3.8.1 National

No nationally significant fauna species were recorded in the study area during the

assessments. Whilst there are records for Golden Sun Moth in the vicinity of the study area

from the 2007/08 flight period (Organ pers. obs) the species was not recorded in the study

area. Targeted surveys were also undertaken (2008) for Melbourne Airport Business Park

sites located adjacent to the south-west study area boundary and immediately south of the

Tullamarine Freeway (Hatt et al 2008). However, the presence of this species was not

confirmed during these surveys.


Nationally significant fauna species listed under the EPBC Act, and/or listed as threatened

under the National Action Plan, have previously been recorded from the local area (AVW

2007) (Appendix 3.2.). An additional four species, or their habitat, not previously

documented on the AVW were identified as potentially occurring within a 10 kilometre radius

of the study area (DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool) (Appendix 3.2). Nationally listed

fauna species include:

Two mammal species: Eastern Barred Bandicoot Perameles gunnii and Grey-headed

Flying-fox Pteropus poliocephalus;

Two woodland-dependent birds: Regent Honeyeater Anthochaera phrygia and Swift

Parrot Lathamus discolor;

One grassland-dependent bird species: Plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus;

Two reptiles: Grassland Earless Dragon Tympanocryptis pinguicolla and Striped

Legless Lizard Delma impar;

One frog species: Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis;

One fish species: Australian Grayling Prototroctes maraena; and,

Two invertebrate species: Golden Sun Moth Synemon plana and Eltham Copper

Butterfly Paralucia pyrodiscus lucida.

With the exception of Moonee Ponds Creek and a waterbody in the north-west corner of the

study area which support habitat suitable for the Growling Grass Frog, there is no suitable or

important habitat for any national or state significant fauna species within the study area.

Grey-headed Flying-fox could fly over the study area during night-foraging trips from Yarra

Bend Park in Kew but are unlikely to visit habitats within the study area on a regular basis.

The likely use of the study area by nationally significant species is summarised in Appendix

3.2., while a description of the nationally significant Growling Grass frog is provided below.

Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis

The Growling Grass Frog was once widespread throughout south-eastern Australia, but over

the past 20 years its range has contracted throughout many areas due to a number of

threatening processes. In Victoria, this species is widely distributed throughout most regions,

with the exception of Mallee and Alpine areas where climatic and habitat conditions are not

suitable.

The species prefers permanent or semi permanent waterbodies to breed, although is has also

been known to successfully breed in ephemeral waterbodies (Organ 2002; Organ pers obs).


3.8.2 State

One state significant fauna species, the Hardhead duck, was recorded in the study area during

the initial assessment. A pair of individuals was observed utilising the waterbody in the north

west of the study site, along with a number of other more common waterbird species.

Hardheads are widespread but uncommon throughout much of Victoria and primarily inhabit

permanent freshwater wetlands, supporting dense fringing vegetation (Emison et al. 1987).

Generally avoids main streams or rivers, except in calmer reaches where aquatic vegetation is

present (Marchant and Higgins 1990).

An additional 20 state significant fauna species have previously been documented from within

10 kilometres of the study area (AVW 2007), and an additional five species are predicted to

occur in the area. These comprise:

Three woodland-dependent birds: Turquoise Parrot, Diamond Dove, Speckled

Warbler, Brown Treecreeper and Diamond Firetail;

Fourteen wetland-dependent birds: Australasian Shoveler, Baillon’s Crake, Blue-billed

Duck, Little Bittern, Common Sandpiper, Freckled Duck, Eastern Great Egret,

Intermediate Egret, Australasian Bittern, Hardhead, Lewin’s Rail, Little Egret, Musk

Duck and Royal Spoonbill;

Two diurnal raptor species: Grey Goshawk and Black Falcon; and,

One frog: Brown Toadlet.

The waterbody in the north western corner of the study site is suitable for several state

significant waterbird species, namely the Australasian Shoveler and Blue-billed Duck. The

presence of Hardheads and also Black-winged Stilts in this area suggests that the waterbody

provides high quality refuge and foraging habitat for waterbird species. There is no likely or

suitable habitat for any other state significant fauna species within the study area. Based on

available information, any proposed development within the study area is unlikely to

significantly impact any state significant species and associated habitats.

