lidsdale siding rehab and closure plan april...

REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLAN

LIDSDALE SIDING

April 2015

Rehabilitation And Closure Plan – Lidsdale Siding

i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 1.1 Background .................................................................................................................................................... 1.2 The Rehabilitation and Closure Plan .............................................................................................................. 1.3 Ownership and Leases .................................................................................................................................

2.0 THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT .............................................................................................. 2.1 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................................ 2.2 Soils Landform and Geology .......................................................................................................................... 2.3 Ecology .......................................................................................................................................................... 2.4 Baseline Rehabilitation Data ..........................................................................................................................

3.0 OBJECTIVES OF REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLAN ................................................. 3.1 Rehabilitation and Closure Objectives ...........................................................................................................

4.0 STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES FOR REHABILITATION AND

CLOSURE PLANNING .............................................................................................................. 4.1 Legislation ......................................................................................................................................................

4.1.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ................................................................................

4.1.2 Protection of the Environmental Operations Act 1997 ............................................................................. 4.2 Environmental Planning Instruments .............................................................................................................

4.2.1 State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries)

2007 .........................................................................................................................................................

4.2.2 Lithgow City Council Local Environmental Plan 1994 ..............................................................................

4.2.3 Lithgow City Council Draft Local Environmental Plan 2013 .....................................................................

4.2.4 Lithgow Draft Land Use Strategy 2010-2030 ........................................................................................... 4.3 Policies and Guidelines ..................................................................................................................................

4.3.1 Strategic Framework for Mine Closure, Minerals Council of Australia .....................................................

4.3.2 A Guide to Leading Practise Sustainable Development in Mining, Leading Practice Sustainable

Development Program for the Mining Industry, Australian Government, 2011 ........................................

4.3.3 Guidance Paper - Financial Assurance for Mine Closure and Reclamation (ICMM, 2006) .....................

4.3.4 Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services (DTIRIS) Guidelines ......... 4.4 Centennial Coal Environment and Community Policy .................................................................................... 4.5 Centennial Coal Risk Management Standard - 004 .......................................................................................

5.0 THE APPROACH TO PREPARING THE REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLAN ............ 5.1 Site Consultation and Land Use Planning ...................................................................................................... 5.2 Closure – Assigning Management ‘Domains’ ................................................................................................ 5.3 Stakeholder Engagement and Community Consultation ...............................................................................

5.3.1 Stakeholder Response .............................................................................................................................

5.3.2 Socio Economic and Consultation ...........................................................................................................

6.0 BROAD BRUSH RISK ASSESSMENT – REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE ....................... 6.1 Methodology ................................................................................................................................................... 6.2 Key Closure Risks Identified. .........................................................................................................................


7.0 DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE ..................................................................................... 7.1 Investigation of the Site .................................................................................................................................. 7.2 Investigation of Structures .............................................................................................................................. 7.3 Site Infrastructure and Services ..................................................................................................................... 7.4 Contamination ................................................................................................................................................ 7.5 Hazardous Materials ......................................................................................................................................

8.0 REHABILITATION MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................... 8.1 Rehabilitation Phases .................................................................................................................................... 8.2 General Principles of Rehabilitation ............................................................................................................... 8.3 Landform Design and Planning ...................................................................................................................... 8.4 Progressive Rehabilitation ............................................................................................................................. 8.5 Soil Management ........................................................................................................................................... 8.6 Erosion and Sediment Control ....................................................................................................................... 8.7 Revegetation and Weed Management ...........................................................................................................

8.7.1 Species to be used for Revegetation .......................................................................................................

8.7.2 Special Treatment Areas .........................................................................................................................

8.7.3 Weed Management .................................................................................................................................. 8.8 Rehabilitation Monitoring and Maintenance ...................................................................................................

9.0 REHABILITATION SUCCESS CRITERIA ................................................................................

10.0 REHABILITATION BOND CALCULATION ..............................................................................

11.0 TRIGGER ACTION RESPONSE PLAN ....................................................................................

12.0 INDICATIVE CLOSURE TIMELINE...........................................................................................

13.0 REPORTING AND REVIEW ...................................................................................................... 13.1 Protocol for Managing and Reporting on Incidents, Complaints and Non Compliances ................................ 13.2 Audit and Review ........................................................................................................................................... 13.3 Reporting ........................................................................................................................................................

14.0 REFERENCES ...........................................................................................................................

FIGURES

FIGURE 1 – SITE LOCATION

FIGURE 2 – SITE PLAN

FIGURE 3 – LAND OWNERSHIP

FIGURE 4 – CONSTRUCTION COMPONENTS

FIGURE 5 – PRIMARY DOMAINS (LIDSDALE SIDING AT THE END OF CONSTRUCTION)

FIGURE 6 – RISK MATRIX IN BBRA

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE RISK ASSESSMENT

APPENDIX 2: SPECIES LIST FOR REHABILITATION


ABBREVIATIONS

ANZMEC Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council

AS/NZ Australian and New Zealand standards

BBRA Broad Brush Risk Assessment

CEY Centennial

DITR Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources

DP&E Department of Planning and Environment

DPI-MR Department of Primary Industries - Mineral Resources

DTIRIS-RE Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services –

Resources and Energy

EMS Environmental Management System

EPL Environmental Protection Licence

GSSE GSS Environmental

ha Hectare

LCC Lithgow City Council

LEP Local Environmental Plan

LGA Local Government Area

LLUS Lithgow Land Use Strategy

Ltd Limited

m metre

mm millimetres

NSW New South Wales

OEH Office of Environment and Heritage

OH&S Occupational Health and Safety

POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

REA Reject Emplacement Area

REMP Rehabilitation and Environmental Management Plan

SRA State Rail Authority

TARP Trigger Action Response Plan


1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Ivanhoe Coal Pty Ltd (Centennial) operates the Lidsdale Siding Rail Loading Facility (Lidsdale Siding),

located approximately 12 kilometres northwest from the city of Lithgow, NSW. The Lidsdale Siding is

situated approximately 150 kilometres west of Sydney adjacent to the township of Wallerawang. Figure 1

illustrates the regional locality of the Lidsdale Siding site. Figure 2 illustrates the Lidsdale Siding Upgrade

Project Plan.

The Lidsdale Siding Upgrade Project Environmental Assessment (EA) was submitted to the Department of

Planning and Infrastructure (DP&I) (Now Department of Planning and Environment (DP&E) in August 2012.

The Lidsdale Siding Upgrade Project was approved on 3 May 2013 by the Planning and Assessment

Commission as a delegate for Minister for Planning and Infrastructure, via the Planning Assessment

Commission.

The upgrade project at the Lidsdale Siding ensures the improvement of operational efficiency and

increases its throughput capacity to approximately 6.3 million tonnes per annum. The train loading process

will be automated by establishing a coal stockpile with underground reclaimers feeding a conveyor leading

to a train loading bin. The total stockpile capacity would be approximately 50,000 tonnes.

The main physical components of the Lidsdale Siding are:

• A new diversion chute at the end of the existing overland conveyor to load coal onto the stockpile conveyor. This chute can also divert coal to an auxiliary stockpile under unplanned stop conditions for the stockpile conveyor so that the overland system does not need to be shutdown;

• An elongated conical stockpile and associated push out area;

• An auxiliary stockpile for the diversion of coal from the conveyor system;

• An elevating stockpile conveyor and gantry to feed the existing coal stream to the elongated conical stockpile;

• Underground reclaim tunnel beneath the elongated conical stockpile;

• A train loading bin incorporating coal weighing;

• A conveyor from the reclaim tunnel to the train loading bin;

• A spillage reclaim pit beneath the train loading bin;

• A control room adjacent to the train loading bin;

• A track extension to the existing rail siding with additional parallel siding;

• Water supply, dust suppression, reticulation upgrade and water management structures as required;

• Landscaping and bunding as required;

• A new transformer to upgrade power;

• Lighting for night operation and security;

• Erection of perimeter fencing and signage; and

• Mobile refuelling facility and the provision of a self bunded transportable fuel tank.

The key operational components of the fully upgraded Lidsdale Siding site include:

• Handling an increased quantity of coal from 2 million tonnes per annum to up to approximately 6.3 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa);

• All coal will be delivered by the existing overland conveyor system;

• Increased train movements from two to an average of five per day and a peak of seven trains per day;

• Increased rate of operation of the existing conveyor from the Centennial Coal Western Coal Services Site and operation of the conveyor, the feeder and the proposed reclaimer;

• Blending of coal on site;

• Railyard activities including storage, provisioning and minor maintenance of locomotives and wagons accessing the site for loading;

• Maintenance of onsite infrastructure and site amenities;

• Maintenance and inspection of on-site machinery including locomotives and rolling stock;

• Fuelling of on-site machinery (including locomotives) from mobile tankers and a self bunded transportable fuel tank;

• Environmental management measures including sprinkler use for dust suppression, truck wash, monitoring activities, waste removal and noise attenuation; and


• Use of the existing weighbridge and weighing of wagons. The existing weighbridge is used for non – commercial purposes.


Figure 1 – Site Location


Figure 2 – Lidsdale Siding Site Plan


1.2 The Rehabilitation and Closure Plan

This plan outlines the methodologies to be undertaken or proposed for the rehabilitation of the site and

documents the closure assumptions to be used by Lidsdale Siding. These methodologies will be used to

make appropriate financial provisions for the eventual decommissioning and rehabilitation of the site.

Schedule 3 Condition 29 of Project Approval 08_0223 details the requirements for the preparation of a

Rehabilitation Management Plan for the Lidsdale Siding operation. Table 1.1 gives the specific

requirements of the Approval and where they have been addressed in the Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.

1.3 Ownership and Leases

Land ownership within the bounds of the Lidsdale Siding Site is shown on Figure 3. The site comprises land owned by Ivanhoe Coal Pty Ltd (Centennial) and NSW Rail (formerly State Rail Authority).The land owned by NSW Rail is managed by John Holland Rail. The development consents of the 1970’s and 80’s have been superseded in 2013 with the new Project Approval (PA08_0223) and these existing consents are required to be surrendered as a specific condition of PA08_0223 (Schedule 2, Condition 9). A land title search has shown that the site has been leased to a number of proprietors for grazing purposes until the 1950s when the land was taken over by the Joint Coal Board, and later the State Rail Authority/ NSW Rail. The rail loading facility has been in operation since the mid-1970s and a number of coal mining companies have held the lease since 1978. Centennial took over the lease in 2004. Figure 4 illustrates the components of the upgrade project.


