overhead transmission line project
TRANSCRIPT
Overhead Transmission Line Project Additional Information Response Report (EPBC 2020/8759)
ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd
9 September 2021
The Power of Commitment
The Power of Commitment
GHD Pty Ltd | ABN 39 008 488 373
145 Ann Street, Level 9
Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
T +61 7 3316 3000 | F +61 7 3319 6038 | E [email protected] | ghd.com
Printed date 09/09/21 5:29:00 PM
Last saved date 09 September 2021
File name https://projectsportal.ghd.com/sites/pp14_02/accionamiwfrevisiono/_layouts/15/DocIdRedir.aspx?ID=12525037-15881-910
Author L. Rolfe
Project manager Matt Herbert
Client name ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd
Project name Acciona MIWF Revision of Planning and Approvals Scope
Document title Overhead Transmission Line Project | Additional Information Response Report (EPBC 2020/8759)
Revision version Rev 2
Project number 12525037
Document status
Status Code
Revision Author Reviewer Approved for issue
Name Signature Name Signature Date
S4 0 L. Rolfe G. Squires On file G. Squires On file 07/05/2021
S4 1 L. Rolfe G. Squires On file G. Squires On file 13/08/2021
S4 2 L. Rolfe G. Squires
G. Squires
09/09/2021
© GHD 2021
This document is and shall remain the property of GHD. The document may only be used for the purpose for
which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised
use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project i
Contents
Abbreviations and acronyms iv
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Project overview 1
1.2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Referral 1
1.3 Purpose of this report 3
2. Description of the action 10
2.1 Information request 2.1(a) 10
2.1.1 Response 10
2.2 Information request 2.1(b) 14
2.2.1 Response 14 2.2.1.1 Overview 14 2.2.1.2 Transmission towers 14 2.2.1.3 Switching stations 15 2.2.1.4 Access tracks 15 2.2.1.5 Firebreaks 16 2.2.1.6 Site amenities 16 2.2.1.7 Laydown areas 16 2.2.1.8 Construction timeframes and construction hours 16 2.2.1.9 Construction equipment and machinery 17 2.2.1.10 Construction staging 17
2.3 Information request 2.1(c) 17
2.3.1 Response 17 2.3.1.1 Loss and disturbance of vegetation and habitat 18 2.3.1.2 Direct mortality and injury of wildlife 18 2.3.1.3 Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity 18 2.3.1.4 Disturbance of wildlife through light, noise and vibration 18 2.3.1.5 Indirect degradation of habitats by dust, run-off and sedimentation 19 2.3.1.6 Introduction and spread of invasive flora species 19 2.3.1.7 Introduction and spread of introduced fauna 19 2.3.1.8 Loss or disturbance to riparian or aquatic habitat 20
2.4 Information request 2.1(d) 20
2.4.1 Response 20
2.5 Information request 2.1(e) 20
2.5.1 Response 20
2.6 Information request 2.1(f) 21
2.6.1 Response 21 2.6.1.1 Decommissioning 21 2.6.1.2 Rehabilitation 21
3. Description of the environment and Matters of National Environmental Significance 22
3.1 Information request 3.1 22
3.1.1 Response 22
3.2 Information request 3.2 23
3.2.1 Response 23 3.2.1.1 Current land use 23 3.2.1.2 Topography 25 3.2.1.3 Water resources 25 3.2.1.4 Vegetation communities 28
3.3 Information request 3.3 36
3.3.1 Response 36
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3.4 Information request 3.4 36
3.4.1 Response 36
4. Quantification of impacts 37
4.1 Information request 4.1 37
4.1.1 Response 37 4.1.1.1 Intended land use of completed development 37 4.1.1.2 Associated ongoing activities 37 4.1.1.3 Future management responsibilities 37
4.2 Information request 4.2 37
4.2.1 Response 37 4.2.1.1 MNES 37 4.2.1.2 Conservation areas 38
4.3 Information request 4.3 38
4.3.1 Response 38
4.4 Information request 4.4 38
4.4.1 Response 38
4.5 Information request 4.5 41
4.5.1 Response 41
5. Avoidance and mitigation 42
5.1 Information request 5.1 42
5.2 Information request 5.1(a) 42
5.2.1 Response 42 5.2.1.1 Layout development 42 5.2.1.2 Description of potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures 44
5.3 Information request 5.1(b) 44
5.3.1 Response 44 5.3.1.1 Pre-clearance and clearance procedures to protect and manage species 44
5.4 Information request 5.1(c) 51
5.4.1 Response 51
5.5 Information request 5.1(d) 51
5.5.1 Response 51
5.6 Information request 5.1(e) 51
5.6.1 Response 51
5.7 Information request 5.2 51
5.7.1 Response 52
5.8 Information request 5.3 52
5.8.1 Response 52
6. Proposed offsets 71
7. Economic and social matters 73
7.1 Information request 7.1 73
7.1.1 Response 73
7.2 Information request 7.2 73
7.2.1 Response 73
7.3 Information request 7.3 73
7.3.1 Response 73
7.4 Information request 7.4 75
7.4.1 Response 75
8. Ecologically sustainable development 76
8.1 Information request 8.1 76
8.1.1 Response 76
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9. References 79
Table index
Table 1-1 Reference table 5
Table 2-1 Summary of ancillary infrastructure 14
Table 3-1 Habitat types 32
Table 4-1 Species presence within the Project area and predicted impact of Project footprint 40
Table 5-1 Environmental mitigation and management measures 45
Table 5-2 Pre-clearance and clearance procedures to protect and manage species 48
Table 5-3 Inspection and monitoring during pre-clearing and clearing activities 50
Table 5-4 Corrective actions for pre-clearing and clearing incidents 50
Table 5-5 Responsible parties, performance and completion criteria and monitoring programs 53
Table 5-6 Predicted effectiveness of avoidance and mitigation measures 59
Table 6-1 Summary of impacts on MNES 71
Table 8-1 Ecologically sustainable development assessment 76
Figure index
Figure 1-1 Project location, area and infrastructure 2
Figure 2-1 Project (disturbance) footprint 11
Figure 3-1 Land use 24
Figure 3-2 Topography 26
Figure 3-3 Water resources 27
Figure 3-4 Habitat types 29
Figure 4-1 Biodiversity corridors and protected areas 39
Plate Index
Plate 2-1 Examples of 330 kV double circuit lattice tower (left) and poly type (right) 15
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Abbreviations and acronyms
Abbreviation/ acronym Description
ACCIONA ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd
ACT Australian Capital Territory
AHD Australian Height Datum
CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan
CleanCo CleanCo Queensland
DAWE Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
DES (Queensland) Department of Environment and Science
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EPBC 2020/8755 EPBC Act referral Karara Wind Farm
EPBC 2020/8756 EPBC Act referral MacIntyre Wind Farm
EPBC 2020/8759 EPBC Act referral OHTL Project
EPBC Act (Commonwealth) Environment Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
EPC Engineering Procurement and Construction contractor
ESCP Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
ha hectare
HSE Health, Safety and Environment
kV kilovolt
LGA Local Government Area
MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance
MW Megawatt
NSW New South Wales
OHTL Overhead Transmission Line
PMST Protected Matters Search Tool
Qld Queensland
RE Regional Ecosystem
RFI Request for Information
RSA Rotor Swept Area
SMP Species Management Program
TEC Threatened Ecological Community
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 1
1. Introduction
1.1 Project overview ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd (ACCIONA) proposes to develop the Overhead Transmission Line
(OHTL) Project (EPBC 2020/8759) (the Project), which will connect the proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm (EPBC
2020/8756) and proposed Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755) to the national electricity grid. The Project
includes 64 km of high-voltage (330 kV) OHTL and ancillary infrastructure including:
– Two switching stations, namely MacIntyre switching station and Tummaville switching station
– Access tracks
– Firebreaks
– Site amenities
– Laydown areas.
An associated upgrade to the State-controlled Cunningham Highway and local Carbean Road intersection will be
required to support the combined construction of the Project, together with the adjacent proposed MacIntyre Wind
Farm Project (EPBC 2020/8756) and proposed Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755). The road upgrades are
addressed as part of the MacIntyre Wind Farm Project (EPBC 2020/8756).
The Project traverses 26 freehold lots, as well as road reserves and easements within the Southern Downs
Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council, and Toowoomba Regional Council Local Government Areas
(LGAs). The southern extent of the Project is located approximately 40 km west of the township of Warwick and
the northern extent of the Project is located approximately 8.5 km north-west of the township of Leyburn, as shown
on Figure 1-1.
1.2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Referral
A referral was lodged with the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) for
impacts on matters of national environmental significance (MNES) under the Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) on 17 August 2020 for the Project (EPBC 2020/8759).
A decision on the assessment of the referral was delivered by the DAWE on 24 September 2020 which
determined the Project (the proposed action) to be a controlled action due to the likelihood of significant impacts
on MNES protected under:
– Section 18 and 18A of the EPBC Act - listed threatened species and communities.
– Section 20 and 20A of the EPBC Act - listed migratory species.
The determination required the proposed action to be assessed by the submission of preliminary documentation
and that additional information was required. A request for information (RFI) was received on 16 October 2020.
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FIGURE 1-1
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 13/08/2021
Acciona Infrastructure AustraliaAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oData source: Acciona: P roposed Layout (27/07 /2021); DES: Pro tected Area (2018); DoR: Imagery (2015), Localit y, Watercourses, Road, LGA , Cadastre (2019); GA: Mainlands, I slands, Place names (2007). Created by: xleeN:\AU\Brisbane\Pro jects\41\12525037\GIS\Maps\MXD\12525037_026_TL_MNESadd_ProjectArea_Rev0.mxd
Print date: 13 Aug 2021 - 10:05
Legend" Locality
HighwayMinor roadMajor watercourseCadastreLocal Government AreaProtected areaOverhead electrical transmission line (330kV)Access trackMacIntyre switching station (MISS)Tummaville switching station (TSS)Laydown areaPotential additional benchOHTL project areaMacIntyre Wind Farm project areaKarara Wind Farm project area
Project location, area and infrastructure
Based on or contains data provided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relation tothe data (including accuracy, reliabil ity, completeness, currency or
suitabili ty) and accepts no l iability (including without limitation, liabil ity innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
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Project area
Queensland
New South Wales
DALBY
WARWICK
BRISBANE
BYRON BAY
TOOWOOMBA
GLEN INNES
GOLD COAST
TENTERFIELD
OWENS SCRUB
ROAD
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1.3 Purpose of this report This Additional Information Response Report (this report) serves to provide a response to the RFI and covers:
– A description of the action
– A description of the environment and MNES – detailed species responses are provided in the MNES
(Preliminary Documentation) Assessment Report (GHD 2021) (MNES (PD) Assessment Report), for the
following matters that may, or are likely to, be significantly impacted by the proposed action:
• Poplar box grassy woodland on alluvial plains threatened ecological community (TEC) - endangered
• White box-yellow box-Blakely's red gum grassy woodland and derived native grassland TEC – critically
endangered
• Weeping myall woodlands TEC - endangered
• Macrozamia conferta – vulnerable
• Regent honeyeater (Anthochaera phrygia) – critically endangered
• Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) – vulnerable
• Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) (combined populations of Qld, NSW and the ACT) – vulnerable
• White-throated needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) – vulnerable and migratory
• Squatter pigeon (southern) (Geophaps scripta scripta) – vulnerable
• Swift parrot (Lathamus discolor) – critically endangered
• Painted honeyeater (Grantiella picta) – critically endangered
• Grey falcon (Falco hypoleucos) - vulnerable
• Central greater glider (Petauroides volans) – vulnerable
• Spot-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus maculatus) (Southeast mainland population) - endangered
• Border thick-tailed gecko (Uvidicolus sphyrurus) – vulnerable
• Austral toadflax (Thesium australe) – vulnerable
• Bluegrass (Dichanthium setosum) – vulnerable
• Tylophora linearis (syn. Vincetoxicum forsteri) - endangered
– Quantification of impacts
– Avoidance and mitigation
– Proposed offsets
– Economic and social matters
– Ecologically sustainable development.
This report is supported by the following technical documents provided as standalone reports:
– MNES (PD) Assessment Report (GHD 2021), including:
• Revised and updated Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) searches
• Updated searches of relevant Commonwealth and State databases to confirm the predicted presence or
absence of listed species, ecological communities and listed migratory species as at the time of EPBC
referral lodgement
• Revised species lists
– EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys (Report No. 20033 (15.3)
August 2021) (Nature Advisory 2021)
– Construction Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-09) (GHD 2020a)
– Preliminary Fauna Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-013) (GHD 2020b)
– Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-014) (GHD 2020c)
– Overhead Transmission Line Environmental Offsets Strategy (Attexo 2021).
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Table 1-1 provides a reference table which indicates where to find the information fulfilling each RFI request.
This additional information report, together with the technical reports, advances information as provided in the
referral (EPBC 2020/8759) as project design has progressed and additional surveys have been undertaken.
The Referral documentation comprised:
– EPBC Act referral (EPBC 2020/8759)
– Attachment A Figures
– Attachment B Lot/plans
– Attachment C MNES Assessment Report (12525037-REP-MWF-005-OHTL) (GHD, 2020d)
– Attachment D Stormwater Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-07) (GHD, July 2020e)
– Attachment E Construction Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-09) (GHD, July 2020a)
– Attachment F Preliminary Fauna Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-014) (GHD, July 2020b)
– Attachment G Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-013) (GHD July 2020c)
– Attachment H Environment Biodiversity Climate Change and Water Policy.
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Table 1-1 Reference table
RFI Item Response – this Report (section) Supporting technical report
ATTACHMENT A – Request for additional information required for assessment by preliminary documentation
1 General content, format and style n/a – overarching guidance n/a
2 Description of the action Section 2 n/a
2.1(a) Location, boundaries and size Section 2.1.1 n/a
2.1(b) Project components, timing and duration Section 2.2.1 n/a
2.1(c) Construction approach and methods Section 2.3.1 n/a
2.1(d) Indicative layout plans Section 2.4.1 n/a
2.1(e) External lighting Section 2.5.1 n/a
2.1(f) Decommissioning and rehabilitation Section 2.6.1 n/a
3 Description of the environment and Matters of National Environmental Significance
Section 3 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.1 Description of MNES and habitat Section 3.1.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.2 Land use, topography, water resources and vegetation Section 3.2.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3 Listed threatened species and ecological communities Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(a) Abundance, distribution, ecology and habitat Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(b) Habitat extent Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(c) Habitat quality and importance Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 6
RFI Item Response – this Report (section) Supporting technical report
3.3(d) Population information Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(e) Survey methods Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(f) Survey adequacy Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.3(g) Survey results Section 3.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
3.4 Methods and data used to assess environmental values Section 3.4.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
4 Quantification of impacts Section 4 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
4.1 Intended land use Section 4.1.1 n/a
4.2 Mapping and impact areas Section 4.2.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
4.3 Habitat impacts Section 4.3.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
4.4 Habitat quantity and quality Section 4.4.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
4.5 Impact assessment Section 4.5.1 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
5 Avoidance and mitigation Section 5 MNES (PD) Assessment Report
5.1(a) Alternatives Section 5.2.1 n/a
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RFI Item Response – this Report (section) Supporting technical report
5.1(b)Pre-clearance and clearance procedures Section 5.3.1 n/a
5.1(c) Buffers, exclusions, barriers, etc. Section 5.4.1 n/a
5.1(d) Rehabilitation Section 5.5.1 n/a
5.1(e) Mitigation and management during operations Section 5.6.1 n/a
5.2 Roles, outcomes, milestones and monitoring Section 5.7.1 n/a
5.3 Effectiveness of avoidance and mitigation measures Section 5.8.1 Construction Management Plan
Preliminary Fauna Management Plan
Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan
6 Proposed offsets Section 6 Overhead Transmission Line Environmental Offsets Strategy (Attexo 2021)
7 Economic and social matters Section 7 n/a
7.1 Social and economic costs and benefits Section 7.1.1 n/a
7.2 Economic benefits and employment opportunities Section 7.2.1 n/a
7.3 Public stakeholder consultation Section 7.3.1 n/a
7.4 Indigenous stakeholder consultation Section 7.4.1 n/a
8 Ecologically sustainable development Section 8 n/a
ATTACHMENT B – Information requirements for EPBC offsets proposals
Details in relation to the proposed offset package n/a Overhead Transmission Line Environmental Offsets Strategy (Attexo 2021)
Details and justification demonstrating how the proposed offset package will maintain or improve the viability of the protected matter(s) consistent with the EPBC Environmental Offsets Policy and EPBC Act Offsets Assessment Guide
n/a Overhead Transmission Line Environmental Offsets Strategy (Attexo 2021)
ATTACHMENT C – Information to assist in the assessment of potential impacts on the koala
Survey methods, habitat assessments, quantification of impacts, supporting mapping
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.1
ATTACHMENT D – Listed threatened species and ecological communities and listed migratory species
Poplar box grassy woodland on alluvial plains ecological community – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 3.1
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RFI Item Response – this Report (section) Supporting technical report
Regent honeyeater – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.6
Koala – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.1
Macrozamia conferta - population, habitat, potential impacts n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 4.1
Grey-headed flying-fox – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.3
White-throated needletail – quality and extent of habitat, potential impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.5
White box-yellow box-Blakely’s red gum grassy woodland and derived native grassland – quality and extent of habitat
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 3.2
Weeping myall woodlands – quality and extent of habitat n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
Painted honeyeater – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.7
Squatter pigeon (southern) – quality and extent of habitat n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.4
Swift parrot – quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts, potential indirect impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.8
Central greater glider – species presence, quality and extent of habitat, extent of impacts
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Section 5.2
Border thick-tailed gecko – species presence, quality and extent of habitat
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
Thesium australe - species presence, quality and extent of habitat
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
Dichanthium setosum - species presence, quality and extent of habitat
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
Tylophora linearis - species presence, quality and extent of habitat
n/a MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 9
RFI Item Response – this Report (section) Supporting technical report
Grey falcon – presence of the species or habitat MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
Spot-tailed quoll – species presence, quality and extent of habitat
MNES (PD) Assessment Report
Appendix A
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 10
2. Description of the action
2.1 Information request 2.1(a) The location, boundaries, and size (in hectares) of the disturbance footprint, and of adjoining areas and vegetation,
which may be indirectly impacted by the proposal, including from material stockpiles, vehicle access and other
associated activities.
