Attachment 5 - Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Hickey Street, Iluka Information Request Response 1 November 2016
ATTACHMENT 5
Ecological
Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment Keystone
Ocean Park Consulting Pty Limited
Page 54
Keystone Ecological Pty Ltd

abn 13 099 456 149
PO Box 5095 Empire Bay NSW 2257
telephone 1300 651 021
email office@keystone-ecological.com.au
web www.keystone-ecological.com.au
Mr Rangi Campbell
Ocean Park Consulting Pty Ltd
Suite 8 Miami Central
2098 Gold Coast Highway
Miami, QLD 4220
By email: rangi@oceanparkqld.com.au
2nd November 2016
RE: Lot 7020 DP 1114873, Hickey Street, Iluka
Dear Rangi,
This brief letter is provided in response to minor amendments to the masterplan for Lot 99 DP
823635, Hickey Street, Iluka.
The Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment undertaken by Keystone Ecological dated 31st
October 2016, and provided to Clarence Valley Council for this application was prepared on the
Masterplan configuration shown on Drawing No. 147-01 and the Vegetation Plan shown on
Drawing No. 147-02.
Masterplan 147-01 was prepared on the assumption that Lot 7020 DP 1114873 was available to
be designated as road. It is now understood Lot 7020 DP 1114873 is not currently available to form
part of the development application due to the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI)
holding jurisdiction over Lot 7020 DP 1114873 and believed that they are currently not in a
suitable position to provide owner consent to the application. As a result, the development
configuration has been amended to exclude Lot 7020 DP 1114873 and is shown on Masterplan 14701(A) and Vegetation Plan 147-02(A).
The minor changes to the plan can be seen between the previous vegetation plan 147-02 shown in
Figure 1 and the new amended vegetation plan 147-02(A) shown as Figure 2. The changes include:
Minor repositioning of the roundabout in Street 1;

The exclusion of Lot 7020; and
The reconfiguration of the North-west lots with street frontage reconfigured to provide the
required access for emergency vehicles and future maintenance vehicles;
All remaining streets and park areas are to stay as previously drawn on 147-02 therefore no
changes to bushland areas occur.
Keystone Ecological
Ref: CVC 14-695 November 2016
The drawings prepared by One collective being - Masterplan 147-01(A) October 2016, Vegetation
Zones (A) October 2016 and Development Staging Plan (A) October 2016, which all indicate the
exclusion of Lot 7020 DP1114873, do not materially influence or adversely impact on the findings
and conclusions of the Keystone Ecological report Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment
Lot 99 DP 823635 Hickey Street Iluka dated 31 October 2016.
I trust this information is of help to you. Do not hesitate to contact me if you require further
information or clarification.
Yours sincerely,
Elizabeth Ashby
Principal Consultant
Keystone Ecological
Figure 1: Final Vegetation Plan 147-02 as used in the Additional Flora and Fauna Impact
Assessment.
Figure 2: Amended Vegetation Plan 147-02(A) showing minor changes.
Keystone Ecological
Additional
Flora and Fauna Impact
Assessment
Lot 99 DP 823635
Hickey Street
Iluka
Clarence Valley LGA
For: Shallharbour Unit Trust
REF: CVC 14-695
31st October 2016
Keystone Ecological Pty Ltd

ABN 13 099 456 149
Telephone 1300 651 021
Email office@keystone-ecological.com.au
Additional
Flora and Fauna
Impact Assessment
Lot 99 DP 823635
Hickey Street
Iluka
Clarence Valley LGA
REF: CVC 14 - 695

31st October 2016
Author:
Elizabeth Ashby and Ashleigh McTackett
This document may be cited as:

Ashby, E. and McTackett, A. (2016) Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment, Hickey Street, Iluka,
Clarence Valley LGA. Unpublished report, Keystone Ecological
Keystone Ecological
Flora and Fauna Specialists
Mail:
Telephone:
Email:
ABN:

(02) 4368 1106
office@keystone-ecological.com.au
13 099 456 149
Cover photograph: Recent aerial photograph of the

subject site, outlined in red.
Photo: Nearmap, 28th May 2016
SUMMARY
Keystone Ecological has undertaken an additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment of the likely
impact of the subdivision and subsequent residential development at Lot 99 DP 823635, Hickey
Street, Iluka in the Clarence Valley Local Governmnet Area, upon nationally and state listed
threatened flora and faua, and their habitats.
The proposal is to subdivide the site and create 156 residential lots and one residual lot of vegetated
land in three patches. The internal road systems and accessways will have wide verges and
roundabouts, allowing for significant plantings as part of a formal landscape plan. The street verges
will serve a number of purposes besides access, aesthetics and delivery of infrastructure, including
water sensitive urban design features and bushfire control. The reserved areas have been carefully
located in order to capture the highest value habitats as well as provide important corridors for the
local movement of fauna. The site is adjacent to, but not within, a recognised regional wildlife
corridor.
Formal consideration has been given to the potential for impact on the following two listed matters
of conservation significance that are known to occur or have a high likelihood to occur on site:
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion EEC Occurs along the
edges of the fire trail running to Iluka Road and within the vegetation adjacent to the
southern boundary of the subject site; and
Acronychia littoralis none occur on site but it has now been collected form nearby
and the site provides potential habitat, albeit of a highly modified nature.
Previous survey and assessments for all other matters of interest are considered current. Therefore
this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment should be read in conjunction with that earlier
report (Ashby and McTackett 2015). Overall, the proposal will remove 16.4 hectares of highly
modified vegetation, resulting from past clearing, sand mining, poor restoration practices, repeated
hot fires and the continued influence of transformer weeds such as Lantana camara Lantana. The
infestations of Lantana are significant, being impenetrable in places.
While this represents the majority of the vegetation on site, the principles of avoiding, minimising,
mitigating and offsetting environmental impacts have been observed by the following elements of
the proposal and recommendations arising from this assessment:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The best quality habitat of the highest conservation value (Community 190: Coast Banksia
woodland with regenerating elements of Littoral Rainforest EEC) is to be retained and
managed for conservation purposes.
This area will be further protected from the residential development by a buffer of native
vegetation.
A patch of bushland in the north eastern corner has been configured for retention in order
to proect retain all of the Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum, provide a broader link to
Iluka NR to the east and a direct route from that bushland to the habitats to the north.
The patch of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC on site will be retained and protected.
The two large areas of retained vegetation have been located so as to maintain connectivity
for the species of most concern that were recorded on site, being Dromaius novaehollandiae
Emu and Phascolarctos cinereus Koala.
Potential adverse impacts on these species will be further mitigated by the implementation
of a landscape plan that includes the planting out of the wide verges with native trees
SUMMARY
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
favoured by Koalas, such as Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum and Corymbia
intermedia Pink Bloodwood.
Road reserves along Iluka Road and Elizabeth Street are to remain vegetated and weeds
controlled.
Traffic calming measures will also be employed and the route of traffic flow managed by
road design. These measures will decrease the risk of road trauma.
Domestic pets are to be kept within fenced premises, especially at night.
The replacement with nest boxes of all hollow-bearing trees to be removed. Most hollowbearing trees on site are dead and at risk of falling over in the near future. The proposal
will allow for the replacement of this resource and thus avoid a bottleneck for hollowdependent fauna.
Felled hollow trees will be re-used as terrestrial habitat in the retained vegetation.
Vegetation clearing will be conducted under ecological supervision to protect resident
fauna from direct harm.
Clearing is to be conducted outside of the breeding season of important fauna species,
particularly Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu (December to end March).
Lighting is to be of a type that minimises spill and glare. This is important for
microchiropteran bats and other nocturnal species.
Water sensitive urban design principles are to be incorporated into the development. This
will minimise the potential indirect impacts to surrounding bushland.
Vegetation management in the APZs is to entail the removal of only the aerial parts of
plants. This will serve as a soil conservation measure.
Dumping of garden refuse in bushland areas is to be prohibited.
Residents are to be encouraged to plant locally native species in their gardens and
particularly avoid heavy nectar-bearing plants (such as Grevillea) in order to avoid
dominance by the aggressive Noisy Miner.
All erosion and sediment controls are to be strictly observed during works.
The proposal is considered unlikely to result in a significant adverse impact for any matters of
import. Thus no further assessment is required: neither a Species Impact Statement need be
prepared under guidelines issued by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage nor a referral to
the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Energy need be pursued.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 1
Background
1.2
The Site and the Proposal ....................................................................................................... 1
1.3
Legislative Context and Scope
................................................................................................. 2
METHODS .................................................................................................................................. 1
2
2.1
Review of Additional Literature ................................................................................................ 1
2.2
National Herbarium of NSW ................................................................................................... 6
2.3
Expert Consultation .............................................................................................................. 7
2.4
Additional Site Survey ............................................................................................................ 8

RESULTS ...................................................................................................................................10
3
3.1
Sand mining .......................................................................................................................10
3.2
Acronychia littoralis..............................................................................................................14
3.3
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest .................................................................................................... 23
3.4
Littoral Rainforest ................................................................................................................ 27
3.5
Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum ..................................................................................... 29

IMPACT ASSESSMENTS ...............................................................................................................31
........................................................................................................................ 1
1.1
4.1
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion ......................................................31
4.2
Acronychia littoralis............................................................................................................. 33
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................ 34
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................... 36
FIGURES
Figure 1: Proposed development plan. .......................................................................................... 2
Figure 2: Mining Lease 7 and surrounding leases. ...................................................................... 11
Figure 3: Aerial photograph from 1978 .........................................................................................13
Figure 4: Reported location of Acronychia littoralis on site.........................................................17
Figure 5: Locations of Acronychia on and around the subject site. .............................................19
Figure 6: Extracted image from North Coast Voices blog page. ................................................ 24
Figure 7: Additional vegetation survey. ...................................................................................... 25
Figure 8: Patches Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC.................................................................... 27
Figure 9: Distribution of Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum trees. ..................................... 30
PHOTOGRAPHS
Photograph 1: Acronychia imperforata ........................................................................................15
Photograph 2: Acronychia oblongifolia .......................................................................................15
Photograph 3: Acronychia littoralis .............................................................................................15
Photograph 4: Acronychia littoralis in fruit at Sea Acres Nature Reserve................................... 20
Photograph 5: Acronychia littoralis and Acronychia imperforata. .............................................. 20
Photograph 6: Acronychia littoralis near the Esk River ...............................................................21
Photograph 7: Acronychia littoralis in fruit at the Esk River population. ....................................21
Photograph 8: Acronychia imperforata collected from the Elizabeth Street road reserve. ......... 22
Photograph 9: Tree tagged by Council along Iluka Road road reserve. ..................................... 22
Photograph 10: Fruit of tree from south eastern corner of the site.............................................. 23
Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Hickey Street, Iluka, NSW
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background
Keystone Ecological has been contracted by the Shellharbour Unit Trust (Stevens Group)
to assess the likely impact of a proposed development upon nationally and state listed
threatened flora and fauna and their habitats. It is proposed to subdivide Lot 99 DP
823635, Hickey Street, Iluka in the Clarence Valley Local Government Area (LGA) for
subsequent residential development.
As a result of a preliminary assessment by Council of the Development Application and the
supporting documentation, including the original Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment for
that proposal (Ashby and McTackett 2015), changes were made to the layout and further
investigations undertaken in response to Councils Request for Additional Information
(RAI).
This resultant Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment assesses the likely impact
of the recast subdivision of the subject lot into 156 residential lots and 1 residual lot of
vegetated land, and the imposition of necessary bushfire protection requirements, on the
relevant protected matters. It also addresses the particular areas of concern as detailed in
correspondence dated 30th March 2016, being:
1. Extent and definition of the endangered ecological communities Littoral
Rainforest and Coastal Sand Plain Cypress Forest;
2. Further investigation regarding the presence of Acronychia littoralis;
3. Further exploration of habitat suitable for Koala and its improved retention; and
4. Further exploration of the potential impacts on other threatened species recorded
during survey.
This report should be read in conjunction with the original Flora and Fauna Impact
Assessment (Ashby and McTackett 2015).
1.2
The Site and the Proposal
The subject site is located at Lot 99 DP 823635, Hickey Street, Iluka in the Clarence Valley
LGA. It lies in the North Coast Bioregion in the Clarence River Catchment and the centre of
the subject site is approximately at grid reference 534549 E 6747858 N MGA on the
Woodburn 1:100,000 topographic map sheet. The subject site is approximately triangular
and occupies an area of 19.41 hectares.
It occurs on the northern outskirts of Iluka township, with a golf course immediately to
the north, Iluka Nature Reserve to the east on the opposite side of Iluka Road, vegetated
Crown Land to the south, and other vegetated lots to the west and north west.
Keystone Ecological
Ref: CVC 14-695 October 2016

A detailed description of the site and its location is provided in Ashby and McTackett
(2015). It is currently undeveloped and wholly vegetated, albeit with regrowth and large
patches of significant weed infestations.
The current proposal is to subdivide the existing lot into 156 residential lots with access
roads, footpaths and street landscaping, and three large areas of retained vegetation. The
proposed layout in regards to the geographic context, vegetation and development in the
local area is shown in Figure 1.
This revised layout is the result of a multi-disciplinary iterative process, following
consultation with Council and takes into account competing constraints that include
biodiversity conservation, planning and urban design issues, and bushfire hazard.
Figure 1: Proposed development plan.
1.3
Legislative Context and Scope
1.3.1
Commonwealth Legislation
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) (EPBC Act) is a
nationally applicable Act that is administered by the Department of Sustainability,
Environment, Water, Population and Communities. This Act requires approval for actions
that are likely to have a significant impact on matters of National Environmental
Significance (NES).
Keystone Ecological

There are seven matters of NES that are triggers for Commonwealth assessment and
approval. These are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
World Heritage properties;

National Heritage places;
Ramsar wetlands of international importance;
Nationally threatened species and communities;
Migratory species;
Nuclear actions; and
Commonwealth marine environment.
Threatened species and ecological communities are listed under Part 13, Division 1,
Subdivision A of the EPBC Act (1999). Migratory species are listed under Part 13, Division
2, Subdivision A of the Act.
The Department of the Environment identifies the following:
Under the EPBC Act a person must not take an action that has, will have or is
likely to have a significant impact on any of these matters of NES without
approval from the Commonwealth Environment Minister. There are penalties
for taking such an action without approval.
In general, an action that may need approval under the Act will involve some
physical interaction with the environment, such as clearing native vegetation,
building a new road, discharging pollutants into the environment, or offshore
seismic survey.
If, following a referral, it is determined that an action is likely to have a
significant impact, and approval is therefore required, the action is called a
'controlled action'. The proposal will then undergo a formal assessment and
approval process, and cannot proceed unless approval is granted.
If it is determined that an action is not likely to have a significant impact, then
the action is not a controlled action. Approval under the EPBC Act is not required
and the action may proceed, subject to obtaining any other necessary permits or
approvals.
1.3.2
State Legislation
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (1979) (EPA Act) sets out seven
factors in Section 5A that require consideration in terms of the likely significance of the
impact of an action. This Section 5A Assessment is informally known as a seven part test.
Keystone Ecological

For the purposes of this Act and, in particular, in the administration of sections 78A, 79C
(1) and 112, these seven factors must be taken into account in deciding whether there is
likely to be a significant effect on threatened species, populations or ecological
communities, or their habitats as listed under the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC)
Act (1995) and Fisheries Management (FM) Act (1996).
If the application is for development on land that is, or is a part of, critical habitat, or is
likely to significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or
their habitats, a Species Impact Statement must be prepared.
This Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment considers these factors in accordance
with the aforementioned legislative requirements. It also provides conclusions regarding
the necessity for a Species Impact Statement.
State Environmental Planning Policy No 44 Koala Habitat Protection is a policy aimed at
the encouragement of the conservation and management of natural vegetation that
provide habitat for koalas, to ensure a permanent free-living population over their present
range and reverse the current trend of koala population decline. To this end, SEPP 44
provides a methodology for identification of core Koala habitat and requires the
preparation and implementation of management plans for areas so identified.
In regards to development applications, this policy applies to land that has or is a part of
a parcel of land of more than 1 hectare within listed LGAs, including the Clarence Valley
LGA. Moreover, before Council may grant consent to develop land to which SEPP 44
applies, it must satisfy itself if the land is potential or core Koala habitat. If it is deemed to
be core habitat, then the development must conform to a Comprehensive Koala Plan of
Management or, in its absence, to a site-specific Koala Plan of Management.
1.3.3
Regional / Local
The Draft Koala Plan of Management (2010) is relevant to the populations of Koalas in
the Ashby, Woombah and Iluka localities. It is consistent with the state-wide Recovery
Plan for the Koala and its aims are to ensure that the current extent of Koala habitat is
maintained and improved (not reduced) and to mitigate processes that are limiting the
occupancy rates and / or population sizes of Koalas.
Although this plan has not been adopted by Council, it provides guidance regarding the
local distribution and abundance of Koalas, as well as a number of planning and design
responses considered by Council as appropriate.
The Clarence Valley Council Biodiversity Management Strategy (Wright 2010)
addresses the biodiversity conservation issues across the Clarence Valley LGA at a
landscape scale, and provides a strategic planning document to assist in development
decisions. It details the significant biodiversity of the region and identifies areas
considered to contribute to local and regional wildlife corridors. It signals an intention to
Keystone Ecological

prevent loss of habitat within those corridors, and requires unavoidable impacts to be
offset through BioBanking agreements or similar. Although endorsed by Council, these
objectives have no standing until adopted into the Local Environmental Plan; this has not
yet occurred.
However, it provides insight into the conservation and planning strategies considered by
Council as appropriate.
Keystone Ecological