Figure 3 – Land Ownership


Figure 4 – Construction Components


Table 1.1: Requirements of PA 08_0223 and Section where Addressed

Condition

Number Approval Requirements

Section Plan

addressing

the

Requirement

Schedule 3 Condition

28

The Proponent shall rehabilitate the site to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This rehabilitation must be generally consistent with the proposed rehabilitation strategy described in the EA, and comply with the objectives in Table 6. Table 6: Rehabilitation Objectives

Feature Objective

Project Area Safe, stable & non-polluting Final land use compatible with surrounding land uses

Surface Infrastructure

To be decommissioned and removed, unless the Director-General agrees otherwise

Community Ensure public safety Minimise the adverse socio-economic effects associated with the closure of the project

Note: These rehabilitation objectives apply to all impacts and environmental consequences caused by coal handling and train loading operations taking place after the date of this approval; and to all project infrastructure, whether constructed prior to or following the date of this approval.

Section 3.1


29

The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Rehabilitation Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must: a) be prepared in consultation with the SCA, LCC and the CCC;

This plan has

been prepared

in draft for

comment.

b) be submitted to the Director-General for approval within 12 months of the date of this approval;

Noted.

c) describe how the performance of the rehabilitation would be assessed against the rehabilitation objectives in Table 6; and

Section 3.1

Section 7

Section 8

d) provide for detailed closure planning, including measures to minimise socio-economic effects due to facility closure, to be conducted at least 3 years prior to the site being closed or placed on care and maintenance, unless otherwise approved by the Director-General in the circumstances of unexpected closure.

Section 5.3.1


30

Within 12 months of the date of this approval, the Proponent shall lodge a rehabilitation bond for the project with the Director-General. The sum of the bond shall be calculated in accordance with the current publicly-available version of methodology and calculation spreadsheets utilised by DRE for the purpose of determining rehabilitation liabilities for mine sites, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The Proponent shall pay the Department’s reasonable costs in engaging experts to review the adequacy of the calculated sum of the bond. If the rehabilitation and revegetation works are completed to the satisfaction of the Director-General, the Director-General will release the rehabilitation bond. If the rehabilitation and revegetation works are not completed to the satisfaction of the Director-General, the Director-General will call in all or part of the rehabilitation bond, and arrange for the satisfactory completion of the relevant works.

Section 10

Appendix 3


31

Within 3 months of each Independent Environmental Audit (see Condition 9 of Schedule 5), the Proponent shall review, and if necessary revise, the sum of the rehabilitation bond to the satisfaction of the Director- General. This review must consider: a) the effects of inflation; and

b) the performance of the rehabilitation to date.

Section 10


Condition

Number Approval Requirements

Section Plan

addressing

the

Requirement

Schedule 5 Condition 2

The Proponent shall ensure that the management plans required under this approval are prepared in accordance with any relevant guidelines, and include: a) detailed baseline data;

Section 2.5

(b) a description of:

• the relevant statutory requirements (including any relevant approval, licence or lease conditions);

• any relevant limits or performance measures/criteria;

• the specific performance indicators that are proposed to be used to judge the performance of, or guide the implementation of, the project or any management measures;

Section 4

Section 9

Section 9

(c) a description of the measures that would be implemented to comply with the relevant statutory requirements, limits, or performance measures/criteria;

Section 5

(d) a program to monitor and report on the:

• impacts and environmental performance of the project;

• effectiveness of any management measures in (c) above.

Section 8

Section 13

(e) a contingency plan to manage any unpredicted impacts and their consequences and to ensure that ongoing impacts reduce to levels below relevant impact assessment criteria as quickly as possible;

Section 11

(f) a protocol for managing and reporting any:

• incidents;

• complaints;

• non-compliances with statutory requirements; and

• exceedances of the impact assessment criteria and/or performance criteria.

Section 13

(g) a protocol for periodic review of the plan. Section 13

This Rehabilitation and Closure Plan will be progressively reviewed and updated over the life of the

operation. NSW Rail, as the landowner is an important stakeholder in the future rehabilitation of the site.

A Final Rehabilitation and Closure Plan will be completed at least three years prior to the planned

completion of the operations. Lidsdale Siding has approval to carry out coal handling and train loading

operations on the site until 31 December 2042.


2.0 THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT

This section includes a description of the existing environment which sets the basis on which a number of

potential post mining land uses have been considered as part of this Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.

2.1 Land Use

The Lidsdale Siding site is used as a coal loading and dispatch facility. The surrounding land use includes:

• Industrial and infrastructure;

• Rural; and

• Residential and community.

2.2 Soils Landform and Geology Soils The Lidsdale Siding facility lies on the central western edge of the Sydney Basin within the Illawarra Coal Measures and the siltstone dominated Berry Formation, which overlies the Megalong Conglomerate to form the Shoalhaven Group (King, 1992). GSS Environmental (now SLR) prepared the Soils and Land Capability Assessment for the August 2012 EA. Areas within the Illawarra Coal Measures consist of shale and sandstone in addition to conglomerate, limestone, dolomite, claystone, mudstone, coal and torbanite. Areas within the Berry Formation consist of grey siltstone with thin beds of limestone and sandstone. Unconsolidated alluvium overlying the Illawarra Coal Measures in the drainage areas and their associated floodplains consist of shale, sandstone, conglomerate, limestone, dolomite, claystone, mudstone, coal and torbanite. Soils at Lidsdale Siding and the surrounding area typically have low to very low fertility. High erodibility is common as a result of hard-setting surfaces and low permeability. The widespread occurrence of naturally acidic soils can explain the low fertility and prevalent aluminium toxicity (Hazleton & Murphy, 2009). Land The Wallerawang 1:100,000 Sheet Rural Land Capability Classification (Department of Natural Resources, 2005) maps the Lidsdale Siding site and the surrounding area as Class U which is land disturbed by urban development, in this case mining related infrastructure (GSS Environmental, 2012). The agricultural suitability classification of the Lidsdale Siding site and the surrounding area is Class 5. This class of land is marginal land not suitable for cultivation and has very low potential for grazing production. Agriculture There is no agricultural production land within the Lidsdale Siding and no Strategic Land in accordance with the NSW Strategic Land Use Policy.


Table 2.1: Summary of Lease Conditions Relating to Rehabilitation and Closure at Lidsdale Siding

Consent Condition

Number Lease Condition Understanding of Condition

Memorandum of Lease (4/11/1978) Signed between Public Transport Commission of NSW and Austen and Butta Limited

20

The lessee shall not without the written consent of the Lessor interfere with any existing drainage or water supply facilities or with any of the appurtenances thereto and the Lessee shall to the satisfaction of the Lessor keep in a clean clear and free flowing condition any drains which pass through the demised premises, and to provide and maintain any additional drainage which is in the opinion of the Lessor is requisite for the demised premises.

Current water management system to remain at

closure for Lidsdale Siding. A Water Management

Plan has been prepared for Lidsdale Siding.

Memorandum of Lease

28

Now is or may hereafter become subject or liable and which arise from or are in any way connected with or incidental to the occupation and use of the Lease of the demised premises during the term or subsequently thereto or the proximity of the demised premises to the railway or the presence upon the demised premises or the leakage issue or flow therefrom or thereinto of rain flood or other water, gas, electricity, fire or any harmful agent whatsoever AND the Lessee shall accept all the responsibility in connection therewith provided that the Lessee shall not be liable to Indemnify the Lessor under this clause in any case where the negligence of the Lessors or agents is the sole cause of such loss liability, costs, charges, expenses, actions, suits, proceedings and demands.

The site must be left in a safe and stable condition

at closure as per the agreed final land use. The

agreed final land use is to be developed in

consultation with the DP&E and the landholder

NSW Rail.

Memorandum of Lease

45

The Lessee may be required to remove from the demised premises any building, structure, fixture or improvement erected, placed or made by it thereon during the said term and shall restore the demised premises to its condition prior to such erection planning or making to the satisfaction of the Lessor provided that should any such building structure, fixture or improvement be not removed if so required as aforesaid the Lessor may remove the same and restore the demised premises to its said prior condition at the expense of the Lessee and the Lessee shall compensate the Lessor for use and occupation of the demised premises at the same rate as the rent.

Anything added after the time of this lease

(4/11/1978) should be removed according to this

condition, unless agreed with by the NSW Rail and

the DP&E.


Consent Condition

Number Lease Condition Understanding of Condition

Agreement to Let or Take (29/11/1984) Signed by Austen and Butta Limited

The tenant having fully complied with the terms or conditions of this agreement may and if required by the Authority shall at its own post and without compensation immediately prior to the termination of the tenancy remove all fences and the buildings, structures or other improvements erected, placed or made by him upon the said premises and restore and make good the openings in fences in the proceeding clauses referred to and do such that other acts as the said engineer consider necessary so as to leave the site clear and in good order to the satisfaction of such engineer and if the tenant shall make default in complying with the provisions of this clause or any of the same authority may either retain the buildings, structures or improvements without compensation or remove or sell or otherwise dispose thereof at the risk and the cost of the Tennant and the expense of such removal and of restoring or making good any gates or openings in fences (after deducting the net proceeds of any such sale if made) shall be repaid by the tenant on demand.

Anything added after the time of this lease

(29/11/1984) should be removed according to this

condition, unless agreed with by the NSW Rail and

the DP&E.


2.3 Ecology

The far majority of the Lidsdale Siding site has been cleared and is classified as severely disturbed land. A summary of ecology across the Lidsdale Siding site is outlined in the Biodiversity Management Plan (RPS, 2013).

2.4 Baseline Rehabilitation Data

There is no baseline rehabilitation data for Lidsdale Siding as minimal rehabilitation has been completed

and the site is still operational. Section 8.8 outlines the rehabilitation monitoring methodology used at

neighbouring Centennial Western Operations, with this methodology to be used at Lidsdale Siding once

rehabilitation areas are established. Analogue rehabilitation sites will be established to allow for a

comparison with rehabilitation areas at Lidsdale Siding.


3.0 OBJECTIVES OF REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLAN

Planning for rehabilitation and closure includes identifying the timing of the planning process, considering

issues which relate to specific rehabilitation methods and economical and community objectives, as well as

making sure adequate financial provisions have been set aside.

The general objective adopted in the development of this Rehabilitation and Closure Plan is to derive the

most appropriate option(s) for closure in terms of performance and cost.

3.1 Rehabilitation and Closure Objectives

Schedule 3 Condition 28 of PA08_0223 details rehabilitation and closure objectives for the Lidsdale Siding

(see Table 3.1).