2.1.1 Response
The proposed OHTL Project is located approximately 22 km east of Millmerran at the northern extent, and
approximately 45 km south-west of Warwick at the southern extent. The Project is located within the Southern
Downs Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council, and Toowoomba Regional Council LGAs. The northern
extent of the Project is where the OHTL cuts into the existing Powerlink transmission network at the Millmerran-
Middle Ridge 330 kV OHTL. Approximately 27 km of the OHTL traverses the separately proposed MacIntyre Wind
Farm (EPBC 2020/8756) and Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755) project areas.
The Project area (Figure 1-1) comprises a nominal 60 m wide corridor that traverses 26 subject host lots or
properties. The Project area also incorporates road and other tenures (easements) within which associated project
access routes and infrastructure are to be located and totals an area of approximately 507.98 ha in extent.
The direct impact area, as shown in Figure 2-1, is the Project footprint for the adopted Project layout that has
formed the basis of the assessment of impacts on MNES. The direct impact area is estimated at 425.8 ha across
all infrastructure components as discussed further below and includes temporary and permanent disturbance.
In addition to the OHTL, the Project includes a variety of ancillary infrastructure. Details of this infrastructure is
provided in Table 2-1. The locations of Project infrastructure are shown on Figure 1-1. OHTL components and
ancillary infrastructure are further described in Section 2.2
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LIBERATOR PLACE
DELAHAYE DRIVE
PUK ALLUS ROAD
SPIERSCRE EK ROAD
WIRRAW AY AVEN UE
KARARA ROAD
OWENS SCRUB ROAD
STONEHENGE ROAD
NYORA ROAD
STRATHYRE ROAD
BONNIE DOON ROAD
MILLMERRAN RO AD
GLEN SANNOX ROAD
TOOW
OOMB
A KAR
A RA R
OAD
LE YBURN CUNNINGHAM ROAD
MILLMERRANLEYBURN ROAD
Leyburn
DurikaiStateForest
LeyburnStateForest
Figure 2-1
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea (20 18 ); Do R : Ima ge ry (2 01 5) , L oca li ty, R oa d, Ca d astre (20 19 ). Cre a te d b y: x le eN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 08 :02
Legend" Locality
Major roadMinor roadCadastreProject areaProject footprint
disturbance footprint
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws. Action area and
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Pratten
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Karara
Thane
Sheet 1
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CARBEAN ROAD
STONEHENGE ROAD
BURRABARANGA RO AD
ROCKD AL
ERO
AD
ME IKLE JOHN RO AD
COLUMBA ROAD
WARAHGAI ROAD
WICK
HAM ROAD
DUNGORM ROAD
BACK CREEK ROADKARARA ROAD
NYORA ROAD
CEMEN T MILLS ROAD
RAB B ITFENCER OA D
STRATHYRE ROAD
MILLMERRAN ROAD
GLEN SANNOX ROAD
TOOWOOMBAKAR ARAROAD
CUNNINGHAM HIGHWAY
Gore
Karara
DurikaiStateForest
Figure 2-1
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea (20 18 ); Do R : Ima ge ry (2 01 5) , L oca li ty, R oa d, Ca d astre (20 19 ). Cre a te d b y: x le eN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 08 :02
Legend" Locality
Major roadMinor roadCadastreProject areaProject footprint
disturbance footprint
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws. Action area and
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Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Thane
Sheet 2
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RABBIT F ENCE ROAD
SPRING CREEK ROAD
BURRABARANGA RO AD
CLEARY LANE
DURIKAI ROADINVERARY ROAD
CARBE AN ROAD
ROCK
DALE
ROA D
COLUMBA ROAD
WARA
HGAI
ROAD
DUNGORM RO AD
LUNA ROAD
SNAKE RIDGE ROAD
HUNTERS HILL RO AD
CEME
NTMILLS
ROAD
CUNNINGHAM HIGHWAY
Gore
DurikaiStateForest
MacintyreState Forest
Figure 2-1
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea (20 18 ); Do R : Ima ge ry (2 01 5) , L oca li ty, R oa d, Ca d astre (20 19 ). Cre a te d b y: x le eN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 08 :02
Legend" Locality
Major roadMinor roadCadastreProject areaProject footprint
disturbance footprint
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws. Action area and
"
"
"
"
"
Gore
Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Thane
Sheet 3
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 14
Table 2-1 Summary of ancillary infrastructure
Component Number Maximum footprint
Approximate Dimensions
Permanent/ temporary
Tummaville switching station compound
1 4.95 ha 250 m x 220 m Permanent
MacIntyre switching station compound (includes laydown and additional bench area)
1 6.67 ha 260 m x 255 m Permanent
Access tracks Numerous 113.5 km 10 – 20 m wide Permanent
Laydown area 1 0.95 ha 100 m x 100 m Temporary
The Tummaville switching station, is the northernmost component of the Project, located adjacent to Owens Scrub
Road at the proposed tie-in point with the Powerlink transmission network. The Tummaville switching station
footprint within the compound is 2.75 ha (approximately 150 m x 90 m.
The MacIntyre switching station, in the south, is to be co-located within the (separately proposed) Karara Wind
Farm Project area. The MacIntyre switching station compound will include a laydown area of 1.1 ha, and an
additional bench area of 0.8 ha. The MacIntyre switching station footprint within the compound is 2.42 ha
(approximately 175 m x 140 m).
2.2 Information request 2.1(b) A description of all components of the proposed action, including the anticipated timing and duration, (including
start and completion dates) of each component of the proposed action. This should include a detailed outline of
the expected timing of any staged clearing or disturbance over the construction period and the expected life of the
overhead transmission line.
2.2.1 Response
2.2.1.1 Overview
The Project proposes to develop 64 km of high-voltage (330 kV) overhead transmission line that will connect the
proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8756) and proposed Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755) to
Powerlink’s transmission network.
Additional Project components include two switching stations, access tracks, firebreaks, site amenities, and
laydown areas as described in Table 2-1.
2.2.1.2 Transmission towers
The Project will include double circuit 330 kV transmission lines with either steel lattice transmission towers or
monopoles, or a combination of the two. Plate 2-1 provides a visual representation of the two types of towers.
Towers or poles will generally have a maximum height of 60 m, except in areas of poplar box TEC, where two
poles have been raised to a height of approximately 68 m to avoid the TEC. Further specifications, including
spacing between towers/poles is subject to detailed design.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 15
Plate 2-1 Examples of 330 kV double circuit lattice tower (left) and poly type (right)
Source: ACCIONA (2020)
2.2.1.3 Switching stations
The Project requires two switching stations to connect the proposed Karara Wind Farm and proposed MacIntyre
Wind Farm to the existing Powerlink transmission network.
The proposed MacIntyre switching station measures approximately 230 m x 200 m and will be co-located within
the proposed Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755) at the southern extent of the Project. The MacIntyre switching
station enables both the proposed Karara Wind Farm and the proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8756)
to connect to the proposed OHTL.
The proposed Tummaville switching station measures approximately 160 m x 220 m and is the northernmost
component of the Project, located adjacent to Owens Scrub Road. The Tummaville switching station is the point
where the OHTL terminates and cuts into the existing Powerlink Millmerran to Middle Ridge 330 kV transmission
line.
The switching stations would include a control room, rack, bus bars, circuit breakers, capacitor bank, switch room,
carparking, diesel generator, water tanks and underground septic tanks. The final size and design of the switching
stations will be subject to detailed design.
2.2.1.4 Access tracks
Internal movement within the Project area will be via access tracks which will be constructed as part of the Project.
Access tracks will be constructed to enable heavy vehicles, workers, and machinery access to the transmission
tower locations during the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases. These will be constructed in part
by incorporating existing farm tracks, where practicable.
Access tracks located in proximity to ecologically significant vegetation have been individually refined to avoid and
minimise impacts to vegetation where practicable. It is likely that approximately 113.5 km of access tracks will be
required for the Project; however, detailed design will refine this further.
Tracks will typically be 5.5 m wide when finished and construction will involve grading and removing of topsoil,
placement and compaction of a suitable crushed rock base, and installation of required drainage works. Where
possible the access tracks will be constructed using local materials.
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Tracks may be wider in some areas to allow for regular passing places, turning areas and to account for terrain.
During construction there may also be requirements for batters, swales or other construction disturbance;
however, none of this disturbance is expected to occur outside the direct impact area shown in Figure 2-1.
Tracks will be required to cross watercourses within the Project area; however, the number of crossings will be
minimised. The Stormwater Management Report provided as Attachment D within the initial referral describes the
typical works for access tracks to cross waterways. Crossings that constitute waterway barrier works under the
Queensland Fisheries Act 1994 will be required to meet the Accepted development requirements for waterway
barrier works. Profiles of waterway beds and banks will require restoration or rehabilitation, which will mitigate
impacts to aquatic fauna movement, bed and bank stability and water quality. Detailed hydrologic and hydraulic
assessment of peak design flow, flood immunity design standard, and design for access track waterway crossings
has not been completed but will be a part of the detailed design stage with infrastructure and crossings contained
within the Project footprint area.
Areas disturbed to construct internal access tracks, such as batters, passing lanes and any clearing, will be
rehabilitated. Staged rehabilitation of these disturbed areas will reduce impacts from stormwater runoff and
minimise erosion on site. Internal access tracks will remain during the operational stages of the wind farm to allow
for ongoing maintenance and decommissioning.
2.2.1.5 Firebreaks
Firebreaks will be established along the OHTL to reduce the risk of flashovers and damage that occurs when large
fires burn adjacent to or under high voltage transmission lines, and to provide access for firefighting in the event of
a bushfire.
2.2.1.6 Site amenities
Permanent site amenities required for the Project will include potable water and septic tanks at the switching
station locations.
2.2.1.7 Laydown areas
A temporary laydown area is proposed, which will accommodate temporary storage of construction plant
equipment, wind farm components, and construction materials prior to moving to their ultimate destination. The
laydown area may also be used for rock crushing and stockpiles.
The laydown area will be formed into a fenced-off hardstand area. Following completion of construction of the
Project, the disturbed land will be rehabilitated to a state agreed upon by the landowner.
The final size and location of the laydown area will be determined during detailed design once the construction
methodology has been determined. Site selection (within the Project footprint) will take into consideration the
sensitivity of the environment at that location, only selecting a site that will have minimal impact (i.e. the area is
already disturbed).
2.2.1.8 Construction timeframes and construction hours
Subject to agreement with and planning by the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor, it is
anticipated construction will commence in late 2021 and the Project will be built over a period of approximately
11 to 16 months, depending on weather conditions, speed of construction and availability of materials.
During the construction phase, works could potentially occur for six days during each week, 12 hours per day
(6:30 am to 6:30 pm), with exceptions which may occur to these timings due to requirements of the Project
schedule. It is expected that some work will occur outside these times (e.g. for activities such as foundation pours
and tower installation during favourable weather conditions). A process for mitigating the impacts of construction
works outside these hours will be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).
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2.2.1.9 Construction equipment and machinery
It is anticipated that much of the construction work may include excavation, rock hammering, drilling, bulldozing,
crushing and screening, concrete batching and, subject to geotechnical conditions, possible blasting.
It is anticipated that construction material will be sourced from on-site borrow pit(s) located within the adjacent
proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8756) Project area.
The following typical equipment is likely to be used during construction:
– Site mobilisation – road loaders, graders, backhoes, trucks, small crane, and generators
– Access tracks and hardstands – road loaders, bulldozers, excavators, graders, scrapers, rollers, articulated
dump trucks, belly dumper trucks rock crushing plant, semi-trailers, tractors water carts and hydroseed trucks
– Transmission towers – excavators, concrete trucks, flat-bed trucks, vacuum trucks, generators, telehandlers,
elevated work platforms, and Franna cranes
Other equipment and machinery may be required, depending on the nominated construction techniques.
2.2.1.10 Construction staging
Construction of the Project will be undertaken in a single stage and include the following activities, which will at
times overlap:
– Detailed site investigations, including the establishment of tracks, and clearing for the purposes of micro-siting
the transmission towers
– Obtaining all necessary secondary approvals/permits for construction
– Site mobilisation
– Establishing water supply, potentially through dams and bores
For the construction of the Project, the following activities are expected to occur:
– Site establishment (temporary site facilities, laydown areas, equipment, and materials)
– Earthworks, paving (where required) and drainage for access tracks and hardstands
– Excavation for the foundations
– Construction of transmission tower foundations
– Construction of switching stations
– Installation of electrical and communications cabling and equipment
– Commissioning and reliability testing of transmission lines
– Progressive rehabilitation and restoration where possible.
The activities listed above will generally occur in the order listed; however, some of these activities will be carried
out concurrently to minimise the overall length of the construction program.
2.3 Information request 2.1(c) A description of how the construction works would be undertaken and how operation of the overhead transmission
line and any associated works (i.e. activities that comprise its operation) would be undertaken, with a focus on how
these may impact matters of national environmental significance.
2.3.1 Response
Construction and operation of the Project is described in Section 2.2.1 above.
Impacts on species and species habitat are summarised below and discussed in more detail for specific species
and communities in the MNES (PD) Assessment Report.
Impacts associated with construction of the Project have been avoided as far as practicable and minimised by
locating the Project footprint predominantly in open areas that have been subject to historical land clearing and
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 18
sheep grazing (Section 4.2.1). Despite this, the Project is anticipated to generate direct and/or indirect impacts on
MNES within the Project area as detailed below:
– Loss of vegetation and habitat including habitat for conservation significant species and vegetation
communities.
– Direct mortality and injury of wildlife
– Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity
– Wildlife disturbance through light, noise and vibration
– Habitat degradation through dust, erosion, run-off and sedimentation
– Introduction and spread of invasive flora and fauna species
– Disturbance of surface waterways and waterbodies or groundwater systems.
2.3.1.1 Loss and disturbance of vegetation and habitat
Potential impacts resulting from clearing native vegetation can include:
– Loss of habitat leading to reduced biodiversity, including long term impacts to local populations and
genotypes
– Loss of microhabitats including tree hollows, hollow logs, leaf litter, rocks and substrate suitable for specific
fauna
– Loss of resources such as foliage, flowers, nectar, fruit and seeds
– Fragmentation of populations, which can reduce genetic exchange between smaller isolated populations.
2.3.1.2 Direct mortality and injury of wildlife
Vegetation clearance during construction may cause injury and mortality to local fauna sheltering in hollows, nests,
ground habitat (logs, burrows, soil, leaf litter, beneath rocks). Species most at risk include nocturnal species that
are likely to be sheltering during clearing activities and slow-moving species or sedentary species that are unlikely
to be able to flee the clearing zone (e.g. koalas, small ground–dwelling mammals, reptiles and frogs). Increased
traffic during the construction phase may increase local incidence of fauna injury and mortality. Species at
increased risk of collision impacts include the squatter pigeon (southern) and ground-dwelling fauna such as
macropods. Entrapment of wildlife within excavations poses an additional threat to wildlife. Most at risk wildlife
includes wide-roaming fauna like macropods, snakes and echidnas.
2.3.1.3 Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity
Habitat fragmentation is the process in which large, continuous habitats are converted into smaller, more isolated
patches, often separated by a matrix of human-induced land cover (Haddad et al 2015; Wilcove et al. 1986).
Habitat fragmentation can isolate populations by creating barriers to local fauna movement and the dispersal of
plant seeds and fruit. The quality of persisting habitats can be degraded by edge effects associated with increased
exposure to light, noise, sediment-laden run-off, erosion and weed and pest infestation. The OHTL occurs within a
landscape that has already been extensively fragmented through clearing for agriculture. As much of the OHTL
Project footprint has been located within areas already subject to clearing, the impacts of habitat fragmentation are
expected to be relatively minor and localised.
For most species, the extent of clearing is within the context of the existing landscape and is unlikely to create a
substantial barrier effect. The movement of koalas and other MNES conservation significant species that are
known to occur within the Project areas is unlikely to be limited by the open spaces created. Consequently, the
fragmentation of habitat is expected to have only localised impacts on the composition of forest bird assemblages,
reptile and small ground mammal species, by reducing the area of available habitat for edge-sensitive forest
species that only occur in protected intact woodland remnants.
2.3.1.4 Disturbance of wildlife through light, noise and vibration
Clearance of vegetation has the capacity to cause indirect degradation of adjacent habitats due to an increase in
the exposure to light, noise and vibration. Consequently, this has the potential to adversely impact native wildlife
through the disruption of foraging, breeding and nesting behaviours (Longcore and Rich, 2004; Slabbekoorn et al.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 19
2010; Popper and Hawkins, 2016). Construction will result in short-term, localised increase in vehicle movements.
This will increase light, noise and vibration disturbance on local wildlife. Increased light, noise and vibration can
alter individual species’ behaviours, and disrupt the balance of inter-species interactions. Such disruptions typically
favour feral predators and generalist species that owe their success to broad ecological tolerances and possess
the ability to tolerate or actively exploit disturbed environments (Hero et al. 2004).
2.3.1.5 Indirect degradation of habitats by dust, run-off and sedimentation
Construction activities have the potential to generate localised dust, erosion, run-off and sedimentation through
increased vehicle movements, clearance of vegetation and earthworks. This can reduce the abundance and
diversity of adjacent terrestrial and aquatic habitats by physically smothering vegetation, changing nutrient levels,
impeding the growth and germination of plant species, encouraging weed incursions and altering the movement
and behaviour of fauna species. The receiving environment has already been subject to high levels of erosion and
sedimentation as a result of past land-clearing and current grazing activities. Nevertheless, sensitive ecological
receptors (e.g. larger woodland remnants and aquatic habitats) are particularly susceptible to adverse impacts
associated with dust, erosion and sedimentation. These areas require protection through the implementation of
appropriate dust management and erosion and sediment control measures during construction, which will be
incorporated into the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan and CEMP.
Adverse weather conditions during construction can exacerbate the potential impact of erosion and sedimentation.