METHODS
The flora and fauna surveys undertaken previously are provided in Ashby and McTackett
(2015) and not repeated in detail here. Supplementary investigations included review of
some additional and previously unavailable literature, examination of Acronychia
specimens at the National Herbarium of NSW, further consultation with relevant experts
and additional field investigations.
2.1
Review of Additional Literature
Sand mining
The Iluka area was subject to sand mining activites from the 1920s to 1981. Archived
reports held by the NSW Department of Industry, Resources and Energy
(http://www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/miners-and-explorers/geoscienceinformation/services/online-services/digs) pertaining to the sand mining leases for the
subject site and surrounds reveal the nature and timing of the disturbances. The
information held within these archives is explored in Section 3.
A restoration strategy for the Iluka Peninsula Volume 1 (Urban Bushland
Management 1993)
The Association of Iluka Residents commissioned Urban Bushland Management to
examine the floristics and structure of native plant communities on the Iluka Peninsula,
but with a focus on known Koala habitat and sand mined areas, and to provide strategies
for restoration.
Serious weeds were common and numerous, including species that are now listed noxious
species and Weed os National Significance. The six most serious weed recorded were:
Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel bush

Chrysanthemoides monilifera var. rotundata Bitou Bush
Lantana camara Lantana
Asparagus plumosus Climbing Asparagus
Anredera cordifolia Madeira Vine
Macfadyena (now Dolichandra) unguis-cati Cats Claw Creeper
All of these species were well established across the Iluka Peninsula. Other problematic
species included many ground layer garden ornamentals Kalanchoe, Opuntia, Sanseveria,
Tradescantia albiflora and Zebrina pendula and climbers / scramblers including Delairea
odorata Cape Ivy and Asparagus aethiopicus Ground Asparagus. It was noted that
Chrysanthemoides monilifera var. rotudata Bitou Bush was the dominant weed in the drier
beach-side vegetation and Lantana camara Lantana dominant in the moister sites.
Keystone Ecological

Many exotic grasses were recorded as well as other species used in rehabilitation after
sand mining, including the highly invasive native Acacia saligna Golden Wreath Wattle
from Western Australia and Leptospermum laevigatum Coast Teatree, which does not
occur naturally north of Nambucca Heads.
Eight distinct plant communities were recognised in this study:
1. Mangrove Forest and Woodland Avicennia marina / Aegiceras corniculatum
association (Grey Mangrove / River Mangrove)
2. Sub-tropical Littoral Rainforest Acmena (now Syzygium) hemilampra / Syzygium
leuhmannii association (Broad-leaved Lilly Pilly / Riberry)
3. Swamp Sclerophyll Forest and Woodland - Casuarina glauca, Casuarina glauca /
Melaleuca quinquenervia association, Melaleuca quinquenervia, and Eucalyptus
robusta / Melaleuca quinquenervia association (Swamp She-oak / Swamp
Paperbark, Swamp Paperbark, Swamp Mahogany / Swamp Paperbark)
4. Wet Sclerophyll Forest Eucalyptus grandis, Lophostemon confertus, and Eucalyptus
(now Corymbia) intermedia / Lophostemon confertus association (Flooded Gum /
Brush Box, Pink Bloodwood / Brush Box)
5. Dry Sclerophyll Forest and Woodland Eucalyptus (now Corymbia) intermedia and
Eucalyptus (now Corymbia) intermedia / Eucalyptus tereticornis association (Pink
Bloodwood, Pink Bloodwood / Forest Red Gum)
6. Dry Sclerophyll Shrubland (Scrub) Banksia integrifolis, Banksia integrifolia /
Acacia aulacocarpa (now disparrima) association, Acacia aulacocarpa (now
disparrima), and Leptospermum laevigatum / Acacia aulacocarpa (now disparrima)
association (coast Bansia / Hickory Wattle, Hickory Wattle, Coastal Tea Tree /
Hickory Wattle)
7. Grassland Themeda australis (Kangaroo Grass)
8. Rushland Juncus kraussii (Spiny Rush)
The areas of bushland along either side of Iluka Road north of the township were identified
as Sclerophyll Forest and Woodland, dominated by Eucalyptus (now Corymbia) intermedia
Pink Bloodwood and Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum, with occasional Eucalyptus
grandis Flooded Gum. In some parts, Lophostemon confertus Brush Box was also co-dominant
in the canopy. Some rainforest elements were present in the understorey of this bushland
(particularly in areas where swales were still present) but the most prevalent understorey
species was Acacia disparrima Hickory Wattle (or Salwood).
Littoral Rainforest was best developed on the eastern side of the peninsula, with low-lying
swamp forests dominated by Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark and
Eucalyptus robusta Swamp Mahogany adjoining the estuarine vegetation of Casuarina glauca
Swamp Oak, Rushland and Mangroves.
Although the subject site was not within the study area of this study, area 2N was within
one of the adjacent mining leases and thus had a similar land use history to the subject
site. It was described as degraded where sand mining and subsequent burning had
occurred, thereby precluding recovery.
Keystone Ecological

Further investigation into recovery of sand mined sites revealed a variety of responses,
including:
A virtual monoculture of Hickory Wattle.

Extensive grasslands devoid of canopy trees and dominated by Blady Grass and
Bracken Fern.
Areas still in a state of flux, displaying a number of seral stages from scrub to forest.
Some sheltered locations also supported regenerating rainforest species.
It was observed that although species and structural diversity was returning to some sites,
this recovery could not progress to a natural conclusion due to inevitable disturbance
(particularly fire). Fire has reportedly been a common and frequent feature on the Iluka
Peninsula, with much of the woodland burning at least every 2 or 3 years (Nicolls 1966),
but this was prior to control of much of he peninsula as National Park and Nature Reserve.
It was predicted that some of the sand-mined areas may never recover their full
complement of species or provide adequate habitat for fauna. This is particularly so in the
highly simplified areas now dominated by Acacia disparrima.
Sand mining has not only removed the vegetative cover and parent plants, it has also
removed the soil seed bank, thus removing one of the mechanisms for recovery. Also, the
restoration methodology used at the time further altered the potential outcomes by
significantly reshaping the dunes with heavy machinery and filling in excavated areas with
tailings and whatever was available. The stabilisation actions that followed involved
planting with exotic grasses, lupins, Bitou Bush and Wattles.
Although a daunting task, a vegetation management strategy was formulated, and relied
upon exclusion of vehicles in the bushland, strategic weed control, tree planting, fire
management and mobilisation of the local community.
Maclean Shire Fauna and Flora Study (Mount King Ecological Surveys 1995)
In 1994, a flora and fauna survey was undertaken for the Maclean Local Government Area
(LGA) as part of broad scale environmental study for the Local Environmental Plan (LEP)
1992. The survey focused on serving the Maclean Shire Council Mission Statement that
focused on the management of the natural environment of the shire.
The survey identified a total of 19 broad vegetation communities occurring within the
Maclean LGA.
Five communities were associated with wetlands (Paperbark Forest, Swamp Oak Forest,
Coastal Complex, Mangrove Woodland and Saltmarsh). Of these 5 communities, Mangrove
Woodland and Saltmarsh were of high conservation value to the LGA. A further 5
communities were listed as Dry Sclerophyll Forest communities (Blackbutt Forest,
Keystone Ecological

Spotted Gum-Grey Ironbark Forest, Northern Scribbly Gum Forest, Mixed Dry Forest and
Bastard Tallowwood-Red Bloodwood-Broad-leaved Apple Forest) with all but the
Blackbutt Forest and Mixed Dry Forest regarded to be of high conservation value within
the LGA. Heath vegetation consisted of 4 communities (Wet Heath, Dune Scrub, Dry Heath
and Clay Heath) with Clay Heath regarded to hold high conservation value; wet
sclerophyll forest consisted of Brush Box Forest and Brush Box-Pink Bloodwood Forest,
which was also of high conservation value.
Furthermore, a total of 3 rainforest communities were listed to occur within the Maclean
LGA (Littoral Rainforest, Subtropical Rainforest and Palm Subtropical Rainforest), all of
which werealso regarded to have high conservation values.
A total of 381 fauna species were known to occur within the Maclean Shire, including 44
mammals, 276 birds, 44 reptiles and 17 amphibians. At least 58 are listed as endangered
or migratory, associated with wetlands within the Clarence Estuary. Of the 44 mammals
known to occur, the Koala was recorded in high numbers in several locations, including
in the Iluka, Woombah and Ashby areas.
Surveys of the local residents (totalling 56 responses) identified a total of 38 areas that
were considered important to flora and fauna. These areas were grouped into the
following (from the most nominated areas to least nominated):
Clarence Peak-Brooms Head;
Ashby-Tullymorgain-Broadwater and Iluka-Wommbah and Yuraygir National
Parks;
Clarence River and Islands;
Bundjalung National Park;
Maclean area; and
Yamba-Angourie-Wooloweyah areas.
Data from Wildlife information and Rescue Service (WIRES) indicated a total of 230 fauna
species were treated within a five-year period between 1989 1994, with the majority of
injuries caused by anthropogenic influences, such as vehicles, loss of habitat and attacks
from domestic animals.
The study identified the need for management of flora and fauna within the context of 17
land use issues (sugar cane, fisheries, tourism, ecotourism, wetlands, catchment
management, Councils 1992 LEP 1992, Predicted growth, acid sulphate soils, wildlife
corridors and weeds) to help maintain and integrate the natural and human communities.
As a result of this study, a reassessment of the importance of flora and fauna within the
LGA led to future management opportunities with the adoption of:
The Department of Lands Clarence River Waterside Reserve Plan of

Management;
Greater controls on riparian zones associated with waterways;
Keystone Ecological

Recognition of the importance of Paperbark Swamps and their ecological services;

Improvement of water quality;
A tree preservation order in the Maclean LGA;
A limit to development with zoning based partly on knowledge of flora and fauna;
Increased use of ecotourism; and
Use of management strategies developed by the Clarence Catchment Management
Committee.
Vegetation Classification for the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Area of

New South Wales (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage 2012)
This large scale project was designed to survey, classify and describe the vegetation
communities within the area administered by the Northern Rivers Catchment
Management Authority. The overall aim of the survey was to fill knowledge gaps based on
environmental stratification priorities and an expert-agreed list of targeted vegetation
communities. The survey data was analysed by a detailed numerical analysis designed to
establish a Northern Rivers Region Vegetation Classification.
The analysis weas based on a validated database of 8,892 floristic plots for the primary
analysis. In addition, 2,972 floristic plots were analysed using a hierarchical
agglomerative clustering analysis for the secondary analysis. An expanded analysis study
area was established to include data for contextual information and equivalencies in
adjacent studies.
A total of 3,270 plant taxa was recorded in the analysis database. The numerical analyses
and expert review resulted in the recognition of 306 vegetation communities. A further
36 communities were included from qualitative assessment and a further 42 pre-existing
coast wallum communities were included, to give an overall total of 384 vegetation
communities within the study area.
Vegetation profiles were completed for these 384 vegetation communities and this
information will be used in the NSW Vegetation Information System. The analysis has also
provided lists of species according to their contribution to the definition of the
community, namely, as a positive diagnostic, constant, negative diagnostic or
uninformative species.
Of relevance to this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment are the communities
of the Coastal Dune Dry Sclerophyll Forests vegetation class that occur on sandplains and
likely to occur on the subject site. Of these, the candidates are:
Community 187: Coast Cypress Pine shrubby open forest, NSW North Coast
Bioregion and South Eastern Queensland Bioregion. This is one of three
communities that is dominated by Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine, but
the only one on Quaternary ridges and dunes. The description aligns with the Coastal
Cypress Pine Forest EEC and its equivalency was foreshadowed in the Final
Keystone Ecological

Determination (NSW Scientific Committee 2011). Although no map is available of its

occurrence, its known locations include a number of sites near Ballina, Brunswick
Heads, Pottsville, Rileys Hill and in Billinudgel Nature Reserve and Broadwater
National Park;
Community 190: Coast Banksia woodland and open forest of coastal dunes,
NSW North Coast Bioregion and SouthEastern Queensland Bioregion. This
community is often a regrowth dune woodland or open forest community of
Recent/Holocene sands, found on lower, leeward dune slopes and flats often
grading into swamp. The overstorey is dominated by Banksia integrifolia subsp.
integrifolia Coast Banksia, Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark,
Lophostemon suaveolens Swamp Box and Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood.
The mid-stratum is composed of small trees, vines and tall shrubs often indicative
of gradual succession of this community to littoral rainforest. Acronychia littoralis
is known to occur in this community.
Community 193: Pink Bloodwood - Brush Box open forest on coastal dunes
and sandplains, South Eastern Queensland Bioregion and NSW North Coast
Bioregion. A woodland or open forest with a shrubby understorey found on
sandy soils on coastal plains and low coastal hills from Tweed Heads in the South
Eastern Queensland Bioregion to Port Macquarie in the NSW North Coast
Bioregion. The overstorey includes Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood and/or
Lophostemon confertus Brush Box. Banksia integrifolia Coast Banksia and
Cupaniopsis anacardioides Tuckeroo are often present. The mid-stratum typically
includes Austromyrtus dulcis Midgenberry, Acronychia imperforata Beach
Acronychia, Acrotriche aggregate Red Cluster Heath and Xanthorrhoea
macronema Bottlebrush Grass Tree. Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat-rush
and Pteridium esculentum Bracken Fern are characteristic ground cover species.
Acronychia littoralis is known to occur in this community. One of the known locations
is near to the subject site, in Bundjalung NP 100 metres south west of Iluka Road
opposite the Shark Bay turnoff.
Community 311: Small-leaved Lilly Pilly - Broad-leaved Lilly Pilly - Lilly Pilly littoral
rainforest mainly on sands, NSW North Coast Bioregion and South Eastern Queensland
Bioregion is equivalent to the Littoral Rainforest of Iluka Nature Reserve.
2.2
National Herbarium of NSW
In order to reinforce the features that delineate Acronychia littoralis from co-occurring
species in the same genera, the collection at the NSW National Herbarium, Royal Botanic
Gardens was examined. All specimens of Acronychia species collected from the north coast
were inspected.
Morphological characteristics were noted for comparison with specimens collected from the
site, especially those characters noted in Hartley (1974 and 2013), Harden et al. (2006), and
Floyd (2008).
Keystone Ecological

2.3
Expert Consultation
A number of experts (particularly those likely to have local knowledge) were consulted:
Dr John Benson retired Research Scientist from the NSW National Herbarium.
Expert in vegetation classification of NSW and has particular knowledge of north
coast flora;
Mike Dodkin retired Ranger from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, mid
north coast. Has specific knowledge of collections of rare flora on the mid north coast
and Acronychia littoralis in particular;
Dr Marco Duretto Manager Plant Diversity at NSW National Herbarium, including
responsibility for curation of Rutaceae;
Alex Floyd retired botanist from the NSW Forestry Commission and NSW National
Parks and Wildlife Service, Honorary Curator at the North Coast Regional Botanic
Garden at Coffs Harbour, and author of Rainforest Trees of Mainland South-eastern
Australia (second edition 2008);
Gwen Harden retired botanist from the NSW National Herbarium, editor of Flora of
New South Wales (Volumes 1 to 4) and co-author of Rainforest Trees and Shrubs a
field guide to their identification (2006);
Gina Hart Ranger at the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, co-ordinator of
project tracking the distribution and abundance of the endangered population of the
Emu;
Dr Stephanie Horton specialist botanist / ecologist with particular knowledge of
Acronychia littoralis locations in the Iluka area. Author of report to NSW NPWS on
targeted survey of Acronychia littoralis (Horton 1997);
R. John Hunter specialist rainforest botanist / ecologist. Author and co-author of
many authoritative papers on rainforest ecology and distribution of rare flora;
Dr Maurizio Rossetto Botanist at NSW National Herbarium and author of paper on
Acronychia littoralis taxonomy (Rossetto 2005);
Paul Sheringham Botanist at the Office of Environment and Heritage, Coffs Harbour.
Co-author of a number of authoritative papers and reports on north coast flora and
vegetation, but particularly Vegetation Classification for the Northern Rivers
Catchment Management Area of New South Wales (OEH 2012);
Jeff Thomas Pest Management Officer at the NSW National Parks and Wildlife
Service, north coast. Has specific knowledge of collections of rare flora on the north
coast in general and the Iluka Peninsula in particular;
Barbara Triggs specialist in identifying fauna from scats, tracks and traces;
Dr Peter Weston Botanist at the NSW Herbarium, including responsibility for
curation of Orchidaceae;
Barbara Wiecek Identifications Botanist at the NSW Herbarium; and
Dr Karen Wilson - Botanist at the NSW Herbarium, including responsibility for
curation of Cyperaceae.
Opinions and information were sought from these experts regarding the following:
Keystone Ecological