Table 3.1: Rehabilitation Objectives

Feature Objective

Project Area Safe, stable & non-polluting. Final land use compatible with surrounding land uses.

Surface Infrastructure

To be decommissioned and removed, unless the Director-General agrees otherwise.

Community Ensure public safety. Minimise the adverse socio-economic effects associated with the closure of the project.

Other rehabilitation and closure objectives for Lidsdale Siding include:

• Provision of options for final land use;

• Provision of an overall framework for closure, including rehabilitation and decommissioning strategies

that are consistent with NSW standards and regulatory requirements;

• Ensuring that the site can be used for some other beneficial use post closure;

• Reducing or eliminating adverse environmental effects once the operation ceases;

• Ensuring that Centennials liabilities and residual risks are minimised; and

• Ensuring that the impacts are minimised and that needs of employees, suppliers and the local

community are considered in the closure planning process.

The rehabilitation and closure objectives of Lidsdale Siding will be reviewed and updated after consultation

with NSW Rail, Sydney Catchment Authority, Lithgow City Council and the Community to determine post

closure land use.


4.0 STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES FOR

REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLANNING

State, Federal and Local Governments have formulated regulations, policies and guidelines that relate to

closure and decommissioning. This Rehabilitation and Closure Plan has been developed to be consistent

with the objectives of these key policies and guidelines. This section describes only the legislation that is

relevant to rehabilitation and closure. This section also covers the Centennial Coal Environment and

Community Policy.

4.1 Legislation

4.1.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

The development assessment and approval system for NSW is outlined in Parts 4 and 5 of the

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). Objectives of the EP&A Act include:

“(a) to encourage:

(i) the proper management, development and conservation of natural and artificial resources,

including agricultural land, natural areas, forests, minerals, water, cities, towns and villages for the

purpose of promoting the social and economic welfare of the community and a better environment,

(ii) the promotion and co-ordination of the orderly and economic use and development of land,

(iii) the protection, provision and co-ordination of communication and utility services,

(iv) the provision of land for public purposes,

(v) the provision and co-ordination of community services and facilities, and

(vi) the protection of the environment, including the protection and conservation of native animals

and plants, including threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their

habitats, and

(vii) ecological sustainable development ...”

This Plan has been prepared with consideration of the EP&A Act.

4.1.2 Protection of the Environmental Operations Act 1997

The objectives of the Protection of the Environmental Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) are outlined below:

(a) to protect, restore and enhance the quality of the environment in New South Wales, having regard

to the need to maintain ecologically sustainable development,

(b) to provide increased opportunities for public involvement and participation in environment

protection,

(c) to ensure that the community has access to relevant and meaningful information about pollution,

(d) to reduce risks to human health and prevent the degradation of the environment by the use of

mechanisms that promote the following:

(i) pollution prevention and cleaner production,

(ii) the reduction to harmless levels of the discharge of substances likely to cause harm to the environment,

(iia) the elimination of harmful wastes,


(iii) the reduction in the use of materials and the re-use, recovery or recycling of materials,

(iv) the making of progressive environmental improvements, including the reduction of pollution at source,

(v) the monitoring and reporting of environmental quality on a regular basis,

(e) to rationalise, simplify and strengthen the regulatory framework for environment protection,

(f) to improve the efficiency of administration of the environment protection legislation,

(g) to assist in the achievement of the objectives of the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001.

This Act has been considered in the preparation of this Plan, in particular in the management of water and

waste from the Lidsdale Siding operation.

4.2 Environmental Planning Instruments

4.2.1 State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive

Industries) 2007

State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries) 2007 (Mining

SEPP) applies to mining related activities. Section 10 of the Mining SEPP describes various exempt

developments that do not require approval under the EP&A Act.

The definition of "mining" set out in Clause 3 of the Mining SEPP includes "the stockpiling, processing,

treatment and transportation of materials extracted". Exempt development listed under the Mining SEPP

which specifically relates to the decommissioning process includes the demolition of a building or structure

that is carried out in accordance with Australian Standard AS2601-2001, Demolition of Structures, but only

if the building or structure is not, or is not part of, a heritage item, or in a heritage conservation area,

identified by an environmental planning instrument (Mining SEPP). Such demolition work is exempt from

planning approvals provided it takes place on an approved site and is of minimal environmental impact.

4.2.2 Lithgow City Council Local Environmental Plan 1994

The Lidsdale Siding Project Area is located within the Lithgow City Council Local Environment Plan 1994

(Lithgow City LEP), with the majority of the land zoned as 1 (a) Rural General, with a smaller area zoned as

2 (v) Village. Until the LCC LEP 2013 is finalised, the 1994 LEP will remain in place.

Zone No 1 (a) Rural (General) Objective

The objective of the zone is to promote the proper management and utilisation of natural resources by: (a) protecting, enhancing and conserving:

i. rural land, in particular prime crop and pasture land, in a manner which sustains its efficient and effective agricultural production potential,

ii. soil, by controlling and locating development in accordance with soil capability,

iii. forests of existing and potential commercial value for timber production,

iv. valuable deposits of minerals, coal and extractive materials, by controlling the location of development for other purposes in order to ensure the efficient extraction of those deposits,

v. trees and other vegetation in environmentally sensitive areas, where the conservation of the vegetation is significant for scenic amenity or natural wildlife habitat or is likely to control land degradation,

vi. water resources for use in the public interest, preventing the pollution of water supply catchment and major water storages,


vii. localities of significance for nature conservation, including places with rare plants, wetlands and significant wildlife habitat, and

viii. items of heritage significance,

(b) preventing the unjustified development of prime crop and pasture land for purposes other than agriculture,

(c) facilitating farm adjustments,

(d) minimising the cost to the community of: i. fragmented and isolated development of rural land, and ii. providing, extending and maintaining public amenities and services,

(e) providing land for other non-agricultural purposes, in accordance with the need for that development, and

(f) providing for the separation of conflicting land uses.

Zone No 2 (v) Village Objective

The objectives of the zone are: (a) to promote development which is compatible with an urban function within a rural area; (b) to maintain the rural atmosphere of the village; (c) to safeguard residential amenity within the village; and (d) to prevent pollution of water supply catchments and water quality in major water storages.

4.2.3 Lithgow City Council Draft Local Environmental Plan 2013

A draft Lithgow City Council Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2013 has been developed to implement a

Standard Instrument LEP across the Lithgow LGA that will repeal and replace the two environmental

planning instruments that apply to the area: Lithgow LEP 1994 and Rylstone LEP 1996. The Draft LEP

2013 seeks to implement Council’s key strategic directions arising from the Lithgow Land Use Strategy

2010-2030 (LLUS) adopted by Council on 31 October 2011 and formally endorsed by the Director General

of NSW DP&E on 24 May 2012.

In accordance with the Draft 2013 Lithgow City Council LEP, the Project Approval Area is zoned IN1

General Industrial. Objectives of this zone include:

• To provide a wide range of industrial and warehouse land uses;

• To encourage employment opportunities;

• To minimise any adverse effect of industry on other land uses;

• To support and protect industrial land for industrial uses; and

• To maintain or improve the water quality of receiving water catchments.

4.2.4 Lithgow Draft Land Use Strategy 2010-2030

LCC has prepared the LLUS which has been exhibited and amended in accordance with Council’s

resolutions, and has now been forwarded to the NSW DP&E for endorsement.

The LLUS is a combined land use issues paper and Strategy. It explores the issues that face the Lithgow

LGA and recommends a new planning approach to address these issues. The Strategy will be

implemented through the planning system, primarily through a new LEP and Development Control Plan

(DCP), as well as Council’s other policy, regulatory and governance functions.


4.3 Policies and Guidelines

4.3.1 Strategic Framework for Mine Closure, Minerals Council of Australia

The Strategic Framework for Mine Closure has evolved as a cooperative development between the

Australian and New Zealand Minerals and Energy Council (ANZMEC) and the Australian Minerals Industry

(represented by the Minerals Council of Australia). It is designed to provide a broadly consistent framework

for mine closure across various Australian jurisdictions.

The objective of the Strategic Framework for Mine Closure is to encourage the development of

comprehensive closure plans that return all sites to viable, and whenever practicable, self-sustaining

ecosystems, and to ensure these plans are adequately financed, implemented and monitored within all

jurisdictions.

The Strategic Framework for Mine Closure is structured around a set of objectives and principles under six

key areas:

Stakeholder Engagement - To enable all stakeholders to have their interests considered during the rehabilitation and closure process; Planning - To ensure the process of closure occurs in an orderly, cost effective and timely manner; Financial Provisioning - To ensure the cost of closure is adequately represented in company accounts and

that the community is not left with a liability;

Implementation - To ensure there is clear accountability, and adequate resources, for the implementation of the closure plan; Standards - To establish a set of indicators which will demonstrate the successful completion of the closure process; and Relinquishment - To reach a point where the company has met agreed completion criteria to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.

4.3.2 A Guide to Leading Practise Sustainable Development in Mining, Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program for the Mining Industry, Australian Government, 2011

This guide consolidates a series of handbooks relevant to all stages of a mine’s life – exploration,

feasibility, design, construction, operation, closure and rehabilitation. The aim of the guideline is to identify

key issues affecting sustainable development in the mining industry and provide information and case

studies to enable a more sustainable basis for its operation. This Plan has been developed in accordance

with a number of guides generated through the Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program for

Mines.

4.3.3 Guidance Paper - Financial Assurance for Mine Closure and Reclamation (ICMM, 2006)

This document has been prepared by the International Council of Mining and Metals (ICMM) and considers

environmental financial assurance measures. It looks at issues and current policies in the use of financial

assurances through the industry; analysing trends that were revealed through a survey of the industry,

governments and financial institutions.


This document provides guidance on environmental financial assurance for both operators and regulators

and covers the following areas:

• The case for financial assurance;

• Key issues associated with the application of financial assurance policies; and

• Recommendations for improving standards of practice relating to financial assurance.