High rainfall has the potential to remove exposed topsoil, destabilise creek beds and distribute sediment through
creek lines. Strong winds have the potential to spread exposed topsoil, decreasing the likelihood of recolonisation
by vegetation and potentially distributing dust into nearby sensitive environments.
2.3.1.6 Introduction and spread of invasive flora species
Construction activities typically have the potential to introduce invasive species through the increased movement
of people and machinery. This occurs predominantly via the movement of contaminated vehicles, fill and
vegetative material. This can cause significant damage to Queensland’s primary industries and undermine the
ecological integrity of bushland remnants by competitively excluding native plant species that provide food, shelter
and nesting resources for native wildlife. Given the Project is located within a predominantly agricultural
landscape, the risks of weed introductions carry heightened consequences. Clearance of native vegetation creates
areas of disturbance that are naturally susceptible to colonisation by invasive weed species. These can form a
local source of future weed infestations within the surrounding landscape.
Two species listed as restricted invasive weeds under the Biosecurity Act 2014 were recorded in the Project area:
– Opuntia tomentosa*
– O. stricta*
Both species have the potential to be spread into new areas as a result of construction activities. Appropriate
treatment and disposal of Opuntia spp. is required under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014.
2.3.1.7 Introduction and spread of introduced fauna
Construction activities have the potential to introduce and/or spread exotic pests throughout the construction area.
This can result in substantial disruptions to natural ecosystem functioning by altering the balance of inter-species
competition and predation. Inappropriate waste disposal and provision of water has the capacity to attract higher
local concentrations of feral predators, increasing the predation pressures on local wildlife, particularly MNES. Pest
fauna species recorded within the Project areas included feral pigs, dog, cat and fox. Access tracks created for the
Project have the potential to facilitate movement of feral predators such as dogs and foxes, thereby increasing
predation pressures on local wildlife and MNES. Although the OHTL areas are already exposed to relatively high
levels of pest infestation, mitigation measures will be required to limit the spread of pest animals that could result
from construction activities.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 20
2.3.1.8 Loss or disturbance to riparian or aquatic habitat
Transmission towers and other associated infrastructure have primarily been sited high on slopes away from
watercourses and drainage lines. Excavations are not anticipated to reach depths that will impact groundwater.
Access tracks have been sited to minimise the number of water crossings. Nevertheless, the proposed OHTL
access tracks intersect a number of mapped watercourses and ephemeral creek lines. These areas are
ecologically important for movement of wildlife, as habitat and drinking sites and are potentially susceptible to
construction-related disturbance.
While the Project will have minimal direct impact on watercourses, earthworks, vehicle movements and other
construction activities have the potential to cause indirect degradation of aquatic habitats. Construction activities
within and/or in the vicinity of watercourses have the potential to cause degradation of aquatic and riparian
habitats through:
– Removal of riparian vegetation
– Run-off, sedimentation and erosion
– Point-source pollution (chemical and fuel spills)
– Establishing barriers to the movement of aquatic fauna
– Disturbance associated with noise, vibration and/or artificial lighting.
Release of sediments into aquatic habitats can result in altered water chemistry (e.g. increased turbidity,
decreased oxygen levels, reduced light penetration), change in channel morphology and alteration of substrate
composition (Wood and Armitage 1997; Wheeler et al. 2005). These impacts can affect aquatic fauna both directly
and indirectly by reducing habitat value and altering trophic dynamics (particularly where substrate and
macrophytes are smothered) and feeding behaviours. Use of construction machinery in and around aquatic habitat
also has the potential to result in the introduction of contaminants, such as fuels and lubricants. These can result in
long-term impacts to aquatic wildlife and their habitats and can lead to a decline in aquatic species diversity as
sensitive species are competitively excluded by more tolerant species, particularly exotic pest species that typically
tolerate degraded habitats.
2.4 Information request 2.1(d) An indicative layout plan for the proposed action area, including the location and type of land use, key
infrastructure, access tracks and conservation areas.
2.4.1 Response
An indicative layout plan for the proposed OHTL, including locations of key infrastructure is included in Figure 1-1.
The Project footprint is shown in Figure 2-1.
2.5 Information request 2.1(e) Identify locations that would have external lighting and the type of lighting proposed.
2.5.1 Response
The Project does not propose external lighting on the OHTL or supporting infrastructure.
Additional information about general lighting for the Project includes:
– Site lighting will be kept to the minimum needed for safety. Lighting will also be directional to face the
construction area where possible and lighting shields will be used where required to avoid direct light into the
surrounding area outside the construction area.
– Wherever practicable, construction activities will be limited to daylight hours to reduce the need for lighting
and resultant light spill into adjacent habitat and to reduce noise and vibration impacts on nocturnal fauna
species.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 21
2.6 Information request 2.1(f) A description of any decommissioning and rehabilitation activities and their likely timing.
2.6.1 Response
2.6.1.1 Decommissioning
At the end of the operational life of the OHTL, the site may be formally decommissioned. A decision will be made
at this point whether to erect new infrastructure on the site or to remove the existing OHTL and associated
infrastructure and rehabilitate the site.
Should the OHTL and associated infrastructure be removed after their designated lifetime of at least 40 years, the
process of decommissioning will be undertaken with the relevant legal requirements, conditions of the approval
and host landowner requirements. The decommissioning process would be subject to an assessment of impacts to
MNES and other relevant regulatory provisions at the time.
2.6.1.2 Rehabilitation
The following commitments have been made with respect to rehabilitation activities:
– Rehabilitation will occur at various stages of the Project. All rehabilitation will be undertaken in accordance
with best practice environmental management principles and in consultation with host landowners and
appropriate regulatory authorities. Following construction, areas requiring reinstatement will likely be
reseeded with pasture, in keeping with the existing land use.
– Exposed channel surfaces will be rehabilitated as soon as practicable to minimise the potential environmental
risk and in accordance with Table 4.4.7 of the Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (IECA
Manual)
– Topsoil is to be stockpiled and reinstated during rehabilitation processes.
– Rehabilitation of temporary construction areas will be undertaken sequentially and as soon as practicable
after clearing to reconnect fragmented habitats.
– Areas of exposed earth will be minimised and rehabilitated with appropriate non-invasive species.
– Rehabilitation of temporary laydown areas, stockpiles, site offices and areas will be undertaken as soon as
practicable once these facilities are no longer required (subject to agreement with the landowner).
– Where practicable, areas of cut and fill will be rehabilitated, providing that roads are maintained for continued
operational use, allowing for oversized loads to facilitate transport of future maintenance, repair or
replacement of OHTL infrastructure.
– Where temporary construction facilities cannot be placed in previously cleared or disturbed areas,
rehabilitation of the areas will be undertaken as soon as practicable after the facilities are no longer required.
A rehabilitation plan will be prepared to outline rehabilitation goals and objectives, recommended approaches,
measurable completion criteria and maintenance and monitoring requirements. The broad objective of the
plan will be to provide rapid reestablishment of locally native vegetation. Topsoil retention and handling will be
a fundamental component of the plan.
– A rehabilitation plan will be prepared to provide details regarding species and stock selection, methodology
for rehabilitation works including site preparation requirements, and measurable completion criteria and
maintenance and monitoring requirements.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 22
3. Description of the environment and Matters of National Environmental Significance
3.1 Information request 3.1 A description of any potential Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) (including but not limited to
those listed in this request for information) that occur in the project area and adjacent areas.
3.1.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report details and describes listed threatened species and ecological communities
and listed migratory species and their habitat that occur in the Project area and adjacent areas as follows:
– Poplar box grassy woodland on alluvial plains TEC
– White box-yellow box-Blakely’s red gum grassy woodland and derived native grassland TEC
– Macrozamia conferta
– Tylophora linearis
– Eucalyptus infera
– Koala
– Central greater glider
– Grey-headed flying-fox
– Squatter pigeon (southern)
– White-throated needletail
– Regent honeyeater
– Painted honeyeater
– Swift parrot
– Fork-tailed swift
– Rufous fantail.
For each species the MNES (PD) Assessment Report details:
– Conservation status and documentation
– Survey effort
– Criteria used to define habitat
– Desktop and survey results
– A description of the significance of the Project area for the species.
In response to the RFI, the MNES (PD) Assessment Report also provides further details and clarifications with
regards to the presence or absence, and the extent and quality of habitat for the following species:
– Weeping myall woodlands TEC
– Thesium australe
– Dicanthium setosum
– Grey falcon
– Spot-tailed quoll
– Border thick-tailed gecko.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 23
To confirm listed threatened species and ecological communities and listed migratory species and their habitat that
may occur in or adjacent to the Project area, revised searches were undertaken of the PMST and the Queensland
Biomaps spatial layer on 2 December 2020 and are included in the MNES (PD) Assessment Report.
An updated likelihood of occurrence assessment was prepared for all species identified on the PMST and in
Biomaps searches. This included grey falcon (Falco hypoleucos) that was listed under the EPBC Act between the
time of drafting the referral. Grey falcon is considered unlikely to occur.
The updated likelihood of occurrence assessment is included in the MNES (PD) Assessment Report.
3.2 Information request 3.2 A description and map of the current land use/s, land topography, surface and ground water bodies, waterways
and vegetation communities (habitat types as they relate to potentially impacted listed threatened species) on the
proposed action site and adjoining areas.
3.2.1 Response
3.2.1.1 Current land use
As described in the referral (EPBC 2020/8759) and accompanying figures, current land use within and adjacent to
the Project area is predominantly rural, characterised as grazing native vegetation on the Queensland Land Use
Mapping Program (Queensland Department of Environment and Science, 2017)
The Project area is within the Southern Downs Regional Council, Goondiwindi Regional Council and Toowoomba
Regional Council local government areas (LGAs). The Southern Downs Regional Council LGA comprises a
mosaic of communities within extensive areas of land used for rural purposes. The key regional centres supporting
the region are Warwick and Stanthorpe. The Goondiwindi region contains a rich and varied cultural landscape,
with an economic context and settlement pattern established from pastoralism, agriculture and transportation. The
region’s economic and social wellbeing is linked to rural land uses including agriculture, and wool and beef cattle
production. The towns of Goondiwindi, Inglewood and Texas are the major settlements in the Goondiwindi region,
with several smaller townships throughout. Toowoomba is the principal regional centre for the Darling Downs
region and promotes a diverse range of business, industry and tourism activity, underpinned by a dynamic
agricultural and pastoral sector. Other industries supported by the Toowoomba region include defence, logistics,
knowledge-based industries and emerging energy industries (both renewable and non-renewable).
Leyburn State Forest and Talgai State Forest are located east of the OHTL in the north, with Durikai State Forest
located east of the OHTL in the south. Other state forests within the broader locality include Macintyre State
Forest, to the south-west, Passchendaele State Forest to the south-east, and Devine State Forest to the west.
The built form of the Project area and surrounding rural areas is generally comprised of single to two storey rural
residences with farm amenity buildings. The region has several small rural towns, with the larger regional centres
of Warwick and Stanthorpe located 40 km to the east and 40 km to the south-east, respectively. The closest towns
are Leyburn, population 476 (ABS, 2016), located approximately 7 km east of the northern extent of the Project
area, Karara, population 123 (ABS, 2016), located approximately 5 km east of the mid-section of the Project area,
and Gore, with a population of 36 (ABS, 2016) located approximately 3 km west of the mid-section of the Project
area
Current land uses for the region are shown in Figure 3-1.
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Gore
Cement Mills
Goldfields
Pratten
Leyburn
Turallin
Karara
Millmerran
Amiens
Stonehenge
Thane
Kooroongarra
Oman Ama
MO
UN
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NE
T RO
AD
PI K EDALE ROAD
B LACKWELL ROAD
S TONEHE NGE ROAD
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E
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IT FE NCE R OAD
PAULI ROAD
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S
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ITOC RE
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AVILLE RO
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PATON ROAD
COLUM BAR
O AD
CARB
EA N ROAD
HECKELS ROAD
MILLWOOD ROAD
WIC
K
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MR
OAD
F
OR
ESTRY
RO
AD
COU
PE
ROAD
COBBADA
MANA ROAD
BOSTOCK ROAD
FO
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RO
AD
STRA
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AD
VO
LK
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SR
OA
D
FOXB
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RO
AD
KIRBY ROAD
HAIN
RO
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LOV
ELL
R
OAD
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IGHILL ROAD
SO
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WRIGHT ROAD
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UM
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EZZY ROA
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TINH
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KIN
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HECKENDORF ROA
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VE R
ON
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L ROAD
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DO
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GLEN SAN
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OW
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AK
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AR
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STANTHOR PE INGLEWOODROAD
MIL
LM
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ING
LE
WO
OD
RO
AD
GO
REHIG
HWAY
CLIFTON LEYB URN ROAD
LEYBURN CUNNINGHAM ROAD
CUNNIN GHA
M
HIGHWAY
FELTO
NC
LIF
T ON ROAD
MILLMERRAN LEYBURN R OAD
DALR
YM
PLECREEK ROAD
DurikaiStateForest
MillmerranState Forest
CoolmundaConservation Park
YelarbonState
Forest
PasschendaeleState Forest
GreenupState Forest
LeyburnStateForest
Western CreekState Forest
BringalilyState Forest
TalgaiState
Forest
DomvilleState Forest
TerricaState
Forest
DevineStateForest
MacintyreState Forest
Figure 3-1
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (1 9/03 /20 21 ); Do R : L oca li ty, R oa d, Ra ilwa y, L an d use (20 1 9); DE S: P rote cted A rea (20 18 ). Cre a te d b y: x le eN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _M NE S_R FI_A dd .m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 08 :03
Legend" Locality
RailwayHighwayMinor roadProject area
Land UseChannel/aqueductCroppingGrazing modified pasturesGrazing native vegetationIntensive animal production
Irrigated croppingIrrigated perennial horticultureIrrigated seasonal horticultureLakeLand in transitionManaged resource protectionManufacturing and industrialMarsh/wetlandMiningNature conservationOther minimal use
Perennial horticulturePlantation forestsProduction native forestsReservoir/damResidentialRiverServicesTransport and communicat ionUtilit iesWaste treatment and disposal
Land use
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 25
3.2.1.2 Topography
Topography in the southern extent of the OHTL (where it traverses the proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm and
proposed Karara Wind Farm project areas) consists of a series of low rolling hills at elevations of up to
670 m AHD. North of the Cunningham Highway, topography is more varied, as the OHTL extends north through
hilly areas and then into relatively flat topography at elevations of 440 m to 470 m AHD in the northern extent of
the OHTL.
The northern extent of the OHTL is approximately 2 km west of Kangaroo Mountain (514 m AHD) and extends
south through relatively flat terrain. The mid-section of the OHTL traverses east of the Herries Range before
extending south-east just north of Bald Hill (647 m AHD) and continuing south of the Herries Range.
The topography within the broader region generally comprises a series of continuous low rolling hills. Low hills to
more mountainous landforms appear towards the Great Dividing Range around the Stanthorpe area, and a more
undulating terrain is seen generally within the south of the Project area.
Topography within and surrounding the Project is shown in Figure 3-2.
3.2.1.3 Water resources
Water resources and hydrology were discussed in the EPBC Act referral (2020/8759) and supported by mapping.
In summary, the Project area is located within the Border Rivers Drainage Basin. A series of ephemeral waterways
run through the Project area. These are mapped as first, second, third, fourth and fifth-order streams in the
Queensland Government stream order mapping.
The Project traverses Sandy Creek, a fifth-order stream in the northern extent. A fourth-order stream (Macintyre
Brook) flows in an east-west direction south of the mid-section of the Project; and intersect the OHTL further east.
The Project also traverses Muckinboy Creek, a fourth-order stream and Burrabaranga Creek, a third-order stream,
in the east, and Bandicoot Gully, a third order stream, in the south.
All first and second order streams are ephemeral in nature, completely drying during periods of low rainfall
(typically during the winter months). The third, fourth and fifth order streams are likely to be semi-permanent,
contracting to a series of isolated pools during periods of low rainfall. All streams had a rocky base where
observations were made. Most have been subject to extensive loss and degradation of the riparian vegetation due
to land clearing for agriculture.
There are several farm dams and registered groundwater bores within the Project area. Leslie Dam near Warwick
is also a nearby water catchment, supplying water to local areas (Figure 3-3).
!
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Gore
Cement Mills
Goldfields
Pratten
Leyburn
Turallin
Karara
Millmerran
Amiens
Stonehenge
Thane
Kooroongarra
Oman Ama
Bald Hill
DurikaiStateForest
MillmerranState Forest
CoolmundaConservation
Park
YelarbonState
Forest
PasschendaeleState Forest
GreenupState Forest
LeyburnStateForest
Western CreekState Forest
BringalilyState Forest
TalgaiState
Forest
DomvilleState Forest
TerricaState
Forest
DevineStateForest
MacintyreState Forest
Her ries Range
H e rries Range
HerriesRange
He rries Ra n ge
900
80
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Figure 3-2
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (1 9/03 /20 21 ); Do R : L oca li ty, Mo un tain R an ge s la be l (2 0 19 ); C SIR O: Elev atio n Grid 3 0m ( 20 10 ); GH D : 5 0m Co nto urs fro m C SIRO 3 0m Elev atio n Grid (2 02 0 ). C re ate d by : xleeN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _M NE S_R FI_A dd .m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 08 :04
Legend" Locality
Project areaElevation contour (50 mAHD interval)
Elevation (mAHD)High : 1361.86
Low : 89.76
Topography
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
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Cement Mills
Pratten
Karara
Thane
Macin
tyreBro
ok
Horse Gully
Canal Gully
Balonne-CondamineBasin
BorderRiversBasin
Figure 3-3
0 1 2 3 4
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (1 9/03 /20 21 ); Do R : Ima ge ry (2 01 5) , Lo ca li ty, Water cou rse s, Da m, Dra in a ge B asin (2 01 9 ), Gro u nd wa ter Bo re s (20 21 ). Cre a te d b y: x le eN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _M NE S_R FI_A dd .m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 15 :07
Legend" Locality
Major watercourseMinor watercourseProject area
") Dam&́ Registered groundwater bore! Farm dam
Drainage basin
Water resources
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 28
3.2.1.4 Vegetation communities
The Project area occurs in a landscape that has been subject to generations of sheep grazing and timber
harvesting. Through these land uses, the natural environment has been subject to loss and fragmentation of
natural habitat. Remnant vegetation has been extensively cleared through broad-acre clearing or ring-barking and
aerial poisoning. The understorey and natural substrates have been extensively degraded by grazing and
trampling by stock. Native habitat remnants are generally restricted to rocky hillsides and slopes that are
logistically impractical for grazing and narrow riparian fringes adjacent to waterways. These rocky hillsides and
fringing riparian vegetation represent the highest habitat values within the Project area, providing important
resources and microhabitats for a range of birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians. Large amounts of fallen
woody debris and timber have been left across parts of the Project area. These areas retain modified habitat
values for a variety of birds, mammals and reptiles. Dams have been constructed across the Project area and
surrounds, and natural waterholes occur within isolated sections of semi-permanent watercourses. These provide
semi-permanent (to permanent) drinking sites that would be utilised by birds, mammals and provide breeding sites
for amphibians, fish and turtles. While the lower-lying alluvial areas have been subject to over 100 years of
grazing, weed importation and associated disturbance, all habitat types within the Project area will have some
value for native wildlife.