The likely use of the study area by state significant species is provided in Appendix 3.2.

3.8.3 Regional and Local

No regionally significant fauna were recorded during the assessment.

However, 11 regionally significant fauna species have previously been documented from the

local area (AVW 2007). These comprise:

One mammal species : Fat-tailed Dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata;

One diurnal raptor species: Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis;


One grassland-dependent bird species: Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora;

Two woodland-dependent bird species: Black-eared Cuckoo Chrysococcyx osculans,

Black-chinned Honeyeater Melithreptus gularis; and,

Six wetland-dependent birds: Latham’s Snipe Gallinago hardwickii, Australian

Pratincole Stiltia isabella, Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus, Pied

Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius, Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus and Azure

Kingfisher Alcedo azurea.

There is no likely, or suitable habitat, for any regionally significant fauna species within the

study area.

All other native fauna (primarily birds) are not listed as rare or threatened at a national, state

or regional level and are therefore considered to be locally significant.


4 ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY AREA

4.1 Ecological Significance of Study Area

The majority of the study area is devoid of remnant native vegetation and supports few, if any,

ecological values or significance for flora and fauna. Two remnant native trees, one large and

one medium, are present within the study area and are of local significance.

Areas adjacent to the study area along the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek support Creekline

Grassy Woodland (EVC 68) which is listed as endangered within the Victorian Volcanic

Plains bioregion. These are considered to be of moderate to at least high local conservation

significance.

4.1.1 Reasons for Significance

The conservation significance for the study area has been assigned for the following reasons:

Presence of one large old Lightwood and one medium old River Red-gum within the

study area;

In areas adjacent to the study area, along Moonee Ponds Creek, the presence of areas

supporting Creekline Grassy Woodland, which is currently listed as endangered within

the Victorian Volcanic Plain Bioregion, and six large old River Red-gums; and,

Potential habitat for the nationally significant Growling Grass Frog in a waterbody to

the north-west of the study area and habitat of the adjacent Moonee Ponds Creek.


5 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND LEGISLATION

This section identifies biodiversity policy and legislation relevant to the proposed

development and principally addresses:

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999

(Commonwealth);

Flora and Fauna Guarantee (FFG) Act 1988 (Victoria);

Planning and Environment Act 1987 (Victoria);

Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2002;

Catchment and Land Protection (CALP) Act 1994 (Victoria);

Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy 1997;

Hume City Council;

Port Philip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan; and,

Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management Framework - A Framework for Action (Net

Gain Policy) (NRE 2002).

5.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The EPBC Act establishes a Commonwealth process for assessment of proposed actions that

are likely to have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance, or on

Commonwealth land. An action (i.e. project, development, undertaking, activity, or series of

activities) unless otherwise exempt, requires approval from the Commonwealth Environment

Minister if it is likely to have an impact on any matters of national environmental significance.

A referral under the EPBC Act is required if a proposed action is likely to have a ‘significant

impact’ on any of the following seven matters of national conservation significance:

World Heritage properties

National heritage places

Ramsar wetlands of international significance

Threatened species and ecological communities

Migratory and marine species

Commonwealth marine area

Nuclear actions (including uranium mining)


5.1.1 Matters of National Environmental Significance

World Heritage properties and national heritage places

The study area is not located within or near a World heritage property or national heritage

property.

Ramsar wetlands of international significance

The DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool (http://www.environment.gov.au/erin/ert/epbc/

index.html) does not list any wetlands of international significance as occurring within the

same catchment as the study area. As such, the proposed development is unlikely to impact

upon any Ramsar values.

Listed flora and fauna species, and ecological communities

An action requires approval from the Commonwealth Environment Minister if it will, or if it

is likely to, have a significant impact on an endangered or critically endangered species, or on

an ‘important population’ or critical habitat of a listed vulnerable species.

Flora: No EPBC listed flora species or vegetation communities were recorded during the

assessment. Additional EPBC listed flora species that have previously been recorded, or have

habitat predicted to occur in the local area are provided. It is unlikely that any of these species

occur within the study area due to its highly modified nature.