Acronychia littoralis
o Locations and timing of flowering and fruiting of specimens of confirmed
o Identification of specimens collected from the site and surrounds and from
reference populations
o Locations of populations of confirmed Acronychia littoralis
o Identity and history of collections of Acronychia littoralis in the Iluka area
Identification of other plant specimens collected from the subject site
Mapping and analysis of the vegetation in the local area
Identification of Emu scats collected from the subject site
Note that opinions and conclusions regarding Acronychia and Coastal Cypress Pine Forest
expressed in this report are not necessarily attributable to the experts consulted above.
However, their opinons and shared information were used to inform this report and its
conclusions.
2.4
Additional Site Survey
Site survey for this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment was conducted from 13th
to 15th February 2016 (2 people), 19th to 24th May 2016 (3 people) and 28th to 30th June 2016
(2 people). Additional site survey totalled at least a further 110 person hours.
This Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment also relies on previous survey and
results detailed in Ashby and McTackett (2015).
Survey was intended to primarily target the following:
The distribution and identification of Acronychia species that may occur on site,
including Acronychia littoralis, Acronychia oblongifolia and Acronychia imperforata;
The delineation and characterisation of vegetation communities, particularly Coastal
Cypress Pine Forest and Littoral Rainforest; and
The location of mature Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum.
This additional survey involved:
Tracking of the flowering and fruiting of a reference population of Acronychia

littoralis at Sea Acres Nature Reserve, Port Macquarie, in order to guide the timing
of field work at the subject site;
Analysis of recent aerial photographs for canopy patterns indicating the presence
of target communities;
Targeted random meander for the communities of interest on the subject site and
in the adjacent lands to the south
Keystone Ecological

Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion. This
additional survey on the subject site was guided to some degree by results of
a survey undertaken by locals and published on the blog North Coast Voices
at http://northcoastvoices.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/a-remnant-coastalcypress-pine-forest.html;
o Littoral Rainforest in the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East
Corner bioregions;
Collection of full floristics quadrats within these areas;
Mapping of the locations of Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum trees ;
Location of Acronychia trees by random meander and collection of specimens; and
Preliminary identification of Acronychia specimens with submission to the NSW
National Herbarium for definitive identification.
o
Although not the focus of this additional survey, incidental observations were also made of
other features, including:
Flora species not reported previously by Keystone Ecological or others;
Hollow-bearing trees;
Diurnal birds; and
Evidence of the presence of Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu.
Keystone Ecological

RESULTS
3.1
Sand mining
European land uses of the Iluka Peninsula have included forestry, agriculture
(particularly cattle grazing) and sand mining. The subject site has probably been grazed
by cattle over a long period of time and its soil has been mined for heavy metals such as
zircon and rutile in the 1970s.
The coastal sands from the Hawkesbury River to Fraser Island contain valuable ore
deposits and the history of the exploitation of that resource is described by Morley
(1981). The genesis of the industry lay in the extraction of gold from the beaches of Ballina
in 1870 and continued there at a small scale extracting gold, tin and platinum until the
1920s. The potential of the Australian coastal sands as a source of other important
minerals was soon realised, with three leases for zircon extraction awarded to an
American company in 1928 for a beach at Iluka and two at Yamba (Morley 1981). Thus,
the coastal sands of the Iluka area have been the subject of mineral extraction over a long
period of time.
Early mineral extraction was concentrated on the beaches and progressively moved into
the sand dunes and back dunes. Archived reports held by the NSW Department of
Industry, Resources and Energy (http://www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/minersand-explorers/geoscience-information/services/online-services/digs) pertaining to the
sand mining leases for the subject site and surrounds reveal the nature and timing of the
disturbances.
The subject site is within Mining Lease 7 (ML 7) that had been granted to Cudgen R.Z., and
was part of a progression of works from Angourie in the south to Brooms Head in the
north. The extent and context of ML 7 is shown in a hand-drawn map from the mining
archives, reproduced at Figure 2 overleaf.
The lease area of ML 7 occupied approximately 44 hectares (108 acres) and went beyond
the boundaries of the subject site: south into what is now residential land and vegetated
crown land, and east into what is now Iluka Nature Reserve. Other concurrent and
contiguous leases included ML 10 and ML 15 to the north (each approximately 33
hectares in extent) and ML 6 (60 hectares to the north east).
Historical aerial photography from 1958 to October 2013 was reviewed as part of the
geotechnical report for the subject development (CARDNO 2015) and aerial photographs
from 1966, 1978 and 1996 were presented in Ashby and McTackett (2015). These
photographs and analysis show that in 1966, although mostly vegetated, parts of the site
had been cleared and opened up, perhaps for grazing. By 1978, ML 7 (including the subject
site) had been cleared, along with most of ML 10, 15 and 6.
Keystone Ecological
10

Figure 2: Mining Lease 7 (pink) and surrounding leases. Approximate area of mining shown
in green and the subject site has been added in red outline.
Extracts from the mining inspection reports relevant to ML 7 reveal that:
Clearing and mining began sometime before August 1970;

The mining plant used had a capacity to process over 700 tons (>711,000 kg) of
sand per hour;
The mineral was within low humpy dune lines, covered with some heavy scrub and
larger eucalypts, extending to a depth of about 12 feet;
Clearing was undertaken by a contractor for this lease and other adjacent leases
in one operation across approximately 150 acres (approximately 60 hectares);
A complaint was lodged with the local member about the extent of clearing;
Mining was anticipated to occur within 6 months of clearing;
Keystone Ecological
11

After clearing, the timber was being progressively burnt in order that the land
would be free of roots and debris well ahead of the mining operation, in accordance
with the requirements of the lease;
Mining was continuing in January 1971 and it was anticipated to be completed by
mid March 1971;
In January 1971 it was reported that Restoration is well in hand and good growth
is evident over the majority of the restored and seeded back areas;
In February 1971 it was reported that Operations are drawing to a close in this
area and dredging is moving northwards along the last section of ML 7. Restoration
is well in hand and good growth covers the hind sections recently mined;
Mining operations ceased in the Iluka area at the end of the month and plant was
transferred to the Coffs Harbour area. Restoration is well up with the operation
and only the last excavation recently vacated by the mining plant remains to be
filled and resoiled. A greater part of the reshaped area has been seeded and a good
strike is already showing over the surface;
In April 1971 it was reported that restoration is well in hand and proceeding
using a TD25 International bulldozer;
By July 1971 the areas sown with winter varieties adjacent to the road are
showing good growth and the remainder of the surface on the western section is
being prepared for sowing with summer species;
In the adjacent ML 6, a large contingent of ravenous army worms ate out the
cover crop but sowings of Rhodes Grass and some natural species started to
germinate;
In October 1971, some preliminary tree planting was undertaken along the
mined section adjacent to Iluka Road. It was anticipated that a natural regrowth
of eucalypts will occur in these areas;
In March 1972 it was reported that despite good primary stabilisation with some
vines and other natural species, no eucalypts are apparent;
Sometime between March and December 1972, a bushfire occurred that affected
ML 6, 7 and 15. Sections of these areas were heavily grassed, however a great deal
os this primary cover has been burnt off in recent fires. Removal of the heavy ground
cover will possibly promote the growth of wattles and eucalypts;
By December 1972, it was declared that the surfaces were well stabilised and as
a result of the bushfires, native species are now showing in some sections and that
the situation was very satisfactory.
These reports reveal that clearing was done quickly and thoroughly, followed by fire to
remove stumps and other impediments to the mining machinery. The sand mining itself
followed within months.
The hand-drawn map indicates that a broad Y-shaped area within ML 7 was mined (see
Figure 2). This suggests that approximately half of the site through the cenre was cleared
and mined, but other parts may have only been cleared, fired and perhaps then subject to
some restoration and stabilisation works. This incomplete mining of the site may explain
Keystone Ecological
12

the presence of a partial dune in the eastern part of the site, one near the centre and one
near the western boundary. However, some of this observed topography may also be the
result of reshaping after mining and / or clearing. Nevertheless, some parts of the site may
have had some of its soil seedbank remaining, as well as some of its soil structure and soil
chemistry intact.
The pattern of the distribution of Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum and the intact
mesic vegetation at the western boundary may be explained by this distribution of works,
and are discussed later in this report. Aerial photography from 1978 shows the extent to
which the subject site was cleared of vegetation and also shows a loss of parallel dune
structure, which is still evident in the cleared and presumably yet to be mined area to the
north east. The area of disturbance on the subject site from clearing, burning and sand
mining is shown in Figure 3 below.
Figure 3: Aerial photograph from 1978 showing the extent and severity of clearing and sand
mining undertaken 7-8 years previously.
Rehabilitation after sand mining in the early 1970s was focused on stabilisation of the
exposed sand with little regard for impacts on biodiversity. Exotic grasses were sown as
a primary cover crop and brush matting applied both for protection from winds and the
application any seed it may hold. It is not known what species were used, but it has been
reported by others that natives outside of their natural range (Leptospermum laevigatum
and Acacia saligna) and weeds (Chrysanthemoides monilifera var. rotundata Bitou Bush)
were used extensively in this area (e.g. UBM 1993). The dominance of Acacia disparrima
Keystone Ecological
13

Salwood seen now on site indicates that this locally native wattle may also have been
used. It is reported in the archives that trees were also planted, but there is no indication
of numbers, species or locations.
The 1970s was a transitional period for sand mining, with the industry being denied
access to areas it had otherwise anticipated using (Morley 1981). Also, environmental
awareness was translating to more and better controls and more sophisticated methods
of restoration. This is evidenced by the Restoration Programme Brooms Head detailed
in the Mining and Operational Plan prepared in 1976 by Dillingham Mining Company of
Australia, the company that took over Cudgen R.Z. leases. This plan reveals an
appreciation for dune micro topography and its interplay with vegetation, restoration of
the pre-mining dune architecture, the need for stockpiling and re-using topsoil, the
propagation and use of local seed, and the planting of a greater diversity of species.
However, the methodology still had one major flaw - the seed material was to be collected
from the dominant species in each of the vegetation communities. Notable among the
species lists within the restoration plan are the serious transformer weeds
Chrysanthemoides monilifera var. rotundata Bitou Bush and Lantana camara Lantana,
along with the weeds Onopordum acanthium Scotch Thistle and Anagallis arvensis Scarlet
Pimpernel.
The pattern of vegetation on the subject site and the high degree of weediness seen today
reflects these profound changes wrought on the landscape and its vegetation by this shortlived but most destructive land use.
3.2
Until this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment, there were no specimens of
Acronychia littoralis from Iluka in the NSW National Herbarium or any other herbarium. As
part of this investigation, Keystone Ecological examined every specimen of Acronychia
littoralis in the NSW National Herbarium, as well as Acronychia oblongifolia, Acronychia
imperforata and Acronychia wilcoxiana (see examples overleaf inPhotographs 1 to 3). An
enquiry to the Coffs Harbour herbarium also confirmed there was no specimen held there
from the Iluka area.
Australias Virtual Herbarium (http://avh.chah.org.au/) shows only 4 specimens (3 being
duplicates) in Australian Herbaria collected from anywhere near Iluka (collections dated
1984 and 2002). These have all come from a small patch of stems of Acronychia littoralis
within Bundjalung National Park on the northern side of Iluka Road near the Esk River. This
patch is well-known among botanists and was the source of material used by Dr Maurizio
Rossetto in his study differentiating Acronychia species by molecular analysis (Rossetto
2005). This was confirmed by Dr Stephanie Horton (email communication 16th August
2016), as she collected the specimens for that study.
Keystone Ecological
14

Photograph 1: Acronychia imperforata
Photograph 2: Acronychia oblongifolia.
Photograph 3: Acronychia littoralis.
Photograph 1-3: Acronychia specimens at the RBG.
Keystone Ecological
15

Despite the lack of evidence, its presence on site had been reported to the Commonwealth
Department of the Environment by a concerned person in response to this development
application. A generalized map of its occurrence was provided to them, which is reproduced
as a blue rectangle in Figure 4 overleaf.
The Commonwealth Department of the Environment was also in possession of a letter from
the NSW National Herbarium (dated 2012 and addressed to a Mr Paul Nelson of Iluka),
confirming the identity of a specimen as Acronychia littoralis that he sent to the RBG. This
letter states that Dr Marco Duretto identified the fruiting rainforest specimen as A.
littoralis. However, Ms Barbara Wiecek, Identifications Botanist at the NSW National
Herbarium, confirmed that the specimen was not kept or lodged in the collection, and no
record was therefore put into BioNet or the Atlas of Living Australia or other database.
Further investigations with local botanists revealed that Mr Jeff Thomas from NSW National
Parks and Wildlfie Service recalled collecting specimens of Acronychia from within a small
part of the subject site, which is also indicated in Figure 4 and partially coincident with the
blue rectangle. However, he was unsure where the specimens were sent, surmising they may
have gone to the Coffs Harbour herbarium. This was not the case though, as Mr Alex Floyd
has confirmed by email that he has no memory of receiving a specimen of Acronychia
littoralis from the Iluka area, nor are any specimens in that herbarium, which is where he
would have lodged such an important collection.
Therefore, the location of the specimen identified in 2012 is unknown. However, Mr Jeff
Thomas confirmed that Mr Paul Nelson was a volunteer bush regenerator with a local
Landcare group, and Mr Martyn Swain of Clarence Valley Council confirmed that a Landcare
group was (and is) working in Iluka Nature Reserve, opposite the subject site on the other
side of Iluka Road.
There is tantalizing evidence to suggest that this specimen may have been collected from the
Landcare works area. There is a copy of a letter in the NPWS files, from a Ranger to the RBG
in 2011, asking for an identification of an Acronychia collected on the edge of Iluka
township. It was apparently picked up by Landcare volunteers and was from 2 plants in a
group of about 20 other Acronychia trees.
A reply to that letter in the RBG files indicate that the material was mixed, and they asked
that better specimens be collected for a more certain identification. There was no
subsequent record of such material being sent, and the material was disposed of, as it was
not of the standard required for the collection (Ms Barbara Wiecek, personal
communication). This may have prompted Mr Paul Nelson to collect another, better
specimen in 2012.
Attempts to contact Mr Paul Nelson were unsuccessful.
Keystone Ecological
16

Memory of collection
location - NPWS officer
Approximate
locations of
Council tagged
Acronychia
Commonwealth report
Figure 4: Reported location of Acronychia littoralis on site.
During survey for this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment, it became apparent
that some Acronychia trees in the road reserve along the western side of Iluka Road had
been tagged and labelled variously CVC / TSC Act and DO NOT CLEAR. Enquiries
revealed that these had been tagged by Clarence Valley Council (CVC) as a precautionary
measure when the sewer pipes were being laid along this road corridor, in case they were
a threatened species (TSC Act) and potentially damaged by the works. Council did not have
formal confirmation of any identification.
It is likely that the collection events and the tagging by Council and the idenifications
provided by the NSW National Herbarium have all been conflated. As a result, many people
now believe that this part of the road reserve and adjacent areas within the site contain a
population of Acronychia littoralis, despite there not being any good evidence to support that
belief.
However, the site undoubtedly provides potential habitat for ths species, but it was not found
during previous survey by Mark Fitzgerald or Keystone Ecological. Neverthelss, in response
to Councils request, further field survey was undertaken for this Additional Flora and Fauna
Impact Assessment in February, May and June 2016. The field survey coincided with
flowering in February, early fruit set in May and later development of fruit in June.
Keystone Ecological
17

In February 2016, 20 specimens were collected that were in bud or in flower, and 17 sent to
the RBG for identification. However, none were identified to species due to the inconclusive
nature of the morphological features relied upon in the relevant keys.
A known reference population at Sea Acres Nature Reserve at Port Macquarie was
voluntarily monitored on behalf of Keystone Ecological by Mr Mike Dodkin. After that
reference population was reported to be in full fruit in April-May (see Photograph 6 for a
view of a fruiting branch at Sea Acres), a field survey was undertaken of the subject site.
Suprisingly, the specimens at the mid north coast were more advanced than those at the
far north coast. This may have been the result of local rainfall conditions, with the
preceding summer and autumn being very dry.
Notwithstanding those local conditions, during that May field survey, a total of 463
individual Acronychia trees were located on and immediately adjacent to the site (including
the sites sampled in February), and comprised 102 mature adults, 194 saplings and 168
juveniles.
Samples were collected from 90 of these trees for identification, of which 41 samples were
of fertile material (flowers and /or fruit). All fruiting trees were sampled and all sample trees
were photographed in situ. The size of the sample taken was commensurate with the ability
of the plant to withstand removal of leaf and / or fertile material. The locations of each
sample was determined by hand-held GPS and the site tagged with numbered flagging tape.
These sample sites are shown overleaf in Figure 5. Each sample location represented a
discrete group of trees, usually across an area of up to 10 square metres, and contained
between 1 and 22 stems. The sites with a large number of stems were numerically
dominated by juveniles.
In addition to collections from the subject site, a specimen was collected from the
reference tree at Sea Acres Nature Reserve tree (see Photograph 4) and one from the Iluka
Bluff picnic area in Iluka Nature Reserve approximately 1.2 kilometres east of the subject
site (see Photograph 5). These were both confirmed by Dr Marco Duretto as being
Acronychia littoralis and retained for the NSW National Herbarium collection.
A specimen was not collected from the Esk River population (see Photographs 6 and 7) as
there were few fruits on the trees, it had already been well collected by others and its
identity was not in doubt.
One specimen with immature fruit collected in May from the road reserve of Elizabeth
Street was initially identified by Dr Marco Duretto as Acronychia littoralis, but he changed
this identification to Acronychia imperforata when a more mature specimen was collected in
June from the same tree. That particular specimen was retained for the NSW National
Herbarium collection and it is shown in Photograph 8.
Keystone Ecological
18