The seven broad habitat types listed below were observed within the Project area as shown in Figure 3-4:
– Low Eucalypt woodland on rocky hills and rises
– Mixed Eucalypt woodland/forest
– Ironbark open woodland with a grassy understorey
– Ephemeral or semi-permanent watercourses (and waterholes) with fringing riparian woodland
– Permanent dams
– Cleared or heavily modified grazing land
– Low regrowth woodland with a shrubby understorey.
These habitats and their value to MNES are described in Table 3-1. Species specific habitat requirements and
areas are described in the MNES (PD) Assessment Report.
"
L EYBURN FORESTRYROAD
BENSON R OAD
RAUCHLE ROAD
D
ONOVANROAD
FALLA LA NE
SPRI
NTS
DRIVE
WICK
HAM ROAD
STRATHANEROAD
TUMM
AVI LL
ERO
AD
KIRBY ROAD
LAVELLE ROAD
THE TURKEY ROAD
LIBERATOR PLACE
DELAHAYE DRIVE
PUK ALLUS ROAD
SPIERSCRE EK ROAD
WIRRAW AY AVEN UE
KARARA ROAD
OWENS SCRUB ROAD
STONEHENGE ROAD
NYORA ROAD
STRATHYRE ROAD
BONNIE DOON ROAD
MILLMERRAN RO AD
GLEN SANNOX ROAD
TOOW
OOMB
A KAR
A RA R
OAD
LE YBURN CUNNINGHAM ROAD
MILLMERRANLEYBURN ROAD
Leyburn
DurikaiStateForest
LeyburnStateForest
Figure 3-4
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea s (2 01 8); D oR : Ima g ery (2 01 5 ), L oc al ity, R oa d, Wate rco urs es, Ca d astre (20 19 ); GHD : H a bi ta t Typ es (2 0 20 ). C re ate d b y: xleeN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 15 :34
Legend" Locality
Major roadMinor roadCadastreOverhead electrical transmission lineProject area
Fauna habitat typeIronbark open woodlandMixed Eucalypt woodland/forestMixed Eucalypt on alluvial flatsLow Eucalypt woodland on rocky hills and risesDamEphemeral or semi-permanent watercourses w ith fringing riparianvegetationCleared and highly modified grazing land
Habitat types
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
"
"
"
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Gore
Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Thane
Sheet 1
"
"
CARBEAN ROAD
STONEHENGE ROAD
BURRABARANGA RO AD
ROCKD AL
ERO
AD
ME IKLE JOHN RO AD
COLUMBA ROAD
WARAHGAI ROAD
WICK
HAM ROAD
DUNGORM ROAD
BACK CREEK ROADKARARA ROAD
NYORA ROAD
CEMEN T MILLS ROAD
RAB B ITFENCER OA D
STRATHYRE ROAD
MILLMERRAN ROAD
GLEN SANNOX ROAD
TOOWOOMBAKAR ARAROAD
CUNNINGHAM HIGHWAY
Macinty
reBr
ook
Gore
Karara
DurikaiStateForest
Figure 3-4
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea s (2 01 8); D oR : Ima g ery (2 01 5 ), L oc al ity, R oa d, Wate rco urs es, Ca d astre (20 19 ); GHD : H a bi ta t Typ es (2 0 20 ). C re ate d b y: xleeN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 15 :34
Legend" Locality
Major watercourseMajor roadMinor roadCadastreOverhead electrical transmission lineProject area
Fauna habitat typeIronbark open woodlandMixed Eucalypt woodland/forestMixed Eucalypt on alluvial flatsLow Eucalypt woodland on rocky hills and risesLow shrubby regrowthDamEphemeral or semi-permanent watercourses w ith fringing riparianvegetationCleared and highly modified grazing land
Habitat types
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
"
"
"
"
"
Gore
Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Thane
Sheet 2
"
RABBIT F ENCE ROAD
SPRING CREEK ROAD
BURRABARANGA RO AD
CLEARY LANE
DURIKAI ROADINVERARY ROAD
CARBE AN ROAD
ROCK
DALE
ROA D
COLUMBA ROAD
WARA
HGAI
ROAD
DUNGORM RO AD
LUNA ROAD
SNAKE RIDGE ROAD
HUNTERS HILL RO AD
CEME
NTMILLS
ROAD
CUNNINGHAM HIGHWAY
Mac in
ty reBro
ok
Gore
DurikaiStateForest
MacintyreState Forest
Figure 3-4
0 1 2 3
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 28/04/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 6/03 /20 21 ); DE S: P rote cted A rea s (2 01 8); D oR : Ima g ery (2 01 5 ), L oc al ity, R oa d, Wate rco urs es, Ca d astre (20 19 ); GHD : H a bi ta t Typ es (2 0 20 ). C re ate d b y: xleeN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI_S eries.m xd
Prin t d a te : 2 8 Ap r 20 21 - 15 :35
Legend" Locality
Major watercourseMajor roadMinor roadCadastreOverhead electrical transmission lineProject area
Fauna habitat typeIronbark open woodlandMixed Eucalypt woodland/forestLow Eucalypt woodland on rocky hills and risesLow shrubby regrowthDamEphemeral or semi-permanent watercourses w ith fringing riparianvegetationCleared and highly modified grazing land
Habitat types
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.
"
"
"
"
"
Gore
Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Thane
Sheet 3
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 32
Table 3-1 Habitat types
Habitat type Characteristics Ecological values
Low Eucalypt woodland on rocky hills and rises
Low canopy vegetation
Moderate abundance of hollow-bearing trees
Sparse low native shrubs including Casuarina
Logs, woody debris and other complex ground-level microhabitats present in high densities
Presence of rocky outcrops and boulders
Dense leaf litter
Mistletoes abundant in patches
Nesting and foraging habitat for canopy-dwelling birds
Refuges and basking areas for snakes, dragons, skinks and geckos
Foraging habitat for ground-dwelling mammals
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – koala, squatter pigeon, glossy black-cockatoo, grey-headed flying-fox, echidna and localised areas of habitat for painted honeyeater, swift parrot, regent honeyeater
Mixed Eucalypt woodland/forest
Mature canopy vegetation
Moderate abundance of hollow-bearing trees
Shrubs present in patches with isolated patches of Casuarina and Allocasuarina
Abundance of logs and fallen woody debris
Mistletoes abundant in patches
Nesting and foraging habitat for canopy and shrub-dwelling birds
Refugial habitat for snakes, dragons, skinks and geckos
Foraging habitat for ground-dwelling mammals
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – koala, central greater glider, glossy black-cockatoo, powerful owl, grey-headed flying-fox, echidna and localised areas of habitat for regent honeyeater, swift parrot, painted honeyeater,
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 33
Habitat type Characteristics Ecological values
Ironbark open woodland
Low canopy vegetation
Moderate abundance of hollow-bearing trees
Sparse low native shrubs
Logs, woody debris and other complex ground-level microhabitats present in high densities
Presence of rocky outcrops and boulders
Dense leaf litter
Nesting and foraging habitat for canopy-dwelling birds
Refuges and basking areas for snakes, dragons, skinks and geckos
Foraging habitat for ground-dwelling mammals
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – koala, central greater glider, powerful owl, , grey-headed flying-fox, echidna and localised areas of habitat for regent honeyeater, and painted honeyeater
Ephemeral or semi-permanent watercourses with fringing riparian vegetation
Mature canopy trees present in low abundance
High abundance of hollow-bearing trees
Patches of dense shrubs
Ephemeral and semi-permanent water sources
Sandy substrate suitable for burrowing
Den sites for arboreal mammals
Drinking sites for birds and mammals
Nesting and foraging habitat for canopy, shrub and ground-dwelling birds
Refuges and breeding sites for amphibians
Foraging habitat for snakes
Foraging and roosting habitat for microbats
Movement corridors for birds, reptiles and mammals
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – koala, grey-headed flying-fox, echidna and localised areas of habitat for the regent honeyeater, swift parrot and painted honeyeater
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 34
Habitat type Characteristics Ecological values
Dams
Occasional large hollow-bearing trees
Permanent water sources
Sandy substrate suitable for burrowing
Nesting and foraging habitat for waterbirds
Drinking sites for birds and mammals
Breeding and foraging habitat for amphibians
Foraging habitat for snakes
Breeding and foraging habitat for fish and turtles
Foraging and roosting habitat for microbats
Potential MNES and conservations significant species – squatter pigeon
Cleared and highly modified grazing land
Canopy and shrub layer generally absent
Notably high abundance of hollow stags
High density of course woody debris and hollow ground logs
Ground-layer heavily altered – subject to grazing
Foraging habitat for raptors and birds adapted to open landscapes
Foraging and roosting habitat for microbats
Refuge and foraging habitat for snakes, dragons and skinks
Foraging habitat for macropods and rabbits
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – Nil
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 35
Habitat type Characteristics Ecological values
Low shrubby regrowth
Immature regrowth canopy vegetation
No hollow-bearing trees present
Dense shrubby understorey of varying heights
Dense ground covering vegetation in places
Presence of rocky substrate and woody debris
Nesting habitat for shrub-dwelling birds
Refuges for reptiles and small ground-dwelling mammals
Potential MNES and conservation significant species – echidna
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 36
3.3 Information request 3.3 For listed threatened species and ecological communities that have the potential, or are likely, to be present at and
in the vicinity of the project site, including but not limited to those listed in this request for further information, this
section must provide the following:
a) Information on the abundance, distribution, ecology and habitat preference of the species or communities.
b) Quantification of the extent of habitat and (if known) the number of individuals present or historical patterns
of use on and surrounding the proposed action site (including maps identifying known or potential habitat).
c) Assessment of the quality and importance of known or potential habitat for the species or communities
within the proposed action site and surrounding areas.
d) Information detailing known populations or records within at least five kilometres of the development
footprint and (if known) the size of these populations.
e) Information on the survey methodology used, including a map/s of survey points or transects, how the
survey points or transects were selected, when surveys were conducted (e.g. dates, time of day, season,
etc.) and search effort (e.g. 20 hours over eight days).
f) An assessment of the adequacy of any surveys undertaken. In particular, the extent to which these
surveys were appropriate for the species and undertaken in accordance with relevant survey guidelines.
g) Results of any surveys undertaken.
3.3.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
For listed woodland bird species, regent honeyeater, painted honeyeater and swift parrot, detailed responses are
provided in Nature Advisory’s EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
(Nature Advisory 2021).
3.4 Information request 3.4 Information about the methods, data and scientific literature used to identify and assess the environmental values
on the proposed action site and surrounding areas, including survey data and historical records. Survey data for
the proposed action site must be provided for the above listed threatened species, should be as recent as
possible, and must not have been collected more than five years before the date of this letter.
3.4.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
For listed woodland bird species, regent honeyeater, painted honeyeater and swift parrot, detailed responses are
provided in Nature Advisory’s EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
(Nature Advisory 2021).
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 37
4. Quantification of impacts
4.1 Information request 4.1 Provide a description of the intended land uses proposed as part of the completed development, associated
ongoing activities, and details of the intended party that would be responsible for future management activities of
the overhead transmission line.
4.1.1 Response
4.1.1.1 Intended land use of completed development
The Project will include the construction and operation of 64 km of high voltage overhead transmission line and
ancillary infrastructure. Access tracks constructed during the construction of the OHTL will be retained for
operational and maintenance use.
The Project will be constructed on within an easement and will connect the proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm (EPBC
2020/8756) and proposed Karara Wind Farm (EPBC 2020/8755) to the national electrical grid at a connection
point on the Powerlink transmission network at the Millmerran-Middle Ridge 330 kV OHTL.
The Project infrastructure will be installed across a broad landscape that is currently used mostly for grazing and
will be able to continue this land use practice once the development is completed.
4.1.1.2 Associated ongoing activities
Once constructed, the OHTL will generally operate without intervention.
Most maintenance undertaken on the OHTL will be scheduled preventative maintenance. Reactive maintenance
will occur as required and priority works would be undertaken as soon as possible to ensure operation of the
OHTL.
Management of vegetation for the operational clearance boundary of the transmission line and access tracks
would be required for the life of the Project. Vegetation may also be removed for firebreaks or to reduce bushfire
risk.
4.1.1.3 Future management responsibilities
The OHTL is being developed by ACCIONA.
At present, ACCIONA will be responsible for building, owning and operating the proposed OHTL and retain
responsibility for future management activities.
4.2 Information request 4.2 Include current maps and coordinates/shapefile of the proposed impact area and areas of habitat for MNES
proposed to be retained. Maps must clearly identify development footprints, buffer zones, and any conservation
areas where impacts will be avoided, and areas of adjacent habitat that would be subject to indirect impacts,
including areas that are to be retained within and adjacent to the site.
4.2.1 Response
4.2.1.1 MNES
The proposed direct impact areas are shown in Figure 2-1. Areas of habitat for MNES that are outside the direct
impact area shown on Figure 2-1 will be retained. Shapefile data has been provided to DAWE separately.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 38
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
4.2.1.2 Conservation areas
The Durikai State Forest and Leyburn State Forest are located east of the Project. Other state forests within the
broader locality include the Macintyre State Forest to the south-west, Talgai State Forest to the east,
Passchendaele State Forest to the south-east, and the Devine State Forest to the south-west.
Part of the Project area sits within the Traprock Important Bird Area (IBA). The Traprock IBA is an area of 627 km2
that is defined as an IBA due to recent occurrences of regent honeyeaters. The Traprock IBA includes the
Macintyre and Durikai state forests and the upper catchment of Macintyre Brook.
Most of the Project area intersects a State biodiversity corridor. A regional biodiversity corridor also intersects the
Project area. This corridor is associated with riparian habitat of Macintyre Brook.
The Project has been designed in a manner that sought to avoid and minimise potential impacts on biodiversity
within the conservation areas. Key conservation areas will not be impacted by the Project.
Conservation areas are shown on Figure 4-1.
4.3 Information request 4.3 Confirm the area of habitat that will be directly and indirectly impacted by the proposed action, including areas
where:
a) Connectivity to surrounding habitat will be retained, removed or functionally lost.
b) Adjacent habitat will be subject to intensification of ongoing impacts (for example, through increased levels
of dust or polluted runoff).
4.3.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
4.4 Information request 4.4 Confirm the quantity and quality of suitable habitat to be impacted within the proposed action area.
4.4.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
Table 4-1 provides a summary of the presence or absence of species or habitat within the Project area and
whether an impact on the species or habitat is predicted as a result of the Project footprint.