Fauna: No nationally significant fauna were recorded in the study area during the present

survey and Golden Sun Moth was not recorded during subsequent targeted surveys. However,

eleven nationally significant fauna species listed as threatened under the EPBC Act have

previously been recorded in the local area (AVW 2007). Habitat for an additional four species

is also predicted to occur, either in, or within a 10 kilometre radius of, the study area

(DEWHA Protected Matters Search Tool) (Appendix 3.2).

There is potential habitat for a small number of EPBC Act-listed fauna within the study area

(Appendix 3.2).

Communities: No nationally significant vegetation communities occur within the study area.

Listed migratory and marine species

A small number of common migratory and marine species were recorded during the present

survey (Appendix 3.1). While several migratory and marine species may occasionally occupy

habitats within the study area, the study area does not provide habitat for an ecologically

significant proportion of any of these species.


Commonwealth marine area and nuclear actions

The study area is not within a marine area, nor is the proposed works related to nuclear

actions.

Implications for the proposed development

No EPBC-listed flora or fauna species or vegetation communities were recorded within the

study area during the surveys. However, there is potential habitat for the EPBC Act-listed

Growling Grass Frog, primarily along Moonee Ponds Creek and the waterbody in the north-

west corner of the study area. Whilst these areas are not scheduled for disturbance, if this

species, or any other species listed under the EPBC Act are recorded within the study area

then an EPBC Act referral is likely to be required to assess the potential for ‘significant

impacts’ to species populations or habitats under the provisions of the EPBC Act.

5.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988

The primary legislation for the protection of flora and fauna in Victoria is the FFG Act. The

Act builds on broader national and international policy in the conservation of biodiversity.

The broad objectives of the FFG Act are to: 1) ensure native flora and fauna survive, flourish

and maintain in situ evolutionary potential; 2) manage threatening processes; 3) encourage the

conserving of flora and fauna through cooperative community endeavours; and 4) establish a

regulatory structure for the conservation of flora and fauna in Victoria.

The Act contains protection procedures such as the listing of threatened species and/ or

communities of flora and fauna, and the preparation of action statements to protect the long-

term viability of these values.

Flora: No FFG listed species were recorded within the study area during the current

assessment.

However, eight FFG listed species have previously been recorded within the local area (i.e. in

a 10 km radial of the study area) (Appendix 2.2). It is unlikely that any of these species occur

within the study area due to the modified nature of the study area.

Fauna: No state significant fauna listed under the FFG Act were recorded within the study

area during the current assessment. However, 14 fauna species listed under the FFG Act have

previously been documented from within 10 kilometres of the study area (AVW 2007). There

is suitable habitat for many of the state significant waterbird species within the study area,

mainly within the waterbody located in the north west of the study site. Despite this, and

based on available information, any proposed development within the study area is unlikely to

significantly impact any FFG-listed fauna species.


If the north-west waterbody or habitat of the Moonee Ponds Creek are to be disturbed then a

Growling Grass Frog survey should be undertaken, as recommended for an EPBC Act-listed

species in section 4.1.1 above.

Vegetation Communities: There are no FFG Act listed flora communities within the Study

Area.

Threatening processes: At least one threatening process, (The invasion of native vegetation by

environmental weeds), listed under the FFG Act could apply to the proposed development.


No listed threatened species under the FFG Act were recorded in the study area during the

initial assessment or targeted Golden Sun Moth surveys.

With respect to the Net Gain policy, while the study area contains areas supporting native

grasses (primarily wallaby grasses Austrodanthonia spp.) which would ordinarily qualify as a

patch of native vegetation, the majority of the areas where native species occur are currently

considered ‘degraded treeless vegetation’ (DSE 2006b). As per the planning guide (DSE

2006b) the majority of the study area is defined as degraded treeless vegetation, where a

‘former grassland that has had a history of cropping, and now has an extremely modified

cover consisting of few opportunistic, primary colonizing native grass species generally

amongst exotic species, with little other indigenous diversity’ (R. Costello and K. Greengrass,

DSE, pers. comm.).

Under the FFG Act, the proponent is required to manage any threatening processes. However,

given that the study area is located on private property, generally the FFG Act does not apply.

5.3 Planning and Environment Act 1987

All planning schemes contain native vegetation provisions at Clause 52.17. A planning

permit is required under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to remove, destroy or lop

native vegetation on a site of more than 0.4 hectares, unless:

The application is exempt under the schedule to Clause 52.17

A Native Vegetation Precinct Plan applies.

Planning schemes may contain other provisions in relation to the removal of native vegetation.

Recent changes to the planning provisions (DSE 2006a) have altered the criteria for when

DSE is the mandatory referral authority.


A permit must be referred to DSE if there is one or more of the following:

Scattered Trees (may include trees from patches of vegetation)

Greater than 15 trees with a diameter less than 40 centimetres at 1.3 metres above

ground.

Greater than 5 trees with a diameter more than 40 centimetres at 1.3 metres above

ground.

Areas of vegetation (may include trees)

Greater than 0.5 hectares of vegetation in an Ecological Vegetation Class with

Bioregional Conservation Status of Endangered, Vulnerable or Rare.

Greater than 1 hectare of vegetation in an Ecological Vegetation Class with

Bioregional Conservation Status of Depleted or Least Concern.

Other circumstances

On Crown land managed by the responsible authority.

Where a property vegetation plan applies to the site.


A Planning Permit from the Hume City Council is required to clear/remove native vegetation.

In this instance there are no remnant patches of native vegetation, so a planning permit for this

purpose is not required.

5.4 Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2002

Wildlife Act 1975

The Wildlife Act 1975 is the primary legislation in Victoria providing for protection and

management of wildlife. The Act requires people engaged in wildlife research (e.g. fauna

surveys, salvage and translocation activities) to obtain a permit under the Act to ensure that

these activities are undertaken in a manner consistent with the appropriate controls.

The Wildlife Act 1975 has the following objectives:

To establish procedures for the promotion of protection and conservation of wildlife,

the prevention of species extinctions, and the sustainable use and access to wildlife;

and,

To prohibit and regulate the conduct of those involved in wildlife related activities.


Wildlife Regulations 2002

The objectives of the Wildlife Regulations are:

To make further provision in relation to the licensing system established by section 22

of the Wildlife Act 1975;

To prescribe fees, offences, royalties and various other matters for the purposes of the

Wildlife Act 1975; and,

To provide for exemptions from certain provisions of the Wildlife Act 1975.

Authorisation for habitat removal may be obtained under the Wildlife Act; through a licence

granted under the Forests Act 1958, or under any other Act such as the Planning and

Environment Act 1987.


While a permit is required for removal of habitat within the study area, this could be in the

form of a permit to remove native vegetation under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

Consequently, a separate permit to remove fauna for this project under either the Wildlife Act

1975 or the Wildlife Regulations 2002 is unlikely to be required if a permit under the Planning

and Environment Act is obtained.

5.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994

The CALP Act contains provisions relating to catchment planning, land management, noxious

weeds and pest animals. This Act also provides a legislative framework for the management

of private and public land and sets out the responsibilities of land managers, stating that they

must take all reasonable steps to:

Avoid causing or contributing to land degradation which causes or may cause damage to land of another land owner;

Protect water resources;

Conserve soil;

Eradicate regionally prohibited weeds;

Prevent the growth and spread of regionally controlled weeds; and,

Prevent the spread of, and as far as possible eradicate, established pest animals.

Essentially the Act establishes a framework for the integrated management and protection of

catchments, and provides a framework for the integrated and coordinated management, which

aims to ensure that the quality of the State’s land and water resources and their associated

plant and animal life are maintained and enhanced.



The proponent is responsible to control any infestation of noxious or environmental weeds

that may become established within the study area. As such, weeds should be appropriately

controlled to minimise their spread and overall impact on ecological values. For example,

construction workers and machinery should be checked for weed material to avoid further

spread of noxious weeds. Nine noxious weeds listed within the Port Phillip and Westport

Catchment area (DPI 2006) and three Weeds of National Significance (WONS) were recorded

within the study area (Appendix 2.1).

5.6 Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy

The Victorian Government endorses this strategy titled ‘Victoria’s Biodiversity – Directions

in Management’ (NRE 1997), which represents a benchmark for biodiversity conservation and

management throughout the state.

The Biodiversity Strategy encourages Victorians to better understand and appreciate flora and

fauna and ecosystems throughout the state, and to take an active part in conservation and

management to ensure biodiversity is managed in an ecologically sound and sustainable

manner.