All other specimens that were identified were nominated by Dr Duretto as either
Acronychia oblongifolia or Acronychia imperforata. Importantly, none of the specimens
tagged by Council along Iluka Road were identified as Acronychia littoralis; all fertile
specimens of these trees were consistent with Acronychia imperforata (see Photographs 9
and 10).
Therefore, while the site provides potential habitat for Acronychia littoralis, all fertile
material collected during exhaustive survey has been identified as belonging to one of the
common species known from the local area.
Figure 5: Locations of Acronychia on and around the subject site, February, May and June
2016.
Keystone Ecological
19

Photograph 4: Acronychia littoralis in fruit at Sea Acres Nature Reserve, May 2016.
Photograph 5: Acronychia littoralis (L) and Acronychia imperforata (R) in fruit at Iluka
Nature Reserve, May 2016.
Keystone Ecological
20

Photograph 6: Acronychia littoralis near the Esk River, May 2016.
Photograph 7: Acronychia littoralis in fruit at the Esk River population, May 2016.
Keystone Ecological
21

Photograph 8: Acronychia imperforata collected from the Elizabeth Street road reserve (E7),
May 2016.
Photograph 9: One of the trees tagged by Council along Iluka Road road reserve (E4),
showing fruit shape inconsistent with Acronychia littoralis, May 2016.
Keystone Ecological
22

Photograph 10: Fruit of one of the trees (E1) from the south eastern corner of the site, within
the patch identified by locals as containing Acronychia littoralis. This fruit shape is
inconsistent with Acronychia littoralis and identified by the RBG as probably Acronychia
oblongifolia, May 2016.
3.3
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion is listed as Endangered
Ecological Communitys under the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995).
In the Final Determination (NSW Scientific Committee 2011), it is described as being
dominated by Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine and found typically on coastal sand
plains north of Angourie. At the time of its original listing (2008) it was known from a very
restricted area, occupying probably no more than approximately 200 hectares. At least half
of its known occurrence occurs in reserved lands.
The Final Determination further details that it may occur as isolated remnant trees in sites
affected by partial clearing, tree senescence or fire.
This vegetation community had not been previously recognised as occurring on the
subject site or in the local area. However, in response to the lodging of the development
application, local conservationists have explored the site and noted the distribution of
Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine tree. These results have been published on a blog,
North Coast Voices (http://northcoastvoices.blogspot.com.au/2016/06/a-remnantcoastal-cypress-pine-forest.html). That web site shows the locations of individual trees
picked up by GPS as well as an extrapolated occurrence of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC
Keystone Ecological
23

that is within a large polygon drawn to incorporate every Cypress tree found on site. That
image is reproduced at Figure 6.
Figure 6: Extracted image from North Coast Voices blog page showing the distribution of
individual Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine trees (white dots) and an estimated extent
of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC (white line).
Keystone Ecological
24

In order to properly explore the presence and distribution of this community, further
vegetation survey was undertaken by Keystone Ecological in May and June 2016. This
included the following:
Interpretation of newly-available aerial photography dated 28th May 2016;

Targeted random meander for the primary characteristic tree Callitris columellaris
Coastal Cypress Pine;
Sampling of an additional 12 full floristics quadrats.
Recording of flora species encountered along a transect through the adjacent
bushland to the south; and
Checking of the distribution of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine depicted by
North Coast Voices;
This survey effort is depicted in Figure 7 below (yellow tracks, pink transect and pink
quadrats), along with vegetation quadrats completed as part of the initial Flora and Fauna
Impact Assessment (Ashby and McTackett 2015) shown in green. For reasons of clarity,
previous random meanders are not shown.
Figure 7: Additional vegetation random meander (yellow) and full floristics quadrats (pink).
Past survey quadrats shown in green.
The vegetation data from these quadrats is provided in Appendix 1. The affinity of the
species recorded to those listed in the Final Determination was explored.
Of the 50 species listed as characteristic, only 19 were recorded anywhere on site.
Keystone Ecological
25

Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine occurred in 8 quadrats: quadrats 5, A, B, D, G, H, L

and N.
In those 8 quadrats, the number of characteristic species recorded ranged from a minimum
of 30% to a maximum of 64% of all species recorded in the quadrat.
However, Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine was a small element of the vegetation in
most of these, represented only by a small juvenile. It was a common species only in quadrats
5 (5-25% canopy cover), H (25-50% canopy cover), L (5-25% canopy cover) and N (5-25%
canopy cover).
The other characteristic species of the EEC that was commonly recorded in these quadrats
was Acacia disparrima. However, this is a dominant element of the entire site and is not
necessarily indicative of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest. Rather, its presence is more likely an
indicator of past fires and perhaps also restoration activities after sand mining.
The other characteristic species recorded commonly in these quadrats is Cyperus
stradbrokensis, Pteridium esculentum and Lomandra longifolia. These three species are all
common, and known to occur in a number of other communities. The comprehensive
analytical data set of OEH (2012) reveals their likely contribution to the definition of this EEC:
Cyperus stradbrokensis is listed as positive diagnostic for 7 different communities and

uninformative for another. It is a positive diagnostic species for Community 187,
which is the closest fit to Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC.
Lomandra longifolia is recorded in dozens of other communities as a constant
presence, contributing as a positive diagnostic to only a handful, not including
Community 187.
Pteridium esculentum is a also a constant presence in dozens of other communities,
including Community 187. It is also indicative of a disturbed land use history.
Therefore, the most important components defining the presence of Coastal Cypress Pine
Forest are Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine and Acacia disparrima in the tree layer
and Cyperus stradbrokensis on the ground. The depauperate nature of this result indicates
that it is not necessarily a good example of the community.
The land use history explains this pattern further. All of the areas currently supporting
Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine trees were cleared, burnt to mineral earth and then
sand mined. The trees and other elements evident today are not remnant or regrowth but
instead new growth, populating the site after removal of minerals, destruction of the soil
structure, reshaping of the landscape, possible planting of weeds and perhaps wattles, and
fire. This is outside of the definition of when single trees or areas without trees may represent
the EEC, when affected by partial clearing, tree senescence or fire.
Nevertheless, despite this litany of destructive processes and definitional ambiguity, there
are three reasonably good patches observed during survey that demonstrate the type of
Keystone Ecological
26

structure and density described in the Final Determination for this EEC. These patches were
delineated during survey and are depicted in Figure 8 overleaf.
Figure 8: Patches of vegetation where Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine dominates
and exhibits the structure detailed in the Final Detemination of the Coastal Cypress Pine Forest
EEC - shown in green.
The patch on site is approximately 0.25 hectares in extent and has been accommodated
for retention by a reqorkign of the layout. Asset Protection Zones have been excluded from
the patch, but lie between it and the developed areas.
The other two patches are both off site in the adjacent crown land and separated from the
subject site by the fire trail. They are 1.15 and 1.16 hectares in extent.
The other areas of occurrence of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine on site are not
considered to qualify as the EEC as they are only scattered individual trees or groups of
juveniles absent of other definitional elements and in areas where they represent new
growth, not regrowth or disturbed vegetation.
3.4
Littoral Rainforest
Littoral Rainforest in the NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin and South East Corner bioregions
is listed as an Endangered Ecological Community under the Threatened Species Conservation
Keystone Ecological
27

Act (1995) and as a Critically Endangered under the Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999).
There are elements of Littoral Rainforest scattered across the site in the presence of
occasional Lilly Pillies and viney patches, but they are in general not well developed or
extensive. Given the sites profound disturbance history it is unsurprising that welldeveloped natural vegetation communities are generaly absent. Also, given the proximity
to Littoral Rainforest, it is equally unsurprising that some elements have begun to colonise
the site. However, the potential for full development of a closed forest structure may never
eventuate or only after a very long time due to the severe impacts of sand mining on the
soils and microtopography, two very important elements for Littoral Rainforest.
In constrast, the vegetation alog the western boundary is relatively intact, with a dune
topography and large old trees remaining. This area is dominated by Melaleuca
quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark in its lowest parts and also supports many rainforest
trees in the swales, but the canopy is generally co-dominated by Banksia integrifolia Coast
Banksia, Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood and Lophostemon confertus Brush Box.
This area was categorised as Swamp Sclerophyll Forest in previous reports (Fitzgerald
2005; Ashby and McTackett 2015), but Council requested that its affinity with Littoral
Rainforest be further considered.
As a result, an additional survey quadrat was measured, along with additional random
meander and analysis of recent aerial photography. The results remained equivocal but
the vegetation classification report of OEH (2012) provides a clearer explanation of the
vegetation in that part of the site.
The western part is likely to be an example of Community 190 - Coast Banksia woodland
and open forest of coastal dunes, NSW North Coast Bioregion and SouthEastern
Queensland Bioregion. This community is often a regrowth dune woodland or open forest
community of Recent/Holocene sands, found on lower, leeward dune slopes and flats
often grading into swamp. The overstorey is dominated by Banksia integrifolia subsp.
integrifolia Coast Banksia, Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark,
Lophostemon suaveolens Swamp Box and Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood. The midstratum is composed of small trees, vines and tall shrubs often indicative of gradual
succession of this community to littoral rainforest.
Some of these species include Smilax australis Lawyer Vine, Cupaniopsis anacardioides
Tuckeroo, Melicope elleryana Pink-flowered Doughwood, Pittosporum undulatum Sweet
Pittosporum, Acronychia imperforata Coastal Aspen, Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree,
Synoum glandulosum subsp. Glandulosum Scentless Rosewood, Glochidion sumatranum
Umbrella Cheese Tree and Omalanthus nutans Bleeding Heart. The understorey is
composed of a wide variety of grasses, ferns, sedges and herbs.
This description fits the observations of the vegetation in this part of the site and the
classification is therefore adopted here.
Keystone Ecological
28

Thus, while it is acknowledged that it is in a succession to Littoral Rainforest, it is not yet

Littoral Rainforest. Nevertheless, all of this area is retained within the western boundary
reserve and is to be managed for conservation purposes.
The OEH vegetation report (OEH 2012) has also provided an explanatory framework for
a classification of the remainder of the subject site, with Community 187 Coast Cypress
Pine shrubby open forest accounting for the patch dominated by Callitris columellaris
Coastal Cypress Pine, and Community 190 along the western boundary. The remainder is
best described as Community 193: Pink Bloodwood - Brush Box open forest on coastal
dunes and sandplains.
3.5
Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum
Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum is an important primary forage tree for Koalas and
other threatened fauna. The nature of the sandy soil and the stripping of nutrients with sand
mining has resulted in a loss of large trees. Thus any mature trees of this species are very
valuable and should be retained where possible.
To that end, all of he Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum in the north eastern part of the
site were located and mapped see Figure 9 pverleaf. The development layout and the
reserve were then reconfigured in order to retain these trees.
It is important to note that Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum and other eucalypts of
some age and height also occur in Iluka Nature Reserve opposite the proposed north eastern
corner reserve. This new configuration provides a broader and more direct connection to
similar habitat across the road.
An added advantage of this reconfigured layout is a better connection between the bushland
of the Nature Reserve to the east and the habitats of the golf course to the north and beyond.
Keystone Ecological
29

Figure 9: Distribution of Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum trees.
Keystone Ecological
30

IMPACT ASSESSMENTS
This Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment has resulted in a reconfiguration of
the layout. The consequences are:
No change to the configuration of reserve along the western boundary (Park A).
This area will retain the most intact vegetation and landscape on site. It will also
provide a direct link from the north to south. This area is to be managed for
conservation purposes under an approved management plan;
A small increase in the size of the reserve in the north eastern corner (Park B), but
with a much more functional layout. It will incorporae all Eucalyptus tereticornis
Forest Red Gum trees observed and link directly with similar habitat to the east in
Iluka Nature Reserve and provide a direct route to the glof course habitats to the
north and other vegetation beyond. This area is to be managed for conservation
purposes under an approved management plan;
An additional area is to be reserved in Park C. This area of 0.25 hectares is intended
to retain the best developed example of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest on site. Further,
it links with large patches to the south in crown land. Asset Prtoection Zones are to
be established around but outside of Park C. This area is to be managed for
conservation purposes under an approved management plan;
The exclusion of development along the Elizabeth Street road reserve or Iluka Road
reserve. This will provide a visual buffer to adjoining residences as well as to Iluka
Nature Reserve. Although narrow, it will also provide a corridor function for the
movement of flora and fauna. Weeds will be controlled in this area.
These changes are considered to be of advantage to the threatened species with realised
or potential habitat on site, but particularly for the Koala and Emu as the links are more
direct and will conserve the best habitat features.
The conclusions drawn for these and other species in Ashby and McTackett (2015) were
that a significant adverse impact was considered unlikely to occur. As the new layout will
deliver a superior outcome with more habitat retained in a better configuration, a
significant adverse impact is considered even less likely to occur now. Therefore, new
Assessments of Significance are considered unnecessary.
However, Coastal Cypress Pine Forest is a new matter and Acronychia littoralis has been the
subject of exhaustive detailed survey. Therefore new Assessments of Significance for these
entities are provided in Appendix 2 and summarised below.
4.1
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion
Previous survey and analysis undertaken by Keystone Ecological identified the occurrences
of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine as part of the vegetation type Low Wattle
Woodland (Ashby and McTackett 2015). Previous determination of the vegetation type was
based on the overwhelming occurrence of Acacia disparrima subsp. disparrima Salwood
Keystone Ecological
31

within the tree layer and the patchy occurrence of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine
and other canopy trees. Distribution of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine was
restricted within the Low Wattle Woodland to the sample area in and around Quadrat 5 (see
Figure 9 of Ashby and McTackett 2015).
Subsequent additional investigations have established that the site is best described as
comprising three vegetation types sensu OEH (2012): Community 190 Coast Banksia
woodland and open forest of coastal dunes along the western boundary, with Community 187
Coast Cypress Pine shrubby open forest over the dense patch of Callitris columellaris Coastal
Cypress Pine. The remainder (what was called Low Wattle Woodland) is best described as
Community 193: Pink Bloodwood - Brush Box open forest on coastal dunes and sandplains.
Community 187 Coast Cypress Pine shrubby open forest is considered to be equivalent to
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC. When considering the structure, density of trees and other
associated species, this EEC occupies approximately 0.25 hectares and is restricted on site
along its southern boundary. This area will be entirely reserved and protected in Park C, and
managed under an approved management plan.
The local area of occurrence of this community is considered to include the two larger
patches of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest recognised and mapped in the crown land to the south.
It is not considered to include all of the incidences of Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress
Pine trees scattered throughout Community 193. This is a very common tree in this area and
in fact is the most common Cypress species in Australia. It is able to grow in any number of
different vegetation types (given otherwise suitable habitat conditions) and is commonly
observed scattered throughout the Iluka Peninsula in areas that are demonstrably not
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest.
Impact and Amelioration
The proposal will require the removal of approximately 70 square metres of this EEC for the
fire trail along the southern boundary. An area of approximately 0.25 hectares of Coastal
Cypress Pine Forest will be retained and manged for conservation purposes. The local area
of occurrence will be maintained at 2.56 hecatres.
Summary / Conclusion
The proposed development will retain the ground-truthed extent of Coastal Cypress Pine
Forest occurring on the subject site. The local occurrence of this EEC will not be significantly
reduced as a result of the proposal, with only 70 square metres being affected by essential
alteration to a small part of the fire trail.
This small area to be removed cannot be regarded as important to the persistence of the local
occurrence of this community.
Keystone Ecological
32