"
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MO
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NE
TRO
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PIK EDALE ROAD
STONEHENGEROA D
TRALEE
ROAD
CLEARY LANE
RABBITFE
NCE
RO
AD
PAULI ROAD
MO
UN
TAIN
MA
ID
ROAD
LEYB
UR
N
FOR
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ROAD
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RO
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HA
LL
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ITOCR
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HA ZELDENE RO AD
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WRIGHT ROAD
CLIF
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THE TURKEY RO AD
EZZY ROAD
L
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ST ANTHORPE ING LEWOOD ROAD
GORE HIGHW
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LEYBURN CUNNINGHAM ROAD
CUNNINGHA
M
HIGHWAY
FELTON CLIFTON ROADMILLMERRAN LEYBURN R OAD
Mac in
tyreBro
ok
CondamineR iv er
P ike Creek
Cannin
g Creek
Brac ker Creek
Dalrymple Creek
Sandy
Creek
Hodgson Creek
Kings
Creek
Gore
Pratten
Leyburn
Karara
Millmerran
Thane
Kooroongarra
DurikaiStateForest
MillmerranState Forest
PasschendaeleState Forest
Leyburn StateForest
BringalilyStateForest
TalgaiState
Forest
TerricaState
Forest
PozieresStateForest
DevineStateForest
MacintyreStateForest
Figure 4-1
0 2 4 6 8
Kilometres
Project No.Revision No. 0
12525037Date 13/08/2021
Acciona Energy Australia Global Pty LtdAdditional Information Response
Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56
Paper Size ISO A3
oDa ta so urce : A ccio na : Pro po sed La yo ut (2 7/07 /20 21 ); DE S: B io diver sity Plan ning A rea - Ne w En g la nd Tab le la nd s v2 .3 (20 14 ), Briga lo w Be lt v2 .1 (2 01 8), Wildl ife C o rrid or, Pro te cte d ar ea s (20 18 ); Do R : Wa te rco urs es, L oca li ty, Ro a d
(20 19 ); GHD : Tra pro ck IBA (d ig itise d 2 02 0 ). C re ated by : xleeN:\AU \B risb a ne \P rojec ts \4 1\1 25 2 50 37 \GIS \M ap s\MXD \12 5 25 03 7_ KBM _TL _M NE S_R FI.mxdPrin t d a te : 1 3 Au g 2 02 1 - 1 0:2 0
Legend" Locality
Major watercourseMajor roadMinor roadOverhead electrical transmission lineProject areaTraprock Important Bird AreaProtected area
Wildlife CorridorStateRegional
Biodiversity SignificanceState Habitat for EVNT taxaStateRegionalLocal or Other ValuesNon Bioregion Ecosystem
and protected area
Based on or contains data prov ided by the State of Queensland 2021.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you
acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relat ion tothe data (inc luding accuracy, reliability, com pleteness, currency or
suitability ) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability innegligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for
direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws. Biodiversity corridors
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Table 4-1 Species presence within the Project area and predicted impact of Project footprint
Matter Species / habitat present in Project area
Species / habitat impacted by Project footprint
Poplar box grassy woodlands on alluvial plains
Yes
1.33 ha
No - Project design has avoided clearing
White box-yellow box-Blakely’s red gum grassy woodland and derived natural grassland
No
Habitat absent
No
Weeping myall woodlands No
Habitat absent
No
Macrozamia conferta Yes
1,609 individuals
Yes
164 plants
Tylophora linearis No individuals present
0.77 ha habitat
No - Project design has avoided impact to individuals
Eucalyptus infera No
Species and habitat absent
No
Thesium australe No
Species and habitat absent
No
Dicanthium setosum No
Species and habitat absent
No
Koala Yes
266.84 ha
Yes
236.51 ha
Central greater glider Yes
94.51 ha
Yes
88.9 ha
Grey-headed flying-fox Yes
266.84 ha
Yes
236.51 ha
Spot-tailed quoll Yes
Sub-optimal foraging habitat present
No - Project avoids contiguous patches of potential habitat
Squatter pigeon (southern) Yes
135.09 ha
Yes
126.65 ha
White-throated needletail Yes
Species present
No
Regent honeyeater Yes
5.06 ha
Yes
4.67 ha
Painted honeyeater Yes
3.31 ha
Yes
2.99 ha of habitat that is not critical to the survival of the species
Swift parrot Yes
4.83 ha
Yes
4.47 ha of habitat that is not critical to the survival of the species
Grey falcon No
Species and habitat absent
No
Border thick-tailed gecko No
Species and habitat absent
No
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4.5 Information request 4.5 Provide an assessment of the direct, indirect, consequential and cumulative impacts that may occur during
construction and operation phases, including:
a) The nature and extent of impacts (including direct, indirect and facilitated impacts*), including timing and
whether the impact is temporary or permanent.
b) Details of any policy guidelines, relevant studies, surveys or consultations with species experts/field
specialists, which were not included in the referral or additional information provided in support of the
referral.
c) A local and regional scale analysis of likely impacts, with reference to the project’s potential contribution to
cumulative impacts in the context of development patterns in the locality and region.
d) A risk assessment of potential impacts from the action that are likely to be unpredictable, severe, or
irreversible.
*Note: Facilitated impacts may include (but are not limited to) behavioural avoidance or other changes, movement
due to transmission lines or external lighting or the risk of injury or mortality to MNES as a result of vehicle strike.
4.5.1 Response
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3.
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5. Avoidance and mitigation
5.1 Information request 5.1 Provide a consolidated description of all proposed measures to avoid and mitigate impacts, including those
provided in the referral and any additional to those described in the referral.
This should include:
a) Discussion of consideration and assessment of alternative strategies, plans and measures to avoid and
mitigate impacts (e.g. alternative plans, retention of habitat/movement corridors/buffers, and fauna-friendly
development and design measures).
b) Details about pre-clearance and clearance procedures to ensure that species are detected and managed
to minimise mortality, stress, injury, or introduction of disease.
c) A description (including maps and imagery) of the location, boundaries and size of buffer areas or
proposed exclusion zones, and details on how these areas will be enhanced, protected and maintained.
Also include a description of any fences or barriers which may be installed around areas where impacts
will be avoided.
d) Details of any rehabilitation measures to be implemented for disturbed areas, including rehabilitation
objectives, target species, timing of rehabilitation stages, methodology, maintenance measures,
schedules, and monitoring.
e) Details of any ongoing mitigation and management measures during the operation of the facility.
5.2 Information request 5.1(a) Discussion of consideration and assessment of alternative strategies, plans and measures to avoid and mitigate
impacts (e.g. alternative plans, retention of habitat/movement corridors/buffers, and fauna-friendly development
and design measures).
5.2.1 Response
5.2.1.1 Layout development
The layout of the Project has been based on the viability of the Project and has been significantly refined to avoid
and minimise impacts on known environmental constraints, where practicable, in areas approved by landholders.
Micro-siting of infrastructure during detailed design may further reduce the impacts of the Project.
Alternative strategies, plans and measures to avoid and mitigate impacts
A hierarchical approach of avoiding then minimising vegetation clearing was adopted in the design of the Project in
response to ecological constraints. Ecological assessments identified the following areas that helped to inform the
design:
– No-go areas: High-value regrowth vegetation (categorised as Category C vegetation under Queensland
legislation)
– High impact areas: high priority areas to avoid as far as practicable; particularly for temporary works, on the
basis that the areas contain one or more of the following:
• High value habitat for listed threatened species comprising of breeding, nesting or roosting habitat
• Values for a large number of species and/or species habitat collectively
• Endangered RE
• A TEC
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• Non-fragmented parcels of good quality vegetation.
– Low impact areas: low priority areas to avoid on the basis that they contain:
• Moderate to low value listed threatened species habitat and/or foraging and general use habitat
• Smaller, fragmented areas of habitat
• Of Concern or Least Concern RE.
Following the constraints assessment, an iterative design process was adopted with the aim being to avoid areas
identified as no-go, high impact, and low impact, where practicable. Subsequent to the preparation of the MNES
Assessment Report, design progression has identified additional access requirements in some areas, largely col-
located within existing access routes, but such that the total area of the Project footprint is 425.8 ha from the
384 ha reported in the referral (EPBC 2020/8759). This increase is attributable to a more detailed understanding of
operational access requirements for the Project.
Where practicable, infrastructure has been located within areas of non-remnant vegetation or within existing
cleared areas and does not extend outside the adopted Project footprint.
Structures have been sited within Least Concern RE where possible, before being placed in Of Concern or
Endangered RE. Infrastructure has also been sited to avoid essential habitat to the greatest extent possible;
however, these areas have not been fully avoided.
In some cases, the identified constrained areas could not be avoided due to terrain and topography constraints
and consideration of landowner constraints. These factors are discussed in further detail below.
Topography
The topography of the site was a constraint in the selection of locations for a number of the access tracks and
tower locations. Where practicable and topography allowed, access tracks and hard stand areas are proposed in
areas of non-remnant vegetation.
To allow for the safety of the construction team and the transport of equipment, some of the infrastructure is
required to be located outside of non-remnant vegetation areas.
Landowners
The proposed location and placement of infrastructure, both temporary and permanent, required consent and
approval from the relevant landholder. Site selection was therefore limited to areas approved by landowners as
part of the overall Project design.
Where avoidance is not practicable, measures to minimise the impacts have been adopted including:
– Restriction of land clearing to the minimum required for safe construction. Detailed design, geotechnical and
land surveys will inform micro-siting of infrastructure with consideration of further reducing the extent of
clearing required.
– Use of existing farming tracks as access tracks and widening these to meet the needs of construction. This
will result in some vegetation clearing but tracks in existing disturbance areas will be used as much as
practicable to minimise new disturbance and fragmentation of habitat.
– Site offices, construction stockpiles and other temporary activities will be placed in previously disturbed areas
where possible
– Where temporary construction activities cannot be placed in previously disturbed or cleared areas,
rehabilitation of the areas will be undertaken as soon as practicable after the facilities are no longer required.
– Where infrastructure crosses watercourses, areas of existing disturbance (e.g. existing farming tracks) have
been selected. Where there is not practicable, the Project footprint has been minimised and clearing large
habitat trees have been avoided where practicable.
– Habitat enhancement features (e.g. salvaged hollows and nesting boxes) will be established outside of the
clearing area within suitable habitat and in accordance with management plans and legislative requirements,
as applicable.
– Infrastructure alignment and routes have been designed using direct routes where practicable, to minimise
the total amount of clearing required.
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Additional measures to avoid impacts that have been incorporated into the design of the Project include the use of
infrastructure elements that do not preclude fauna movement. There will be no new fences constructed (with the
exception of a perimeter fence around the switching stations) and the OHTL will not have any external lighting.
5.2.1.2 Description of potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures
The assessment of impacts to MNES determined that the following impacting processes are those most likely to
result in a significant impact:
– Loss of habitat
– Injury or mortality
– Fragmentation of habitat and loss of connectivity
– Disturbance to habitat from noise, light, and vibration
– Habitat degradation and increased erosion
– Spread of invasive species.
The MNES (PD) Assessment Report provides detailed responses to this request for listed threatened species and
ecological communities and listed migratory species as relevant to the Project and described in Section 1.3 and
has been informed by the:
– Construction Management Plan
– Preliminary Fauna Management Plan
– Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan
General mitigation measures have been consolidated in Table 5-1.
5.3 Information request 5.1(b) Details about pre-clearance and clearance procedures to ensure that species are detected and managed to
minimise mortality, stress, injury, or introduction of disease.
5.3.1 Response
5.3.1.1 Pre-clearance and clearance procedures to protect and manage species
A Preliminary Fauna Management Plan (2021b) and a Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan (GHD 2021c)
include a summary of legislation, environmental licenses, permits and approvals, a description of the existing
environment, and mitigation and management measures.
The measures to ensure that species are detected and managed to minimise mortality, stress, injury, or
introduction of disease are discussed in Table 5-2.
Inspection and monitoring activities to be undertaken during pre-clearing and clearing are outlined in Table 5-3.
Corrective actions for incidents during pre-clearing and clearing activities are outlined in Table 5-4.
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Table 5-1 Environmental mitigation and management measures
Impact Mitigation and management measures
Flora and fauna (terrestrial and aquatic)
General impacts to flora and fauna All site personnel shall attend environmental training as part of the site induction process prior to entering the work site. As part of this training, all personnel will be instructed on their obligations with respect to vegetation clearing protocols. Areas identified for vegetation clearance are to be clearly defined and detailed in site inductions.
Existing access routes and previously disturbed areas have been utilised as far as practicable to minimise clearing required.
Project footprint has been located to minimise impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation.
Vegetation clearing The extent of vegetation clearing (and no-go areas) will be clearly identified on construction plans and in the field using high visibility flagging in the vicinity of high conservation significant areas prior to clearing activities.
If flagging is in poor condition, it should be replaced as soon as possible to reduce the potential of accidental clearing.
Where infrastructure must cross waterways, areas of existing disturbance (i.e. existing tracks) have been selected. Where this is not practicable, the Project footprint will be minimised and large habitat trees retained.
Where works extend outside of the approved disturbance footprint, a record is to be created in the incident management procedure and an investigation undertaken as to why works extended outside of the approved footprint.
Pre-clearance surveys will be undertaken to identify any threatened plants within the vicinity of the clearing footprint.
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
Cleared vegetation or soil is not to be pushed up against trees, stored against fence lines or within 50 m of waterways.
Vegetation is to be reused on site wherever practicable (e.g. salvaged, mulched for revegetation areas, hollow logs left for habitat)
Topsoil is to be stockpiled and reinstated during rehabilitation processes.
Rehabilitation of temporary construction areas will be undertaken sequentially and as soon as practicable after clearing.
Injury and mortality of wildlife Pre-clearance surveys will specifically target areas of predicted habitat for conservation significant species that have the potential to occur within the clearing footprint. Preclearance surveys will be undertaken to mark the locations of potential breeding places for conservation significant species.
A high risk SMP will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. Key species likely to be targeted in the high risk SMP include the squatter pigeon, glossy black-cockatoo, bulloak jewel butterfly, central greater glider, powerful owl and short-beaked echidna.
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
Temporary exclusion fencing will be established around cleared areas in locations of high ecological sensitivity to prevent wildlife from returning to works areas where deemed appropriate.
Relocate fauna captured during clearing to an appropriate nearby habitat area.
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Impact Mitigation and management measures
Vehicles to be restricted to 40 km/hr along access tracks within areas identified as habitat for squatter pigeon.
A Traffic Management Plan, consistent with objectives and controls described in the transport and road network mitigation measures of the CMP, will be developed for the Project with designated access routes, speed limits and identified sensitive ecological areas (i.e. particularly areas where squatter pigeons have the potential to occur on access roads) demarcated.
Employ sequential clearing practices and use a suitably qualified koala spotter during clearing activities.
Given the specific susceptibility of the squatter pigeon to vehicle collision – warning signs will be erected on all tracks that intersect locations in which the squatter pigeon has been confirmed present. Squatter pigeon awareness will be included in all worker inductions and in the Traffic Management Plan. A register of squatter pigeon sightings will be maintained to identify areas that have a high risk of collision.
Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity
Construction laydown areas and stockpiles limited to areas that have previously been cleared to minimise unnecessary clearing.
Where possible, temporary construction areas will be rehabilitated as soon as practicable after the completion of construction works to reconnect fragmented habitats.
Wildlife disturbance from increased light, noise and vibration
Site lighting is to be kept to the minimum (security) required for safety. Placement and orientation of lighting to be directed away from sensitive fauna habitat.
Direction of lighting beam downwards or use of shields and baffles to limit light spill beyond site boundary.
All construction vehicles to comply with maintenance schedules and operational restrictions designed to limit noise impacts during construction.
Vehicles and machinery to be switched off when not in use.
Habitat degradation by increased dust, run-off and sedimentation
Implement erosion and sediment controls developed as part of the CMP
Undertake routine dust suppression and monitoring
All vehicles to stay within the Project footprint and on existing access routes
Monitor weather conditions and implement temporary controls during extreme weather events in accordance with the CMP
Construction to cease during adverse weather conditions that have the potential to significantly increase dust, runoff or sedimentation
Duration of in-stream works will be minimised wherever practicable to reduce the potential for sedimentation
Weed and pest management
Impacts from introduction and spread of invasive fauna species
All putrescible waste to be stored in secure temporary holding containers and transported off site.
Sightings or evidence of pest animals will be recorded during construction in a weed and pest fauna register. If increased densities of pest animals are observed, or new pest animals are identified, humane pest controls will be implemented to manage numbers.
Construction staff will not bring domestic animals to the Project area.
Impacts from introduction and spread of invasive flora species
Weed management actions are included in the CMP and include:
– Hygiene protocols restricting the movement of vegetation and soil between impacted areas and areas of significantly lower weed infestation.
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Impact Mitigation and management measures
Protocols for monitoring and management of weeds to identify and appropriately respond to significant changes in weed distribution and density
A weed survey will be undertaken to confirm the initial extent of weeds on site, including the extent of Opuntia tomentosa and Opuntia stricta.
Preliminary weed mapping will be prepared to provide a baseline of existing weed infestation.
Declared weeds occurring within the construction footprint will be treated or removed prior to the commencement of construction. Any new weed infestation shall be treated at the earliest stage while small and manageable. If chemical treatment is required, chemicals may be used only in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Weed control measures are to minimise impacts on native fauna (e.g. use of aquatic and fauna friendly chemicals).
Vehicles and equipment travelling from a declared restricted place or quarantine area will be required to wash down and possess a current weed hygiene inspection certificate before moving to a weed free area
Vehicle access will be restricted to within the Project footprint and existing access routes.
Areas of exposed earth will be minimised and rehabilitated with appropriate non-invasive species
Materials sought from outside the Project area, other than those obtained from a quarry (e.g. fill for access tracks) will be required to hold weed free declarations
A record or all material imported on site is to be maintained. The log is to include material description, quantity, sources and deposition at the site.
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Table 5-2 Pre-clearance and clearance procedures to protect and manage species
Pre-clearance and clearance procedures Responsibility
General
All site personnel shall attend environmental training as part of the site induction process prior to entering the work site. As part of this training, all personnel will be instructed on their obligations with respect to vegetation clearing protocols. Areas identified for vegetation clearance are to be clearly defined and detailed in site inductions.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Existing tracks and previously disturbed areas have been utilised where practicable to minimise clearing required.
Project footprint has been located to minimise impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation, where practicable.
All vehicles and machinery are to be cleaned prior to entering site to prevent the introduction and/or spread of weed material.
Vegetation clearing
The extent of vegetation clearing (and no-go areas) will be clearly identified on construction plans and in the field using high visibility flagging in the vicinity of high conservation significant areas prior to clearing activities.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
If flagging is in poor condition, it should be replaced as soon as practicable to reduce the potential of accidental clearing.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
If infrastructure must cross watercourses, areas of existing disturbance (i.e. existing tracks) have been selected. Where this is not practicable, the Project footprint will be minimised and large habitat trees will be preferentially retained.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
If works extend outside of the approved disturbance footprint, a record is to be created in the incident management procedure and an investigation undertaken as to why works extended outside of the approved footprint.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Pre-clearance surveys should be undertaken to identify any threatened plants within the vicinity of the clearing footprint.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
No clearing of threatened plants without appropriate permits in place for their removal. Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Cleared vegetation or soil will not be pushed up against trees, stored against fence lines or within 50 m of watercourses.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vegetation is to be reused on site wherever possible (e.g. salvaged, mulched for revegetation areas, hollow logs left for habitat).
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Topsoil is to be stockpiled and reinstated during rehabilitation. Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Rehabilitation of temporary construction areas will be undertaken sequentially and as soon as practicable after clearing.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Injury and mortality of wildlife
Pre-clearance surveys will specifically target areas of predicted habitat for conservation significant species that have the potential to occur within the clearing footprint. Pre-clearance surveys will be required as part of the standard requirements of the high risk SMP. Preclearance surveys will be undertaken to mark the locations of potential breeding places for conservation significant species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
A high risk SMP will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. Key species likely to be targeted in the high risk SMP include the squatter pigeon, glossy black-cockatoo, bulloak jewel butterfly, central greater glider, powerful owl and short-beaked echidna
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
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Pre-clearance and clearance procedures Responsibility
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Temporary exclusion fencing will be established around cleared areas in locations of high ecological sensitivity to prevent wildlife from returning to works areas where deemed appropriate
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Relocate fauna captured during clearing to an appropriate nearby habitat area Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Employment of sequential clearing practices and use of suitably qualified koala spotters in accordance with EPBC referral guidelines for the vulnerable koala (DotE 2014) for reducing impact on koalas
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
A Traffic Management Plan, consistent with objectives and controls described in the transport and road network mitigation measures of the CMP, will be developed for the Project with designated access routes, speed limits and identified sensitive ecological areas (i.e. particularly areas where squatter pigeons have the potential to occur on access roads) demarcated.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Given the specific susceptibility of the squatter pigeon to vehicle collision warning signs will be erected on all tracks that intersect locations in which the squatter pigeon has been confirmed present. Squatter pigeon awareness will be included in all worker inductions and in the Traffic Management Plan. A register of squatter pigeon sightings will be maintained to identify areas that have a high risk of collision
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity
Construction laydown areas and stockpiles limited to areas that have previously been cleared to minimise unnecessary clearing
Construction Manager
Temporary construction areas will be rehabilitated as soon as practicable after the completion of construction works to reconnect fragmented habitats
HSE Manager
Disturbance of wildlife through increased light, noise and vibration
Site lighting is to be kept to the minimum (security) required for safety. Placement and orientation of lighting to be directed away from sensitive fauna habitat
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Direction of lighting beam downwards or use of shields and baffles to limit light spill beyond site boundary
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All construction vehicles to comply with maintenance schedules and operational restrictions designed to limit noise impacts during construction.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vehicles and machinery to be switched off when not in use. Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Habitation degradation by increased dust, run-off and sedimentation
Erosion and sediment controls have been developed as part of the CMP. Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Undertake routine dust suppression and monitoring Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All vehicles to stay within Project footprint and on existing access routes Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Monitor weather conditions and implement temporary controls during extreme weather events Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Construction to cease during adverse weather conditions that have the potential to significantly increase dust, runoff or sedimentation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Duration of in-stream works will be minimised wherever practicable to reduce the potential for sedimentation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
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Table 5-3 Inspection and monitoring during pre-clearing and clearing activities
Task Monitoring frequency
Reporting mechanism
Responsibility
Weather conditions Daily Daily environmental checklist
HSE Manager
Dust inspection Daily Daily environmental checklist
HSE Manager
Weekly in active work areas to assess the implementation of the above mitigation measures
Weekly Weekly environmental checklist
HSE Manager
Inspection of high visibility flagging and exclusion fencing of environmentally sensitive areas and no-go zones is in good conditions
Weekly Weekly environmental checklist
HSE Manager
Pre-clearing inspection by a suitably qualified fauna spotter/catcher and flushing of known squatter pigeon habitat prior to clearing.
Prior to clearing works
Pre-clearing inspection report
HSE Manager
Table 5-4 Corrective actions for pre-clearing and clearing incidents
Incident Corrective action
Dangerous weather conditions Works should cease until weather passes to minimise fun-off during significantly wet weather or dust during significantly windy conditions
Construction works extend outside of approved disturbance footprint
Natural ground surface to be rehabilitated where practicable
Immediate reinstatement of area where works are beyond approved limits of clearing
DES and/or DAWE to be contacted immediately if breach of approved clearing limits occurs
Temporary disturbance areas Temporary disturbance areas to be rehabilitated as soon as practicable
Pre-clearing inspection If during clearing an active breeding place is identified, works should cease immediately and a fauna spotter/catcher be contacted
Fauna within clearing area Relocation of fauna captured during clearing works to an appropriate nearby habitat area to be undertaken by a fauna spotter/catcher
Damage to high visibility flagging and exclusion fencing
If fencing or flagging is in poor condition, it should be replaced as soon as practicable to reduce the potential of accidental clearing
Injured animals To be taken immediately to a licensed wildlife carer.
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5.4 Information request 5.1(c) A description (including maps and imagery) of the location, boundaries and size of buffer areas or proposed
exclusion zones, and details on how these areas will be enhanced, protected and maintained. Also include a
description of any fences or barriers which may be installed around areas where impacts will be avoided.
5.4.1 Response
Description of location, boundaries and size of buffer areas
The Project does not propose any defined buffer areas or exclusion zones The Action area has been refined
through an iterative design process that has resulted in an adopted OHTL alignment and infrastructure layout. No
works will be undertaken outside of the Action area shown in Figure 2-1.
5.5 Information request 5.1(d) Details of any rehabilitation measures to be implemented for disturbed areas, including rehabilitation objectives,
target species, timing of rehabilitation stages, methodology, maintenance measures, schedules, and monitoring.
5.5.1 Response
Where temporary construction facilities cannot be placed in previously cleared or disturbed areas, rehabilitation of
the areas will be undertaken as soon as practicable after the facilities are no longer required. A rehabilitation plan
will be prepared to outline rehabilitation goals and objectives, recommended approaches, measurable completion
criteria and maintenance and monitoring requirements. The broad objective of the plan will be to provide rapid
reestablishment of locally native vegetation. Topsoil retention and handling will be a fundamental component of the
plan.
While commitment is made to rehabilitation in keeping with good practice and will be undertake, given the
outcomes of rehabilitation cannot be confirmed or guaranteed at this time and are subject to detailed design and
construction planning, conservatively, all habitat within the Project footprint is for the purpose of the assessment
taken to be a loss.
5.6 Information request 5.1(e) Details of any ongoing mitigation and management measures during the operation of the facility.
5.6.1 Response
Ongoing mitigation and management measures during operation of the Project will include the following
operational management plans:
– Emergency Response Plan (including management of bushfire risk)
– Weed and Pest Management Plan
– Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.
5.7 Information request 5.2 For each measure proposed, indicate the:
a) Responsible party
b) Environmental outcomes to be achieved
c) Millstones / performance / completion criteria
d) Proposed monitoring and evaluation program.
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5.7.1 Response
Information regarding responsible parties for environmental management measures, monitoring and corrective
actions have been informed by the following and included in Table 5-5:
– Construction Management Plan
– Preliminary Fauna Management Plan
– Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan.
5.8 Information request 5.3 Provide an assessment of the predicted effectiveness of each proposed avoidance or mitigation measure, noting
that the effectiveness of a particular measure is a reflection of confidence in the ability of the measure to reduce
the risk of a threat. The assessment of effectiveness should be evidence based and include examples of
demonstrated success of a particular measure to achieve the desired avoidance/mitigation outcome.
5.8.1 Response
This response supports the information outlined in Section 5.7.1 in response to Information Request 5.2, which
nominates performance indicators, monitoring and evaluation program, and environmental outcomes to be
achieved for each mitigation measure. The effectiveness of each of the proposed avoidance and mitigation
measures is included in Table 5-6.
Avoidance, mitigation and minimisation measures have been proposed to reduce the potential for impacts to
species, their habitat and other ecological values, with an overall predicted effectiveness for those measures in
mitigating potential impacts for each species.
Predicted effectiveness ratings are defined as follows:
– Very high effectiveness: complete avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats
– High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats
– Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles
are minimised through design and construction methods.
– Low effectiveness: mitigation of impacts only through implementation of EMP, spotter-catchers, pest fauna
and weed control.
– Very low effectiveness: No mitigation strategies proposed.
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Table 5-5 Responsible parties, performance and completion criteria and monitoring programs
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
All site personnel shall attend environmental training as part of the site induction process prior to entering the work site. As part of this training, all personnel will be instructed on their obligations with respect to vegetation clearing protocols. Areas identified for vegetation clearance are to be clearly defined and detailed in site inductions.
All personnel have undertaken the environmental induction prior to commencing work.
Weekly inspections to assess the implementation of mitigation measures with records kept in a weekly environmental checklist.
Any non-conformances are to be documented and reported to ACCIONA and rectified immediately
General environmental duty
Compliance with all conditions
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Utilise existing tracks and previously disturbed areas where practicable to minimise clearing required.
Detailed design of access tracks and areas for ancillary infrastructure.
Weekly inspections to assess the implementation of mitigation measures with records kept in a weekly environmental checklist.
Any non-conformances are to be documented and reported to ACCIONA and rectified immediately
Extent of vegetation clearing minimised as much as practicable
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Micro-siting of infrastructure Detailed design of areas for infrastructure.
Detailed design Minimise impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
The extent of vegetation clearing (and no-go areas) will be clearly identified on construction plans and in the field using high visibility flagging in the vicinity of high conservation significant areas prior to clearing activities.
No vegetation clearing outside the approved clearing footprint.
Weekly inspection of flagging
Weekly environmental checklist
No vegetation clearing outside the approved clearing footprint.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
If flagging is in poor condition, it will be replaced as soon as possible to reduce the potential of accidental clearing.
No vegetation clearing outside the approved clearing footprint.
Weekly inspection of flagging
Weekly environmental checklist
No vegetation clearing outside the approved clearing footprint.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Where infrastructure must cross waterways, areas of existing disturbance (i.e. existing tracks) have been selected. Where this is not practicable, the Project footprint will be minimised and large habitat trees retained.
Detailed design of areas for infrastructure.
Weekly environmental checklist
Compliance with clearing conditions
Minimise extent of vegetation clearing
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 54
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
Where works extend outside of the approved Project footprint, a record is to be created in the incident management procedure and an investigation undertaken as to why works extended outside of the approved footprint.
Record created in incident management procedures and investigation undertaken as soon as possible
Weekly environmental checklist
Compliance with clearing conditions
Minimise extent of vegetation clearing
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Pre-clearance surveys will be undertaken to identify any threatened plants within the vicinity of the clearing footprint.
Pre-clearing inspection report. Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No vegetation clearing outside the approved clearing footprint.
Avoid clearance of threatened plants.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
Compliance with CEMP Weekly environmental checklist
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Employ sequential clearing practices and use of a suitably qualified koala spotter.
Pre-clearing inspection report Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Cleared vegetation or soil is not to be pushed up against trees, stored against fence lines or within 50 m of waterways.
Compliance with rehabilitation plan
Weekly environmental checklist
Preservation of cleared vegetation ad soil for rehabilitation
Avoid sedimentation of waterways, and impacts to vegetation and infrastructure
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vegetation is to be reused on site wherever possible (e.g. salvaged, mulched for revegetation areas, hollow logs left for habitat)
Compliance with rehabilitation plan
Weekly environmental checklist
Reuse of vegetation for rehabilitation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Topsoil is to be stockpiled and reinstated during rehabilitation processes.
Stockpiling and reinstatement of topsoil as per rehabilitation plan
Weekly environmental checklist
Successful rehabilitation of temporarily disturbed areas
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Rehabilitation of temporary construction areas will be undertaken sequentially and as soon as practicable after clearing.
Compliance with rehabilitation plan
Weekly environmental checklist
Minimised impact to temporarily disturbed areas
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 55
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
Pre-clearance surveys will specifically target areas of predicted habitat for conservation significant species that have the potential to occur within the clearing footprint. Preclearance surveys will be undertaken to mark the locations of potential breeding places for conservation significant species.
Pre-clearing inspection report Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
A high risk SMP will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. Key species likely to be targeted in the high risk SMP include the squatter pigeon, glossy black-cockatoo, bulloak jewel butterfly, central greater glider, powerful owl and short-beaked echidna.
Completion of high-risk SMP Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No impact to native fauna breeding places
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Temporary exclusion fencing will be established around cleared areas in locations of high ecological sensitivity to prevent wildlife from returning to works areas where deemed appropriate.
Establishment of exclusion fencing
Weekly inspections of fencing
Weekly environmental checklist
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Relocate fauna captured during clearing to an appropriate nearby habitat area.
Pre-clearing inspection report Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Areas of potential habitat for the squatter pigeon are to be flushed immediately prior to clearing (i.e. spotter catcher to walk in front of clearing machinery).
Pre-clearing inspection report Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Placement of warning signs around areas of known squatter pigeon habitat and development of a register for squatter pigeon sightings will be maintained.
Pre-clearing inspection report Pre-clearing inspection report to be prepared prior to clearing works
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vehicles to be restricted to 40 km/hr along access tracks within areas of squatter pigeon habitat.
Compliance with speed limit restrictions
Weekly environmental checklists
No injury or death to native fauna species
No collision with fauna species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 56
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
A Traffic Management Plan, consistent with objectives and controls described in the transport and road network mitigation measures of the CMP, will be developed for the Project with designated access routes, established and enforced speed limits and identified sensitive ecological areas and no-go areas
Compliance with Traffic Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
Compliance with Traffic Management Plan
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Construction laydown areas and stockpiles limited to areas that have previously been cleared to minimise unnecessary clearing.
Detailed design Weekly environmental checklists
Minimal disturbance to habitat Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Where practicable, temporary construction areas will be rehabilitated as soon as practicable after the completion of construction works to reconnect fragmented habitats.
Compliance with Rehabilitation Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
Rehabilitation of temporarily disturbed areas as soon as practicable
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Site lighting is to be kept to the minimum (security) required for safety. Placement and orientation of lighting to be directed away from sensitive fauna habitat.
Detailed design Weekly environmental checklists
Minimal disturbance to fauna from lighting impacts
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Direction of lighting beam downwards or use of shields and baffles to limit light spill beyond site boundary.
Detailed design Weekly environmental checklists
Minimal disturbance to fauna from lighting impacts
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All construction vehicles to comply with maintenance schedules and operational restrictions designed to limit noise impacts during construction.
Compliance with maintenance schedules and operational restrictions
Weekly environmental checklists
Minimal disturbance to fauna from noise impacts
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vehicles and machinery to be switched off when not in use.
Daily environmental checklist Minimal disturbance to fauna from noise impacts
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Erosion and sediment controls have been developed as part of the CMP
Compliance with Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
Erosion and Sediment Control daily/weekly inspection form
Avoidance of impacts to habitat from erosion and sedimentation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Undertake routine dust suppression and monitoring
Daily dust inspection and report in the daily environmental checklist
Avoidance of dust impacts Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 57
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
All vehicles to stay within the Project footprint and on existing access routes
Compliance with Traffic Management Plan
Daily environmental checklist Avoidance of dust impacts
Avoidance of impacts to habitat from erosion and sedimentation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Monitor weather conditions and implement temporary controls during extreme weather events
Daily monitoring of weather conditions
Monitor weather conditions daily and report in the daily environmental checklist
Avoid impacts from extreme weather conditions/events.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Construction to cease during adverse weather conditions that have the potential to significantly increase dust, runoff or sedimentation
Daily monitoring of weather conditions
Daily environmental checklists Avoid impacts from extreme weather conditions/events.
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Duration of in-stream works will be minimised wherever practicable to reduce the potential for sedimentation
Compliance with Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
Avoidance of impacts to habitat from erosion and sedimentation
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
All putrescible waste to be stored in secure temporary holding containers and transported off site.
Compliance with CEMP - Waste Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of pest species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Sightings or evidence of pest animals will be recorded during construction in a weed and pest fauna register. If increased densities of pest animals are observed, or new pest animals are identified, humane pest controls will be implemented to manage numbers.
Compliance with CEMP Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of pest species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Construction staff will not bring domestic animals to the Project area.
Compliance with CEMP Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of pest species
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Weed management actions are included in the CMP and include:
– Hygiene protocols restricting the movement of vegetation and soil between impacted areas and areas of significantly lower weed infestation.
– Protocols for monitoring and management of weeds to identify and appropriately respond to significant changes in weed distribution and density
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 58
Proposed management measure Milestones / performance criteria / completion criteria
Monitoring and evaluation program
Environmental outcomes to be achieved
Responsible party
A weed survey will be undertaken to confirm the initial extent of weeds on site, including the extent of Opuntia tomentosa and Opuntia stricta.
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Preliminary weed mapping will be prepared to provide a baseline of existing weed infestation.
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Declared weeds occurring within the construction footprint will be treated or removed prior to the commencement of construction. Any new weed infestation shall be treated at the earliest stage while small and manageable. If chemical treatment is required, chemicals may be used only in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Weed control measures are to minimise impacts on native fauna (e.g. use of aquatic and fauna friendly chemicals).
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vehicles / equipment travelling from a declared restricted place or quarantine area will be required to wash down and possess a current weed hygiene inspection certificate before moving to a weed free area.
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Vehicle access will be restricted to within the Project footprint and existing access routes.
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Areas of exposed earth will be minimised and rehabilitated with appropriate non-invasive species
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
Materials sought from outside the Project area, other than those obtained from a quarry (e.g. fill for access tracks) will be required to hold weed free declarations
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
A record or all material imported on site is to be maintained. The log is to include material description, quantity, sources and deposition at the site.
Compliance with Weed Management Plan
Weekly environmental checklists
No new infestations of weed species or spread of existing weeds
Construction Manager
HSE Manager
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 59
Table 5-6 Predicted effectiveness of avoidance and mitigation measures
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
General impacts to flora and fauna
All site personnel shall attend environmental training as part of the site induction process prior to entering the work site. As part of this training, all personnel will be instructed on their obligations with respect to vegetation clearing protocols. Areas identified for vegetation clearance are to be clearly defined and detailed in site inductions.
This will ensure awareness of key environmental obligations across the entire workforce will assist personnel in meeting their General Environmental Duty (GED) under the Queensland Environmental Protection Act 1994, which states that a person must not carry out any activity that causes, or is likely to cause, environmental harm unless the person takes all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent or minimise the harm.
This induction process has been used effectively across a range of major infrastructure projects including recent ACCIONA wind farm construction projects – Mt Gellibrand Wind Farm and Mortlake Wind Farm.
Highly effective at educating personnel on rarely encountered species or nocturnal species that may be resting during daylight construction hours. For example:
– Swift parrot
– Regent honeyeater
– Koala
– Squatter pigeon
– Central greater glider
– Painted honeyeater.
Utilise existing tracks and previously disturbed areas where practicable to minimise clearing required.
This measure has been used previously on other linear projects (e.g. road construction and transmission line construction projects) and will minimise the amount of clearing required.
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats for threatened ecological communities and terrestrial flora and fauna species
Micro-siting of infrastructure within the Project footprint will occur considerate of minimising impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation.
This will minimise impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation and will assist the construction contractor in complying with the GED.
Each proposed micro-siting of infrastructure will be considered by dedicated environmentally focussed personnel to ensure impacts to key ecological features are minimised where practicable.