5.7 Hume City Council

The study area is currently zoned as Farming schedule 3. This has no implications to the flora

and fauna management of the site.

An Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) exists over the entire study area.

The implications of this overlay are such that a certificate of environmental audit is obtained

before the land is developed for a sensitive use (residential use, child care centre, pre-school

centre or primary school).


A Planning Permit from the Hume City Council will be required to remove, destroy or lop

native vegetation. In this instance there are no remnant patches of native vegetation, so a

planning permit for this purpose in not required.

5.8 Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan

The Port Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006) is a guide for

local government in assessing planning applications for vegetation removal and determining

permit conditions (Net Gain requirements) to ensure that ecological values across the region

are not compromised.


The Plan provides information on biodiversity values across the Region and gives guidance to

local municipalities on how clearing applications should be assessed. The document also

outlines actions to ensure there is more strategic and coordinated approach to address ongoing

degradation in quantity and quality of native vegetation across the Port Phillip and

Westernport region.


The proposed development should address the key recommendations outlined under the Port

Phillip and Westernport Native Vegetation Plan (PPWCMA 2006). These include the

protection and enhancement of native vegetation, the promotion of awareness of native

vegetation, the sustainable management of native vegetation and the promotion of land uses

that lead to long-term protection of native vegetation.

5.9 The Native Vegetation Framework

Since 1989, most proposals to clear native vegetation have required a planning permit from

the local Council (Responsible Authority) under the native vegetation provisions of Clause

52.17 of the Victoria Planning Provisions (‘VPPs’). In 2002, the Victorian Government

released the Framework (NRE 2002) which establishes a “strategic direction for the

protection, enhancement and revegetation of native vegetation across the State”.

Amendment (VC19) to Victoria’s Planning Provisions introduced the Framework in July 2003

as an incorporated document for all Victorian Planning Schemes. Clauses 11 and 15.09 in the

State Planning Policy Framework provide the framework for considering native vegetation

issues in the planning system.

These clauses require planning and responsible authorities to have regard to the Framework,

which establishes the strategic direction for the protection, enhancement and revegetation of

native vegetation across Victoria.

5.9.1 Net Gain

The Framework states that the primary goal is to achieve:

“a reversal, across the entire landscape, of the long-term decline in the extent and quality

of native vegetation, leading to a Net Gain” (NRE 2002).

Net Gain is the overall outcome where native vegetation and habitat gains are greater than the

losses and where losses are avoided, where possible.

5.9.2 Applying Net Gain – The Three Step Approach

When Net Gain is considered for potential impacts on native vegetation within all planning

schemes, the Framework has defined a three-step approach for applying Net Gain to

protection and clearance decisions.


The three-step approach is:

1. To avoid adverse impacts, particularly through vegetation clearance.

2. If impacts cannot be avoided, to minimise impacts through appropriate

consideration in planning processes and expert input to project design or

management.

3. Identify appropriate offset options.

The three-step approach to Net Gain is the first consideration for all planning permit

applications and planning scheme amendments, with emphasis placed on the first two steps of

avoidance and minimisation. Only after these two steps have been taken should offsets

(actions undertaken to achieve commensurate gains in vegetation loss) be considered (NRE

2002).


In this instance, avoiding adverse impacts through vegetation clearance is possible, because no

remnant patches of indigenous vegetation still inhabit the site. Therefore a net gain report is

not required.


6 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

6.1 Potential Impacts

Any loss of ecological values should be viewed in the context of the overall ongoing loss,

fragmentation, and deterioration in the quality of remnant vegetation throughout many areas

on the suburban edge of Melbourne.

Given that the study area contains no remnant patches of native vegetation, it is likely that the

development will have little impact on terrestrial flora, fauna and ecological communities.

Potential direct and indirect impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna values may occur as part of

the proposed development.

Direct impacts include:

The loss of the large old Lightwood and the medium old River Red Gum that occur

within the study area;

Modification of flow regimes and sedimentation levels into Moonee Ponds Creek;

Potential loss of suitable foraging, nesting and shelter habitat for indigenous fauna

species; and,

Decreases in population sizes of local flora and fauna species.