4.2
Detailed additional survey was undertaken to establish the status of this species on and near
the subject site. Significant expenditure of time and effort has established that the site
supports the common species Acronychia oblongifolia and Acronychia imperforata; no
specimens of the endangered Acronychia littoralis were located on site. However, it was
confirmed as occurring nearby in Iluka Nature Reserve and Bundjalung National Park.
This species is known to occur in two of the three vegetation types recognised on site
(Community 190 Coast Banksia woodland and open forest of coastal dunes along the western
boundary, and Community 193: Pink Bloodwood - Brush Box open forest on coastal dunes
and sandplains across the majority) (OEH 2012).
Therefore, the subject site, although very disturbed, still provides potential habitat for this
species across approximately 19.16 hectares, being 0.9 hectares of relatively intact
Community 190: Coast Banksia woodland and 18.26 hectares of highly disturbed Community
193: Pink Bloodwood - Brush Box open forest. This latter vegetation type is within the area
most impacted by past clearing and sand mining and is variously infested by weeds, including
serious transformer species such as Lantana camara Lantana.
Investigation has also established that assumptions by others that this species has been
collecte from the subject site, are almost certainly mistaken.
Impact and amelioration
The proposal will require the removal of 16.4 hectares of highly disturbed vegetation within
which intensive survey did not find this species. The proposal will retain and conservation
manage all of the best potential habitat in Park A and also retain and conservation manage
potential habitat in 1.9 hectares of disturbed potential habitat in Park B.
Summary / conclusion
The proposal is unlikely to place a viable local population of this species at risk of extinction.
The retention and conservation management of potential habitat and removal of serious
weed infestations will be of some advantage to habitat for this species.
Keystone Ecological
33

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Keystone Ecological has undertaken an additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment of
the likely impact of the subdivision and subsequent residential development at Lot 99 DP
823635, Hickey Street, Iluka in the Clarence Valley Local Governmnet Area, upon
nationally and state listed threatened flora and faua, and their habitats.
The proposal is to subdivide the site and create 156 residential lots and one residual lot of
vegetated land in three patches. The internal road systems and accessways will have wide
verges and roundabouts, allowing for significant plantings as part of a formal landscape
plan. The street verges will serve a number of purposes besides access, aesthetics and
delivery of infrastructure, including water sensitive urban design features and bushfire
control. The reserved areas have been carefully located in order to capture the highest
value habitats as well as provide important corridors for the local movement of fauna. The
site is adjacent to, but not within, a recognised regional wildlife corridor.
Formal consideration has been given to the potential for impact on the following two listed
matters of conservation significance that are known to occur or have a high likelihood to
occur on site:
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion EEC Occurs
along the edges of the fire trail running to Iluka Road and within the
vegetation adjacent to the southern boundary of the subject site; and
Acronychia littoralis none occur on site but it has now been collected form
nearby and the site provides potential habitat, albeit of a highly modified
nature.
Previous survey and assessments for all other matters of interest are considered current.
Therefore this Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment should be read in
conjunction with that earlier report (Ashby and McTackett 2015). Overall, the proposal
will remove 16.4 hectares of highly modified vegetation, resulting from past clearing, sand
mining, poor restoration practices, repeated hot fires and the continued influence of
transformer weeds such as Lantana camara Lantana. The infestations of Lantana are
significant, being impenetrable in places.
While this represents the majority of the vegetation on site, the principles of avoiding,
minimising, mitigating and offsetting environmental impacts have been observed by the
following elements of the proposal and recommendations arising from this assessment:
20. The best quality habitat of the highest conservation value (Community 190: Coast
Banksia woodland with regenerating elements of Littoral Rainforest EEC) is to be
retained and managed for conservation purposes.
21. This area will be further protected from the residential development by a buffer of
native vegetation.
Keystone Ecological
34

22. A patch of bushland in the north eastern corner has been configured for retention
in order to proect retain all of the Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum, provide a
broader link to Iluka NR to the east and a direct route from that bushland to the
habitats to the north.
23. The patch of Coastal Cypress Pine Forest EEC on site will be retained and protected.
24. The two large areas of retained vegetation have been located so as to maintain
connectivity for the species of most concern that were recorded on site, being
Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu and Phascolarctos cinereus Koala.
25. Potential adverse impacts on these species will be further mitigated by the
implementation of a landscape plan that includes the planting out of the wide
verges with native trees favoured by Koalas, such as Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest
Red Gum and Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood.
26. Road reserves along Iluka Road and Elizabeth Street are to remain vegetated and
weeds controlled.
27. Traffic calming measures will also be employed and the route of traffic flow
managed by road design. These measures will decrease the risk of road trauma.
28. Domestic pets are to be kept within fenced premises, especially at night.
29. The replacement with nest boxes of all hollow-bearing trees to be removed. Most
hollow-bearing trees on site are dead and at risk of falling over in the near future.
The proposal will allow for the replacement of this resource and thus avoid a
bottleneck for hollow-dependent fauna.
30. Felled hollow trees will be re-used as terrestrial habitat in the retained vegetation.
31. Vegetation clearing will be conducted under ecological supervision to protect
resident fauna from direct harm.
32. Clearing is to be conducted outside of the breeding season of important fauna
species, particularly Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu (December to end March).
33. Lighting is to be of a type that minimises spill and glare. This is important for
microchiropteran bats and other nocturnal species.
34. Water sensitive urban design principles are to be incorporated into the
development. This will minimise the potential indirect impacts to surrounding
bushland.
35. Vegetation management in the APZs is to entail the removal of only the aerial
parts of plants. This will serve as a soil conservation measure.
36. Dumping of garden refuse in bushland areas is to be prohibited.
37. Residents are to be encouraged to plant locally native species in their gardens and
particularly avoid heavy nectar-bearing plants (such as Grevillea) in order to
avoid dominance by the aggressive Noisy Miner.
38. All erosion and sediment controls are to be strictly observed during works.
The proposal is considered unlikely to result in a significant adverse impact for any
matters of import. Thus no further assessment is required: neither a Species Impact
Statement need be prepared under guidelines issued by the NSW Office of Environment
and Heritage nor a referral to the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Energy
need be pursued.
Keystone Ecological
35

REFERENCES
Floyd, A. (2008) Rainforest Trees of Mainland South-eastern Australia. Revised edition.
Terania Rainforest Publishing, Lismore
Harden, G. McDonald, B. and Williams, J. (2006) Rainforest Trees and Shrubs a field guide
to their identification. Gwen Harden Publishing, Nambucca Heads
Hartley, T.G. (1974) A revision of the genus Acronychia (Rutaceae) Journal of the Arnold
Arboretum 55:469-523
Hartley, T.G. (2013) Flora of Australia, Volume 26, Meliaceae, Rutaceae, Zygophyllaceae 16.
Acronychia pp 104-118
Horton, S. (1997) Seeking Scented Acronychia the search for Acronychia littoralis beween
Iluka and Camden Haven. Unpubkished report to NSW NPWS
Morley, I.W. (1981) Black Sands. A history of the Mineral Sand Mining Industry in Eastern
Australia. University of Queensland Press:St Lucia
Mount King Ecological Surveys (1995) Flora and Fauna Study of Maclean Shire. Report
prepared for Maclean Shire Council.
NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (2012) Vegetation Classification for the Northern
Rivers Catchment Management Area of New South Wales.
Rossetto, M. (2005) A simple molecular approach for identifying a rare Acronychia
(Rutaceae) provides new insights on its multiple hybrid origins. Biological
Conservation 121:35-43
Urban Bushland Managemetn Inc (1993) A restoration strategy for the Iluka Peninsula.
Report prepared for the Association of Iluka Residents
Keystone Ecological
36
APPENDIX 1
FLORA AND FAUNA DATA
Appendix 1: Flora and Fauna data

Hickey Street, Iluka
Table 1.1: Threatened species (flora and terrestrial fauna) recorded within 10 kilometres of the subject site and their likelihood to occur. OEH Wildlife Atlas database, October 2016.
Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
Animalia
Amphibia
Myobatrachidae
Animalia
Amphibia
Animalia
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Crinia tinnula
Wallum Froglet
Vulnerable
Hylidae
Litoria brevipalmata
Green-thighed Frog
Vulnerable
Amphibia
Hylidae
Litoria olongburensis
Olongburra Frog
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Animalia
Reptilia
Cheloniidae
Caretta caretta
Loggerhead Turtle
Endangered
Endangered
Animalia
Reptilia
Cheloniidae
Chelonia mydas
Green Turtle
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Animalia
Reptilia
Cheloniidae
Eretmochelys imbricata
Hawksbill Turtle
Vulnerable
Animalia
Reptilia
Elapidae
Cacophis harriettae
White-crowned Snake
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Casuariidae
Dromaius
novaehollandiae
Emu
Endangered
Population
Animalia
Aves
Phaethontidae
Phaethon lepturus
White-tailed Tropicbird
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Phaethontidae
Phaethon rubricauda
Red-tailed Tropicbird
Vulnerable
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Apodidae
Apus pacificus
Fork-tailed Swift
Migratory
Hirundapus caudacutus
White-throated
Needletail
Animalia
Aves
Apodidae
Animalia
Aves
Diomedeidae
Animalia
Aves
Procellariidae
Animalia
Aves
Procellariidae
Animalia
Aves
Procellariidae
Keystone Ecological
Thalassarche
melanophris
Black-browed Albatross
Ardenna carneipes
Flesh-footed Shearwater
Ardenna pacificus
Wedge-tailed
Shearwater
Ardenna tenuirostris
Short-tailed Shearwater
Habitat requirements
Found only in acid paperbark swamps and
sedge swamps.
Occurs in range of forested habitats where
surface water gathers after rain.
An acid frog confined to coastal sandplain
wallum swamps.
Terrestrial habitat restricted to tropical
beaches.
Terrestrial habitat restricted to marine
beaches.
Terrestrial habitat restricted to marine
beaches.
Occurs near coastal areas on low to mid
elevations of dry eucalypt forest and
woodland. Found particularly in areas with a
well-developed litter layer and fallen timber
to forage for their prey.
Occurs in predominantly open lowland
habitats, including grassland, heathland,
shrubland, woodland, forest, swamp and
sedge communities, plantations, open
farmland and occasionally littoral rainforest.
Migratory species found over pelagic waters
feeding on small fish.
Terrestrial habitat confined to oceanic
islands.
Almost exclusively aerial, flying over most
habitat types. Arrive from Siberia in spring
and depart in autumn. Feed on edge of low
pressure systems. Threats to this species in
Australia are negligible.
Non-breeding population migrates from Asia
in spring and departs autumn along either
side of Great Dividing Range. Most of its time
spent feeding on the wing, high along storm
fronts. Roosts infrequently in terrestrial
habitats and terrestrial habitat largely
irrelevant.
Number
of
records
39
2
20
5
14
3
Potential habitat on
site
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
Low to none.
Not required.
Low to none.
Not required.
Low to none.
Not required.
None.
Not required.
None.
Not required.
None.
Not required.
Marginally suitable
habitat on site.
Records are few and all south of the

Clarence River.
Low.
Not required.
267
Suitable habitat on
site.
Scats observed on site.
Further impact
assessment required.
Low to none.
Not required.
Low to none.
Not required.
1
1
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none.
Not required.
31
Suitable habitat on
site.
Observed flying overhead during

survey.
Low likelihood to use terrestrial
habitats of the subject site.
Not required.
Migratory
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Terrestrial habitat confined to offshore

islands.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Vulnerable
Migratory
Terrestrial habitat confined to Lord Howe

Island.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Migratory
Breeds on offshore islands along NSW coast.

Absent from NSW from May to August.
10
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Migratory
Winters in the North Pacific and migrates in

very large flocks south to establish massive
breeding colonies off the southern and southeastern coasts of Australia.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
Animalia
Aves
Procellariidae
Macronectes giganteus
Southern Giant Petrel
Animalia
Aves
Fregatidae
Fregata ariel
Lesser Frigatebird
Animalia
Aves
Fregatidae
Animalia
Aves
Ciconiidae
Fregata minor
Great Frigatebird
Ephippiorhynchus
asiaticus
Black-necked Stork
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Endangered
Endangered
Migratory
Migratory
Endangered
Animalia
Aves
Ardeidae
Ardea ibis
Cattle Egret
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Ardeidae
Egretta sacra
Eastern Reef Egret
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Ardeidae
Ixobrychus flavicollis
Black Bittern
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Threskiornithidae
Plegadis falcinellus
Glossy Ibis
Animalia
Aves
Accipitridae
Accipitridae
Animalia
Animalia
Animalia
Aves
Aves
Aves
Migratory
Circus assimilis
Spotted Harrier
Vulnerable
Erythrotriorchis radiates
Red Goshawk
Critically
Endangered
Accipitridae
Haliaeetus leucogaster
White-bellied Sea-Eagle
Accipitridae
Hamirostra
melanosternon
Black-breasted Buzzard
Keystone Ecological
Vulnerable
(preliminary
determination)
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Migratory
islands just north of the Antarctic circle.
A migratory species found on remote islands
and breeds in bushes, mangroves and on the
ground.
A migratory species found in tropical waters
and breeding in mangroves and bushes.
Inhabits permanent freshwater wetlands
Widespread, common and expanding. Occurs
in grasslands, wooded lands and wetlands.
Most commonly found foraging with
livestock. Roosts in trees in or near lakes and
swamps. Breeds in colonies in wooded
swamps.
Lives on exposed reefs, rocky shores, beaches,
mudflats, islands. Roosts and nests in
woodland, scrub adjacent to beaches.
Occurs in freshwater and estuarine wetlands.
Frequents swamps and lakes throughout
much of the Australian mainland. Breeds in
colonies with other waterbirds; nests in trees
or shrubs growing in water.
Found in tropical and temperate open
wooded country, particularly in arid and
semi-arid areas. Partly nomadic, in response
to local conditions. Hunts low over the
ground, favoured prey are ground birds; will
also take mice, rats, rabbits and lizards.
Inhabit open woodland and forest, preferring
a mosaic of vegetation types, a large
population of birds as a source of food, and
permanent water, and are often found in
riparian habitats along or near watercourses
or wetlands. In NSW, preferred habitats
include mixed subtropical rainforest,
Melaleuca swamp forest and riparian
Eucalyptus forest of coastal rivers. Breeding
habitat within 1km of permanent water, often
adjacent to rivers or clearings. Usually one of
the tallest trees is selected for the nest
location.
Most commonly seen foraging over water
bodies or near coastal waters; will
occasionally forage over open country for
carrion. Highly mobile and travels long
distances. Nests and roosts high in trees in
well-timbered country.
Lives in a range of inland habitats, especially
along timbered watercourses and in areas
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
89
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
14
No suitable habitat
on site.
Recorded in the local area in

suitable habitat during survey.
Low to no likelihood to occur.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Only 1 record from the broader

study area, dating from 1987, 5 km
west of Iluka.
Low likelihood to occur.
Not required.
125
Marginally suitable
potential nesting
habitat on site.
Marginally suitable
potential foraging
habitat on site.
Large number of records (>120) in

the broader study area.
Observed nesting in golf course to
the north of the subject site.
Moderate likelihood to occur on the
subject site.
Only 1 record from the broader
study area, dating from 1981, in
Iluka township.
Further impact
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
with less than 500mm of rainfall. Specializes

in eating large eggs, including emu eggs.
Only 6 records were identified with

the closest being 3km north east of
the subject site in 1984 and the
most recent being 8km west of the
subject site in 1991.
This species was observed nearby
during survey.
High likelihood to occur.
Recorded in the local area in
suitable habitat during survey.
Observed nesting in artificial
breeding sites erected in the
township and along the Clarence
River.
No likelihood to occur on site.
Animalia
Aves
Accipitridae
Lophoictinia isura
Square-tailed Kite
Vulnerable
Found in timbered habitats with a particular

preference for timbered watercourses.
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Animalia
Aves
Accipitridae
Pandion cristatus
Eastern Osprey
Vulnerable
Favours coastal areas and requires an

extensive area of open fresh, brackish or
saline water for foraging.
311
No suitable habitat
on site.
Abundant in the northern tropics, but very

sparse across the southern part of its range.
Often forage in dry grassland, ploughed
paddocks or desert claypans but dependent
on wetlands, especially shallow swamps.
12
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Marginally suitable
potential habitat on
site; dense weed
infestations probably
alienated habitat for
this species.
Few records but regularly sighted

in suitable open and estuary edge
habitat. The closest is from the golf
course to the north (2009) and the
most recent is from the township
(2010).
Not required.
None.
Not required.
None.
Not required.
None.
Not required.
Animalia
Aves
Gruidae
Grus rubicunda
Brolga
Vulnerable
Further impact
Not required.
Animalia
Aves
Burhinidae
Burhinus grallarius
Bush Stone-curlew
Endangered
Inhabits open forests and woodlands with a

sparse grassy ground layer and fallen timber
Animalia
Aves
Burhinidae
Esacus magnirostris
Beach Stone-curlew
Critically
Endangered
Occurs on open, undisturbed beaches and

estuaries
70
Animalia
Aves
Haematopodidae
Haematopus fuliginosus
Sooty Oystercatcher
Vulnerable
Occurs on rocky headlands and exposed reefs,

beaches and muddy estuaries
63
Animalia
Aves
Haematopodidae
Haematopus longirostris
Pied Oystercatcher
Endangered
Favours intertidal flats of inlets and bays,

open beaches and sandbanks
197
Animalia
Aves
Charadriidae
Charadrius leschenaultia
Greater Sand-plover
Vulnerable
Vulnerable,
Migratory
Occurs mainly on sheltered sandy, shelly or

muddy beaches or estuaries with large
intertidal mudflats or sandbanks.
25
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Animalia
Aves
Charadriidae
Charadrius mongolus
Lesser Sand-plover
Vulnerable
Occurs on beaches, harbours and estuaries

with large intertidal sand flats or mudflats.
47
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
45
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
Endangered,
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Charadriidae
Pluvialis fulva
Pacific Golden Plover
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Charadriidae
Pluvialis squatarola
Grey Plover
Migratory
Keystone Ecological
Widespread in non-breeding season in coastal