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats for threatened ecological communities and terrestrial flora and fauna species will occur where practicable.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 60
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Vegetation clearing
The extent of vegetation clearing (and no-go areas) will be clearly identified on construction plans and in the field using high visibility flagging in the vicinity of high conservation significant areas prior to clearing activities.
This will minimise impacts to vegetation, threatened ecological communities, threatened flora and riparian vegetation and will assist the construction contractor in complying with the GED.
Nomination of no-go zones is a common construction practice that is effective in keeping machinery and personnel out of environmentally sensitive areas and will assist construction contractors to comply with the GED.
This approach was very effective during the construction of the Mt Gellibrand Wind Farm. There were no incidents where vegetation was removed in those areas that were identified on construction plans / had high visibility flagging protecting it.
Highly effective for mitigating the risk of accidental clearing on conservation significant communities as well as conservation significant species with specialised habitat requirements. For example:
– Central greater glider
– Painted honeyeater.
If flagging is in poor condition, it should be replaced as soon as practicable to reduce the potential of accidental clearing.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected communities and species and will assist contractors and personnel to comply with the GED.
The Project Environmental Management Plan will commit to this flagging being inspected and maintained on a weekly basis throughout construction. This process has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Highly effective for mitigating the risk of accidental clearing on conservation significant communities and species. Weekly checks are highly likely to ensure flagging or fencing is well maintained throughout the construction period.
Where infrastructure must cross waterways, areas of existing disturbance (i.e. existing tracks) have been selected. Where this is not practicable, the Project footprint will be minimised and large habitat trees retained, wherever practicable.
This will assist in minimising impacts to MNES species and its habitat and will assist in minimising impacts on waterways. This measure has been used previously on other linear projects (e.g. road construction and transmission line construction projects) and will minimise the amount of disturbance required to important habitats in close proximity to waterways.
Moderate effectiveness: retention of large trees will mitigate the potential impacts of habitat loss for arboreal mammals, particularly the central greater glider and woodlands birds, including the regent honeyeater, swift parrot, painted honeyeater.
Where works extend outside of the approved Project footprint, a record is to be created in the incident management procedure and an investigation undertaken as to why works extended outside of the approved footprint.
This will assist in minimising further direct impacts on protected communities and species and will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
Reporting the incident will assist in ensuring that it is not repeated.
Very low effectiveness: No mitigation strategies proposed.
Pre-clearance surveys should be undertaken to identify any threatened plants within the vicinity of the clearing footprint.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected species, where practicable.
These surveys were implemented for the major coal seam gas pipeline projects in Central Queensland with a high level of effectiveness
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats for threatened terrestrial flora species.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 61
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
This will assist in detecting fauna that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away from the impacted area, where practicable.
This is a common practice for a range of projects involving clearing and requires a fauna spotter-catcher to be licensed under the Queensland Nature Conservation (Administration) Regulation 2017, for the movement of wildlife. Fauna will be given the opportunity to move away to avoid stress through handling and relocation.
High effectiveness at mitigating the impacts of clearing / habitat loss for arboreal mammals, specifically, the central greater glider and koala.
Low effectiveness for cryptic or ‘hard to locate’ species, e.g. the border thick-tailed gecko as active searches are time consuming and do not always locate every individual.
Employ sequential clearing practices and use of a suitably qualified koala spotter.
Staging protects habitat for as long as reasonably practical and assists in the management of erosion and sediment control.
This will assist in detecting koalas that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away.
Sequential clearing is a requirement for clearing koala habitat trees in koala districts under the Queensland Nature Conservation (Koala Conservation) Plan 2017.
High effectiveness for mitigating the impacts of clearing on the koala.
Moderate effectiveness at opportunistic detection of arboreal mammals, e.g. the central greater glider.
Cleared vegetation or soil is not to be pushed up against trees, stored against fence lines or within 50 m of waterways.
This measure will reduce impacts on MNES and assist in reducing impacts to the ecosystem. This will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement and compliance will be regularly inspected throughout construction. This requirement has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through this construction method.
Vegetation is to be reused on site wherever practicable (e.g. salvaged, mulched for revegetation areas, hollow logs left for habitat)
This measure will reduce impacts on MNES and assist in reducing impacts to the ecosystem. This will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
This practice was employed for parts of the major coal seam gas pipeline projects in Central Queensland, with good effectiveness.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through this construction method.
Highly effective at mitigating the impacts of habitat loss for ground-dwelling species, e.g. the border thick-tailed gecko.
Topsoil is to be stockpiled and reinstated during rehabilitation processes.
This measure will reduce long-term impacts on MNES and assist in reducing impacts to the ecosystem by encouraging temporarily disturbed areas to recover as quickly as possible. This will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through this construction method. This will maximise the chance of the rehabilitation process being successful.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 62
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Rehabilitation of temporary construction areas will be undertaken sequentially and as soon as practicable after clearing.
This measure will minimise the potential for erosion and thereby mitigate against potential degradation of habitats through impacts such as sedimentation. This measure will also reduce opportunities for weed establishment, whilst encouraging temporarily disturbed areas to recover as quickly as possible and will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through this construction method. This will maximise the chance of the rehabilitation process being successful.
Injury and mortality of wildlife
Pre-clearance surveys will specifically target areas of predicted habitat for conservation significant species that have the potential to occur within the clearing footprint. Pre-clearance surveys will be required as part of the standard requirements of the high risk SMP. Pre-clearance surveys will be undertaken to mark the locations of potential breeding places for conservation significant species.
This will assist in detecting fauna that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away from the impacted area, where practicable.
This will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GED.
This practice was employed for parts of the major coal seam gas pipeline projects in Central Queensland, with good effectiveness.
High effectiveness: prevents injury and mortality of species.
A high risk SMP will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006. Key species likely to be targeted in the high risk SMP include the squatter pigeon and central greater glider.
This will provide measures to assist in detecting fauna that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away from the impacted area, where practicable.
This practice was employed for parts of the major coal seam gas pipeline projects in Central Queensland, with good effectiveness.
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats of protected species.
All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers. This will involve searching and clearing hollow trees and logs prior to clearing and relocating resident fauna to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing footprint.
This will assist in detecting fauna that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away from the impacted area, where practicable.
The Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1992 includes requirements for koala spotters for clearing in koala habitat areas.
This practice was employed for parts of the major coal seam gas pipeline projects in Central Queensland, with good effectiveness.
Highly effective at mitigating the impacts of clearing / habitat loss for arboreal mammals, specifically, the central greater glider and koala.
Low effectiveness for cryptic or ‘hard to locate’ species, e.g. the border thick-tailed gecko as active searches are time consuming.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 63
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Temporary exclusion fencing will be established around cleared areas in locations of high ecological sensitivity to prevent wildlife from returning to works areas, where deemed appropriate.
This measure is considered effective in avoiding collision with wildlife and avoiding fauna habitat areas being disturbed by humans.
Fauna fencing is referenced in the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Fauna Sensitive Road Design Manual Volume 2: Preferred Practises, as an effective management measure to reduce vehicle collisions with fauna on linear infrastructure.
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats.
Highly effective at deterring mobile, ground-dwelling mammals, particularly the koala.
Relocate fauna captured during clearing to an appropriate nearby habitat area.
This will assist in minimising further direct impacts on protected species. Relocation of fauna is to be undertaken by fauna spotter-catchers licensed under the Queensland Nature Conservation (Administration) Regulation 2017, for the movement of wildlife.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement throughout construction. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Highly effective at reducing the risk of clearing, habitat loss and accidental vehicle strike for terrestrial fauna. Species will be released in similar habitat as close as practicable to the point of capture, whilst far enough way that species should not return to the active construction area.
Areas of potential habitat for the squatter pigeon are to be flushed immediately prior to clearing (i.e. spotter-catcher to walk in front of clearing machinery).
This will assist in detecting fauna that are present within the clearing area and allow these individuals to move away from the impacted area, where practicable.
As the squatter pigeon is a relatively sedentary, ground-dwelling bird, this approach has been proven to be effective in identifying and encouraging birds to disperse prior to vegetation clearing, as demonstrated on the Australia Pacific LNG and QCLNG pipeline projects.
Highly effective at detecting the squatter pigeon and mitigate the impacts of accidental vehicle strikes and risk associated within vegetation clearing.
Placement of warning signs around areas of known squatter pigeon habitat and development of a register for squatter pigeon sightings will be maintained.
This measure will be incorporated into a Traffic Management Plan.
As the squatter pigeon is a slow-moving, ground-dwelling bird that is reluctant to flee danger, this measure will alert personnel to the possible presence of squatter pigeon so that impacts to squatter pigeon habitat can be avoided and will assist personnel in achieving compliance with the GED.
This approach was used on the Australia Pacific LNG and QCLNG pipeline projects.
Highly effective in avoiding squatter pigeon collisions with vehicles.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 64
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Vehicles to be restricted to 40 km/hr along access tracks within sensitive environmental areas.
This is considered to be effective in avoiding fauna injury and mortality due to individuals remaining within the clearing area.
The Koala-sensitive Design Guideline (DES, 2019) makes recommendations for road design, placement and traffic flow (including speed restrictions) to avoid or minimise habitat fragmentation and to allow koalas to safely move throughout the landscape. These guidelines can also be applied to roads where other species may be impacted.
This approach was used to prevent injury and mortality impacts to squatter pigeon on the Australia Pacific LNG and QCLNG pipeline projects.
Highly effective for mitigating the risk of vehicle strikes for slow moving mammals (e.g. the koala) and ground-dwelling birds like the squatter pigeon.
Habitat fragmentation and reduced connectivity
Construction laydown areas and stockpiles limited to areas that have previously been cleared to minimise clearing.
This will assist in minimising impacts to MNES species and its habitat. Assists construction contractor to comply with GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement throughout construction. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
High effectiveness: substantial avoidance of known occurrences and/or habitats for threatened ecological communities and terrestrial flora and fauna species.
Where practicable, temporary construction areas will be rehabilitated as soon as practicable after the completion of construction works to reconnect fragmented habitats.
Assists in erosion and sediment control and establishment of native species. Assists construction contractor to comply with GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective in rehabilitating areas after construction impacts.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through design and construction methods.
Important for species with limited dispersal capacities, e.g. the koala, squatter pigeon (southern).
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 65
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Wildlife disturbance from increased light, noise and vibration
Site lighting is to be kept to the minimum (security) required for safety. Placement and orientation of lighting to be directed away from sensitive fauna habitat.
The Draft Light Pollution Guidelines, National Light Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife including marine turtles, seabirds and migratory shorebirds (DoEE, 2019) discusses the potential for artificial light to adversely affect many species and ecological communities and lists best practice lighting design principles, including minimising lighting, lighting placement and direction.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected species and not attracting pest species to the Project area.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective. It should be noted that the extent of lighting associated with the Project is very limited.
Highly effective for nocturnal species, particularly the central greater glider and grey-headed flying-fox.
Direction of lighting beam downwards or use of shields and baffles to limit light spill beyond site boundary.
The Draft Light Pollution Guidelines, National Light Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife including marine turtles, seabirds and migratory shorebirds (DoEE, 2019) lists best practice lighting design principles, including direction of lighting and use of shields to avoid light spill.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected species and not attracting pest species to the Project area.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective. It should be noted that the extent of lighting associated with the Project is very limited.
Highly effective for nocturnal species, particularly the central greater glider and grey-headed flying-fox.
All construction vehicles to comply with maintenance schedules and operational restrictions designed to limit noise impacts during construction.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected species from noise emissions and will ensure construction personnel can comply with the GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through construction methods.
Moderate effectiveness at mitigating the indirect impacts of noise on sensitive fauna, particularly nocturnal species like the central greater glider and grey-headed flying-fox.
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 66
Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Vehicles and machinery to be switched off when not in use.
This will assist in minimising direct impacts on protected species, by reducing noise and emissions and will ensure construction personnel can comply with the GED.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through construction methods.
Moderate effectiveness at mitigating the indirect impacts of noise on sensitive fauna, particularly nocturnal species like the central greater glider and grey-headed flying-fox.
Habitat degradation by increased dust, run-off and sedimentation
Implementation of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) prepared in accordance with Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (IECA Manual).
Erosion and sediment controls in accordance with the IECA Manual are industry accepted standards. This will assist in minimising indirect impacts on waterways by reducing sediment loss as well as associated water quality impacts. Furthermore, this mitigation measure will reduce impacts on the waterways through inclusion of management measures for vegetation clearing and general environmental management and will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through design and construction methods.
Undertake routine dust suppression and monitoring. This is considered effective in reducing adverse impacts on protected species and adjoining habitats that could support MNES species. This will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective with no notable indirect dust-related impacts observed to surrounding habitats.
Moderately effective at reducing the likelihood of habitat degradation and edge effects. Particularly important for herbivorous mammals (e.g. the koala and central greater glider) and nectivorous birds (e.g. the painted honeyeater, regent honeyeater and swift parrot) as dust may reduce the quality of foraging habitat.
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Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
All vehicles to stay within the Project footprint and on existing access routes.
This will assist in avoiding unnecessary impacts to known habitats and minimise direct impacts on protected species.
The Koala-sensitive Design Guideline (DES, 2019) makes recommendations for road design, placement and traffic flow to avoid or minimise habitat fragmentation and to allow koalas to safely move throughout the landscape. These guidelines can also be applied to roads where other species may be impacted.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Highly effective for mitigating the risk of vehicle strikes for slow moving mammals (e.g. the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) and ground-dwelling fauna like the squatter pigeon and border thick-tailed gecko.
Monitor weather conditions and implement temporary controls as per CMP during extreme weather events.
This will assist in minimising indirect impacts on waterways by reducing sediment loss as well as associated water quality impacts. Furthermore, this mitigation measure will reduce impacts on the waterways through inclusion of management measures for vegetation clearing and general environmental management and will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the GED.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through design and construction methods.
Construction to cease during adverse weather conditions that have the potential to significantly increase dust, increase runoff or sedimentation.
This will assist in preventing water quality and aquatic habitat degradation through minimising release of sediment and other contaminants to waterways as a result of the works. This will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the GED.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderately effective at reducing the likelihood of habitat degradation and edge effects. Particularly important for herbivorous mammals (e.g. the koala and central greater glider) and nectivorous birds (e.g. the painted honeyeater, regent honeyeater and swift parrot) as dust may reduce the quality of foraging habitat.
Duration of in-stream works will be minimised wherever practicable to reduce the potential for sedimentation.
This will assist in preventing water quality and aquatic habitat degradation through minimising release of sediment and other contaminants to waterways as a result of the works. This will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the GED.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderate effectiveness: areas of direct impact are minimised and/or indirect impacts to behaviours/life cycles are minimised through design and construction methods.
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Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Impacts from introduction and spread of invasive fauna species
All putrescible waste to be stored in secure temporary holding containers and transported off site.
This will assist in preventing the attraction of pest fauna species to the site. This will assist the construction contractor in achieving compliance with the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014 general biosecurity obligation (GBO), which states that a person who deals with biosecurity matter or a carrier, or carries out an activity, must take all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent or minimise the biosecurity risk, if the person knows or ought reasonably to know that the biosecurity matter, carrier or activity poses or is likely to pose a biosecurity risk.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be effective.
Moderate effectiveness: reduces attraction of pest fauna species to the site.
Sightings or evidence of pest animals will be recorded during construction in a weed and pest fauna register. If significantly increased densities of pest animals are observed, or new pest animals are identified, humane pest controls will be implemented to manage numbers.
This will assist in preventing new infestations of pest fauna species and will assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be an effective way of monitoring pest activity.
Moderate effectiveness: monitoring pest activity ensures mitigation of impacts can be implemented to prevent increase in pest numbers.
Construction staff will not bring domestic animals to the Project area.
This will assist in preventing new infestations of pest fauna species and will assist personnel in achieving compliance with the GBO.
Moderate effectiveness: reduces potential for increased pest fauna activity.
Impacts from introduction and spread of invasive flora species
Construction contractor to prepare a Weed Management Plan. The Weed Management Plan will include hygiene protocols restricting the movement of vegetation and soil between impacted areas and areas of significantly lower weed infestation. The Weed Management Plan will include protocols for monitoring and management of weeds to identify and appropriately respond to significant changes in weed distribution and density.
This will prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be an effective way of monitoring weed break outs and density changes.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing weeds by ensuring weeds are monitored and managed appropriately.
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Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
A weed survey will be undertaken to confirm the preconstruction extent of weeds on site, including the extent of Opuntia tomentosa and Opuntia stricta.
This will inform the construction contractor of presence and extent of weeds so that appropriate controls can be implemented to prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing infestations of weeds by triggering early control measures.
Declared weeds occurring within the construction footprint (that are not already growing throughout the Project area) will be treated or removed prior to the commencement of construction. Any new weed infestation shall be treated at the earliest stage while small and manageable. If chemical treatment is required, chemicals may be used only in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Weed control measures are to minimise impacts on native fauna (e.g. use of aquatic and fauna friendly chemicals).
This will prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing infestations of weeds by triggering early control measures.
Vehicles / equipment travelling from declared weed areas will be required to wash down and possess a current weed hygiene inspection certificate before moving to a declared weed free area.
This will prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
The Vehicle and Machinery Inspection Procedure Biosecurity Queensland Checklists (DAF, 2013), indicates that heavy machinery and vehicles are potential sources of contamination and provides advise for minimising the risk of transporting weed seeds on vehicles and machinery, including cleaning equipment, vehicles and machinery before entering clean sites.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing infestations of weeds by triggering early control measures.
Vehicle access will be restricted to within the Project footprint and on existing access routes.
This will prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
The Vehicle and Machinery Inspection Procedure Biosecurity Queensland Checklists (DAF, 2013), suggests avoiding driving off road in areas known to contain declared pest plants, avoiding contaminated areas in wet or dewy conditions and avoiding driving in infested paddocks to minimise the risk of transporting weed seeds.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing infestations of weeds by triggering early control measures.
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Avoidance/mitigation measure Justification Mitigation effectiveness
Areas of exposed earth will be minimised and rehabilitated with appropriate non-invasive species
This will prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
The Project Construction Environmental Management Plan will commit to this requirement. This measure has been employed at both the Mortlake and Mt Gellibrand Wind Farms, proving to be an effective way of minimising weed growth.