Indirect effects on adjacent areas are also possible if construction activities are not

appropriately managed, and these include:

Disturbance to indigenous vegetation including patches of modified Creekline Grassy

Woodland occurring adjacent to the study area, along the reaches of Moonee Ponds

Creek, particularly due to increased pedestrian and vehicle access and possible

disturbance by excavation machinery and soil stockpiling;

Potential for further spread of environmental weeds and soil pathogens within the

study area and local surrounds from on-site activities;

Soil erosion and sediment input into Moonee Ponds creek and the waterbody in the

north-western corner of the site which have the potential to support Growling Grass

Frog and supports bird species of state significance;

Disturbance to wildlife from increased human activity, and increased noise during

construction; and,

Indirect impacts to other areas of adjoining native vegetation/habitat.


7 IMPACT MINIMISATION RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the site conditions the impacts on flora and fauna values is considered to be low, as

the majority of the site is dominated by introduced flora species. However, where ecological

values occur in the study area, the following measures to mitigate/ ameliorate impacts from

the proposed development are suggested and include:

If possible, avoid and retain the remnant large old Lightwood and medium old River

Red-gum that occur within the study area. If the removal of these trees is not

avoidable it is advised that planting be carried out after the occurrence of development

to mitigate their loss;

Avoid the removal of existing fences (or re-install appropriate fencing) along the

northern boundary of the study area, to ensure the adequate protection of areas

containing Creekline Grassy Woodland and very old remnant River Red-gums in areas

along the reaches of Moonee Ponds Creek. Areas external to the fences are classified

public use zone and have an environmental significance overlay;

Protect Moonee Ponds Creek and the waterbody located in the north-west of the study

area from disturbance as a precautionary measure by establishing a suitable (i.e. at

least 30 metres) protective buffer around aquatic and associated terrestrial habitat;

Erosion and sedimentation control measures should be undertaken throughout the

development process to reduce the likelihood of sediment from works entering

Moonee Ponds Creek Water Reserve, or the waterbody in the north-western corner of

the study area;

Control the further spread of environmental and noxious weeds on site;

Use indigenous plants associated with the Plains Grassy Woodland EVC as part of any

landscaping works to increased habitat for native fauna;

Ensure that best practice sedimentation and pollution control measures to the

satisfaction of EPA are undertaken at all times to prevent offsite impacts to waterways;

Restricting construction activities to the actual area required for the proposed

development in order to reduce erosion and thew spread of environmental weeds;

Inform contractors about areas of ecological value within the study area;

Revegetate disturbed areas with an assortment of locally indigenous ground covers, if

natural regeneration is poor; and

Weeds should be treated appropriately and replaced with locally indigenous species.


8 CONCLUSION

With respect to the Net Gain policy, while the study area contains areas supporting native

grasses (primarily wallaby grasses Austrodanthonia spp.) which would ordinarily qualify as a

patch of native vegetation, the majority of the areas where native species occur are currently

considered ‘degraded treeless vegetation’ (DSE 2006b). As per the planning guide (DSE

2006b) the majority of the study area is defined as degraded treeless vegetation, where a

‘former grassland that has had a history of cropping, and now has an extremely modified

cover consisting of few opportunistic, primary colonizing native grass species generally

amongst exotic species, with little other indigenous diversity’ (R. Costello and K. Greengrass,

DSE, pers. comm.).

During the initial flora and fauna assessment, and targeted Golden Sun Moth surveys, no

national or state significant flora and fauna species or ecological communities were recorded.

Although not detected during the current surveys, populations of the nationally significant

Growling Grass Frog may occur in parts of Moonee Ponds Creek and in a large permanent

waterbody located in the north-west corner of the study area (Figure 2). If these aquatic

habitats and/or areas immediately adjacent to these sites are proposed to be disturbed as part

of the future development of the study area targeted surveys for Growling Grass Frog should

be undertaken.

The confirmed presence of the species may also require a referral to the Commonwealth

Minister for consideration under the EPBC Act. However, based on the proposed

development of the study area (i.e. the retention of the large waterbody in the north east of the

study area) there is a low likelihood that Growling Grass Frog and its habitat will be impacted.

Finally, the majority of the study area is highly modified and supports few ecological values

which pose a constraint to the future development of the site.


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final report: flora and fauna assessment and targeted ... · flora and fauna assessment and golden...

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