Australasia, Melanesia and Polynesia. Usually
in coastal habitats (beaches, mudflats,
sandflats, mangroves, saltmarsh, seagrass),
though occasionally in inland wetlands.
Occurs along coastal areas except for
breeding sites which occur in tundra, often in
drier areas.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Observed in the local
area during survey.
No likelihood to
occur on site.
Observed in the local
area during survey.
No likelihood to
occur on site.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Actitis hypoleucos
Common Sandpiper
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Arenaria interpres
Ruddy Turnstone
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris acuminate
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris alba
Sanderling
Vulnerable
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris canutus
Red Knot
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris ferruginea
Curlew Sandpiper
Endangered
Critically
Endangered,
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris melanotos
Pectoral Sandpiper
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris ruficollis
Red-necked Stint
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Calidris tenuirostris
Great Knot
Vulnerable
Critically
Endangered,
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Gallinago hardwickii
Latham's Snipe
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Limicola falcinellus
Broad-billed Sandpiper
Vulnerable
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Limosa lapponica
Bar-tailed Godwit
Migratory
Keystone Ecological
Found on muddy edges or rocky shores of
coastal or inland wetlands, saline or fresh.
Breeds in Eurasia and part of the population
overwinters in Australia.
Tidal reefs and pools, weed-covered rocks
washed by surf, pebbly shores, mudflats,
occasionally inland shallow waters, sewage
farms or bare open ground near coast.
Winters in southern hemisphere.
Summer migrant to Australia from the Arctic.
Prefers grassy edges of shallow inland
freshwater wetlands. Found also on sewage
farms, flooded fields, mudflats, mangroves,
beaches and rocky shores.
Found in coastal areas on low beaches of firm
sand, near reefs and inlets, along tidal
mudflats and bare open coastal lagoons;
individuals are rarely recorded in nearcoastal wetlands.
Breeds in the Arctic and flies non-stop to
Australia. Feed in large flocks on the coast in
sandy estuaries with tidal mudflats.
Breeds in Siberia and migrates to Australia in
warmer months. Forages in shallow water of
intertidal mudflats of sheltered coasts. Roosts
on beaches, spits/islets, saltmarsh or on rocky
shore.
Prefer shallow fresh to saline wetlands.
Found near the coast.
Tidal mudflats, saltmarsh, sandspits, sandy or
shell-grit beaches, shallow margins of salt or
freshwater lakes often far inland, sewage
farms. Winters in southern hemisphere.
Occurs in sheltered, coastal habitats with
large, intertidal mudflats / sandflats. Often on
sandy beaches with mudflats nearby, sandy
spits and islets; sometimes on exposed reefs
or rock platforms. Migrates to Australia from
late Aug to early Sep.
Non-breeding migrant to Australia in the
warmer months. Found in dense cover in any
vegetation around wetlands, also saltmarsh
and creek edges when migrating.
Favours sheltered parts of coast (estuarine
sandflats, mudflats, harbours, lagoons,
saltmarshes, reefs) for feeding / roosting.
Occasionally seen in sewage farms or shallow
freshwater lagoons. Roosts on banks on
sheltered sand, shell or shingle beaches.
Tidal mudflats, estuaries, sewage farms;
occasionally on shallow river-margins,
brackish or salty inland lakes, flooded
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
12
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
62
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
43
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
33
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
21
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
79
No suitable habitat
on site.
Observed in the local area during

survey.
Not required.
44
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
10
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
448
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Limosa limosa
Black-tailed Godwit
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Numenius
madagascariensis
Eastern Curlew
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Numenius phaeopus
Whimbrel
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Tringa brevipes
Grey-tailed Tattler
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Tringa incana
Wandering Tattler
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Tringa nebularia
Common Greenshank
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Tringa stagnatilis
Marsh Sandpiper
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Scolopacidae
Xenus cinereus
Terek Sandpiper
Vulnerable
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Stercorcariidae
Stercorarius parasiticus
Arctic Jaeger
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Anous stolidus
Common Noddy
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Gelochelidon nilotica
Gull-billed Tern
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Gygis alba
White Tern
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Hydroprogne caspia
Caspian Tern
Migratory
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Onychoprion fuscata
Sooty Tern
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Procelsterna cerulean
Grey Ternlet
Vulnerable
Keystone Ecological
Vulnerable
Migratory
Critically
Endangered,
Migratory
pastures, airfields. Needs soft sand / mud.
Winters in southern hemisphere.
Usually found in sheltered bays, estuaries and
lagoons with large intertidal mudflats and/or
sandflats along coast.
Mainly coastal: sandspits, mudflats,
waterways in saltmarsh, mangroves;
occasionally fresh or brackish lakes, bare
grassland near water.
Estuaries, channels among mangroves, tidal
flats, coral cays, flat exposed reefs, flooded
paddocks, occasionally sewage farms, bare
grasslands, sportsgrounds, lawns. Winters in
southern hemisphere.
Estuaries, wave-washed rocks and reefs,
waterways in mangroves, tidal mudflats,
beaches. Overwinters in southern
hemisphere.
Found on rocky coasts with reefs and
platforms. Forages among rocks, shingles and
shallow pools.
Breeds in the Palaearctic. In Australia over
summer, on coast and inland, in estuaries,
mudflats, mangrove swamps and lagoons.
Summer migrant, in Australia from August to
April. Commonly seen in fresh or brackish
wetlands such as rivers, water meadows,
sewage farms, drains, lagoons and swamps.
Occurs on coastal mudflats, lagoons, creeks
and estuaries
Coastal offshore waters, larger bays,
occasionally coastal inlets, lakes, usually in
storms. Overwinters in southern hemisphere.
This species occurs in groups in the pelagic
zone. Breeding occurs on or near islands on
grass, rock or among coral rubble.
Found in freshwater swamps, brackish and
salt lakes, beaches and estuarine mudflats,
floodwaters, sewage farms, irrigated
croplands and grasslands. Nest in colonies on
high, dry ground on small permanent or
temporary islands in a lake or marsh.
Marine species that is a recent arrival to Lord
Howe Island, only breeding there since the
1960s.
Large waters generally, fresh or salt lakes,
larger rivers, reservoirs, estuaries, tidal
mudflats, beaches, shallow coastal waters.
islands.
Terrestrial breeding habitat in oceanic islands
in the South Pacific, including Lord Howe
Island.
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
31
No suitable habitat
on site.

survey.
Not required.
199
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
220
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
98
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
82
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
28
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
36
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
62
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
45
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
None.
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Sterna hirundo
Common Tern
Animalia
Aves
Laridae
Sternula albifrons
Little Tern
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Migratory
Endangered
Migratory
Offshore waters, beaches, reefs, bays, tidal
mudflats, lower reaches of larger rivers with
sandbars, sewage farms, occasionally swamps
near coast. Overwinters in southern
hemisphere.
Prefers sheltered coastal environments; may
occur several kilometres from the sea in
harbours, inlets and rivers. Nests in small
colonies in low dunes or on sandy beaches
just above high tide mark near estuary
mouths or adjacent to coastal lakes and
islands.
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
77
No suitable habitat
on site.

survey.
Not required.
58
No suitable habitat
on site.

survey.
Not required.
Few records from the broader

study area, the closest being 1km
east of the subject site in 1979 and
the most recent being 7.7km north
west in Woombah in 2010.
However, high likelihood to occur
given available habitat and mobility
of species.
Large number of past records from
the broader study area with the
closest being 1km east of the
subject site in 1985 and the most
recent being 8km west of the
This species was observed nearby
in Iluka NR and was heard on site.
10 records from the broader study
area with the closest and most
recent being 3km east of the
Characteristically chewed cones
were observed by Fitzgerald
(2005) under an Allocasuarina
littoralis at the northern edge of the
subject site.
area with the closest being 1km
the most recent being 5km south of
the subject site in 2012.
Animalia
Aves
Columbidae
Ptilinopus magnificus
Wompoo Fruit-Dove
Vulnerable
Occurs in rainforest.
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Animalia
Aves
Columbidae
Ptilinopus regina
Rose-crowned FruitDove
Vulnerable
Occurs in rainforest.
80
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Animalia
Aves
Cacatuidae
Calyptorhynchus lathami
Glossy Black-Cockatoo
Vulnerable
Breeds in large hollow-bearing trees in forest

and forages on Allocasuarina species.
10
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
12
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
44
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
Marginally suitable
habitat on site.

south of the subject site in 1981
and the most recent being 8km
north west of the subject site in
2009.
Not required.
Animalia
Aves
Psittacidae
Glossopsitta pusilla
Little Lorikeet
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Psittacidae
Pezoporus wallicus
wallicus
Eastern Ground Parrot
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Strigidae
Keystone Ecological
Ninox connivens
Barking Owl
Vulnerable
Mostly in dry open eucalypt forests and

woodlands. Feeds on tree nectar and pollen,
particularly profusely-flowering eucalypts,
but also melaleucas and mistletoes and
mistletoe fruit. Nomadic, movements
probably related to food availability.
Occurs in high rainfall coastal low heathlands
and sedgelands, that provide very dense
cover (90% or more) and below one metre in
height.
Occurs in eucalypt woodland, open forest,
swamp woodlands and timbered
watercourses. Occasionally uses dense
vegetation for roosting. Breeds in hollows in
large old trees.
Further impact
Further impact
Further impact
Further impact

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
Moderate likelihood to occur.
Animalia
Aves
Strigidae
Ninox strenua
Powerful Owl
Vulnerable
Usually roosts in dense vegetation and hunts

for arboreal mammals across large home
range.
Marginally suitable
habitat on site.

area were identified with the
closest being 4km north of the
recent being 5km west of the
Moderate likelihood to occur.
Animalia
Aves
Tytonidae
Tyto longimembris
Eastern Grass Owl
Vulnerable
Occur in areas of tall grass, including swampy

areas, grassy plains, swampy heath, cane
grass, or sedges on floodplains.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
Suitable potential
foraging habitat on
site.
Rarely recorded in the broader

study area: only known 3km west
of the subject site dating from
1998. Much more common in the
hinterland forests.
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
106
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Observed foraging and nesting on

site.
Further impact
60
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
38
Marginally suitable
site.
Closest records from Iluka NR from

1979 and 1981.
Most recent records are from
Yamba in 2009.
Due to rarity near the coast and
poor habitat on site, considered low
likelihood to occur.
Not required.
Suitable habitat on
site.
Observed foraging on site.
Further impact
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Of the records from the broader

study area, the closest is 1km south
east of the subject site from 1979
and prior to survey for this project,
the most recent was 2km north of
This species was observed 500 m to
the east in Iluka NR at the time of
survey.
Further impact
Animalia
Aves
Tytonidae
Tyto novaehollandiae
Masked Owl
Vulnerable
Migratory
Vulnerable
Animalia
Aves
Alcedinidae
Todiramphus chloris
Collared Kingfisher
Animalia
Aves
Meropidae
Merops ornatus
Rainbow Bee-eater
Animalia
Aves
Meliphagidae
Gavicalis fasciogularis
Mangrove Honeyeater
Animalia
Aves
Pomatostomidae
Pomatostomus
temporalis temporalis
Grey-crowned Babbler
(eastern subspecies)
Animalia
Aves
Neosittidae
Daphoenositta
chrysoptera
Varied Sittella
Animalia
Aves
Campephagidae
Keystone Ecological
Coracina lineata
Barred Cuckoo-shrike
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Occurs in forests, but often hunts along forest

edges such as roadsides.
Virtually restricted to mangrove associations

of estuaries, inlets, sheltered bays and islands,
and the tidal flats and littoral zone bordering
mangroves.
Occurs in many habitats where there are open
areas for foraging, well-placed perches to
from which to forage, a water source and
breeding habitat such as sandy creek banks.
Primary habitat in mangrove and shrublands
but may also range into adjacent forests.
Forages in mangroves.
In NSW, occurs from upper Hunter Valley to
the western slopes in Box-Gum Woodlands on
the slopes, and Box-Cypress-pine and open
Box Woodlands on alluvial plains. The north
coast of New South Wales is a stronghold of
the Grey-crowned Babbler but they are very
rare within a kilometre of the coastline but
widespread and common throughout the
floodplain areas of the Clarence and
Richmond Valley (Greg Clancy,
http://birding-aus.org/coastal-n-nsw-andgrey-crowned-babblers/).
Found in eucalypt woodlands and forests,
preferring rough-barked trees or mature
trees with hollows or dead branches.
Occurs in rainforest and large tracts of

eucalypt forest.
11
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Animalia
Class
Aves
Family
Artamidae
Species
Artamus cyanopterus
cyanopterus
Dusky Woodswallow
TSC Act
Vulnerable
EPBC Act
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
Marginally suitable
habitat on site.
Almost all local records more than

30 years old.
Not required.
A woodland dependent bird, known from

woodlands and dry open sclerophyll forests,
usually dominated by eucalypts; very
occasionally in moist forests or rainforests.
Often seen on roadsides and on golf courses.
Understorey is typically open with sparse
eucalypt saplings, acacias and other shrubs,
including heath. Partially migratory.
50
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
11

with the closest being less than
1km east of the subject site in 1993
and the most recent being 3km
north of the subject site in 2013.
area with the closest and most
recent being 1km south of the
subject site in 2004. However, most
records date from the 1970s and
1990s and have been generated by
a community survey that often
generates records of uncertain
dates. It is likely that the local
population of this species persists
only in very low numbers, if at all.
area with the closest being within
1km of the subject site in 1991 and
the most recent being 9km west of
Animalia
Aves
Monarchidae
Carterornis leucotis
White-eared Monarch
Vulnerable
Occurs in rainforest, especially littoral

rainforest and swamp forest. Prefers the
ecotone between open vegetation and
rainforest.
Animalia
Mammalia
Dasyuridae
Dasyurus maculatus
Spotted-tailed Quoll
Vulnerable
Endangered
Occurs in a number of forest habitats but

requires large areas of relatively intact forest.
16
Marginally suitable
site.
Animalia
Mammalia
Dasyuridae
Phascogale tapoatafa
Brush-tailed Phascogale
Vulnerable
Prefers dry sclerophyll open forest with

sparse ground cover.
16
Marginally suitable
site.
Animalia
Mammalia
Dasyuridae
Planigale maculate
Common Planigale
Vulnerable
Occurs in a range of forest, heath and

marshland where there is surface cover and
usually close to water.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Not required.
Further impact
Further impact
Not required.
Not required.
Animalia
Mammalia
Phascolarctidae
Phascolarctos cinereus
Koala
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Inhabits eucalypt woodlands and forests.
320
Suitable habitat on
site.
A large number of records from the

broader study area (>315) as the
Iluka population has been well
studied. Thought to be (at least
functionally) extinct. The most
recent record was 5km north west
of the subject site in 2013. This
species was photographed on site
by camera trap during survey.
Animalia
Mammalia
Petauridae
Petaurus australis
Yellow-bellied Glider
Vulnerable
Favours tall mature eucalypt forest in areas

with high rainfall and nutrient rich soils.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to no likelihood to occur.
Not required.
27
Marginally suitable
site. Poor foraging
habitat, some
potential denning
sites.
Of the 27 records within the

broader study area, the closest is
less than 1km south west of the
recent is 4km south west of the
subject site in 2014 on the other
side of the Clarence River.
Not required.
Animalia
Mammalia
Petauridae
Keystone Ecological
Petaurus norfolkensis
Squirrel Glider
Vulnerable
Inhabits Blackbutt- Bloodwood forests with

heath understorey in coastal areas.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
Low to moderate likelihood to

occur.
Animalia
Mammalia
Pseudocheiridae
Petauroides volans
Greater Glider
Animalia
Mammalia
Potoroidae
Aepyprymnus rufescens
Rufous Bettong
Animalia
Mammalia
Pteropodidae
Pteropus poliocephalus
Grey-headed Flying-fox
Animalia
Animalia
Animalia
Animalia
Mammalia
Mammalia
Mammalia
Mammalia
Pteropodidae
Molossidae
Vespertilionidae
Vespertilionidae
Keystone Ecological
Syconycteris australis
Common Blossom-bat
Mormopterus
norfolkensis
Eastern Freetail-bat
Chalinolobus
nigrogriseus
Hoary Wattled Bat
Miniopterus australis
Little Bentwing-bat
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Largely restricted to eucalypt forests and

woodlands and typically found in highest
abundance in taller, montane, moist eucalypt
forests with relatively old trees and abundant
hollows. The distribution may be patchy even
in suitable habitat and favours forests with a
diversity of eucalypt species, due to seasonal
variation in its preferred tree species.
Inhabits a variety of forests from tall, moist

eucalypt forest to open woodland, with a
tussock grass understorey. A dense cover of
tall native grasses is the preferred shelter.
Vulnerable
Foraging habitat in flowering eucalypts,

particularly winter-flowering species; camps
in dense wet forest or rainforest gullies.
74
Roosts in littoral rainforest and feeds on

flowers (particularly Banksia) in adjacent
heathland and paperbark swamps.
21
Marginally suitable
site. Poor foraging
habitat, some
denning sites.
Inhabits a variety of
forests from tall,
moist eucalypt forest
to open woodland,
with a tussock grass
understorey. A dense
cover of tall native
grasses is the
preferred shelter.
Foraging habitat in
flowering eucalypts,
particularly winterflowering species;
camps in dense wet
forest or rainforest
gullies.
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
Local records are all from north of