4.3.4 Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services (DTIRIS) Guidelines

DTIRIS-RE has in place a series of policy guidelines or environmental management guidelines that are

relevant to closure issues and are included in this Plan for completeness. These include:

• DPI-MR Guideline EDG 01 – Borehole Sealing Requirements on Lands: Coal Exploration Management

of Exploration and Mining in NSW, (Department of Mineral Resources, 1997a);

• DPI-MR Guideline EDG 02 – Borehole Sealing Requirements on the Beds of Water Bodies: Coal

Exploration Management of Exploration and Mining in NSW, (Department of Mineral Resources,

1997b);

• DPI-MR Guideline EDG 03 – Guidelines to the Mining, Rehabilitation and Environmental Management

Process, (DTIRIS-MR, undated);

• DPI-MR Guideline ESB 20 V1.0 – Rehabilitation Security Deposit Requirements for Mining and

Petroleum Titles (DPI-MR, 2006);

• DPI-MR: ESB 26 – Rehabilitation Cost Calculation Tool V1.7 Excel Spreadsheet Tool used to calculate

mine security deposits (DPI-MR, 2007);

• DPI-MR Policy EDP 11 – Security Deposit Policy;

• EDP 11 Rehabilitation Security Deposits (Department of Primary Industries – Mineral Resources,

2005); and

• ESG 1 Rehabilitation Cost Estimate Guidelines (Industry and Investment NSW, 2010).

4.4 Centennial Coal Environment and Community Policy

The Centennial Coal Environment and Community Policy is a statement of Centennial Coal’s commitment

to manage environmental issues. When considering rehabilitation and closure issues, the policy contains

specific reference to:

• Making appropriate decisions which comply with or exceed approvals, licences and agreements;

• Working constructively with local authorities, stakeholders and communities;

• Contributing to the conservation of biodiversity;

• Planning, designing and closing operations in a manner that enhances sustainable development;

and

• Engaging and communicating openly with communities, with due regard and respect for local

interests, cultures and customs.


4.5 Centennial Coal Risk Management Standard - 004

The Centennial Coal Risk Management Standard was prepared to integrate all aspects of Centennial

Coal’s strategy, planning and operations into its decision making processes. It has been used in the

preparation of the Broad Brush Risk Assessment for Rehabilitation and Closure (See Section 6.0).

Risk ranking follows Australian and New Zealand (AS/NZ) standards AS/NZS4360:2004 (3.4.3) where “the

magnitude of the consequences of an event, should it occur, and the likelihood of the event and its

associated consequences, are assessed in the context of the effectiveness of the existing strategies and

controls.” A review of this Standard is carried out every three years to confirm its suitability and

effectiveness in satisfying Centennial’s policies and objectives.


5.0 THE APPROACH TO PREPARING THE REHABILITATION AND

CLOSURE PLAN

5.1 Site Consultation and Land Use Planning

During a site inspection and meeting the following aspects were investigated:

• Potential post closure land use options (Table 5.1);

• Primary and secondary closure domains;

• Rehabilitation and closure objectives;

• Rehabilitation and closure cost estimates; and

• Rehabilitation and closure resources.


Table 5.1: Preliminary Land Use Options for Lidsdale Siding

Preliminary Final Land

Use options

Benefits Negatives Comment

Rehabilitation of site, but leave

the rail line.

• Minimal long term liabilities as rail line is

the only infrastructure remaining; and

• Meets the lease conditions (agreement

between Centennial and NSW Rail)

regarding the removal of any infrastructure

that was established at the Lidsdale Siding

after the lease was signed.

• NSW Rail may not want the rail line to

remain as part of the closure process.

• Further liaison with the NSW Rail and

relevant stakeholders is required.

Leave the facility as an

industrial area.

Removal of stockpiles, areas

of contamination, non -

essential infrastructure.

Leave the rail line.

• Cost – it would be cost effective to make

the land safe and stable, whilst leaving as

industrial purposes;

• The area is zoned as IN1 General

Industrial for the Draft LCC LEP 2013.

• The area is surrounded by industrial

facilities.

• NSW Rail may not want the area to remain

as an industrial/rail dispatch facility.



Rehabilitation woodland.

Removal of all infrastructure.

• Would provide linkages with areas of

existing remnant vegetation which is

adjacent to Lidsdale Siding.

• Increased cost for full rehabilitation of the

site.

• Maybe non - compliant with some of the

lease conditions (agreement between

Centennial and NSW Rail). ie removal of

infrastructure.

• NSW Rail may want the rail line to remain

as part of the closure process.



• Following discussions with Ben Harrison

from DP&E, this closure scenario was

used for the rehabilitation bond

calculation.

Rehabilitation Pasture.

Removal of all infrastructure.

• There is a substantial amount of grazing

land in the Wallerawang/Lidsdale area.

• NSW Rail may want the rail line to remain

as part of the closure process.



REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE PLAN – Lidsdale Siding

November 2014

5.2 Closure – Assigning Management ‘Domains’

This section describes the primary and secondary rehabilitation domains proposed for the Project.

Primary domains are land management units within the site with unique operational and functional

purpose and similar geophysical characteristics. Primary domains outline the current land use at the site.

Secondary domains are land management units characterised by a similar post mining land use objective

(final land use).

The primary domains for the site are shown in Figure 5 and described in Table 5.2.

As outlined earlier, with approval until 2042, and Centennial only owning a small portion of the Lidsdale

Siding site, there has been no final decision on secondary domains for Lidsdale Siding. As this

Rehabilitation and Closure Plan will be put out for comment, Centennial is seeking input into the potential

closure land use (secondary domain).

Table 5.2 – Primary and Possible Secondary Domains

Domains Description Code

Primary Domains (refer Figure 5)

Infrastructure Infrastructure includes:

• Weigh bridge;

• Workshop;

• Transformer;

• Lighting;

• Administration office;

• Roads and tracks;

• Conveyors;

• Railway line; and

• Loading bin.

1

Stockpiles The elongated stockpile at Lidsdale Siding has a capacity of approximately 50,000 tonnes.

The reclaim tunnel has been included in the stockpile area domain as it located beneath the stockpile area.

2

Water Management This includes:

• Dirty Water Dam;

• Triangle pond (Licenced discharge point); and

• Drainage lines.

3

Bunding and Landscaping

This includes landscaping and bunding associated with the Project. 4

*Possible Secondary Domains

Infrastructure/Industrial Some or all infrastructure to possibly remain post closure. -

Rehabilitation Woodland

Site to be returned as woodland. -

Rehabilitation Grassland

Site to be returned as grassland. -

Water Management Areas to remain for water management post closure -


November 2014


November 2014

Figure 5 – Primary Domains (Lidsdale Siding at the End of Construction)


November 2014

5.3 Stakeholder Engagement and Community Consultation

Centennial has developed and implemented a Stakeholder Engagement Plan for the Lidsdale Siding (May

2012). The Plan identifies relevant government and community stakeholders, the methods of engagement

and the desired outcomes. It is recognised that effective engagement is a key deliverable for the project

and forms an integral part of the ongoing operation of the project.

Centennial recognises that community engagement goes beyond making information available or gathering

information about opinions or attitudes, rather it is about active exchanges of information and viewpoints.

These exchanges provide an understanding of the community’s needs, issues, values and aspirations

which is required not only to assess the social impacts of the project but to maintain effective long term

working relationships. These relationships are integral to Centennial’s approach to business and its

Sustainable Development Strategy.

Detailed stakeholder engagement will be undertaken during development of the Final Rehabilitation and

Closure Plan.

The detailed consultation process will include:

• Identification of all stakeholders and preparation of a stakeholder engagement strategy;

• Discussion regarding the opportunities for the re-use of infrastructure at Lidsdale Siding;

• Detailed discussion on the final land-use for disturbance areas; and

• Identification of any other issues, key risks and information needs regarding decommissioning and

rehabilitation of the site.

A stakeholder database has been developed for the site, with Centennial to maintain this database

throughout the operations life including during closure.

Table 5.3 contains the list of stakeholders identified for this Rehabilitation and Closure Plan. The draft

Rehabilitation and Closure Plan was sent to the Sydney Catchment Authority and Lithgow City Council for

comment as this is a requirement of Schedule 3 Condition 29 of PA08_0223. The proposed rehabilitation

and closure strategy of the site has been outlined to the Community Consultative Committee with copies

supplied upon request.


November 2014

Table 5.3: Key Stakeholders Identified for Lidsdale Siding

Key Stakeholders

• Centennial Management (site and corporate)

• Lidsdale Siding Employees

• Lithgow City Council

• NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure

• Environment Protection Authority

• NSW Office of Water

• Sydney Catchment Authority

• NSW Rail

• John Holland Rail

• Wallerawang community

• Wallerawang industrial precinct

• Lidsdale community

• Local Aboriginal Groups

• Community Consultative Committee

5.3.1 Stakeholder Response

Letters providing a response to the Draft Rehabilitation and Closure Plan were received by the Department

of Planning and Environment on 20 August 2014 and the Sydney Catchment Authority on 11 November

2014. Table 5.3 summarises Centennials response to these stakeholders.

Table 5.4: Stakeholder Response to Draft Management Plan

Department Comment Centennial Response

Department of Planning and Environment

1. I don't like the use of the term Conceptual in the title of the document. I much prefer either its removal or replacement by the word Initial. See later references throughout the documents such as on page 4

The word ‘Conceptual’ has been removed

2. Page 1, second paragraph. The Lidsdale Siding project was approved by the Planning Assessment Commission as delegate for the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure .

Updated to reflect comment.

3. Page 7 reference to condition 30. Has the company lodged the required rehabilitation bond?

Rehabilitation bond has been lodged with DP&E. See attached copy as Appendix 3.

4. Page 8. In terms of the conditions of consent, in which way is the approval of the Rehabilitation and Closure plan conditional on NSW Rail. The conditions stand on their own and must be satisfied. That is not to say that NSW Rail is not an important stakeholder and its views must be obtained to inform the final plan.

Text updated. ‘NSW Rail, as the landowner is an important stakeholder in the future rehabilitation of the site’.

5. Page 9. I am surprised by the use of a class U land disturbed by urban development. Is there not a Class M for mining? Or better described by industrial land?

This area is classified as Class U according to the Wallerawang 1:100,000 Sheet Rural Land Capability Classification (Department of Natural Resources, 2005). This was reviewed by GSS Environmental in 2012 as part of the preparations of the Environmental Assessment.

6. Page 22. Table 4.2, Primary domains header. Where the header says refer Figure 3 should this not also include Figure 5?

Updated to reflect comment.

7. Page 24, last paragraph. The text is correct to refer to the this document as a draft document produced for consultation purposes. The document submitted for approval will not be a draft document and references as a draft will need to be removed.

Section 5.3 updated to reflect consultation.

8. After page 27 the pagination for the document is absent. This needs to be rectified.

Page numbering updated.


November 2014

Department Comment Centennial Response

9. Page unknown in Table 13.1. One of the most important tasks to be allocated in this table is the requirement to produce a Final Rehabilitation Management plan for the site at least 3 years prior to the closure of the site. Please include this task in Table 13.1.

Table 13.1 updated to include the production of a Final Rehabilitation Management plan for the site at least 3 years prior to the closure.

Sydney Catchment Authority

Table 6.1 Domain 3 a. 1st line - “erosion” should be changed to “sediment”.

Updated.

Table 6.1 - 2nd

line – how is the water contaminated as this would impact on the risk posed by the release of that water

Water is not ‘contaminated’. The wording has been changed to be more reflective of the risk posed by water which is outside the EPL criteria.

‘Release of water that is not within the EPL criteria of Lidsdale Siding’

S7.1 and s7.2 - water quality infrastructure (drains, banks, dams) and testing of water held on the site should be included.

Section 7.1 have been updated.

S7.1 and 7.3 - Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) should be included in in relevant government bodies to be consulted regarding infrastructure to remain post closure

Section 7.1 and 7.3 have been updated.

S8.5 soil management should be in accordance with Soils and Construction: Managing Urban Stormwater Volumes 1 and 2E regarding stabilisation of stockpiles

Section 8.5 has been updated.

Table 9.1 – Water management – Erosion and Sediment Control Rehabilitation success criteria should be in accordance with Soils and Construction: Managing Urban Stormwater Volumes 1 and 2E. Include parameters that allow removal of temporary measures

Table 9.1 has been updated.

5.3.2 Socio Economic and Consultation

A detailed socio economic assessment will be completed as part of the Final Rehabilitation and Closure

Plan. This will be completed at least 3 years prior to the site being closed or placed on care and

maintenance.

Centennial will be consulting with the key community stakeholders (including Lithgow City Council and the

CCC) regarding rehabilitation and closure and will try to take into account any concerns/suggestions when

preparing the Final Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.


November 2014

6.0 BROAD BRUSH RISK ASSESSMENT – REHABILITATION AND

CLOSURE

A Broad Brush Risk Assessment (BBRA) covering the rehabilitation and closure of the site was completed

and a summary of the BBRA process and its main findings are given below. A full copy of the final

rehabilitation and closure risk assessment is attached as Appendix 1.

6.1 Methodology

The aim of the BBRA was to formally identify issues associated with rehabilitation and closure and present

effective management protocols. The BBRA was undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the

Centennial Coal Risk Management Standard – Management Standard – 004, following four fundamental

steps:

• Establish the context for the risk assessment process;

• Identify the rehabilitation and closure risks;

• Analyse the risks; and

• Evaluate the risks to determine the significant issues.

Figure 6 shows the Centennial Risk Matrix, including the Consequence and Likelihood tables used to

determine the risk rating for each key aspect.

6.2 Key Closure Risks Identified.

Of the 41 rehabilitation and closure risks identified within the four Primary Domain areas, none were

assessed as High, two were assessed as Significant, 15 were assessed as Moderate and 24 as Low.

Table 6.1 and 6.2 is a summary of the Significant and Moderate Risks. Controls are outlined in Appendix

1, with these controls incorporated in the main document.


Figure 6 – Risk Matrix in BBRA


Table 6.1: Potential Significant Rehabilitation and Closure Risks

Primary Domain Potential Significant Risks

Domain 1 –

Infrastructure

Activities not completed in accordance with the Post Closure Land Use.

Failure to reach an agreement with stakeholders regarding the Post Closure Land Use.

Table 6.2: Potential Moderate Rehabilitation and Closure Risks

Primary Domain Potential Moderate Risks

Domain 1 -

Infrastructure

Failure to remove all services from the site.

Removal of services from the site that are required post closure.

Hydrocarbon contamination remaining on site post closure.

Revegetation works not meeting final rehabilitation criteria, for example erosion, insufficient

vegetation cover etc. DP&E not returning rehabilitation bond.

Minimal quality topsoil available for rehabilitation.

Domain 2 -

Stockpiles

Revegetation works not meeting final rehabilitation criteria, for example erosion, insufficient

vegetation cover etc. DP&E not returning rehabilitation bond.

Landform shaping not consistent with final land use.

Domain 3 –

Water

Management

Sediment from completed rehabilitation area entering surrounding creeks.

Release of water that is not within the EPL criteria of Lidsdale Siding.

During rehabilitation contaminated sediments are discovered.

Lack of clean water diversions preventing water entering the site.

Activities not completed in accordance with the Post Mining Land Use.


Domain 4 –

Bunding and

Landscaping

Existing pine visual screen is not commensurate to long-term screening.

New visual screen does not establish and does not screen operational or rehabilitation

activities.


7.0 DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE

This section outlines the proposed commitments for each primary domain under the scenario of ‘Imminent

Closure’. These processes will be completed as part of ‘Planned Closure’.

A decommissioning and demolition strategy will form an integral part of the detailed closure planning for the

operation. Although final land use for Lidsdale Siding has not yet been defined, it is likely decommissioning

and demolition of infrastructure will occur at the time of closure. A detailed investigation of all structures will

be completed to determine the appropriate techniques, equipment required and the sequence for

decommissioning and removal to complete the demolition activities safely.

7.1 Investigation of the Site

A final agreement will be in place between Centennial, the landowner (NSW Rail) and relevant government

departments (eg. DP&E and Sydney Catchment Authority) regarding which infrastructure is to remain post

closure.

As part of any agreement, a site investigation will be completed to identify:

• The type, location and extent of underground services such as conduits, cables and pipe work;

• Review of water quality infrastructure including drainage and sediment dams;

• The location, type and extent of overhead services and structures such as power cables, conveyors,

light poles and pipe work, etc.;

• The location and condition of all tanks and vessels (with emphasis on remaining combustible

materials and methods required for their removal);

• The presence of contaminated and hazardous materials and the classification and disposal of these

materials;

• The general condition of adjacent structures; and

• Any infrastructure to remain (including roads and tracks) following decommissioning.

7.2 Investigation of Structures

When planning for decommissioning and demolition, an investigation of the structures will be completed to

identify the following:

• The structures current condition with regard to their state of disrepair or deterioration;

• The presence of heavy steel within structures that may require specialised demolition equipment

and/or techniques;

• Potential imposed loads or changes in the centre of gravity of structures during demolition works;

and

• Confined spaces and/or techniques required to be implemented in order to avoid entering such

spaces.

7.3 Site Infrastructure and Services

As outlined in Section 7.1, a final agreement will be in place between Centennial, the landowner (NSW

Rail) and relevant government departments (eg. DP&E and Sydney Catchment Authority) regarding which

infrastructure is to remain post closure.

Opportunities for the sale and/or re-use of assets and recycling of scrap steel will be maximised where

possible.

Concrete footings and pads will be broken up to at least 0.5 m below the surface and removed. Options for


the re-use of this material (for example, crushed and used for road and track stabilisation) will be

investigated as the operation approaches closure. If re-use or recycling opportunities aren’t available or

viable, all “non-contaminated” waste material will be disposed of at a suitable location on-site or taken

off-site to an approved waste management facility.

7.4 Contamination

Prior to final closure, a preliminary investigation into potential sources of contamination including additional

Phase 1 sampling and analysis will be undertaken. This will be used to determine whether a detailed

assessment (for example, Phase 2 sampling and analysis) should be conducted to quantify the amount of

contaminated material that may require remediation.

Where possible all identified sources of contamination will be remediated during the operational phase of

the site. In some cases, this may not be possible and in these circumstances the remediation will be

undertaken following closure and during the decommissioning phase.

7.5 Hazardous Materials

Prior to the demolition of any structures, a hazardous material assessment will be undertaken to determine

whether there are any hazardous materials present including asbestos. Where hazardous materials are

identified, they will be assessed and quantified to enable appropriate safety measures to be implemented

during removal by a licensed contractor. All hazardous materials removed from the buildings will be

recorded and disposed of at an approved waste management facility.


8.0 REHABILITATION MANAGEMENT

8.1 Rehabilitation Phases

The rehabilitation and closure objective for the site is to create stable, non-polluting post closure landforms

that allow the achievement of the post closure land use. Any rehabilitation at the site will be completed

through a series of stages which are described as:

• Stage 1: Decommissioning – removal of hard stand areas, buildings, contaminated materials,

hazardous materials;

• Stage 2: Landform Establishment – incorporates gradient, slope, aspect, drainage, substrate

material characterisation and morphology;

• Stage 3: Growth Medium Development – incorporates physical, chemical and biological

components of the growing media and ameliorants that are used to optimise the potential of the

media in terms of the preferred vegetative cover;

• Stage 4: Ecosystem Establishment – incorporates revegetated lands and habitat augmentation;

species selection, species presence and growth together with weed and pest animal control

/management and establishment of flora;

• Stage 5: Ecosystem Development – incorporates components of floristic structure, nutrient cycling

recruitment and recovery, community structure and function which are the key elements of a

sustainable landscape; and

• Stage 6: Rehabilitated Land – lands that have met the required rehabilitation and closure

requirements to allow for the return of the rehabilitation bond by DP&E.

Lidsdale Siding will report on the status of the rehabilitation phases as part of the Annual Review.

8.2 General Principles of Rehabilitation

Temporary rehabilitation methodologies may be applied to provide short-term stabilisation of areas.

Although final land use for Lidsdale Siding has not yet been defined, any rehabilitation that is to be

completed will include the following aspects:

• The final landform is stable and not subject to slumping or erosion which would result in the agreed

post closure landform not being achieved;

• The water quality of any residual water bodies is suitable for the nominated use and does not have

the potential to cause environmental harm;

• The potential for water and wind-induced erosion is minimised including the likelihood of

environmental impacts caused by the generation of dust;

• The quality of surface water released from the site meets the requirements outlined in the EPL and

the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997;

• Suitable species of vegetation are sown/planted and established to achieve the nominated post

facility closure land use; and

• Monitor rehabilitation success in terms of physical and biological parameters.

8.3 Landform Design and Planning

Landform design and modelling will be undertaken during closure planning. Areas of rehabilitation will

be designed to achieve a stable final landform commensurate with the surrounding environment and

analogue sites discussed in Section 8.8.


8.4 Progressive Rehabilitation

No progressive rehabilitation will be undertaken at Lidsdale Siding until final land use has been defined.

Temporary rehabilitation will be undertaken for short-term erosion and sediment control. Progressive

rehabilitation will be reported in the Annual Review.

8.5 Soil Management

With the site already heavily disturbed there are minimal opportunities for the salvage and reuse of

quality topsoil at Lidsdale Siding.

Soils at Lidsdale Siding and the surrounding area typically have low to very low fertility. High erodibility

is common as a result of hard-setting surfaces and low permeability. Soil has been excavated and

stored in designated areas as part of the upgrade project. Soil testing has been completed on these

stockpiles to determine which material is suitable for use in rehabilitation.

Soil management is to be undertaken to be consistent with Section 5.2 of the Soils and Construction:

Managing Urban Stormwater Volumes 1 and 2E regarding Stabilisation of Stockpiles (DECCW 2008).

The following soil handling conditions are adopted to prevent excessive soil deterioration at Lidsdale

Siding:

• Soils should be stripped in a slightly moist condition (neither too dry nor wet) thus reducing dust

generation and deterioration in topsoil quality;

• Topsoil should be stockpiled only when disturbed areas are not available for immediate

rehabilitation;

• The surface of soil stockpiles will be left in a coarsely textured condition in order to promote

infiltration and minimise erosion until vegetation is established;

• Topsoil (where available) and subsoil stockpile heights will be designed to prevent biological and

structural degradation. Where appropriate, clayey soils will be stored in lower stockpiles for shorter

periods of time compared to soils that have a coarser texture;

• Free-draining stockpiles will be created to minimise the formation of anaerobic zones; and

• Stockpiles will be formed to achieve slopes less than 18 degrees and will be less than 2 metres

high.

Where long-term stockpiling is planned (i.e. greater than 12 months), stockpiles will be seeded and

fertilised.

8.6 Erosion and Sediment Control

The following principles will continue to be used for erosion and sediment control on site throughout the

operation:

• Erosion and sediment controls as per the Site Water Management Plan;

• Designing and operating drainage systems with scour protection of open drains;

• Minimising the area of soil disturbed and therefore exposure to erosion;

• Conserving topsoil and subsoil for later site rehabilitation (in a stabilised stockpiles);

• Where practical, diverting up-slope runoff water away from disturbed areas so that concentrated

flows are below erosive levels and sediment is retained from disturbed areas;

• Progressive rehabilitation when practical; and

• Maintaining erosion and sediment control measures appropriately.


8.7 Revegetation and Weed Management

8.7.1 Species to be used for Revegetation

Appendix 2 lists species which could be used for revegetation at Lidsdale Siding. Species used for

revegetation will include a combination of trees, shrubs and ground covers. Species selection for areas

to be revegetated to pre-existing conditions will focus on those species that will successfully establish

on the available growth medium, bind the soil and will result in a variety of structure and food/habitat

resources. Prior to application in areas where tree seed is used, some of the tree seed may need to be

pre-treated (i.e. inoculated and scarified) in order to promote earlier germination, develop more robust

seedlings, wider and more uniform germination and increase germination rates.

All revegetated areas will be regularly monitored in order to manage long-term establishment and

success. Revegetation techniques will be continually assessed and refined over the life of the site

through an ongoing process of monitoring and recognition of other industry experiences.

8.7.2 Special Treatment Areas

Additional erosion control measures such as the application of hydromulch will be considered,

particularly in drainage lines and areas of temporary rehabilitation. Sugar cane (or other) mulch as slurry

provides cover for the soil to improve pasture growth and/or modifying the soil surface to control erosion.

The mulch also has the effect of protecting the soil surface against raindrop impact, improving the micro-

environment for seed, reducing evaporation losses and assisting in the control of surface erosion

caused by overland water flow.

Opportunities for the use of potential soil ameliorants to accelerate the revegetation process will also be

considered where appropriate.

8.7.3 Weed Management

The weed management program is outlined in the Lidsdale Siding Biodiversity Management Plan

(2013). Safety Data Sheets (SDS’s) are kept on site for all herbicides used at Lidsdale Siding and

spraying is conducted by licenced and experienced contractors.

8.8 Rehabilitation Monitoring and Maintenance

The Centennial sites in the western region utilise external consultants to undertake the annual

monitoring programme which involves the application of CSIRO’s Ecosystem Function Analysis (EFA)

tool (Tongway and Hindley, 2004). Once rehabilitation areas are established, Centennial will utilise the

EFA approach at Lidsdale Siding.

The EFA methodology creates indices based on simple field indicators that reflect the measured

variables of stability, water infiltration and nutrient cycling, in turn monitoring the functional status of the

landscape. The methodology used does not replace the traditional methods of monitoring vegetation,

but adds a functional interpretation to link vegetation structure and organisation more closely with soil

function and the development of habitat for native fauna. Utilising the EFA method, scientifically robust

data is provided on the rehabilitation sites, which when compared to the data collected from analogue

sites, accurately reflects if the site is on a trajectory towards a sustainable ecosystem.

A commitment to effective rehabilitation involves an on-going monitoring and maintenance program.

Areas being rehabilitated will be regularly inspected and assessed against the long and short-term

rehabilitation objectives.


During regular inspections, aspects of rehabilitation reviewed will include:

• Evidence of any erosion or sedimentation from areas with establishing vegetation cover;

• Success of any tree and shrub plantings;

• Adequacy of drainage controls and any other installed surface water management feature;

• Presence/absence of weeds; and

• General stability of the rehabilitation site.

Where the revegetation success appears limited, maintenance activities will be initiated. These may

include re-seeding and the application of specialised treatments as determined by soil analysis results.

No time limit has been placed on post-closure rehabilitation monitoring and maintenance. Maintenance

will continue until such time as the objectives are met, although it is generally accepted that it will be at

least five years beyond closure.

The Analogue sites that will be selected for rehabilitation monitoring will have comparable slope, aspect,

soil texture, soil cover, resource regulation and vegetation species required in the mature rehabilitation.

Data from analogue sites is an integral part of the monitoring procedure throughout the monitoring

process, so that varying seasonal conditions ultimately result in a “band” of values that act as the long-

term target for rehabilitation. At this stage, no analogue rehabilitation sites have been chosen, although

the area adjacent to Lidsdale Siding is dominated by bushland with potential analogue sites.


9.0 REHABILITATION SUCCESS CRITERIA

Rehabilitation success criteria have been developed to provide long-term performance goals for

rehabilitation activities. The rehabilitation success criteria presented in this section are considered

conceptual, and will be developed further following consultation on the final land use with the relevant

stakeholders during the detailed mine closure planning stage.

The rehabilitation success criteria (Table 9.1) will initially be based on the scenario of removing all

infrastructure with rehabilitation to create a native woodland ecosystem.

Table 9.1: Rehabilitation Success Criteria

Rehabilitation Element

Domain Indicator Rehabilitation Success Criteria

Infrastructure Domain 1 Land use (native woodland)

All infrastructure that is not required post closure has been removed.

Stockpiles Domain 2

Stable Landform

Land use (native woodland)

All landforms are stable and free draining.

Hydrocarbon contamination has been removed or treated at the site.

Access to members of the public and livestock is restricted as appropriate to site conditions.

No rubbish or unwanted material remains at the surface.

The domain accomplishes and remains as a healthy woodland environment.

Species are capable of setting viable seed, flowering or otherwise reproducing. Evidence of second generation of tree/shrub species.

Evidence of active use of habitat provided during rehabilitation such as nest boxes, and logs and signs of natural generation of shelter sources including leaf litter.

Presence of representatives of a broad range of functional indicator groups involved in different ecological processes.

Presence of representatives of a broad range of functional indicator groups involved in different ecological processes.

Typical food and water sources required by the majority of vertebrate and invertebrate inhabitants of that ecosystem type are present.

Water Management

Domain 3 Water Management Area

Water management in accordance with Soils and Construction: Managing Urban Stormwater Volumes 1 and 2E.

Designing the final land form that allows free drainage of surface runoff while minimising erosion.

Presence of sediment and erosion controls for the minimisation of discharge of dirty water off site.

Presence of water management structures (e.g. contour banks and diversion drains) to direct water into the retained dams or other into stable areas.

Water quality of the receiving waters is not affected by surface water runoff from the site, discharge water meets the contaminant limits (EC, pH, TSS and oil and grease) of the EPL conditions.

Bunding and Domain 4 Stable Bunds Bunding surrounding the site is stable and self sustaining.


Rehabilitation Element

Domain Indicator Rehabilitation Success Criteria

Landscaping Management of Visual Impacts

Bunding acts as a visual screen to the Lidsdale Siding operations.


10.0 REHABILITATION BOND CALCULATION

Schedule 3 Condition 30 of the Project Approval outlines the requirement to prepare a Rehabilitation

Bond for the Lidsdale Siding. The condition states:

Within 12 months of the date of this approval, the Proponent shall lodge a rehabilitation bond

for the project with the Director-General. The sum of the bond shall be calculated in

accordance with the current publicly-available version of methodology and calculation

spreadsheets utilised by DRE for the purpose of determining rehabilitation liabilities for mine

sites, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The Proponent shall pay the Department’s

reasonable costs in engaging experts to review the adequacy of the calculated sum of the

bond.

If the rehabilitation and revegetation works are completed to the satisfaction of the Director-

General, the Director-General will release the rehabilitation bond.

If the rehabilitation and revegetation works are not completed to the satisfaction of the

Director-General, the Director-General will call in all or part of the rehabilitation bond, and

arrange for the satisfactory completion of the relevant works.

The Rehabilitation Bond calculation has been completed in accordance with the DTIRIS-RE

Rehabilitation Cost Estimate Guidelines (ESG1). The Rehabilitation Bond calculation will be reviewed

annually and submitted as part of the Annual Review.

Following discussions with the DP&E regarding the calculation process of the Rehabilitation Bond, the

following outcomes were determined:

• As there is no mining lease associated with the Lidsdale Siding operation the DP&E will assess the

closure costs (not DTIRIS-RE);

• Centennial have used the DTIRIS-RE closure rates and closure tool to calculate the Rehabilitation

Bond;

• The Rehabilitation Bond must include a 10% contingency fee and a 10% project management fee

in the costing;

• All costs for the Rehabilitation Bond must be based on the use of contractors, not Centennial

employees;

• The rehabilitation objective to be used for the calculation of the Rehabilitation Bond will initially be

based on the scenario of removing all infrastructure and rehabilitate to create a native woodland

ecosystem;

• The Rehabilitation Bond has assumed that no infrastructure will be sold (eg. scrap metal) during

the decommissioning process;

• The Rehabilitation Bond will only include costs regarding the Lidsdale Siding Project Area. A larger

area surrounding the Lidsdale Siding operation was reviewed as part of the EA (Study Area), but

there is no requirement to rehabilitate this area; and

• The Rehabilitation Bond is to be based on the current level of disturbance at the end of the

reporting year and reasonably expected disturbance in the following reporting year.


11.0 TRIGGER ACTION RESPONSE PLAN

The following Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) for rehabilitation has been developed to identify the

required management actions in the event of impacts to rehabilitation, or where rehabilitation outcomes are

not achieved. The TARP (Table 11.1) has been developed based on the broad brush risk assessment

(Appendix 1).

Table 11.1: Trigger Action Response Plan

Aspect Trigger Action/Response

Post Closure Land Use

Activities not completed in

accordance with the Post Closure

Land Use.

• Finalise the post closure land use prior

to completing any rehabilitation.

Post Closure Land Use

Failure to reach an agreement with

stakeholders regarding the Post

Closure Land Use.

• Ensure adequate attention/consultation

with stakeholders prior to commencing

rehabilitation.

Services Failure to remove all services from

the site at closure.

• No decision to be made on which

infrastructure is to remain until closer

to the date of proposed closure.

• The management of services will be

outlined in the Detailed Rehabilitation

and Closure Plan.

Hydrocarbon Hydrocarbon contamination

remaining on site post closure.

• Additional contamination study if

required.

• Additional testing if required.

• Seek legal advice to see with whom

the liability for remediation lies (ie site

owner, previous land users or

Centennial).

• Undertake modelling on the plume to

ascertain the full extent of the

contamination.

Rehabilitation Criteria

Revegetation works not meeting

final rehabilitation criteria, for

example erosion, insufficient

vegetation cover etc. DP&E not

returning rehabilitation bond.

• Rehabilitation monitoring.

• Additional revegetation work if

required.

Slopes Slopes Greater than 10 degrees at

closure.

• Undertake a review of the landform

design including survey if required.

• Undertake re-grading and revegetation

of the area if required.

Water Management

Release of contaminated water from

the site during rehabilitation and

closure activities.

• Detailed Water Management Plan to

be developed prior to closure.

• Water monitoring whilst Lidsdale

Siding manages the site.

Screening Visual screen is not commensurate

to long-term screening.

• Additional maintenance if required.


12.0 INDICATIVE CLOSURE TIMELINE

An indicative closure timeline is shown in Table 12.1, including the key rehabilitation and closure

activities throughout the life of the project. In particular the key activities include:

• Closure planning;

• Closure activities; and

• Post closure activities.

(This section has intentionally been left blank)


Table 12.1: Indicative Closure Timeline

Closure Planning Decommissioning and

Rehabilitation

Monitoring and

Maintenance

Rehab

approval and

bond return

Years From Closure -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Closure Planning

Stakeholder consultation regarding closure

Agreed final Detailed Rehabilitation and Closure Plan

Develop an infrastructure demolition plan

Closure Activities

Decommissioning

Landform establishment

Growth media establishment

Ecosystem establishment

Ecosystem development

Relinquished Land

Post Closure Activities

Maintenance of Rehabilitated Areas


Monitoring and Inspections


13.0 REPORTING AND REVIEW It is the responsibility of the Lidsdale Siding Manager for the implementation of the Rehabilitation and

Closure Plan. Table 13.1 outlines the responsible positions and accountable tasks.

Table 13.1: Roles and Responsibilities

Position Accountable Task

Lidsdale Siding Manager

− Ensure all relevant personnel are aware of rehabilitation

procedures.

− Ensure all rehabilitation procedures are followed.

− Ensure sufficient resources are available to meet rehabilitation

criteria and schedule.

Environment and

Community Officer

− Coordinate progressive rehabilitation.

− Provide advice and support for the Manager in relation to this

Plan.

− Ensure all rehabilitation is undertaken in accordance with the

rehabilitation procedures presented in this Plan.

− Review and analyse rehabilitation monitoring and advise on

rehabilitation maintenance.

− Conduct regular review of this Plan.

− Advise on Best Management Practice mitigation techniques for

the site.

− Produce Final Rehabilitation Management Plan for the site at

least three years prior to closure of the site

Equipment Operators

− Ensure clearing remains within the area nominated by the

Manager and identified on plans.

− Vehicles to remain on established roads and tracks unless

otherwise authorised.

− Notify Site Manager or Environment and Community Coordinator

of any disturbance in native vegetation or rehabilitated sites.

13.1 Protocol for Managing and Reporting on Incidents, Complaints and Non

Compliances

The Lidsdale Siding EMS outlines the process for managing and reporting of incidents, complaints and non

compliances.

13.2 Audit and Review

An internal audit and review of the Rehabilitation and Closure Plan will be completed every three years.

13.3 Reporting

The rehabilitation status at the Lidsdale Siding will be reported in the Annual Review. The Annual Review

will include details of any rehabilitation completed as well as any results of rehabilitation monitoring.


14.0 REFERENCES

• ANZMEC and MCA, 2000. Strategic Framework for Mine Closure. Australian and New Zealand

Minerals and Energy Council and the Minerals Council of Australia, Canberra.

• Australian Minerals and Energy Environment Foundation (AMEEF) – Best Practice Environmental

Management in Mining series, http://www.ameef.com.au/.

• Centennial Coal, 2012 – Western Coal Services and Lidsdale Siding Upgrades Coal Distribution

Project – Stakeholder Engagement Plan.

• Commonwealth of Australia, 2002 – Best Practice Environmental Management in Mining.

Environment Australia, Canberra, ACT.

• Department of Planning and Infrastructure (3 May 2013) – Project Approval Lidsdale Siding

Upgrade Project (08_0223).

• DITR, 2006. Leading Practice Sustainable Development Program for the Mining Industry – Mine

Closure and Completion. Commonwealth of Australia - Department of Industry Tourism and

Resources, Canberra.

• Department of Trade Investment Regional Infrastructure and Services – Mineral Resources,

undated. Guidelines to the Mining, Rehabilitation and Environmental Management Process - EDG

03. NSW Department of Trade and Investment - http://www.resources .nsw.gov.

au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/427021/EDG03-Mining,-Rehabilitation-and-Environmental-

Management-Process-Guide-UPDATED-April-2012.pdf (Accessed 11th of September 2012).

• GSS Environmental (May 2012) – Soils, Land Resources and Agricultural Assessment – Lidsdale

Siding Upgrade Project.

• GSS Environmental (May 2011) – Rehabilitation and Closure Plan, Lidsdale Siding.

• ICMM, 2006. Financial Assurance for Mine Closure and Reclamation. International Council on

Mining and Metals. London.

• Industry and Investment NSW, 2010. ESG1 Rehabilitation Cost Estimate Guidelines, Department

of Industry and Investment, Sydney.

• Minerals Council of Australia, 2000. Australian Minerals Industry Code for Environmental

Management. Minerals Council of Australia, Canberra.

• Minerals Council of Australia, 2005. Enduring Value – The Australia Minerals Industry Framework

for Sustainable Development. Minerals Council of Australia, Canberra.

• RPS (August 2012) – Lidsdale Siding Upgrade Project – Environmental Assessment.

• RPS (October 2013) – Lidsdale Siding – Biodiversity Management Plan.


APPENDIX 1: REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE RISK

ASSESSMENT

C PIncorrect disposal/recycling of waste items produced -pollution to environment

*Use of licensed waste contractor 4 D 4D 21

Failure to remove all services from the site. *Site services plan 4 C 4C 18No decision to be made on which infrastructure is to remain until closer to the date of proposed closure.

There is a lease agreement (Condition 45 - Memorandum of Lease) which provides details that anything added after the time of this lease (1974) should be removed according to this condition

Removal of services from the site that are required post closure.

*Site services plan 4 C 4C 18No decision to be made on which infrastructure is to remain until closer to the date of proposed closure.

There is a lease agreement (Condition 45 - Memorandum of Lease) which provides details that anything added after the time of this lease (1974) should be removed according to this condition

Public safety *Site security, fencing, signs & OH&S policy. 4 D 4D 21 *A specific Safety Management Plan will need to be developed for the closure and demolition activities.

Hazardous Materials remaining on site post closure * Previous studies have been completed (Contamination Studies) 4 D 4D 21 * Preparation of specific Plan of Management for the safe removal of the hazardous materials* Use of licensed specialist contractors to remove the hazardous materials.

Hydrocarbon contamination remaining on site post closure * Hydrocarbon studies have been completed. * Some known areas of contamination* Soil testing completed in August 2013.

4 C 4C 18 * Additional contamination study required. *Additional testing if required. * Need to check the lease requirements to see with whom the liability for remediation lies (ie site owner, previous land users or Centennial).* Need to get legal opinion on who is responsible for the liabilities* Undertake modelling on the plume to ascertain the full extent of the contamination.

* Large diesel spill occured on the site previously.* General area of spill is known.

Radiation Sources * No radiation sources on site currently * All radiation sources on site should be licenced.* Include any radiation sources in the Conceptual Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.

Scrap steel not removed at closure * Scrap steel currently removed. When closer to closure determine which material will be removed from site as scrap steel.

Dust during rehabilitation and closure *Site Plan of Management (Dust Mgt Plan)* Dust limits

4 D 4D 21

Noise during rehabilitation and closure *Site Plan of Management (Noise Mgt Plan)* Noise limits

4 D 4D 21

Incorrect disposal/recycling of waste items produced -pollution to environment

*Use of licensed waste contractor 4 D 4D 21

Identify any issues of key assets across the Centennial group to ensure there are no lost opportunities

4 D 4D 21When closer to closure determine which are the key assets.

Public safety *Site security, fencing, bollards, signs & OH&S policy. 4 D 4D 21 *A specific Safety Management Plan will need to be developed for the closure and demolition activities.

Revegetation works not meeting final rehab criteria, for example erosion, insufficient veg cover etc. Not being able to obtain lease relinquishment.

*Knowledge Gap: need to look further at defining the closure criteria for the site (part of which is the domain outcomes)

3 D 3D 17 Rehabilitation monitoring.

Minimal quality topsoil available for rehabilitation * Small topsoil stockpiles are available. * Testing of soil and subsoil was completed in 2013

4 C 4C 18 * Complete an assessment closer to closure about the quality and amount of soil.* Correct storage of material* Consider use of amerliorates.

There is minimal topsoil available for rehabilitation.

Weeds infesting the rehabilitation *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21Kangaroos eating vegetation within rehabilitation areas Fencing

Minimal current rehabilitation4 D 4D 21

*Onsite management of rehabilitation if required.

Infestation of feral animals *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21Public safety *Site security, fencing, bollards, signs & OH&S policy. 4 D 4D 21 *A specific Safety Management Plan will need to be developed

for the closure and demolition activities.Activities not completed in accordance with the Post Closure Land Use

* Conceptual RMCP considers possible land use options* Liaison with State Rail for the development of the Conceptual RMCP.

4 C 4C 13* Finalise the post closure land use prior to completing any rehabilitation.


* Research and justification to present an argument that supports the proposition.* Have an alternative landuse (fallback position).* This Management Plan sent to stakeholders for review.

4 C 4C 13 *Ensure adequate attention/consultation with stakeholders prior to commencing rehabilitation.

Chitter material not being suitable for rehabilitation 4 D 4D 21 * Complete an assessment of chitter material prior to closure. * Use of topsoil and ameliorates.

Noise *Site Plan of Management (Dust Mgt Plan) 4 D 4D 21Dust *Site Plan of Management (Noise Mgt Plan) 4 D 4D 21Reprocessing of the material (this will reduce the volume of material and also provide some return in salable coal material).

*knowledge gap - what is the likelihood that the material can be reprocessed and what would be the recovery?

4 D 4D 21 * Sampling of material.

Public safety *Site security, fencing, bollards, signs & OH&S policy. 4 D 4D 21 *A specific Safety Management Plan will need to be developed for the closure and demolition activities.

Revegetation works not meeting final rehabilitation criteria, for example erosion, insufficient vegetation cover etc. DP&I not returning rehabilitation bond.

* Closure criteria reviewed and updated for Conceptual Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.

3 D 3D 17 * Rehabilitation monitoring.* Additional revegetation work if required.

Landform shaping not consistent with final land use * Conceptual RMCP developed* Slopes are generally low in angle.

4 C 4C 18 * Landform plan and design required closure to closure. * Develop landform shaping in consultation with land owner and relevant government departments (DTIRIS and DP&I).

Weeds infesting the rehabilitation *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21Kangaroos eating vegetation within rehabilitation areas *Fencing

* Minimal current rehabilitation4 D 4D 21

Infestation of feral animals *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21Public safety *Site security, fencing, bollards, signs & OH&S policy. 4 D 4D 21 *A specific Safety Management Plan will need to be developed

for the closure and demolition activities.Erosion from completed rehab area entering surrounding creeks

*Site Plan of Management (Erosion and Sediment Control Plan) 4 C 4C 18 * Detailed Water MP

Low

LowLow

Moderate

Low

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Low

Lidsdale Siding - Broad Brush Mine Closure Risk Assessment.

Domain Aspect / Activity Potential Issue / Risk Existing Controls / Management Response/ corporate knowledge

Existing Controls Proposed Additional Controls Comments

DOMAIN 1:

Infrastructure

• Weigh bridge;• Workshop;

• Transformer;• Lighting;

• Laydown areas;• Administration office;

• Roads and tracks;• Conveyors;

• Railway line;• Loading bin; and

• Spillage reclaim pit.

Rehabilitation and Land Management

R

Demolishing the plant & Equipment (Disposal of assets)

Disconnect Site Services (power, water, substations) (depending on final landuse)

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Low

Low

Low

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Removal of carbonaceous material including the coal

stockpiles around the domain

DOMAIN 2:

Stockpiles

(Including Reclaim Tunnel)

Water Management

Low

Moderate

Low

Low

Rehabilitation and Land Management

Post Closure Landuse (TBC)** Subject to outcomes of Post Mining

Land Use Assessment

LowLow

LowLow

Significant

Significant

Low

LowLow

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Release of contaminated water from the site * Pump out the water from the dams before the works are started* Construct catch dams below the works.

4 C 4C 18 * Water monitoring

During rehabilitation contaminated sediments are discovered * Contamination studies completed. 4 C 4C 18 * Additional contamination studies to be completed.

Lack of cleanwater diversions preventing water running into the site

* Some diversions stop water running into the site 4 C 4C 18 * Detailed Water MP

Activities not completed in accordance with the Post Mining Land Use

*Conceptual Rehabilitation and Closure Plan considers possible land use options. * Liaison with State Rail for the development of the Conceptual Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.

3 D 3D 17


* Research and justification to present an argument that supports the proposition* Have an alternative landuse (fallback position)* This management plan has been sent to stakeholders for review.

3 D 3D 17 *Ensure adequate attention/consultation with local Council.

Weeds infesting the surrounding buffer land *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21 Liaison with NSW Rail regarding management options Centennial does not own this buffer land. Infestation of feral animals *Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 D 4D 21 Liaison with NSW Rail regarding management optionsExisting Pine Visual screen is not commensurate to longterm screening.

*Biodiversity and Land Management Plan 4 C 4C 18 * Additional maintenance required* If required replace or enhance visual screen with longer term

New Visual Screen does not establish and does not screen operational or rehabilitation activities.

*Biodiversity and Land Management Plan* Use of locally endemic species

4 C 4C 18 * Additional maintenance required.* Water truck used as required.

LowLow

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Post Mining Landuse (TBC)** Subject to outcomes of Post Mining

Land Use Assessment

DOMAIN 3:

Water Management

DOMAIN 4:Bunding and Landscaping Visual Screen

Buffer Land Management

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APPENDIX 2: SPECIES LIST FOR REHABILITATION AND

CLOSURE

Appendix 2 – Potential Species to be Used in Rehabilitation

Family Scientific Name Common Name Suitable for EEC

Canopy species

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus aggregata Black Gum

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus dives Broad-leaved Peppermint

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus macrorhyncha Red Stringybark

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera Red-spotted Gum

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus pauciflora Snow Gum

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus rubida subsp. rubida Candlebark

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus sieberi Silvertop Ash

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus stelluata Black Sallee

Myrtaceae Eucalyptus viminalis Ribbon Gum

Shrubs

Fabaceae/faboideae/ Mimosoideae Acacia dealbata Silver Wattle

Fabaceae/faboideae/ Mimosoideae Acacia myrtifolia Red Stem Wattle

Lamiaceae Ajuga australis Austral Bugle

Rutaceae Boronia microphylla Small-leaved Boronia

Epacridaceae Brachyloma daphnoides Daphne Heath

Asteraceae Brachyscome sp.

Pittosporaceae Bursaria spinosa var. spinosa Blackthorn

Asteraceae Carduus nutans subsp. nutans Nodding Thistle

Asteraceae Cassinia aculeata Dolly Bush

Asteraceae Cassinia longifolia

Asteraceae Cassinia uncata Sticky Cassinia

Asteraceae Cymbonotus lawsonianus Bears-ear

Myrtaceae Leptospermum arachnoides -

Myrtaceae

Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium Tantoon

Epacridaceae Lissanthe strigosa Peach Heath

Asteraceae Ozothamnus diosmifolius Ball Everlasting

Groundcovers

Poaceae Austrodanthonia tenuior Wallaby Grass

Anthericaceae Caesia parviflora Pale Grass Lily

Asteraceae Calotis cuneifolia Purple Burr Daisy

Poaceae Cynodon dactylon Common Couch

Cyperaceae Cyperus polystachyos -

Poaceae Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot

Scrophularaceae Derwentia perfoliata Digger's Speedwell

Fabaceae/faboideae Desmodium varians Slender Tick-trefoil

Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. caerulea Flax Lily


Phormiaceae Dianella caerulea var. producta Blue Flax Lily

Phormiaceae Dianella revoluta var. revoluta Spreading Flax Lily

Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens Kidney Weed

Anthericaceae Dichopogon fimbriatus Nodding Chocolate Lily

Orchidaceae Dipodium punctatum Hyacinth Orchid

Orchidaceae Dipodium variegatum Blotched Hyacinth Orchid

Droseraceae Drosera peltata Sundew

Poaceae Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus Tufted Hedgehog Grass

Poaceae Eragrostis brownii Brown’s Lovegrass

Asteraceae Euchiton involucratus Star Cudweed

Asteraceae Euchiton sphaericus -

Geraniaceae Geranium homeanum Northern Cranesbill

Geraniaceae Geranium solanderi Cutleaf Cranesbill

Fabaceae/faboideae Glycine clandestina Twining Glycine

Haloragaceae Gonocarpus tetragynus Poverty Raspwort

Goodeniaceae Goodenia bellidifolia Daisy-leaved Goodenia

Goodeniaceae Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea Ivy-leaved Goodenia

Fabaceae/faboideae Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsparilla

Boraginaceae Heliotropium amplexicaule Blue Heliotrope

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia aspera Rough Guinea Flower

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia obtusifolia

Fabaceae/faboideae Hovea linearis -

Apiaceae Hydrocotyle peduncularis Pennywort

Clusiaceae Hypericum gramineum Small St Johns Wort

Hypoxidaceae Hypoxis hygrometrica Golden Star

Poaceae Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass

Asteraceae Leucochrysum albicans -

Epacridaceae Leucopogon virgatus -

Lomandraceae Lomandra confertifolia Mat-rush

Lomandraceae Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis Wattle Mat-rush

Lomandraceae Lomandra glauca Pale Mat-rush

Lomandraceae Lomandra longifolia Spiky-headed Mat-rush

Poaceae Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Rice Grass

Orchidaceae Microtis sp.

Loganiaceae Mitrasacme polymorpha Mitrewort

Oxalidaceae Oxalis perrenans Yellow-flowered Wood Sorrel

Oxalidaceae Oxalis radicosa -

Poaceae Panicum sp. -

Proteaceae Persoonia chamaepitys Mountain Geebung

Plantaginaceae Plantago debilis Slender Plantain

Apiaceae Platysace ericoides Heathy Platysace


Poaceae Poa labillardieri var. labillardieri Tussock Grass

Poaceae Poa seiberiana Tussock Grass

Poaceae Poa seiberiana var. cyanophylla -

Euphorbiaceae Poranthera microphylla -

Fabaceae/faboideae Pultenaea microphylla -

Anthericaceae Sowerbaea juncea Vanilla Plant

Stylidiaceae Stylidium sp.

Poaceae Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass

Anthericaceae Thysanotus tuberosus Fringed Lily

Anthericaceae Tricoryne elatior Yellow Rush Lily

Scrophulariaceae Veronica plebia Creeping Speedwell

Violaceae Viola hederacea Ivy-leaved Violet

Campanulaceae Wahlenbergia gracilis Australian Bluebell

Campanulaceae Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta Austral Bluebell

Asteraceae Xerochrysum bracteatum Golden Everlasting

Centennial Coal Company Limited

P O Box 92

LITHGOW NSW 2790

www.centennialcoal.com.au

lidsdale siding rehab and closure plan april...

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