This measure is a standard practice for contemporary construction projects.
Moderate effectiveness: rehabilitation with non-invasive species reduces the potential for invasive species to colonise.
Materials sought from outside the Project area, other than those obtained from a quarry (e.g. fill for access tracks) will be required to hold weed free declarations
This will prevent new infestations of weed species. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
Highly effective in preventing new infestations and/or spread of existing infestations of weeds by triggering early control measures.
A record of all material imported on site is to be maintained. The log is to include material description, quantity, sources and deposition at the site.
This will ensure that the source of materials can be tracked and managed to prevent new infestations of weed species and/or the spread of existing weeds. This will also assist the construction contractor to comply with the GBO.
Low effectiveness: does not lower the risk of infestations but allows tracking of the source of potential infestations.
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6. Proposed offsets
Table 6-1 presents a summary of the Project’s anticipated impact on MNES communities and species as reported
in the MNES (PD) Assessment Report (GHD, 2021).
Significant residual impacts to MNES, after all efforts to avoid, minimise and mitigate have been applied, are
proposed to be offset through direct, land-based offsets; as set out in the Environmental Offsets Strategy for:
– Macrozamia conferta
– Koala
– Central greater glider
– Grey-headed flying-fox
– Squatter pigeon (southern)
– Regent honeyeater.
The Environmental Offsets Strategy has been developed to demonstrate the feasibility of securing and delivering a
scientifically robust offset program for the Project. The Environmental Offsets Strategy addresses requirements set
out in the EPBC Act Environmental Offsets Policy (DSEWPC 2012). Specifically, the strategy outlines the
following:
– The proposed offset delivery approach and timeframes for future tasks in the offset program
– Results of the offset availability analysis
– Information on the proposed offset site currently under investigation in relation to its suitability to provide the
necessary offsets for the Project
– Proposed habitat scoring methodologies for MNES values to be offset
For each MNES value to be offset, a description of the final conservation outcomes being sought, progressive
milestones to be achieved to demonstrate advancement towards these final outcomes and high-level management
measures proposed to achieve the progressive milestones and final conservation outcomes.
Table 6-1 Summary of impacts on MNES
Matter Impact Significance of impact / trigger
TEC
Poplar box grassy woodland on alluvial plains
No impact – clearing avoided through Project design
Not significant
White box-yellow box-Blakely’s red gum grassy woodland and derived native grassland
No impact - clearing avoided through Project design
Not significant
Flora species
Macrozamia conferta Loss of approximately 164 plants
Loss of habitat (4.93 ha) of habitat critical to the survival of the species
Significant
Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Tylophora linearis No impact – species not detected within Project area
Not significant
Eucalyptus infera No impact – species not detected within Project area
Not significant
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Matter Impact Significance of impact / trigger
Fauna species
Koala Loss of habitat (236.51 ha) of habitat critical to the survival of the species
Significant
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Central greater glider Loss of habitat (25.55 ha of denning habitat, 63.36 ha of foraging habitat)
Significant
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Grey-headed flying-fox Loss of habitat (236.51 ha of foraging habitat)
Significant
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Squatter pigeon (southern) Loss of habitat (126.65 ha of foraging habitat)
Significant
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
White-throated needletail No impact – habitat critical to the survival of the species is absent from the Project area
Not significant
Regent honeyeater Loss of habitat (4.67 ha) Significant
Adverse impacts on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Painted honeyeater Loss of habitat (2.99 ha) Not significant
No adverse impact on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Swift parrot Loss of habitat (4.47 ha) Not significant
No adverse impact on habitat critical to the survival of the species
Migratory species
Fork-tailed swift No impact
The fork-tailed swift is exclusively aerial and does not have typical associations with habitat.
Not significant
Rufous fantail Loss of habitat (10.74 ha) Not significant
No adverse impact on habitat critical to the survival of the species
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7. Economic and social matters
7.1 Information request 7.1 Provide details on the social and economic costs and/or benefits of undertaking the proposed action, including the
basis for any estimations of costs and/or benefits.
Where possible, please include the total economic capital investment and economic ongoing value of the project.
7.1.1 Response
The Project will provide economic benefits across three LGAs – Southern Downs Regional Council, Goondiwindi
Regional Council, and Toowoomba Regional Council, as well as significant economic and social benefits to
Queensland. The Project will maximise the use of local suppliers and encourage Indigenous business
participation. The construction of the transmission line is a significant part of the Macintyre Wind Energy Precinct,
for which more than 800 suppliers and contractors have already registered their interest in conducting business.
The key social and economic benefits of the Project include:
– An estimated 226 jobs supported by the construction of the transmission infrastructure (transmission line and
two switching stations)
– Increased business activities within the Goondiwindi Regional Council, Southern Downs Regional Council,
and Toowoomba Regional Council LGAs
– Financial contributions to local community programs, events and initiatives.
– Contribution to achieving Queensland State Government’s target of 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.
7.2 Information request 7.2 Identify if economic benefits and employment opportunities are in addition to what would have been expected if the
action were not to take place.
7.2.1 Response
If the action did not take place, the economic benefits and employment opportunities described above would not
be realised. The region has suffered economically in the past few years due to drought and the COVID-19
pandemic. This Project will help to improve economic and associated social conditions within the broader region.
7.3 Information request 7.3 Provide details of any public stakeholder consultation activities, including the outcomes of those consultations.
7.3.1 Response
The Overhead Transmission Line Project forms part of the MacIntyre Wind Farm Precinct, which comprises the
proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm, proposed Karara Wind Farm and the OHTL Project. The community views the
MacIntyre Wind Farm Precinct as one project, rather than three separate projects, therefore the community and
stakeholder engagement strategy has followed this vein and considers the Project from an all-of-precinct
perspective.
The proposed MacIntyre Wind Farm Precinct has been in development for many years. However, the level of
public stakeholder consultation has been greatest in the past two years.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, stakeholder engagement continued, however when face-to-face meetings were
not possible, the use of software programs Zoom and Microsoft Teams allowed the Project team to meet with
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stakeholders and to keep them informed and engaged. The following engagement initiatives have been
undertaken:
– Meetings:
• Meetings with easement landowners to provide Project updates, advise of pre-constructions activities
and land access requests.
• Meetings and presentations to local government organisations – Southern Downs Regional Council,
Toowoomba Regional Council and Goondiwindi Regional Council to provide Project updates and discuss
potential community benefits, issues and sentiment.
• Meetings with Chambers of Commerce in Warwick, Goondiwindi and Toowoomba to provide Project
updates and discuss opportunities for local businesses to be involved in supply and contracting.
• Meetings with state government organisations in regard to planning and permitting, environmental
requirements, cultural heritage management, road usage and upgrades, water management, and
aviation.
• Meetings with Local Members of Parliament to provide Project updates and potential community issues,
benefits and sentiment.
• Information sessions with local residents of nearby communities to provide Project updates and discuss
community benefits and listen to concerns and questions about the Project.
• Meetings with Traditional Owner groups regarding the management of cultural heritage and the
importance of Aboriginal cultural awareness.
• Presentations to industry groups to provide Project updates and discuss opportunities for local
businesses to be involved in supply and contracting.
• Meetings with local businesses to discuss opportunities for involvement in the Project.
– Presentations to environmental organisations to provide Project updates and discuss issues and concerns
regarding environmental impacts and management.
– Established a Community Engagement Committee, which provides a forum for open discussion between
ACCIONA, the community and other stakeholders on issues directly relating to the wind farm’s construction
activities, operations, and community relations, and to keep the community informed on matters affecting
them relating to the Project. Meetings are held quarterly.
– Conducted a Social Impact Assessment to understand the social impacts and opportunities of the Project.
– Media articles in local newspapers and radio stations
– Published and distributed the MacIntyre Wind Farm Community Newsletters
– Established the MacIntyre Wind Farm Website -https://acciona.com.au/projects/macintyre-wind-farm/ which
includes:
• An overview of key Project information and a location map
• A Flyover Video of the proposed Project
• Fact Sheets
• How to register for Supply and Contracting Opportunities
• How to register for employment opportunities
• How to lodge a ‘Complaint’ about the Project
• Contact information, e.g., email; phone number and office address
• Project Newsletters
• Community Engagement Committee (CEC) information
• How to get involved in the Social Impact Assessment (SIA)
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Sentiment across the regions has been positive and supportive of the MacIntyre Wind Farm Precinct. This area of
Queensland has experienced severe drought over the past three years and many farmers and businesses are still
struggling to maintain their livelihoods. Local businesses are favourable of the opportunity to supply goods and
services to the Project and local residents are interested to obtain employment and training opportunities. Overall,
the people from the regions are looking forward to the social and economic benefits this Project will provide.
7.4 Information request 7.4 Provide details of any consultation with Indigenous stakeholders.
7.4.1 Response
ACCIONA and CleanCo have consulted with local Traditional Owner groups, the Githabul National Aboriginal
Council and Kambuwal Aboriginal Corporation for Culture Heritage and Land. The successful consultation has led
to the formation of a Cultural Heritage Management Plan which has been approved by the Queensland
Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships. Consultation will continue over the duration of
the Project with respect the management and protection of cultural heritage and the implementation of cultural
awareness training for Project employees.
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8. Ecologically sustainable development
8.1 Information request 8.1 Provide a description of how the proposed action meets the principles of ecologically sustainable development, as
defined in section 3A of the EPBC Act.
8.1.1 Response
The Project conforms to the objectives for sustainable development through Project planning, assessment of
potential impacts, and proposed avoidance, mitigation and management measures as detailed in Table 8-1.
The principles of ecologically sustainable development are incorporated into Commonwealth and State legislation,
including the EPBC Act. The EPBC Act provides for the protection of the environment, especially MNES, and the
promotion of matters of ecologically sustainable development at a Commonwealth level. Section 3A of the EPBC
Act states:
The following principles are principles of ecologically sustainable development:
a) decision-making processes should effectively integrate both long-term and short-term economic,
environmental, social and equitable considerations
b) if there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should
not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation
c) the principle of inter-generational equity—that the present generation should ensure that the health,
diversity and productivity of the environment is maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future
generations
d) the conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity should be a fundamental consideration in
decision-making
e) improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms should be promoted.
Based on the assessment (Table 8-1), the planning, design, construction and operation of the Project has
considered the principles of ESD. In addition, it can be demonstrated that the Project can be undertaken in
accordance with ESD principles through the application of measures to avoid and mitigate the potential
environmental impacts, and where relevant, implementation of adaptive management
Table 8-1 Ecologically sustainable development assessment
EPBC Act principles Comments
Decision-making processes should effectively integrate both long-term and short-term economic, environmental, social and equitable considerations
The principle of integration requires the effective integration of long-term and short-term, economic, environmental, social and equitable considerations in decision making. This may include consideration of ecosystems, people, communities, natural and physical resources, the qualities and characteristics of locations, places and areas, and the social, economic and cultural aspects of these things in the present and future.
The Project incorporates a range of operational and physical controls and environmental management and mitigation measures to minimise potential impacts on the environment both short-term and long-term. These have been factored into the Project through the assessment of the social, economic and environmental impacts of the Project. Management measures to be implemented in relation to the potential impacts of the Project relate to terrestrial and aquatic ecology, biosecurity, water quality and stormwater, noise and vibration, landscape and visual amenity, traffic, aviation and electromagnetic interference.
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EPBC Act principles Comments
If there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation
The precautionary principle emphasises the need to address the threats of irreversible damage, even in circumstances where there is scientific uncertainty about environmental risk. Environmental assessment involves predicting what the environmental outcomes of a development are likely to be, while maintaining a conservative approach in the event of uncertainty.
During the construction phase, the Project is expected to cause localised losses of habitat predominately due to clearing for access and laydown sites, and temporary disturbance of wildlife through construction noise and vibration. During the operation phase, the Project is expected to be relatively benign for most environmental matters.
Mitigation measures to prevent environmental degradation and reduce adverse environmental effects on MNES and the surrounding environment will be incorporated into a CEMP, Fauna Management Plan and Vegetation Management Plan. The CEMP will outline and describe how the nominated contractor/developer will, during the construction phase and the operational phase, comply with the relevant environmental obligations and legislative requirements, outline how the contractor will minimise environmental risks and achieve environmental outcomes on the Project by providing a structured approach to ensure appropriate environmental management measures and controls are implemented.
In accordance with ESD principles, the Project has addressed the conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity by proposing an environmental management framework designed to conserve ecological values, where practicable, after consideration of potential Project impacts.
This includes the development and implementation of the following management plans:
– CEMP
– ESC Plan
– Fauna Management Plan
– Vegetation Management Plan
The principle of inter-generational equity—that the present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment is maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations
A key consideration of ESD when integrating both long and short-term economic, environmental and social considerations is inter-generational and intra-generational equity. Inter-generational equity is the concept that the present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment is maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations, while intragenerational equity is applied within the same generation.
This Project would benefit current and future generations through direct and indirect employment and the sustainable generation of renewable energy. Notably, the Project will contribute significantly to the decarbonisation of the Queensland economy, with clear intergenerational benefits. It would also provide stimulus to local and regional economies, thus contributing to future generations through indirect social welfare, amenity and infrastructure.
The concept of inter-generational equity has been addressed through:
– Assessment of the likely social impacts of the Project
– Design and implementation of management measures, where required, to minimise potential construction, operation and decommissioning impacts of the Project on affected aspects of the environment, including land, water, noise, flora and fauna. These measures aim to mitigate risks of environmental impacts in order to ensure biodiversity and ecological integrity are not compromised by the Project.
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EPBC Act principles Comments
The conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity should be a fundamental consideration in decision-making;
The Project addresses the conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity by proposing a comprehensive environmental management framework designed to conserve ecological values and long-term species diversity as far as practicable. This goal will remain at the forefront of decision making and actions in the construction, operation and decommissioning and rehabilitation phases of the Project.
The concept of conservation of biodiversity has been addressed through:
– Project infrastructure designed to avoid or minimise impacts on the existing environment. This design process has been iterative and has taken into consideration results from extensive and multiple ecological survey programs.
– Implementation of operating procedures, including site selection protocols to avoid disturbance to endangered, vulnerable and rare and threatened species as far as practicable, and to minimise fragmentation and habitat disturbance.
Improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms should be promoted.
This principle requires that environmental factors be included in the valuation of assets and services.
This principle reflects the idea that if the real value of natural resources is incorporated into the cost of using those resources, it is more likely that resources will be used in a sustainable manner, adequately managed and not wasted.
Given this Project is the establishment of an OHTL to enable access to renewable energy, this principle is not applicable to this Project.
.
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9. References
AEMO (2020), Draft 2020 Integrated System Plan (ISP), accessed 11 February 2021,
https://aemo.com.au/en/energy-systems/major-publications/integrated-system-plan-isp/2020-integrated-system-
plan-isp.
Attexo (2021), Overhead Transmission Line Offsets Strategy, Attexo, August 2021
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) (2016), 2016 Census QuickStats, accessed 11 February 2021,
https://quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/SSC31225?opendoc
ument
Department of the Environment and Energy (DoEE) (2019) DRAFT Light Pollution Guidelines National Light
Pollution Guidelines for Wildlife Including marine turtles, seabirds and migratory shorebirds, September 2019,
viewed 01/04/21, https://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/consultations/f9d7b873-29a3-4ae6-8278-
3c3b64ee5a9f/files/draft-light-pollution-guidelines.pdf
GHD (2020a), Construction Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-09), GHD, July 2020.
GHD (2020b), Preliminary Fauna Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-013), GHD, July 2020.
GHD (2020c), Preliminary Vegetation Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-014, July 2020), GHD, July 2020.
GHD (2020d), MNES Assessment Report (12525037-REP-MWF-005-OHTL), GHD, July 2020.
GHD (2020e), Stormwater Management Plan (12525037-REP-MWF-07), GHD, July 2020.
GHD (2021), MNES (Preliminary Documentation) Assessment Report, GHD, August 2021.
Haddad, M.N., Brudvig, L.A., Clobert, J., Davies, K.F., Gonzalez, A., Holt, R.D., Lovejoy, T.E., Sexton, J.O.,
Austin, M.P., Collins, C.D., Cook W.M., Damschen, E.I., Ewers, R.M., Foster, B.L., Jenkins, C.N., King, A.J.,
Laureance, W.F., Levey, D.J., Margules, C.R., Melbourne, B.A. Nicholls, A.O., Orrock, J.L., Song, D.X.,
Townshend, J.R. (2015). Habitat fragmentation and its lasting impacts on Earth’s ecosystem. Science Advances,
Vol 1 (2).
Hero, Jean-Marc & Hodgkison, Simon & Hazell, Donna (2004). Winners and Losers: The impacts of modifying
natural landscapes on amphibian & reptile assemblages in eastern Australia.
Longcore, T. and Rich, C. (2004). Ecological light pollution. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, Vol 2 (4),
pp. 191-198.
Nature Advisory (2021). EPBC Act threatened birds – habitat and regional assessment and targeted surveys
(Report No. 20033 (15.3) (August 2021). Report prepared for the Overhead Transmission Line Project.
Popper, A. and Hawkins, A. (2016). The effects of noise on aquatic life (Vol. 730). Springer Science and Business
Media: New York, USA.
Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) (2013), Vehicle and Machinery Inspection Procedures
Biosecurity Queensland Checklists 2013, viewed 01/04/21,
https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/64006/IPA-Inspection-Procedures.pdf
Queensland Department of Environment and Science (2017), Queensland Land Use Mapping Program (QLUMP)
Land use classification, accessed 11 February 2021, Queensland Land Use Mapping Program
Queensland Department of Environment and Science (DES) (2019) Koala-sensitive Design Guideline, viewed
31/03/21, https://environment.des.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0025/102859/koala-sensitive-design-
guideline.pdf
GHD | ACCIONA Energy Australia Global Pty Ltd | 12525037 | Overhead Transmission Line Project 80
Slabbekoorn, H., Bouton, N., van Opzeeland, I., Coers, A., ten Cate, C. and Popper, A.N. (2010). A noisy spring:
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