Woombah; none from the Iluka
Peninsula.
Not required.
Only 1 record within the broader

study area being 5km west of the
subject site (on the other side of the
Highway and the river), dating
from 2012. No records east of the
highway and none on or near the
Iluka peninsula.
Not required.
Suitable potential foraging habitat

on site.
Further impact
21 records within the broader

study area with the closest being
1km to the east in 1990 and the
most recent being 6km to the south
in 2006.
A breeding population of this
species occurs adjacent to the
subject site in Iluka NR.
Further impact
Occur in dry sclerophyll forest and woodland,

roost in hollows and man-made structures.
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
2 records from within the broader

study area with the closest and
most recent being 3km west of the
This species was recorded foraging
on site during survey.
Roosts in tree hollows and forages in open

understorey of dry open eucalypt forests
dominated by Spotted Gum, Boxes and
Ironbarks, and heathy coastal forests where
Red Bloodwood and Scribbly Gum are
common. Flies fast below the canopy.
No potential habitat
on site.
Low.
Not required.
37
Suitable potential
foraging habitat on
site.

the most recent being 10km south
at Angourie in 2013.
Further impact
Roosts in caves and forages beneath tree

canopies.
Further impact

Status
Kingdom
Animalia
Animalia
Animalia
Class
Mammalia
Mammalia
Mammalia
Family
Vespertilionidae
Vespertilionidae
Vespertilionidae
Animalia
Mammalia
Vespertilionidae
Plantae
Flora
Anthericaceae
Plantae
Flora
Casuarinaceae
Plantae
Flora
Cyperaceae
Plantae
Flora
Dilleniaceae
Plantae
Flora
Euphorbiaceae
Plantae
Flora
Plantae
Species
Miniopterus schreibersii
oceanensis
Eastern Bentwing-bat
Myotis macropus
Southern Myotis
Nyctophilus bifax
Eastern Long-eared Bat
Scoteanax rueppellii
Greater Broad-nosed Bat
Caesia parviflora var.

minor
Small Pale Grass-lily
Allocasuarina defungens
Dwarf Heath Casuarina
Cyperus aquatilis
Water Nutgrass
TSC Act
EPBC Act
Roosts in caves and forages above tree

canopies.
Forages over large bodies of water and roosts

in hollows or under old wooden bridges,
sometimes up to 10 km from foraging habitat.
Occurs in lowland subtropical rainforest and

wet and swamp eucalypt forest. Roosts in tree
hollows, among epiphytes and dense clumps
of rainforest foliage.
Vulnerable
Number
of
records
Likelihood to occur
This species was recorded foraging
on site during survey.
Only 2 records from the broader
study area in 1998 and 2001.
south west of the subject site in
2003 and the most recent being
10km west of the subject site in
2015. No records of this species
from the Iluka peninsula and all
known roosting sites beneath
bridges over the Clarence River and
its tributaries.
76 records within the broader
study area with the closest being
1km to the east in 1994 and the
most recent being 2km to the south
in 2008.
A large number of records are from
Iluka NR.
Possibly recorded foraging on the
site during survey.
Only 6 records from the broader
study area with closest and most
recent being 2km south of the
Low to moderate likelihood to
occur.
Further
consideration
Suitable potential
habitat on site.
25
Suitable potential
roosting habitat on
site in the hollowbearing trees.
76
Marginally suitable
foraging and roosting
site.
Found in a variety of habitats from woodland

through to moist and dry eucalypt forest and
rainforest, though most commonly found in
tall wet forest. Roosts in tree hollows and
forages over creeks and other corridors in
forest.
Marginally suitable
site; probably too
cluttered with
Lantana.
Endangered
Found in damp places in open forest on

sandstone.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none
Not required.
Endangered
Endangered
Occurs on coastal heath.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low to none
Not required.
Low
Not required.
Low to none
Not required.
Low
Not required.
Low
Not required.
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Endangered
Occurs in ephemeral wet sites such as

roadside ditches and seepage area in
sandstone areas.
Occurs in grassy or shrubby open eucalypt
forest at low altitudes on sandstone.
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Endangered
Occurs on coastal sand dunes.
Fabaceae
(Faboideae)
Hibbertia marginata
Bordered Guinea Flower
Chamaesyce
psammogeton
Sand Spurge
Sophora tomentose
Silverbush
Endangered
Occurs on coastal sand dunes.
Flora
Juncaginaceae
Maundia triglochinoides
Vulnerable
Occurs in freshwater wetlands.
Plantae
Flora
Lauraceae
Endiandra hayesii
Rusty Rose Walnut
Vulnerable
Vulnerable
Plantae
Flora
Menispermaceae
Tinospora tinosporoides
Arrow-head Vine
Vulnerable
Keystone Ecological
site
It is a rainforest species occurring in cool,

moist sheltered valleys and gullies.
Common in subtropical rainforests, littoral
rainforests on fertile, basalt soils.
1
2
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Not required.
Not required.
Further impact
Not required.

Status
Kingdom
Class
Family
Species
Endangered
Vulnerable
Plantae
Flora
Orchidaceae
Diuris sp. aff. chrysantha

Byron Bay Diuris
Plantae
Flora
Orchidaceae
Peristeranthus hillii
Brown Fairy-chain
Orchid
Plantae
Plantae
Flora
Flora
Orchidaceae
Rutaceae
Keystone Ecological
Phaius australis
Southern Swamp Orchid
Scented Acronychia
TSC Act
Endangered
Endangered
EPBC Act
Known only from a single location at Byron
Bay. Occurs in low-growing grassy heath on
clay soil.
Restricted to coastal areas including littoral
rainforest and lowland rainforest on
floodplain.
Number
of
records
site
Likelihood to occur
Further
consideration
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low
Not required.
No suitable habitat
on site.
Low
Not required.
Endangered
Occurs in swampy grassland or swampy

forest including rainforest, eucalypt or
paperbark forest, mostly in coastal areas; as
far south as Coffs Harbour.
21
Suitable habitat on
site.
Endangered
Found in transition zones between littoral

rainforest and swamp sclerophyll forest.
Usually occurs within 2km from the coast on
sandy soils.
17
Suitable habitat on
site.
This species was found north of the

site next to the golf course.
Potential habitat for this species
occurs at the western end of the
site in swamp sclerophyll forest.
16 records were identified with the
closest and most recent being 3km
south of the subject site in 2012.
Further impact
Further impact

Table 1.2: Flora species recorded in quadrats during all field survey. Abundance ratings are a modified 7 point Braun-Blanquet scale. Quadrat
locations are shown in the text. RM = Random Meander, MF = reported by Mark Fitzgerald during previous survey. N = Nearby, * = exotic
Family
Scientific Name
Acanthaceae
Thunbergia alata*
Amaranthaceae
Deeringia amaranthoides
Anacardiaceae
Euroschinus falcatus var. falcatus
Apocynaceae
Parsonsia straminea
Araliaceae
Polyscias elegans
4b
Araliaceae
Schefflera actinophylla*
4b
Arecaceae
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana
Arecaceae
Livistona australis
Arecaceae
Syagrus romanzoffiana*
Asparagaceae
Asparagus aethiopicus*
4b
4b
Asparagaceae
Asparagus densiflorus*
4b
4b
Aspleniaceae
Asplenium australasicum
Asteliaceae
Cordyline stricta
Asteraceae
Conyza sp.*
Asteraceae
Delairea odorata*
Asteraceae
Senecio amygdalifolius
Bignoniaceae
Pandorea pandorana
Blechnaceae
Blechnum cartilagineum
Casuarinaceae
Allocasuarina littoralis
Commelinaceae
Commelina cyanea
Commelinaceae
Tradescantia fluminensis*
Commelinaceae
Tradescantia zebrina*
Convolvulaceae
Ipomoea cairica*
Crassulaceae
Bryophyllum delagoense*
Cupressaceae
Callitris columellaris
Keystone Ecological
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
RM
MF
N
2
x
1
1
1
N
3
4b
4b
1
1
1
1
1
N
N
1
4b
4a
x
N
4b
4b
4b

Family
Scientific Name
Cyperaceae
Cyperus stradbrokensis
Cyperaceae
Cyperus tetraphyllus
Davalliaceae
Nephrolepis cordifolia
Dennstaedtiaceae
Pteridium esculentum
Dilleniaceae
Hibbertia scandens
Dioscoreaceae
Dioscorea transversa
Elaeocarpaceae
Elaeocarpus obovatus
Ericaceae
Leucopogon leptospermoides
Ericaceae
Monotoca elliptica
Ericaceae
Trochocarpa laurina
4b
Euphorbiaceae
Breynia oblongifolia
Euphorbiaceae
Claoxylon australe
Euphorbiaceae
Glochidion ferdinandi var. ferdinandi
Fabaceae
Senna pendula var. glabrata*
Lamiaceae
Clerodendrum tomentosum
Lamiaceae
Gmelina leichhardtii
Lauraceae
Beilschmiedia obtusifolia
Lauraceae
Cinnamomum camphorum*
Lauraceae
Cryptocarya glaucescens
Lauraceae
Endiandra discolor
Lauraceae
Endiandra sieberi
Lauraceae
Neolitsea australiensis
Lomandraceae
Lomandra filiformis var. filiformis
Lomandraceae
Lomandra longifolia
Luzuriagaceae
Eustrephus latifolius
Luzuriagaceae
Geitonoplesium cymosum
Malvaceae
Commersonia bartramia
Malvaceae
Sterculia quadrifida
Keystone Ecological
Q1
2
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
RM
MF
2
x
4b
1
N
1
N
2
2
1
1
2
1
1
4b
N
1
1
x
x
1
x
2
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
2
1
2
x

Family
Scientific Name
Meliaceae
Synoum glandulosum
Menispermiaceae
Stephania japonica var. discolor
Mimosaceae
Acacia disparrima subsp. disparrima
Mimosaceae
Acacia maidenii
4b
4b
Monimiaceae
Wilkiea huegeliana
Moraceae
Ficus elastica*
Moraceae
Maclura cochinchinensis
Myrsinaceae
Myrsine variabilis
Myrtaceae
Acmena hemilampra
Myrtaceae
Austromyrtus dulcis
Myrtaceae
Corymbia intermedia
Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus propinqua var. propinqua
Myrtaceae
Eucalyptus tereticornis
Myrtaceae
Myrtaceae
Leptospermum laevigatum
Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp.
polygalifolium
Lophostemon confertus
4b
4b
Myrtaceae
Melaleuca quinquenervia
4b
Myrtaceae
Pilidiostigma glabrum
Myrtaceae
Psidium cattleyanum var. cattleyanum*
Myrtaceae
Syzygium australe
Myrtaceae
Syzygium luehmannii
Ochnaceae
Ochna serrulata*
4b
Oleaceae
Notelaea longifolia forma intermedia
Orchidaceae
Corybas sp
Orchidaceae
Cymbidium madidum
Orchidaceae
Cymbidium suave
Orchidaceae
Pterostylis nutans
Myrtaceae
Keystone Ecological
Q1
3
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
1
4b
4b
4b
4b
RM
MF
nby
4b
4b
4b
4b
2
N
2
N
x
4b
N
x
4b
4b
4b
N
4b
nby
N
1
1
4b
4b
4b
1
4b
1
1
1
1
N

Family
Scientific Name
Q1
Orchidaceae
Zeuxine oblonga
Passifloraceae
Passiflora herbertiana
Phormiaceae
Dianella caerulea
Phyllanthaceae
Bridelia exaltata
Pinaceae
Pinus sp.*
Poaceae
Cynodon dactylon
Poaceae
Entolasia stricta
Poaceae
Megathyrsus maximus*
Poaceae
Oplismenus aemulus
Poaceae
Paspalum urvillei*
Polypodiaceae
Platycerium bifurcatum
Proteaceae
Banksia integrifolia subsp. integrifolia
Proteaceae
Banksia serrata
Proteaceae
Persoonia stradbrokensis
Pteridaceae
Pellaea falcata
Rhamnaceae
Alphitonia excelsa
Rhamnaceae
Pomaderris vellea
Rosaceae
Rubus rosifolius
Rubiaceae
Caelospermum paniculatum
Rubiaceae
Coffea arabica*
Rubiaceae
Morinda jasminoides
Rubiaceae
Pomax umbellata
Rutaceae
Acronychia imperforata
4b
Rutaceae
Acronychia oblongifolia
Rutaceae
Melicope micrococca
Sapindaceae
Cupaniopsis anacardioides
4b
Sapindaceae
Mischocarpus pyriformis
Smilacaceae
Smilax australis
Keystone Ecological
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
RM
MF
1
1
N
x
N
2
4a
4b
4b
4b
4b
4b
4b
1
N
2
1
N
1
1
1
N
1
1
2
2
4b
4b
4b
2
2
nby
3
1
3
1

Family
Scientific Name
Q1
Solanaceae
Solanum nigrum*
Solanaceae
Solanum seaforthianum*
Verbenaceae
Lantana camara*
Vitaceae
Cayratia clematidea
Vitaceae
Cissus hypoglauca
Vitaceae
Cissus sterculiifolia
Keystone Ecological
Q2
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
1
6
1
1
2
N
Q3
1
1
4b
4b
1
7
4b
4b
4b
4b
4b
2
RM
MF
APPENDIX 3
SECTION 5A ASSESSMENTS
SEVEN PART TESTS
Appendix 3: Seven Part Tests
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest

Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast Bioregion is listed as an endangered
ecological community under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995). It is not
listed under the schedules of the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act (1999).
Coastal Cypress Pine Forest is restricted to the NSW North Coast Bioregion. It is found
typically on coastal sand plains, north of Angourie (EOH 2016).
It is dominated by Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine but may sometimes have a
mixed canopy with Myrtaceae (Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood, Eucalyptus pilularis
Blackbutt, Eucalyptus signata Scribbly Gum), wattles (Acacia disparrima Salwood), she-oaks
(Allocasuarina littoralis Black She-oak) or Banksias (Banksia integrifolia, Banksia serrata) or
rainforest trees.
The Final Determination (NSW Scientific Committee 2011) defines this community as having
and open to sparse understorey of shrubs, sedges and herbs. The community may have a
distinctive litter layer with patches of compressed Coastal Cypress Pine branchlets (OEH
2016a). Structural forms of the community include woodland, open forest and closed forest,
although the tree stratum may be very sparse, absent, or comprised only of dead trees in
stands affected by partial clearing, tree senescence or fire (NSW Scientific Committee 2011).
Fires may influence the structure and floristic diversity of the community, as the
dominant tree species, Coastal Cypress Pine, is generally killed when burnt (OEH 2016a).
Besides the trees listed above, the characteristic assemblage of species within the Final
Determination includes many shrubs, grasses, and soft ground covers.
The species present and their relative abundance will vary as a function of environmental
factors such as rainfall, drought conditions and disturbances including fire regimes. The
above ground relative abundance of species can change depending on the time since fire
and may also change in response to changes in the fire regime (NSW Scientific Committee
2008).
Recent analysis of vegetation across the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Area by
OEH (2012) has recognised three vegetation types that comprise this community:
Community number 186 Coast Cypress Pine Salwood Jam Tarts shrubby open forest;
Community number 187 Coast Cypress Pine shrubby open forest; and Community
number 188 Coast Cypress Pine open forest to closed forest with littoral rainforest
elements.
The total area of occurrence is thought to be highly restricted, with estimates of 150
hectares to 200 hectares (Benwell 1995). It is currently known from approximately 15 to 20
locations with majority of known patches being smaller than 10 hectares (NSW Scientific
Committee 2008) and half of all occurrences are mapped within National Parks including
Bundjalung National Park, Yuraygir National Park, Broadwater National Park, and
Billinudgel Nature Reserve (NSW Scientific Committee 2011).
Keystone Ecological
Ref: CVC 14 695 October 2016
This community has undergone significant decline since European settlement with
estimates suggesting that the area occupied by this EEC may have declined by more than
77% (Benwell 1998, in NSW Scientific Committee 2011). Clearing remains a threat to this
community with coastal development and sand mining imposing the greatest impacts. Other
threats include habitat degradation and weed invasion from a number of noxious species
including Asparagus aethiopicus and Lantana camara Lantana (NSW Scientific Committee
2008).
The subject site contains scattered occurrences of species characteristic of this
community, including Callitris columellaris Coastal Cypress Pine and Cyperus stradbrokensis,
but the EEC is considered to be restricted to a patch of 0.25 hectares along the southern
boundary. Ii also occurs on the adjacent crown land in two patches of 1.15 and 1.16 hectres.
It is proposed to retain the 0.25 hectare patch in its entirety and conservaton manage it
in Park C. Approximately 70 squre metres of this EEC will need to eb cleared fro
rationalisation of the fire trail at its eastern end.
(a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have
an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of
the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,
Response:
This question is not relevant to an endangered ecological community.
(b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to
have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered
population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at
risk of extinction,
Response:
This question is not relevant to an endangered ecological community.
(c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered
ecological community, whether the action proposed:
(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such
that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or
Response:
The proposed works will remove a small area of 70 square metres and retain and mange
for conservation 0.25 hectares. Its local occurrence will be retained almost in t=its
entirety.
Keystone Ecological
(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological
community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,
Response:
The removal of weed-infesed disturbed bushland will remove weed propagules from the
local environment. The area of this EEC on site will be retained and managed under an
approved conservation management plan. This is not likely to modify the composition of
the community such that its local occurrence will be placed at risk of extinction.
(d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological
community:
(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the
action proposed, and
Response:
The proposed works will remove 70 square metres of this endangered ecological
community at the edge of the fire trail. The remaining area of occurrence will be retained
nad proected.
(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other
areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and
Response:
The bushland of the coastal sands of Iluka Peninsula are relatively well connected. While
the proposal will remove a portion of bushland, there will remain north to south and east
to west linkages. The removal of highly modified and weedy bushland is unlikely to
significantly exacerbate this pattern.
(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated
to the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the
locality,
Response:
The area of habitat to be removed or modified totals 70 square metres. This is unlikely to
represent habitat important enough to threaten its long term survival.
(e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat
(either directly or indirectly),
Response:
No critical habitat has been declared for this endangered ecological community.
Keystone Ecological
(f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a
recovery plan or threat abatement plan,
Response:
No recovery plan has been published for this community however, the Office of
Environment and Heritage is currently developing management strategies for this
endangered ecological community. The following management strategy has been
identified for this community (OEH 2016b):
1. The extent and condition of this ecological community will be improved or
maintained primarily via positive management consistent with Catchment Action
Plans, water management plans, and by regulating clearing. Where it occurs on
private lands, this ecological community will also benefit from voluntary
agreements with landholders to manage the land for conservation purposes.
A number of recovery activities have also been identified (OEH 2016a):
2. Avoid edge encroachment and trampling, using defined walking tracks and
fencing where appropriate.
3. Undertake weed management in remnants.
4. Generally, avoid fire in this community but arrange ecological burning where
assessed by OEH as necessary for regeneration.
5. Expand and connect isolated remnants by planting and/or bush regeneration.
The proposed development retains the extent of this community on site within bushland
reserve as part of the design and a site-specific management plan is recommended.
Therefore, the proposal is largely consistent within these outcomes.
(g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process
or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening
process.
Response:
The proposed works contribute to the Key Threatening Process Clearing of Native
Vegetation, but only within a very small area occupied by this endangered ecological
community.
REFERENCES
Benwell AS (1995) Vegetation of the Wardell heathlands. Report to NSW National Parks
and Wildlife Service, Coffs Harbour.
Benwell AS (1998) Vegetation map of the Billinudgel Nature Reserve. Report to NSW
National Parks and Wildlife Service, Coffs Harbour.
Biantoff GN, Elsol JA (1989) Vegetation of the Sunshine Coast description and
Keystone Ecological
management. Queensland Botany Bulletin No. 7. Queensland Department of

Primary Industries, Brisbane.
DEC (2004) Natural Resource Management Field Assessment Guidelines. Field Key to
Forest Ecosystems. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Coffs
Harbour.
Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (2010) Northern Rivers
Regional Biodiversity Management Plan.
Griffith SJ (1983) A survey of the vegetation of Bundjalung National Park. Report to NSW
National Parks and Wildlife Service, Grafton.
Griffith SJ (1984) A survey of the vegetation of Yuraygir National Park. Report to NSW
Griffith SJ (1985) A survey of the vegetation of Broadwater National Park. Report to NSW
Griffith SJ (1999) Vegetation of Broadwater, Bundjalung and Yuraygir National Parks, and
Iluka Nature Reserve. Unpublished report to NPWS.
Harden, G (ed) 1990-2002, Flora of NSW Vols 1 4, NSW University Press, Kensington
NSW.
Keith DA (2004) Ocean shores to desert dunes: the native vegetation of New South Wales
and the ACT. NSW Department of Environment and Conservation, Sydney.
Kingston MB, Turnbull JW, Hall PW (2004) Tweed vegetation management strategy 2004.
Report to Tweed Shire Council, Tweed Heads. Ecograph.
Landmark (1999) Byron flora and fauna study. Report to Byron Shire Council, Byron Bay.
Landmark Ecological Services.
Morand DT (1996) Soil landscapes of the Murwillumbah-Tweed Heads 1:100000 sheet
(Department of Land and Water Conservation: Sydney).
NPWS (1999) Forest ecosystem classification and mapping for the upper and lower north
east Comprehensive Regional Assessment. NSW National Parks and Wildlife
Service, Coffs Harbour.
NSW Scientific Committee (2008) Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast
Bioregion - Endangered ecological community determination - final.
NSW Scientific Committee (2011) Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North Coast
Bioregion - Minor Amendment to Endangered ecological community
determination.
Office of Environment and Heritage (2016a) Threatened Species Profile
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/threatenedSpeciesApp/profile.aspx?id=20
081
Office of Environment and Heritage (2016b) Coastal Cypress Pine Forest in the NSW North
Coast
Bioregion
Species
Conservation
Project
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/savingourspeciesapp/project.aspx?Profile
ID=20081
Ogunwande IA, Olawore NO, Adeleke KA, Konig WA (2005) Analysis of the volatile
compounds of Callitris columellaris F. Muell. Needles from two different regions of
Nigeria. Journal of Essential Oil Research 17, 44-46.
Pressey RL, Griffith SJ (1992) Vegetation of the coastal lowlands of Tweed shire, northern
New South Wales, species and conservation. Proceedings of the Linnean Society of
NSW 113: 203-243.
Young A, Boyle T, Brown A (1996) The population genetic consequences of habitat
Keystone Ecological
fragmentation for plants. Trend in Ecology and Evolution 11, 413-418.

Young A, Clarke G (2000) Genetics, demography and the viability of fragmented
populations. (Cambridge University Press: Cambridge)
Keystone Ecological
Acronychia littoralis Scented Acronychia

Achronychia littoralis is listed as Endangered under Schedule 2 of the Threatened Species
Conservation Act (1995). This species is also listed as Endangered under the Schedules of
the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999).
This species is a small tree growing to 6 metres tall with four-petalled yellowish flowers
produced in summer growing from the leaf and stem junction (OEH 2015a). Fruits that
are produced during summer have a flattened oval shape and are a creamy lemon colour
up to 20 millimetres in diameter, with four lobes separated by shallow fissures
(Commonwealth Conservation Advice 2008).
It occurs within 2 kilometres of the coast from Port Macquarie in the south to Fraser
Island in the north, on sand in humid areas with rainfall greater than 1,600 millimetres
(Commonwealth Conservation Advice 2008). This species is found in transition zones
between littoral rainforest and swamp sclerophyll forest; littoral and coastal cypress pine
communities and margins of littoral forest (Department of the Environment 2015). Over
40% of the known populations are in national parks and nature reserves (Department of
the Environment 2015), including the nearby Bundjalung National Park. The population
within the park near the Esk River is a proposed key site for the conservation of this
species (OEH 2015b).
There are two forms of this species, with one producing viable seeds and one that
reproduces vegetatively (OEH 2015a). All known populations of this species occur in
fragmented habitats susceptible to disturbance and are facing threats from development,
weeds (particularly Lantana camara Lantana), salt-laden wind burn and fires (NSW
Department of the Environment 2015).
This species was not recorded on the subject site despite intensive survey. Potential
habitat for this species occurs across the site, albeit in highly modified bushland.
(a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have
an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of
the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,
Response:
Little is known about the life cycle triggers for this species. It is very difficult to propagate
from seed and it is mooted that it may need to pass through the gut of a bird to trigger
germination (Erskine 2013). This species is also known to sucker, which may be a survival
mechanism after fire. The closely related Acronychia imperforata is known to resprout
after fire (NSW NPWS 2002).
The known (presumably viable) local population occurs further north at the Esk River in
Bundjalung National Park and a new record in Iluka NR was established during this study.
The proposed development will remove most of the poor quality marginal habitat on site
Keystone Ecological
while retaining the intact remnant vegetation and rehabilitating some of the other
vegetation in Parks A and B.
The proposal is not considered likely to significantly alter either of the factors identified
as having a likely impact on the life cycle of this species - fire and frugivores.
(b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to
have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered
population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at
risk of extinction,
Response:
This question is not relevant to a threatened species.
(c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered
ecological community, whether the action proposed:
(i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such
that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or
Response:
(ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological
community such that its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,
Response:
(d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological
community:
(i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the
action proposed, and
Response:
Poor quality marginal potential habitat occurs on site in the 16.4 hectares to be cleared.
(ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other
areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and
Response:
Keystone Ecological
The pattern of fragmentation of habitat will be marginally altered. Connectivity of habitat

within the site and with adjacent areas of bushland will be maintained by the retention
and conservation management of Parks A and B. The regional wildlife corridor is located
outside of the subject site and will not be impacted by the proposal. It is therefore
considered that the degree of increased fragmentation is not significant, particularly
considering that the site provides only potential habitat in a highly modified state.
(iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to
the long-term survival of the species, population or ecological community in the
locality,
Response:
The habitat on site cannot be considered to be important for the long term survival of a
local viable population as it provides potential habitat only and of highly modified, poor
quality bushland. Known local population occurrences are to the north near the Esk River
in Bundjalung National Park and in Iluka Nature Reserve to the east, distant from the
subject site.
(e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat
(either directly or indirectly),
Response:
No critical habitat has been declared for this species.
(f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a
recovery plan or threat abatement plan,
Response:
This species has been assigned to the site managed species management stream under
the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH 2015b), as it is considered that this
species can be successfully secured by carrying out targeted conservation projects on
specific sites. Eight such sites have been identified for this species, none of which include
the subject site (OEH 2015b).
The nearest management site is the Esk River site, and its management and the objectives
of the management actions to be undertaken in this population are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Reduce and maintain weed densities at low levels (particularly Bitou Bush);
Exclude fire;
Minimise accidental damage on road / track edges;
Determine the area of occupancy; and
Track species abundance and condition over time.
The following recovery activities have also been identified for this species (OEH 2015a):
Keystone Ecological
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Protect areas of known habitat from disturbance;

Protect remaining areas of habitat from clearing and development;
Control weeds in areas of known habitat;
Always stay on designated four-wheel drive tracks;
Regenerate areas of known habitat, including planting of local rainforest species
to protect Scented Acronychia from exposure to salt-laden winds;
Monitor population dynamics and threats of known populations;
Exclude domestic stock from known habitat;
Implement appropriate fire regime for habitat in which the species occurs;
Provide advice to consent and planning authorities about the location and
ecological requirements of the species; and
Maintain viable ex-situ collection.
The proposal is largely consistent with these recovery strategies.

(g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process
or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening
process.
Response:
The proposed works contribute to the Key Threatening Process Clearing of Native
Vegetation.
REFERENCES
Benwell, A. (1994) Scented Acronychia (Acronychia littoralis) on the Chinderah Bypass
Route. Supplementary Rep. Prepared for NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.
Unpubl.
Benwell, A. (1995) Description of the root system in a population of Scented Acronychia
(Acronychia littoralis) at Ozone St Chinderah.
Benwell, A. (1996) Chinderah Bypass. Scented Acronychia Acronychia littoralis - recovery
techniques and new insights into the biology of an endangered plant
Commonwealth Conservation Advice (2008) Approved Conservation Advice for
Acronychia littoralis Scented Acronychia under The Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999)
Erskine, A. (2013) Coastal Propagation and Revegetation Manual. EnviTE Environment
(http://www.envite.org.au/wpcontent/uploads/2015/08/Coastal_propagation_and_revegetation_manual.pdf?
485c3a)
Floyd, A.G. (1989) Rainforest Trees of Mainland South-eastern Australia. Melbourne:
Inkata Press
Harden, G.J. (ed.) (2002) Flora of New South Wales, Volume Two - rev. edn. University of
New South Wales Press, Sydney
Hartley, T. and Williams, J. (1983) A new species of Acronychia (Rutaceae) from Australia.
Brunonia 6:251-5
Keystone Ecological
Horton, S (1997) Seeking Scented Acronychia - The search for Acronychia littoralis
between Iluka and Camden Haven
Hunter, J., Jay, A., Nicholson, N., Nicholson, H. and Horton, S. (1992) Species Recovery Plan:
Acronychia littoralis. Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service
NSW Department of the Environment (2015) Threatened species and ecological
communities. Species Profile and Threats Database Acronychia littoralis Scented
Acronychia (http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/)
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (1997) Acronychia littoralis ANCA
Endangered Species Program Annual Report - January 1997, endangered species
No. 200. Unpublished.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (1998) Acronychia littoralis Endangered
Species Program Annual Report - April 1998, endangered species No. 200.
Unpublished.
NSW NPWS (2002) NSW Flora Fire Response Database, version 1.3a. NSW National Parks
and Wildlife Service
Office of Environment and Heritage (2015a) Threatened Species Profile
(http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/)
Office of Environment and Heritage (2015b) Threatened species Acronychia littoralis
Scented
Acronychia
Priority
action
statement.
(http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/savingourspeciesapp/)
Peakall, R. (1994) Genetic analysis of four endangered rainforest plants. Prepared for
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Peakall, R. (1995) The extent of clonality in a roadside population of the rare and
endangered plant Acronychia littoralis and closely related congeners A.
imperforata and A. wilcoxiana. Prepared for NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.
Unpubl
Peakall, R. (1996) Patterns of genetic variation within populations of the rare and
endangered plant Acronychia littoralis and closely related congeners. Prepared for
NSW Roads and Traffic Authority. Unpublish
Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service (2004) Endangered Plants - Case Studies.
Page(s) 2. The State of Queensland (Environmental Protection Agency), Brisbane
Ridgeway. A. (1995) The role of in situ seed banks and translocation in the conservation
of Acronychia littoralis. Hons. Thesis. Dept. Ecosystem Management, Univ. New
England. Unpubl
Rossetto, M. (2005) A simple molecular approach for identifying a rare Acronychia
(Rutaceae) provides new insights on its multiple hybrid origins. Biological
Conservation 121:35-43
Keystone Ecological

Attachment 5 - Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Diunggah oleh

Informasi Dokumen

Hak Cipta

Format Tersedia

Bagikan dokumen Ini

Bagikan atau Tanam Dokumen

Opsi Berbagi

Apakah menurut Anda dokumen ini bermanfaat?

Apakah konten ini tidak pantas?

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

Attachment 5 - Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Diunggah oleh

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

Hickey Street, Iluka Information Request Response 1 November 2016

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment Keystone

Ocean Park Consulting Pty Limited

Keystone Ecological Pty Ltd

RE: Lot 7020 DP 1114873, Hickey Street, Iluka

Minor repositioning of the roundabout in Street 1;

Figure 2: Amended Vegetation Plan 147-02(A) showing minor changes.

Keystone Ecological Pty Ltd

REF: CVC 14 - 695

This document may be cited as:

PO Box 5095 Empire Bay NSW 2257

Cover photograph: Recent aerial photograph of the

The Site and the Proposal ....................................................................................................... 1

Legislative Context and Scope

Review of Additional Literature ................................................................................................ 1

National Herbarium of NSW ................................................................................................... 6

Expert Consultation .............................................................................................................. 7

Additional Site Survey ............................................................................................................ 8

Sand mining .......................................................................................................................10

Coastal Cypress Pine Forest .................................................................................................... 23

Littoral Rainforest ................................................................................................................ 27

Eucalyptus tereticornis Forest Red Gum ..................................................................................... 29

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

The Site and the Proposal

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Figure 1: Proposed development plan.

Legislative Context and Scope

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

World Heritage properties;

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Review of Additional Literature

Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel bush

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

A virtual monoculture of Hickory Wattle.

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

The Department of Lands Clarence River Waterside Reserve Plan of

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Recognition of the importance of Paperbark Swamps and their ecological services;

Vegetation Classification for the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Area of

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Determination (NSW Scientific Committee 2011). Although no map is available of its

National Herbarium of NSW

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Site Survey

This additional survey involved:

Tracking of the flowering and fruiting of a reference population of Acronychia

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Extracts from the mining inspection reports relevant to ML 7 reveal that:

Clearing and mining began sometime before August 1970;

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment

Photograph 1: Acronychia imperforata

Photograph 2: Acronychia oblongifolia.

Photograph 3: Acronychia littoralis.

Photograph 1-3: Acronychia specimens at the RBG.

Additional Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment