EIS 741

ABO1 9413

Proposed sand extraction, Wooli Wooli River, Wooli

environmental impact assessment

I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I

iij

NSW PT PRIMARU INDUSTRIES

A13019413, i Lands Office Department of Local Government and Lands

Proposed Sand Extraction

Woo1*1 Wool*i R*iver, W001,10 *

VIt91MJTAL GEOLOGY SECTiON

WJGCAL SURVEY OF

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

I ASS ESSME NT

E I S

I 741

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I I I I I EIS

741

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Proposed Sand Extraction

Wooli Wool*l River, W001,16 0

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VUÜ4MENTA1 GEOLOtiY SEC1O

GEOLOGCA1 SURVEY OF NS1W1 -- --

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

DEPARTMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND LANDS CROWN LANDS OFFICE.

AUGUST 1983. ISBN 0 7240 7733 3

FOREWORD

R. J. and N. R. Olen propose to extract sand from the Wooli Wooli River adjacent to the Village of Wooli on the North

I Coast of New South Wales. The River bed is Crown land and is not covered by a Local Environmental Plan or other planning instrument. Consequently, the Crown Lands Office of the

I Department of Local Government and Lands functions as the "determining authority" and the proposal was considered under Part V of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

I and its Regulation, 1980.

Sand extraction is an 'activity' for the purpose of this Act and an Environmental Impact Statement was requested. The

' Environmental Impact Statement has been publicly advertised and exhibited. Public comments have been invited and received during the period of exhibition.

I The Crown Lands Office has prepared this Environmental Impact Assessment Report which examines the environmental implica-tions of the proposed development, and includes consideration

I of all public conmients, the views of Ulmarra Shire Council and Government agencies. This Report is made available to the public in accordance with Clause 64 of the Regulation.

I I W. P. KELLY,

Director Crown Lands Office, Department of Local Government and Lands.

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I

PROPOSED SAND EXTRACTION FROM THE WOOLI WOOLI RIVER AT WOOLI - SHIRE OF ULMARRA

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS SESSMENT Page

1.0. Introduction i

2.0. The Proposal 2

2.1. Objectives of the Proposal 2

2.2. Description of the Proposal 2

2.3. Needs and alternatives for the Proposal 3

2.3.1. Construction and fill material 3

2.3.2. Siltation and bank erosion 3

2.4. Adequacy of the Environmental Impact Statement 3

3.0. Existing Environment 3

3.1. Site Environs 3

3.1.1. The Wooli Wooli River 3

3.1.2. Wooli village 4

3.1.3. Proposal site. 5

4.0. Review of Submissions 5

4.1 . Clarence Valley Branch National Parks Association of N.S.W. 5

4.2. National Parks and Wildlife Service 6

4.3. Other communications 6

4.3.1. Local Government - Ulmarra Shire Council 6

4.3.2. Maritime Services Board 7

4.3.3. Department of Mineral Resources 7

4.3.4. State Pollution Control Commission 7

4.3.5. Department of Agriculture (Fisheries Division) 7

4.3.6. Public Works Department 7

4.3.7. Dr. A. A. Racek. 7

5.0. Assessment of the Proposal 8

5.1. The Wooli Wooli River System 8

5.1.1. River Ecology 8

5.1.2. River Hydrology 8

5.2. Land Based Operation 8

5.2.1. Water Pollution 9

5.2.2. Air Pollution 9

5.2.3. Noise

5.2.4. Visual Impact 10

I I I I I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I 1

5.0 Assessment of the Proposal cont'd.

5.2.5. Duration of the dredging operation

5.2.6. Energy consumption

5.3. Land Uses

5.3.1. Recreation

5.3.2. Archaeological Significance

6.0. Conclusions and Recomtndations

6.1. General Conclusions

6.2. Recommendations

Appendices

I Department of Environment and Planning - Director's Requirements

II Crown Lands Office requirements.

III Report on detail Hydrological and Hydro- biological Investigations in and along the Wooli Wooli River - A.A. Racek, Dr. rer. nat.

IV Submissions

i Public Works Department

ii Maritime Services Board

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35

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1.0 fl1TR0DUCTION

R. J. and N. R. Olen, the registered proprietors of the Bushland Caravan Park, Wooli, are seeking a Quarry Licence for the dredging of sand from the Wooli Wooli River. The sand will provide fill for further develop-ment of the Rushland Caravan Park and other deve lop-ments in the local area.

The proposal involves the dredging of some 29,500 m3 of sand directly from the River bed. The expected life of the operation was not specified in the Environmental Impact Statement (E.I.S.).

The River bed does not fall within the environmental planning instrument of the Shire of Ulmarra, and being Crown land, the proposal has been assessed under Part V of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. Dredging is an 'activity' under this Act and, in light of the nature of the proposal, an E.I.S. was requested to be prepared. The role of the 'determining authority' has been performed by the Crown Lands Office, which is responsible for making the final decision in respect of the proposal.

An environmental impact statement (E.I.S.) was prepared on behalf of the proponents by B. W. McCLOSKEY, Consultant Town Planner and Surveyor, Grafton, in accordance with environmental assessment procedures required by Part V of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 and its Regulation.

The Director of Environment and Planning was consulted with regard to the preparation of an environmental

I impact statement. The Director's requirements for the E.I.S. are included as Appendix I.

Prior to the E.I.S. being exhibited further information

I was required by the Crown Lands Office and was requested to be added to the E.I.S. as. a supplement (Refer Appendix IIi.

I The E.I.S. was placed on public exhibition by the Crown Lands Office for the period 7th March, 1983 to 11th April, 1983 during which time public comments were

I invited through advertisement in local and state-wide newspapers. The Lands Office, Grafton, forwarded copies of the submissions received to the Secretary, Department of Environment and Planning. The Department responded

I by requiring the Crown Lands Office in making a final decision to consider the issues raised in the submissions.

Additional information, a report titled "Report on

I detailed flydrological and Hydrohiological Investigations in and along the Wooli Wooli River", has since been received, and is included as Appendix III.

I This report sunmarises the components of the proposal, and contains an examination of the E.I.S. and submissions received. The Crown Lands Office's conclusions and

I recommendations, based on its assessment of the proposal, are stated in section 6 of this report.

1.

I E I I

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2. I 2.0. THE PROPOSAL

2.1. Objectives of the Proposal

1 The objectives of the proposal are:-

to provide sand filling to allou improvement and further further development of the Bushland Caravan Park;

I to provide sand fill for other developments in the Wooli area;

I . to deepen the Wooli Wooli River which is silting up; and

to reduce the erosion problem on the banks of the I . Wooli Wooli River adjacent to the Bushland Caravan Park.

1 2.2. Description of the Proposal

The proponent proposes to dredge the Wooli Wooli River opposite his property, the Bushland Caravan Park. It is

I proposed that up to 29,500 m3 is to be taken from the River

bed. This removal will straighten the channel line and direct it away from the northern riverbank.

I It is proposed that sands will be dredged from an area of some 5 ha. of the Wooli Wooli River bed. Dredging will

involve a slurry pump which pumps approximately 2700 litres per minute. The slurry contains between 20-30 per I cent by weight of sand, and will yield some 30-45 cubic metres of sand per hour. The slurry pump will be operated by 130 h.p. diesel motor.

I Dredging will commence at the eastern end of the proposed licence area and be to a depth of 3 metres below local ' mean high water mark (-2.5 A.H.D., the maximum depth prescribed by the Public Works Department). The dredge will move to the western side of the licence area, at which point the dredging depth will be approximately 2.3 m below local mean high water mark (-1.8 A.H.D.). At no

I stage will dredging be carried out at a depth greater than the adjacent natural channel (l) Dredging will also not take place within 10 metres of any shoreline, oyster lease, or any other structure.The sides of all excavations will

I have a maximum gradient of one (1) vertical to ten (10) horizontal, which complies with the requirements of the Public Works Department.

I The dredge will operate between 7.30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. The expected

I life of the operation was not specified.

The slurry is piped from the pump to the adjacent land within the Bushland Caravan Park (see site plan - Figure

(1)).. Water will drain off this fill area into settling

I ponds which, after settling, would be discharged into the Wooli Wooli River. ' Sand will be used as fill for the lower area of the Bushland Caravan Park. Sand is also required by Council and this will also be taken from the filled area. Once the fill operation is nearing completion a stockpile area will be

I provided and appropriately screened.

(1) Public Works Department -. Letter dated 27th June, 1983,

I Schedule 2, General Conditions for Dredging, ic.

boat ramp

RO14D

Bushland

Wooli

Caravan Hotel- Motel

Park

I I I I Locality Map

I 1

Gro FL

is Water

s Harbour

Fig. I

I-- Lease Boundary

1 Site Plan

3.

2.2. Description of the Proposal cont'd.

Removal of sand off the site will primarily be associated with Council programmes. In such cases, it is estimated that up to three trucks would each make eight trips per day over some 30 working days/year.

I 2.3. Needs and Alternatives for the Proposal

2.3.1. CONSTRUCTION AND FILL MATERIAL

I Current and future community requirements indicate the need to provide an economic, reliable and long term source of building materials for Wooli. Investigations will be undertaken to assess the potential of land-based quarrying at Minnie Waters to

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the North of Wooli. However, such an operation is likely to satisfy only long term needs, and a shortfall in current needs would still exist.

' similarly, the demand for fill material is already significant. Both private and Council developments require a source of fill material. As Wooli is virtually bounded by the Yuraygir National Park, the importation of sand for building and fill requires long

I

road haulage. Alternative sites for the winning of sands at Wooli, are not available.

I 2.3.2. SILTATION AND BANK EROSION

The Wooli River has experienced discernible changes in its flow dynamics. Two specific outcomes relate to this proposal:

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sand bank build-up and riverbank erosion. Growth in the size of sandbanks has created increased problems in navigation and siltation over oyster leases. Similarly, changes in flow velocities and meanders have resulted in erosion of the river-

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banks. Both phenomena are evident in the section of the River covered by this proposal.

I 2.4. Adequacy of Environmental Impact Statement

The environmental impact statement was produced in accordance with Clauses 57 and 58 of the Environmental Planning and

I

Assessment Regulation 1980 and is consistent with these requirements and bears a certificate as required by Clause 59 of the Regulation.

I The form and content of the statement addresses the issues and meets the requirements of the Director, Department of Environment and Planning (see Appendix 1) . An Environmental Impact Statement was submitted to the Crown Lands Office,

I

however following review further information was requested and a supplement provided.

I 3.0. EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

The description of the existing environment has been based on information contained in the E.I.S., and information

Iobtained during further investigation.

3.1. Site Environs

3.1.1.

THE WOOLI RIVER

The Village of Wooli is located on the North Coast of N.S.W. approximately 36 km south east of Grafton, the major population centre in the region.

The Wooli Wooli River commences on the eastern side ofthe coastal range and enters Village of Wooli. In view of

the its

sea at the comparative low

gradient the normal flow is. rather sluggish and has a clearly defined tidal zone. Under normal weather

4.

3.1.1. THE WOOLI RIVER

conditions, the sluggish flow and shallow profile of the River gives rise to the formation of sand banks and bars which promote changes in its channel characteristics.

I Construction of a breakwall at the mouth of the River appears to have accelerated the formation of sand banks and increased navigation difficulties, partic-ularly during ebb tides.

' With the consolidation of sandbank shoals, deeper and narrower channels have tended to develop close to the shore on the outside of the flow curve. This has

I caused significant shore erosion along both banks during flooding in the vicinity of the proposal. The River banks consist of sand beds overlying sheets of

I organically bound sands, which are susceptible to such erosion.

The E.I.S. indicates the source of the material form- ing these sand beds has its origins upstream of the

I subject site. A report (1) for the Department of Mineral Resources supports the contention that in the lower 4 km of the River there is a net downstream

I sand movement in the channel.

The sediments (sand banks) to be dredged are located approximately 5 km upstream from the entrance. The potential volume of the available resource in the I proposed licence area has been estimated at 29,500 cubic metres of medium grained sand.

I The River exhibits a paucity of nutrient rich mud flats and thus has a comparatively low biological productivity. This is atypical of other rivers in the North. Coast Region. However, the River is an

I important supplier of oysters with a number of leases in proximity to the proposal. The River is also an established supplier of conmiercial fish. The Wooli Wooli River is somewhat unique by virtue of the

I undisturbed nature of much of its catchment.

A considerable number of birds, including both endangered and migratory species, are associated with. I the Wooli Wooli River.

WOOLI VILLAGE

Wooli is .a fishing and tourist village and the River is used extensively for swimming, fishing, boating and

I oyster farming.

Yuraygir National Park adjoins the Village of Wooli on the north, west and south. Yuraygir National Park was

I reserved in its present form in 1980 and now covers about 14,000 ha in three sections stretching from Angourie in the north to Red Rock to the south.

(1) ROY, P.S. and E.A. CRAWFORD (1977) - Bed Changes and Sediment Distribution in the Lower Wooli River, ' Northern New South Wales. N.S.W. Department of Mineral Resources. Geological Survey.

5.

3.1.2. WOOLI VILLAGE cont'd.

The climate for Wooli is very similar to that of Yamba, for which meteorologic statistics are available. The mean rainfall is 1453 mm with March being the wettest month having 180 inn over 15 days, and September being the driest month having only 62 inn over 9 days. Winds predominate from the north east and south east in summer. These shift to the south and east in autumn and to the west in winter.

3.1.3. PROPOSAL SITE

I The Bushland Caravan Park is located at the northern edge of the Village and adjoins the Yuraygir National Park. The proponents operate the caravan park which is popular with tourists who enjoy the natural attrac-

I tions of the area. It is intended that additional camping and caravan sites will be provided by the pro-posed dredging and fill operations. The area to be

I filled is low lying and, during spring tides and floods, is susceptible to periodic inundation. It has been partly cleared, however the bank remains well vegetated with. paper bark, casuarina, bloodwood and

I mangrove species. This vegetation is especially significant in maintaining bank stability and land-scape quality.

I The sandbed to be dredged is bare and carries no aquatic flora.

4.0. REVIEW OF SUBMISSIONS

— The environmental impact statement was placed on public exhibition, by the Grafton Lands Office, for the period 7th March to 11th April, 1983.

During this period comments from any interested

I persons were invited and, concurrently, the Lands Off ice sought advice and submissions from interested Government agencies.

I Two organisations made submissions over the display period: the Clarence Valley Branch of the National Parks Association of N.S.W.; and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

4.1. Clarence Valley Branch, National Parks Association of N.S.W.

I This submission objected to the proposal primarily on the basis of the inadequacy of the E.I.S. The specific comments or inadequacies identified in the submission

Iwere:-

the failure to fully describe the environment of the subject area or the likely impact of the

I proposal;

the natural replacement of sand in the dredged

I area would affect the achievement of the pro- posal s objectives;

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4.1. Clarence Valley Branch, National Parks Association of N.S.W. cont 'd.

Failure to identify the source of sand and the

I effect of dredging (e.g. bank erosion, flow characteristics, commercial fish and oyster production);

I. failure to consider the alternative supply of sands from the Village of Minnie Waters;

I. lack of correspondence with the National Parks and

Wildlife Service;

I. long term impact on Wooli Village;

superficial treatment of aboriginal and other relics.

4.2. National Parks and Wildlife Service

- The National Parks and Wildlife Service's submission indicated that the Service has a fundamental interest in the proposal. The reasons for this interest are: the

I proximity of the proposed development to Yuraygir National Park and the importance of the area and its environs as an estuarine habitat.

I The Service submitted that the statement was deficient in a number of areas and that a further study and report would be required to enable adequate evaluation of the

I impact of the proposed development.

Other matters raised by the Service included:

I impacts on marine flora and fauna (including avifauna);

I . impact on aboriginal relics;

river dynamics, impact on natural tidal and flood flows;

I impact on fishing and oyster farming industries;

impact on land adjacent to the site, particularly

I.

those reserved or zoned for addition to Yuraygir National Park.

4.3. Other Communications

Although not received as formal submissions following E.I.S. display, replies resulting from other communica-

I tions with affected agencies are outlined below:

4.3.1. LOCAL GOVERNMENT - ULMARRA SHIRE COUNCIL

I - No objections to the proposal.

Supports the proposal as it will overcome con-

I-

struction material shortages within the area.

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4.3.2. THE MARITIME SERVICES BOARD OF N.S.W.

- No objections to the propoal.

- Operation to be subject to 11 conditions; see Appendix IV.

4.3.3. DEPARTMENT OF MINEBAL RESOURCES

- No objections

4.3.4. STATE POLLUTION CONTROL COMMISSION

- No objections to the proposal.

- Stated that careful consideration must be given to controlling water run-off from sand stock-piling operations. The installation of settle-rnent ponds to produce a clarified effluent discharge to waters may be required.

- An appropriate stormwater diversion drainage around stockpile may also be required.

4.3.5. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (FISHERIES DIVISION)

- No objections to the proposal.

4.3.6. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

- Raised no objections to the proposal provided Schedule 2 General Conditions for dredging are observed.

- Flooding and tidal flows: considered that the E.I.S. did not adequately assess or discuss these issues.

Nothwithstanding the inadequacy of the statement the Department stated that:

* considering the depth limits of excavation and that the removal is from the inside of the river bend, the final dredge profile will alleviate bank erosion potential and reduce flood velocities.

* the land fill operations would have insignifi-cant effect on flood heights and velocities.

* the proposal would have insignificant effect on tidal flows both in the immediate area and in other locations within the estuary.

4.3.7. DR. A. A. RACEK

Comprehensive additional information on various facets of hydrological, hydrobiological and general biological implications connected with the proposal has been pre-pared by A. A. RACEK, Dr. rer. nat. Senior Lecturer in Biology (Rydrobiology), University of Sydney (retired) and is included as Appendix III. This report addresses a number of the issues and concerns expressed in the submissions.

8.

5.0. ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSAL

To provide a convenient basis for assessing the proposal this section has been divided into the impact on the

I Wooli Wooli River system, the landbased operation and land use of the proposed area.

1 5.1. The Wooli Wooli River System

5.1.1. RIVER ECOLOGY

I A number of concerns have been expressed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and National Parks Association about the potential impact of the proposal

the Wooli Wooli River system. Issues of River bed I on and flow dynamics, biota and impacts on the Yuraygir National Park were raised. However, these issues were phrased as potential impacts not adequately covered in

I the E.I.S. The information or attitudes obtained following reference to the Maritime Services Board, Public Works Department, State Fisheries, local oyster growers and the report by Dr. A. Racek have

I placed such concerns in context.

Dr. Racek's report is both comprehensive and wide ranging in its analysis of the Wooli River's hydrology,

I ecology and the potential impact of the proposal. The conclusion of Dr. Racek's report is that the proposal should have a negligible impact on the River's biota.

I 5.1.2. RIVER hYDROLOGY

The aspects of bank stability, flooding and tidal

I flows have not been adequately assessed or discussed in the E.I.S. However, using a computer model con- structed for the estuary, the Public Works Department has determined that the proposals will have no major

I impact on flood haights or velocities and that the proposed artificial change to River flow will ease erosion pressures by reducing flood velocities. Data collected by Public Works Department also confirms

I that the dredging proposal will have an insignificant effect on tidal flows both in the immediate area and other locations within the estuary.

I Based on the best available information it is also considered that the dredging site will take many years to infill and the shoals to reform, therefore

I the dredging will be of lasting benefit.

It is the assessment of this Office that, provided that the regulations and conditions set by the Maritime

I Services Board and the Public Works Department are adhered to, the proposed dredging operation will have an acceptable impact on the Wooli Wooli River system. The River dynamics at the proposed site are constantly

I in a state of flux in response to natural forces. The scale of the operation, the nature of the sand bed (being medium grain sand with a low mud content) and

I the suction basis of the dredging operation are likely to result in only a minimal impact on the physical and chemical characteristics and biota of the River system.

1 5.2. Land-based Operation

The land-based operation will, in fact, take place on freehold land. This land is zoned under the Shire of

5.2. Land-based Operation cont'd.

Ulmarra's planning instrument and the land fill opera-tion is subject to Council's consent. However, follow-ing reference to the Department of Environment and Planning, it was confirmed that the Crown Lands Office, in fulfilling its role as determining authority, should take into account, to the fullest extent possible, all aspects affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of the activity.

The major potential impact of this proposal is in the area of pollution control.

5.2.1. WATER POLLUTION

The State Pollution Control Commission has indicated that the water discharged from both the landfill opera-tion and stormwater may require treatment. Stormwater diversion and settling ponds can provide the necessary treatment (to the level that the total suspended solids of the discharged water contain less than 50 mg/litre).

I The proponent will need to apply under Section 19 of the Clean Waters Act, 1970, for permission to proceed with the project and a licence under the Clean Waters Act may be necessary. It is considered adequate con-

I trol on water quality can be achieved through this process.

I 5.2.2. AIR POLLUTION

The State Pollution Control Commission does not expect air pollution problems to warrant approval under Section 18 of the Clean Air Act, 1961.

Notwithstanding the above the proponent will construct

I a mound with sac/hessian or brush fencing to prevent wind spreading sand from the stockpile area. Sand fill will be covered with at least 50 mm of topsoil after the land fill operations have been completed. Trucks

Ileaving the site will be covered.

Therefore, based on this advice and other relevant information in the E.I.S. it does not appear that the

I proposed dredging operations will generate significant air pollution.

I5.2.3. NOISE

The State Pollution Control Commission advises that the proposal is unlikely to require its approval.

I Noise is limited principally to the active dredging cycle.

Noise readings of the dredging operations have been takenat the edge of the Wooli Wooli River. The read-ings were well below the accepted standards. Additional safeguards are not required.

Somenoise will emanate from the landfill operations and haulage of the material from the site. Both of these operations will be of a very limited nature and therefore will not have a significant impact.

1 10.

I 5.2.4. VISUAL IMPACT

1 The dredge will be conspicuous to shore and River users, however this will be mitigated by cessation of dredging

I over weekend and holiday period.

Retention of all vegetation including mangroves along or within 20 m of the bank will minimise the obtrusive

I nature of operations and stockpile areas. Screening of the stockpile and restoration of the landfill area will assist in minimising visual impact.

5.2.5. DURATION OF THE DREDGING OPERATION

A total of 29,500 m3 of sand is to be dredged. The suction dredge to be used yields 3045 m3 of sand per hour. A total operating period of 1000 hours or 120 week days (1) will be needed to win this sand. Adding machinery maintenance and other 1 down' time, public holidays, site rehabilitation and other contingencies, the total operation could be completed in a twelve month period. The supplement to the E.I.S. indicated that a period of two years would provide sufficient flexibility for the proponent.

It would be preferable, on the basis of minimising adverseimpacts and re-establishment of the dredged areas, that the dredging operation be confined to one year. However, this will have the effect of requiring an increase in the scale of the land-based operation (e.g. stockpile, truck movement) . Where this expansion is not feasible, consideration will be given to an extension of the dredging period subject to satisfactory performance.

5.2.6. ENERGY CONSUMPTION

I The E.I.S. and its supplement failed to adequately cover this aspect of the proposal. Energy, in the form of petroleum fuels and lubricating products, will be used by both the dredge and trucks involved in the

I operation. However, the scale of operation is small and the consuruption is considered acceptable in comparison to the haulage distance for sand importation.

1 5.3. Land-Uses

5.3.1. RECREATION

I A pipe will extend from the dredge to the northern bank of the River. The Maritime Services Board of N.S.W. requires that the plant and pipelines carry lights and

I signals in accordance with the Navigation (Collision) Regulations - N.S.W., and that a navigable channel be maintained at all times. The channel shall be marked in accordance with the I.A.L.A. Maritime Buoyage,

I System A.

(1) Assuming a dredge yield of 30 m3/hour and a 811 hour working day.

I

I 5.3.1. RECREATION cont'd.

The conflict that dredging, land fill and haulage operations presents with the recreational amenity of

I the park and foreshore has been recognised. The proponents will close down the operations during school and public holidays and confine their opera-tions to 7.30 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays only. The

I discontinuous use of the dredge over this period will further minimise any adverse impact on recreation.

I5.3.2. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

No aboriginal relics or artifacts of archaeological importance were found in a survey of the site, nor

I are any sites recorded or known to occur either within or immediately adjacent to the proposed development.

The sand banks proposed to be dredged are of ' relatively recent formation and the E.I.S. contends the presence of aboriginal artifacts would be most

I unlikely.

Although the submissions from both the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the National Parks Association submitted that the statement was deficient no support-

I ing or contrary information was provided.

Notwithstanding the above, the proponent should notify the National Parks and Wildlife Service if any I artifacts are found.

I 6.0. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1. General Conclusions

I In examining the various features of the proposed development, the Crown Lands Office has considered whether the activity will:

I . in itself, significantly affect the environ- ment;

together with other activities, have a major I . environmental effect;

curtail the range of beneficial uses of the

I environment;

serve the short term to the disadvantage of

I the long term.

The environmental impact assessment and supporting information have indicated that the proposed develop- ment, "Sand Extraction from the Wooli Wooli River at Wooli", is justified. The Crown Lands Office of the Department of Local Government and Lands considers that the proposed environmental safeguards are adequate and that the development can be carried out in an I acceptable environmental manner.

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I 6 .2. RECOMMENDATIONS

I The development be approved provided that the proponents P. J. and M. R. OLEN:

Meet the requirements of all public authorities having statutory responsibilities in respect of the proposed operations. In particular the requirements of Public Works Department "Schedule 2, General Conditions for Dredging". The Maritime Services Board of N.S.W. "General Conditions", and the Department of Local Government and Lands "Schedule of Conditions", are to be observed. Refer Appendix IV.

Obtain from the State Pollution Control Commissionall necessary approvals under the Clean Air Act, the Clean Waters Act and the Noise Control Act.

I. Adopt all those proposed safeguards, operating

procedures, monitoring and other techniques stated in the impact statement, its supplements and this assessment, which are designed to

I prevent, minimise or ameliorate any adverse environmental impact on the locality, subject to those proposed safeguards being consistent with the conditions of the relevant public

I authorities.

Implement a monitoring programme to the satis-

I faction of the State Pollution Control Commission and the local commercial fishing and oyster farming industry relative to the water quality, and make suitable arrangements to

I alleviate any significant adverse effects should they arise.

Implement a dredging programme and operational

I controls so that dredging is not repeated over the same area during the period of the licence.

I It is further recomrctended that:

A quarry licence be granted for a period of one year and/or for a total quantity of

' 30,000 cubic metres.

Continuation and renewal will depend upon periodic monitoring of performance as required

I by:

Department of Local Government and Lands - Crown Lands Office,

I Department of Agriculture (Fisheries Division),

Public Works Department,

I Maritime Services Board of N.S.W., State Pollution Control Commission, Ulmarra Shire Council.

I

;JPENDTX I

r1 - 13. K' New South Wales Government

..-.

Department of Environment and Planning ( J I

Mr B.W. McCloskey P.O. Box 468 GRAFTON N.S.W. 2460

Cernngton Centre 75 Liverpcx Streel Scey (XiC

Box 3927 C; P.O Syd 0/ 20C1 DX i5Svdrev

lelephone 02M?14F97

I

Contact J. Scholtz Dear Mr McCloskey, Our reference: •7//

Proposed Sand Dredging Operation from Wooli Wooli River and '

I. Land Filling Operation by R.J. & M.R. Olen at Lot 2irreierence DP 561230. Parish of Wooli Wooli County of Clarence •:

Shire of Ulmarra.

I refer to the Department's previous advice dated 16th October 1982 in :espect of the above-mentioned proposal.

1 2. Based on information now available to the Department from Ulmarra Shire Council and other Authorities the following advice

Iis now provided in respect of the proposed development:

a) Land filling proposal in respect of Lot 2 in DP 561320, and sale of extractive material.

I b) Proposed sand extraction operation from the Wooli Wooli River.

In respect of paragraph 2A above, it is advised that this aspect of the proposed development is not considered to be a designated development under Schedule 3 of the Environmental

' Planning and Assessment Regulations 1980. However, it is understood that Ulmarra Shire Council would require you to lodge a development application for this part of the proposal. In this

I regard, you should contact Council in order to ascertain whether information relating to environmental aspects of the proposed land filling operation and sale of material would be required. in accordance with Section 77 (3) (c) of the Environmental

I Planning and Assessment Act, 1979.

In respect of paragraph 2B above, it is advised that the ' development consent of Ulmarra Shire Council is not required

in respect of this part of the proposed operation as the Wooli Woôli River is currently unzoned. The proposed extraction operation would therefore be an "activity" and would need to be

I considered in accordance with Part V of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. In this regard, the Land Board Office at Grafton would appear to be the relevant determining authority

I in accordance with Part V of the Act As such the Land Board Office would be required to examine and to take into account to the fullest extent possible all aspects affecting or likely to significantly affect the environment by reason of the activity

I in accordance with Section Ill of the Act.

Th6 1d tdafd Office has advised the Department that it would iisi h ehVifohmotital impact statement being prepared

I

14.

1 2/..

In this regard it is advised that the basic requirement for an

I environmental impact statement that relates to an activity referred to in Section 112 (1) of the Act, is that it shall be prepared in accordance with Clauses 57 and 58 of the Environmental

I Planning and Assessment Regulation 1980, and bear a certificate required by Clause 59 of the Regulation.

With regard to the form and content of the environmental

I impact statement it is advised that there are legislative requirements for the preservation of relics and Aboriginal places. Where there is a possibility of these being encountered

I in development the incorporation of an aboriginal archaeological survey as part of an environmental impact statement may be necessary. Where aboriginal archaeological surveys are needed, it is a requirement that they be undertaken by persons who are professionally

I qualified archaeologists or anthropologists, or who are members of the Association of Consulting Archaeologists. If in doubt on this matter a proponent should consult with the National Parks

I and Wildlife Service.

The Director requires that you should take into account

I those matters specified in the attachment to this letter. These matters are to be adequately addressed in the environmental impact statement, and should be taken into account in the determination of the proposal.

1 8. Where matters are likely to come within the scope of legislation relative to air, water and noise control as administered by the State Pollution Control Commission, the view of the Commission

I should be sought.

9. Should you require any further information regarding this matter,

I please do not hesitate to contact the Department again.

Yours faithfully

I J. Whitehouse

Head Environmental Protection Div.

As Delegate for the Director.

[ii

1 15.

I NEW SOUTH WALES DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING

File No. 78/1107

I GENERAL COMMENTS RELATING TO THE DIRECTOR'S REQUIREMENTS

I FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR PROPOSED SAND DREDGING FROM WOLLI RIVER BY R.J. AND M.R. PARISH OF WOOLI WOOLI, COUNTY OF CLARENCE - SHIRE OF ULMARRA.

A comprehensive environmental impact statement should adequately cover all those matters provided in clause 57of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation, 1980.

I These matters should be clearly and succinctly outlined in the text and where appropriate supported by adequate maps, plans, diagrams or other descriptive details to enable all concerned to gain a clear understanding of the full scope

Iof the development and its likely impact on the environment.

The following particular matters should be included in its coverage:

I 1. Background information.

I Location of works. Broad nature and extent of works proposed. Land tenure, boundaries, site details in relation to planning scheme zonings and any other land use

Iconstraints.

Detailed description of the proposal.

I Methods of dredging. Type of machinery and equipment. Expected duration of the dreding operation.

I Number of persons to be employed. Hours of operation. Quantity of material to be extracted. Current market trends and industry demand for

I extracted material in the event of material being sold.

Existing invironment to include:

Fauna and flora. I Landscape/visual aspects.

Natural characteristics of the area including hydrology. Climate (in particular rainfall and wind data).

I 4. Assessment of environmental impact and measures/safeguards to be implemented to reduce impact of the proposal, particular- ly with respect to:

I Visual impact and dust nuisance particularly at any nearby

fititd fioie levels emanating from the dred4.? and

I 1dfl.fil1 • n likely to be recorded at nearby iidhtii t1we11irgs and any other buildings where noise

n impact, background noise levels should be stated WhPrc

I

16.

I 2/..

Disposal of waste material.

I Possible pollution, siltation and bank erosion of Wooli River. Truck/traffic movements in the event of the sale of extracted material. Impacts on nearby land.

I Aquatic fauna and flora. River flow. Possible sedimentation downstream of dredging operations.

I 4. Any requirements of the State Pollution Control Commission, Public Works Department and the New South Wales State Fisheries and any other Authorities should

I be identified and the requirements taken into account in finalising the E.I.S..

I I I I L

I I I I I I I I

APPENDIX II

GF8I H 2734 18 IMG/LMP

I ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR SAND EXTRACTION FROM TUE WOOLI WOOLI RIVER AT WOOLI. SHIRE OF ULMARRA.

The draft E.I.S. has been reviewed in terms of its

I compliance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Acts and its Regulation. At present a number of shortcomings would prevent its public display. The following issues should be covered:

The total quantity of material to be extracted and composition of bed material.

Length of operation (6 years, 12 years or what?).

3. Preservation of relics and aboriginal places: are any involved?

I 4. Energy to be used (Clause 57,e)0

5. Landscape/visual aspects.

1 6. Dust control (stockpiles, roads).

Impact of dredging on natural tidal and flood

I flows.

Proposed diversion of stormwater around stock-

I piles and proposed settling pond (i.e. layout, design, volume), N.B. Check with State Pollution Control Commission Graf ton: they

' may be willing to consider this point at the stage of development approved and/or applica-tion under Section 19 of Clean Waters Act, 1970.

I It is RECOIVIIVIENDED that the above issues should form a supplement to the E.I.S. prior to public display.

I

APPENDIX III

19.

REPORT

ON DETAILED HYDROLOGICAL

AND HYDROBIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS

IN AND ALONG THE WOOLI WOOLI RIVER.

SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND TO THE ORIGINAL

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR SAND

EXTRACTION PREPARED BY Mr BW.McuLOSKEY

FOR THE APPLICANT

Mr R. OLEN, WOOLI

A. A. RACEK, Dr.rer.nat.

senior Lecturer in Biology (Hydrobiology)

University of Sydney (retired)

P.O. Box 74

WOULI N.S.W. 2462 17th May, 1983

2.

SAND EXTRACTION WOOLI WOOLI RIVER AT WOOLI

SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND TO REPORT

Page

1. iNTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of the Report

1.2 Sources of Information

2. Hydrological Considerations 1+

2.1 Type of River 1+

2.2 Nature of Bottom Sediments 1+

2.3 Salt Marshes 1+

2.1+ Influence of Floods and High Winds 5 2.5 Available Nutrients 6 2.6 Application of Information to iiredging site 6

3. Hydrobiological Considerations 7 3.1 Ueneral aspects 7 3.2 Submerged Flora 8 3.3 Salt Marshes 8 3.4 Mangrove Belts 8 3.5 Plankton, Nekton and Benthos 8 3.6 Oysters 9 3.7 Fish Populations 9 3.8 Application of Information to 1)redging site 10

1 • Considerations regarding Birdlife 11

4.1 General aspects 11

4.2 Birds of Prey 11

4.3 Doves, Rails and Gulls 11

4.4 Waders 12 4.5 Water t3irds 12

4.6 Application of Information to uredging site 13

Concluding Summary 15

5.1 Ecological Comparisons with other estuaries 15

5.2 Consideration of Possible Impact 15

References 16

Ll

21.

- 3.

I NTRODU TION

?URPOSE OF THE REPORT

eomprehensive additional information on the various

facets of hydrological, hydrobioi.ogical, and general

biological implications connected with the proposed

sand extraction from the Wooli Wooli River was

deemed necessary, and the writer of this statement

entrusted by the applicant with its compilation.

This report, while trying to deal in detail with

all the above aspects, does not intend to interfere

in, or repeat, all those matters of general and

strictly technical nature, already exhaustively

discussed and presented in the original environmental

impact statement prepared by mr B. W. McCloskey. It

merely desires to augment this information for a

better understanding of a possible impact the

proposed dredging activities may or may not have

on the biota in and along tne river.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Recent detailed field observations were carried out

in an area about 1 km downstream to about 1 km

upstream of the proposed dredging site, and plankton,

nekton, and benthos investigated, as well as the

average depth and nature of sandbanks present. The

data here conveyed are also based on comprehensive

field observations by the writer in and along the

river during 1954, 195, 1973, and then almost continuously since early 1974 when he became a

permanent resident at Wooli. Following a request,

some few weeks ago, by the Ulmarra Shire to assess

a possible dieback of mangroves in this area, their

extent and health were investigated along the entire

length of the tidal river.

I I

1.2

I I

I I

22.

4.

2. HYDPOLOGICLL CONSIDERATIui'jS

2.1 TYPE OF RIVEI

The vvooli Wooli Idver arise.s from two different

tributaries, both draining areas overlying 6ilurian

Fitzroy Beds of shales, slates and phyl1ies, while

in its lower section it runs through a depression

of siliceous sand dunes of recent formation. ifl

view of its comparatively low gradient its normal

flow is rather sluggish apart from the lower parts

where it is exposed to the fluctuating impact of

the tides. Generally, the river represents therefore

under normal weather conditions a rather shallow

through, widening in its lower parts, and cutting

in places of faster flow a system of channels, some

of which change their nature and position quite

unpredictably, chiefly due to meteorological and

tidal factors. Apart from its own drainage, the

river receives additional drainage from extensive

freshwater and brackish swaps, chiefly in the NW

of the upper reaches, as well as the freshwater

drainage of the Lake Hiawatha complex, reaching it

through swampy or marshy areas from the east at two

places in the vicinity of Wooli.

..2 NATURE OF BOTTOM SEDIMENTS

With the exception of the shore regions, where

centrifugal force delivers silt to be trapped there

by sand, the Wooli Wooli estuary differs from

comparable locations in possessing little quantities

of mud, disregarding unusual meteorological conditions.

The deposited sandbanks in the middle of the river

consist to a great extent of significant layers of

sand, with an underlying sheet of organically-bound

sand which is so typical for this region. This sheet

forms an extensive impermeable layer throughout the

sand dunes - including the bottom of Lake Hiawatha -

and probably acts as a water table being responsible

for the retention of water between the dunes.

2.3 SALT MARSHES These occur on different places along the river and

are not pronouncedly affected by the river but rather

play an important role in affecting it themselves. Their

cover of vegetation traps fine silt, so that the

substratum is typically muddy (Moore 1958) During

rainy weather their salinity drops significantly to

contain typically fresh water. in some localities along

I 5.

23. the river bed these salt marshes tend to be

I inundated by the river during exceptionally

high spring tides, often reinforced by flood

I conditions, but generally their water level is

influenced by the height of the water table.

Thus they represent nutritional drainage to

1 the river, not vice versa.

2.4 INFLUENCE OF FLOODS AND HIGH WINDS

Being rather shallow and wide in its lower reaches,

I the Wooli Wooli River is particularly vulnerable

to rapid changes due to high winds and cyclonic

1 depressions. Combined with exceptionally high

spring tides, cyclonic winds - themselves subject lunar and with it tidal periodicity - are liable

Ito

to alter channels and sandbanks within the shortest

time, often with long-lasting aftereffects. Taking

I earlier observations of river conditions into

consideration, it seems that the erection of the

breakwalls, while doubtlessly helpful to sea-going

I navigation, has significantly altered the nature of

the river to an extent that it became rather flood-

I prone. &fter the latest meteorological disturbances

of major extent in 1974 a further imminent flood

danger was alleviated by the construction of a

I low-level overflow just north of the breakwalls,

and it seems that the river now slowly reverts to

I at least part of its previous natural condition.

aring floods, the grossly increased flow rate due

Ito excessive rainfalls and subsequent drainage will

at first remove accumulated sand and deepen the

channels, but these conditions will be reversed

I by the influence of high tides. of course there

are many other factors which are responsible for

I dry

the silting-up of our river. A series of unusually

years following the latest major flood has

robbed the river of normally received drainage

I water, so that with much decreased flow rate the

sandbanks are mostly exposed to high-velocity

southerly winds, making the river even more shallow

I and causing difficulties for navigation during ebb

tides along most of its tidal length. With the

I change of sandbanks, some deeper channels now

tend to develop close to the shore on the outside

of the flow curve, thus causing significant shore

I erosion during wet periods.

I

I

2.6

24.

6.

AVAILABLE NUTRIENTS

As can be expected from the geological formations,

as mentioned above, over which the proper river

drains, nutritional values normally available

remain comparatively low. he only noticeable

enrichment comes from the drainage of the swamps

in the NW of the upper reaches. The other major

drainage contribution from the Lake Hiawatha

complex, in view of the peculiarity of its

pronouncedly acidic water, would be even less

profitable were it not for the fact that during

drainage of this system through a chain of swamps

and marshes some nutrients are delivered This

leaves extensive rain depressions, in spite of

of the grossly damaging effects of river floods,

the best producers of valuable nutrients, derived

from wide drainage over fertile land. The best

documentation of such an enrichment is the rapid

expansion of the biota both in and along the river

on such occasions. Naturally, in the lower reaches

valuable nutrients are also brought in twice a day

with the tides, even though they have a limited

distribution upstream. As to the availability of

these nutrients to submerged life, this has been

more or less restricted to the shallow shore regions,

particularly in mangrove sites, while in midstream

they now tend to be covered by deep layers of

shifting sand, thus being unreachable to most

of the food-chain organisms.

APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TO DREDGING SITE

In view of the above information available, it

must be obvious that even those gigantic forces

of nature, periodically acting upon the river and

changing its character from time to time over many

millenia were unable to destroy or even permanently

damage it in a major sense. impact, especially

by such a minor operation as proposed, is highly

unlikely therefore to leave a noticeable mark on

the present condition of the river as such,

considering hydrological characters alone. As to

action of the pumping dredge, and its likely impact,

reference is made to Detwyler (1971) who states

that fine silts usually are dispersed to no more

than 50 feet on either side of the work, and that

even extensive hydraulic canal dredgings deposit

7. 25.

I suspended silt no more than 0.5 mile from the site.

Since it has been shown that the mud content of the

sandbanks in the Wooli wooli River is extremely low

1 and - if present - will be pumped away, there is

little likelihood that perceptible siltation can

I occur in the vicinity of the proposed site. io quote Detwyler (1971), who refers to typical

estuaries generally, once more."deleterious effects

1 are real but localized, and nutrient release may

offset the damage done". In the special case of

the wooli Wooli river such an artificial release

I of trapped nutrients could be a most beneficial

sideline of the proposed dredging operations.

1 3. HYDROBIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

3.1 GENERAL ASPECTS

The Wooli Wooli Fiver, although to be considered

I rather atypical with respect to substratum and

characteristics of its water, normally derived

I from acidic drainage typifying this region,

nevertheless displays the major facies of all

I estuaries, i.e. the periodical interaction of

tides and drainage, constantly changing the

physical and chemical properties of the water.

I Under normal meteorological conditions one can

define a zone of true marine influence which

reaches well upstream, to be replaced by an

I estuarine or brackish water) zone of additional

extensive length, and a comparatively short zone

I of distinct freshwater characteristics. Like in

most estuaries, but particularly so in the case of

this river, the borders of these zones may shift

I considerably downstream after excessive rainfalls

or cyclonic depressions. While most of the

I organisms present will either adjust to the change

of environment or move to their suitable niche,

the overall productivity will be highest during

I floods and/or spring tides. Apart from these

occasions, the river displays a rather low

I productivity unlike that of most neighbouring

estuaries. The peculiarities of its drainage water

and the paucity of mud deposits apart from its

I shoreline seem only two reasons for this phenomenon.

26. 8.

' The periodical paucity of some aquatic biota,

particularly during long dry spells, and the

almost complete absence of penaeid prawns in the

1 river while abundant in other estuaries in the

vicinity regardless of the weather document food

I chain deficiencies apparently peculiar to this river.

On the other hand the characteristics of its surrounds,

not to speak about its remoteness, makes it a habitat

of quite a number of plants and animals which usually

abound north of the Queensland border.

3.2 SUBMERGED FLORA Aquatic plants, such like Zostera are comparatively

rare and if present more or less restricted to shallow

slopes along the shore line in the lower reaches of the

river. bubmerged aquatic vegetation is much better

developed in the brackish zone, where several species

extend even into the channels.

3.3 SALT MARSHES In general they represent areas of sheltered water

where flowering plants, mainly grasses, have taken

over the role of the larger algae to a great extent

and form a fairly complete surface cover. in the

present location these are also more or less restricted

to the upper brackish reaches, continuing above high

water line into occasionally extensive swamps.

3.1+ MANGROVE BELTS Two of their species, i.e. Avicennia marina and

Aegiceras corniculatum abound along most of the tidal

Ilength of the river, and a third i.e. Rhizophora

stylosa occurs discontinuously higher upstream. A

recent special survey has shown that their condition is

I healthy and that they display no sign of dieback

symptoms as experienced in other parts of N.S.W.

I

3.5 PLANKTON, i4EKTON AND BENTHOS Due to the influence of the tides in the lower reaches

both micro- and macropiankton are periodically

I abundant, mostly consisting of protozoans, larvae

of crustaceans and molluscs, arrowworms, with an

I occasional influx of the small adult shrimp Acetes.

Periodically there is a pronounced burst of populations

of the "algal bloom" Trichodesmium hildebrandti

I colouring the entire section of the river rich green.

In the upper brackish zone the abundance and species

I diversity drop significantly due to reduced salinities.

tpart from fishes, which will be discussed in a separai.e

section, the nekton is poorly represented in the river,

127.

particularly documented by the paucity of shrimps,

1 and the complete absence or penaeid prawns of any developmental stage.

I most of the benthic animals are more or less restricted

to muddy patches in the river which are rather

uncommon in midstream. However, along the shore

I line and in particular between the roots of mangroves

quite a number of benthic animals abound, ranging

I from worms to the well-known yabbies and the mud crab,

which latter has a rather long range right up to

the upper reaches.

1 3.6 OYSTERS

These need not be discussed here in great detail

I since most of them are carefully cultivated by

conscientious oyster farmers, and their health

and abundance will be a direct result of their

I treatment by the farmers. While commercially

imporLant species, all over the world, are

I remarkably silt-tolerant, the local species

Crassostrea commercialis seems particularly well

adapted to adverse turbid conditions when this

I river is in flood.

3.7 1ISR POFIJuATIONS

' With the exception of a very few non-commercial small

species, like gudgeons, blue-eyes and others, most

fishes present in the Wooli Wooli River are of

marine origin, or represent developmental stages

of these which are normally found in estuaries. It

I

would be difficult to assess their normal order of

abundance in view of varying seasonal preferences,

weather conditions, lunar periodicities, tidal

Ivariations, and last but not least availability

of foods Among the most important regular inhabitants

I

of the river are mullet iwith 2-3 species), garfish,

black bream, sand whiting, trumpeter whiting,

luderick, leatherjacket (2-3 species), dusky

Iflathead, as well as some other commercially

important species with strictly periodical occurence.

I The stingray and sole are the only true bottom-dwelliny,

marine fishes present in the lower reaches, while

typical estuarine species like the estuary catfish,

I bulirout, and Jonguinned eel range far upstream, the

latter even entering freshwater parts. Normally, the

I

occurrence and abundance of marine fishes present is

decidedly governed by a great range of conditions,

28.

1 which they will seek or evade in ever changing

patterns. Someof these fishes not only are

' silt-tolerant during prolonged wet spells, but even seem to find better feeding conditions on

such occasions, while others simply move out to sea.

Itiormally herbivorous species like luderick and some

mullets are bound to be restricted to parts of the

I river where algal growth and other submerged

vegetation is available, thus being in rather

sheltered positions when turbidity is high. The

1 decline of all these fish populations, so often

commented on by both professional and amateur

I fishermen in this river and elsewhere is a matter

of conjecture, since this can only be convincingly

demonstrated by long-range and tedious scientific

Iobservations. rrOm data collected by the writer of

this report, ranging back to early fifties, it seems

I that the structure of the population densities in this

river generally has not perceptibly changed over about

30 years, although the availability to the fishermen

Imay have,due to prolonged adverse conditions by

drought and floods, matters which are easily forgotten

over the years.

3.8 APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TO DREDGING SITE

So far as a concern about a possible adverse impact

of the proposed dredging operations on any aquatic

organism discussed above is concerned, it is the

qualified opinion of the writer that no perceptible

damage to any life in the river can be caused, providen

that all the regulations of the various authorities

governing the operation are strictly adhered to.

The area of proposed operation is insignificant and

the possible impact on the immediate surrounds fully

incomparable with that of the brute forces of nature

periodically acting on the entire river, which all biota are conditioned to tolerate. as shown in sction

2 perceptible siltation problems may not even arise

due to the nature of the sandbanks to be dredged, as

well as due to the type of the dredge to be used for

extraction. sven if localized siltation will occur,

no plant life exists on or near the proposed site to

be affected, while mangroves along the shoreline and

the benthos present in the vicinity would only benefit

from released nutrients. Although the proposed site,

under normal conditions, is positioned on the border

of the "marine' and "brackish" zones, the free swimming

I 29.

11.

I fishes cannot possibly be affected since they would

just move away temporarily. Any possible accidental

' mud release, contrary to all well-founded expectations,

should only be watched when working in the vicinity

of the oyster lease next to the dredging site,

1

although the full consent of all oyster farmers to

the project documents the insignificance of such an

Iunlikely impact on the oyster's great silt tolerance.

k. CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING BINDLIFE

4.1 ENEPAL AHPECTS

Quite a considerable number of bird species abound

in this remote and thus as yet undisturbed general

I region, and of these a similarly impressive number

are either directly or indirectly associated with

the Wooli wooli River. in view of the proximity of

I its lower reaches, and in part belonging to the

Yuraygir rational rark, concern was expressed by

I the National Parks and wildlife Hervice for a

possible impact of the proposed dredging operations

on this avifauna, and a denoted list of species

I supplied ror cunsideration. although the vernacular

nomenclature of the list does not always conform to

' usage by australasian ornithologists(e.g. Doterel

for some species of Plover) all the names as listed

are here used unchanged in order to remain informative.

ror a consideration of a possible impact, the listed

species are herunder loosely separated into indirectly

and directly water-dependent species, and similarly

loosely the dependent species into groups of similar

functional habits but of no nomenclatural importance.

4.2 BINDS OF PREY

The Osprey, Brahminy Kite, Whistling Kite, White-

bellied Sea Eagle, apotted Harrier, and l9arsh Harrier,

while normally typical for estuaries and often nesting

there, do seek their prey over vast stretches of land

or the seashores, so that they cannot be considered

to be directly associated with the river, making

human impact apart from tree-felling impossible.

4.3 DOVES, RAILS, AND GULLS

The Bar-shou1deredDove as well as the Huff-banded

I Rail (more typified by its other name Banded Landrail),

although also more common on estuarine wetlands, have

been observed far inland and thus cannot be considered

I exposed to any impact by man's river activities. Lhe

Silver Gull, also listed, can readily be dismissed

I from consideration in view of its pronounced liking of human proximity.

30. 12.

4.4 WADEPS

A general term used here for a not necessarily related

group of birds typically associated with the shores

of rivers, estuaries, the sea, and sometimes even

bodies of freshwater characteristics. ihey are fully

dependent on benthic food provided by the aquatic

environment, including wetlands. While some are

sedentary, a number represent seasonal immigrants

to the region, originating and breeding in various

parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

Listed species for consideration include the Pied

Oystercatcher, the Sooty Oystercatcher, the riasked

Lapwing (Plover), the Grey Lapwing, the tesser Golden

Plover, the Mongolian Plover, the Ped-capped Plover,

tee Blackfronted Plover, the black-winged Stilt, the

±ed-necked Avocet, the 1uddy Turnstone, the Eastern

Curlew, the Whitnbrel, the Grey-tailed rattier, the

reenshank, the Bar-Tailed uodwit, the Sharp-tailed

Sandpiper, the Curlew Sandpiper, the Red-necked Stint,

White-winged tern, Gull-billed Tern, Caspian Tern,

ornznon Tern, Little Tern, and the (.rested Tern.

Most of these species have been observed by the writer

to form interspecific associations, often with great

seasonal differences, along the shoreline or on

exposed sandbanks of the river itself, or on wetlands

adjoining it, and some even on the seashore. Their

associations are closely linked with the availability

of benthic organisms during ebb tides, excepting the

species of Plover, in particular the Masked apwing,

which seems entirely restricted to marshland and

at Wooli invariably feeds around human habitations,

and the Ruddy Irurnstone which seems restricted to

ocean beaches. Since the occurrence of benthos used

for their food, in the river and anywhere else, is

directly dependent on significant mud deposits, the

bird associations are reliable indicators of mud

patches on the exposed river bed.

k. WATER BIRDS

a) Fisn consumers: uf these the Pelican and the group

of cormorants, i.e. Great Cormorant, Pied Cormorant,

uittle slack Cormorant, and tittle 1ied Cormorant,

as well as tne (not listed) related Darter are widely

distributed in our estuaries and thus not missing from

the Wooli wooli rtiver. According to their fishing

habits they usually occur on open water unaffected

by tidal conditions.

I b) Herons and ngrets: These are birds of varying

feeding habits, their long legs enabling them LO

I

seek submerged nektonic or benthic food disregarding

tidal height differences. tlthough not pronounced

fish consumers they too prey on fish occurring in

I shallower parts of the shoreline. To this group

belong the Pacific ,,eron, White-faced Heron, Striated

I

Heron, the Great Egret, and j.ittie Egret, all quite

common along the river.

cj Jabiru, This and Spoonbill: Another artificial

I grouping of water birds displaying similar feeding

behaviour. The Jabiru, or Black-necked Stork, is

I

quite a common sight along the river with seasonal

short periods of absence. Although usually frequenting

the middle to upper part of the brackish zone, its

I feeding activities range occasionally to the lower

reaches along the village where it seems to take

' little notice of human activities. The White (or

Sacred) Ibis, as well as the Straw-necked ibis, are

other species used to human proximity, often feeding

I in gardens, vacant allotments, and marshes during

wet spells. rhe Royal Spoonbill frequents various

' parts of the river shores, occurring right up to

the upper reaches and associated swamps. it too

aggregates in large flocks in treetops close to

I habitations, but tends to stay at a distance when

approached. it feeds essentially on benthos in muddy

baylets of low flow velocity.

I d) Ducks: On this river, the Pacific Black Duck, the

Chestnut Teal, and the Musk Duck lead a rather

I

sheltered life, far away from human activities and

seem restricted to the upper brackish zone,

occasionally even ranging into freshwater parts.

I Their occurrence in the lower reaches is extremely

rare.

I

e) Black Swan: While quite common in many estuaries

of the east coast, its occurrence on the Wooli Wooli

River is rather scarce in all sections. if sporadically

I appearing it prefers the sheltered localities of the

ducks.

I

.6 APPLICATION OF INFORMATION TO DREDGING SITE

The above information permits us to distinguish

between directly and indirectly associated bird

I species with the estuarine environment, so that the

latter cannot be considered exposed to any disturbance

by the dredging operations, at least not more than

32.

any other wildlife in the vicinity of the village.

The fish consumers, like pelicans and cormorants,

can be similarly dismissed from consideration for

reasons of their special feeding habits which

restricts their favourable habitat to rather open

stretches of water, situations which completely lack

in the vicinity of the dredging site. rierons and

Egrets, although displaying differing feeding habits,

could be considered in the same category as the fish

consumers with the exception that they find favourable

feeding grounds in still baylets or wide and shallow

water of low flow velocities which permit the

accumulation of mud layers. buch conditions are also

absent in the closer vicinity of the proposed site.

rhe two species of Ibis, being pronouncedly tolerant

to human proximity, normally feed on wetland or in

paddocks, and the more cautious Spoonbill usually

frequents the feeding habitats of the Herons and

Egrets, but forms large arboreal congregations

regardless of man's proximity, being even undisturbed

by lawn mowing operations under the trees. he Jabiru,

quite a cofrimon sight in various parts of the river,

not only is naturally confiding, but seems almost

oblivious of the close presence of man. iioreover,

its particular feeding habits, most likely the

preference for a particular food organism, will let

it move at whim from one feeding site far away to

another. It too only rarely frequents the general

region of the site. The ducks too cannot be considered

to be exposed to any form of impact for the simple

reason that their shyness compels them to stay in

remote habitats far up the river, some miles away

from the site. This leaves the waders to be considered

which display pronounced seasonal variations in their

presence and abundance, and most of which usually

frequent the western banks during ebb tides while

the Plover prefers adjoining marshlands on both sides

of the river. Generally, the associations or waders

are much more pronounced in the lower reaches, i.e.

in the "marine" zone, and they make only extremely

rare appearances near the proposed site. oo far as

a concern about a possible impact of the proposed

dredging operations on the available food supply of

all these water birds is concerned, it has already

been demonstrated in the hydrObiological section that

such damaging interferences cannot possibly be expected

I 15. 33.

1 5. CONCLUDING SUMMARY

5.1 ECOLOGICAL COMPARISONS WITH OTHER ESTUARIES

I The peculiar and characteristic ecological conditions

displayed by most of the general area through which

the Wooli Wooli aiiiver drains produce aquatic habitats

I which are incomparable in many regards with those

found in neighbouring regions of the North Coast.

I Its surrounding bodies of freshwater - in particular

Lake Hiawatha - which supply drainage represent

atypical habitats for the region in which they occur,

I and their nature, as well as physical and chemical

properties, seem comparable only with such far away

I habitats as on Fraser Island and along parts of the

Burdekin River in Queensland. For this reason, as well

as influenced by many other factors, the river itself

I displays a comparatively low productivity, and in

consequence a paucity of nutrient-laden mudflats,

1. so typical for all other estuaries in the general

region. Its sluggish now and shallow profile, under

normal weather conditions, is liable to create sand

I deposits in midstream which are in turn subject to

considerable movements under the influence of floods,

I tides, and high velocity winds. Judging from long-

term observations, the erection of an artificial

breakwall necessary for sea-going navigation seems

I to have had an additional worsening effect on the

extent of these sandbanks, a condition which has

' since been somewhat rectified by a low-level overflow.

ihe direct comparison with other river estuaries,

mostly of greater extent, deeper profile, higher

I water velocity and mud-laden bottom is therefore

impossible, and possible impact studies - particularly

if not presented in detail - carried out in such rivers

I like the Clarence, Richmond, or tweed fully unusable.

5.2 6ONSIDERATION OF x-OSSIBLE IMPACT

I The present thorough investigations for this report,

biological and otherwise,demonstrate beyona doubt that

the impact of tne proposed extraction of sand on all

I biota in and along the river can be expected at most

extremely negligible, if felt at all. ihe type of tne

I dredge used, the comparatively minor operat.ions

involved, and the particular nature of the sandbanks

to be removed make any sort of noticeable pollution,

I whether of acoustic or silting nature, highly unlikely.

Naturally, and particularly with regard to the hoped

improvement of the bank erosion at the site, which

34. 16.

at the present even endangers the survival of some

mangroves nearby, even a conscientiously prepared

comprehensively executed impact study, short

l

and

of being carried out simultaneously with or after

man's interference with the environment, can only

I be considered a fully qualified forecast. Personally,

and after the most careful overall consideration of

all ecological factors, the writer of this report

I is unable to find any justifiable objections to the

proposed dredging from the hydrological and

I hydrobiological point of view.

6. REFEBENCES

I Detwyler, T.R. (1971) - Man's Inipact on the Environment. McGraw-Hill Book Company.

I Moore, H.B. (1958). - Marine Ecology. McGraw-Hill Book

Company.

Eacek, A. A. (In preparation) - Hydrobiological

I phenomena in the Wooli Wooli County, northern

N.S.W.

I Roy, P.S. and E.A.Crawford (1977) - Bed Changes and

sediment Distribution in the Lower ' Wooli Wooli River, Northern N.S.W.

N.S.W. Dept. of Mm. Res. Geol. Survey

,rimms, B.V. (1969) - A Preliminary Limnological Survey

I of the Wooli Lakes, New South Wales.

Proc. Linn. 5oc. NSW Vol. 94(1): 105-12.

Welch, P. (1935) - Linuiology. i'icGiaw-Hill Book Co.

17th May, 1983 A. A. Pacek, Dr. rer. nat.

I Senior Lecturer in Biology (Hydrobiology)

University of Sydney (retired)

I P.O. Box 74, WOOLI 2462

PP END TX 1EV

I 35

New South Wales Government

V SW:AB Public Works Department

I. COFFS HARBOUR DISTRICT OFFICE

359 Hiqh Street,

The Officer in Charge, Coffs Harbour Jetty N.S.W.

Land Board Office, • P.O. Box 11,

Postal Address Box 63J P.O., — GRAFTON. 2O Coffs Harbour Jetty 2451

p Our reference: FM 151 I . 2 8 JUN 983 Your reference: GF81H2731+ AG:HD

Telex: 66922

Telephone: (066) 52 0411

Contact: Mr. Wyllie

1 2? JUN

Review of Environmental Impact Statement : Sand Extraction

I From the Wooli Wooli River at Wooli Opposite Lot 2 D.P. 551320

I refer to your letter dated 27th May 1982 concerning a Quarry Licence Application for Mr. R.J. Olen and the receipt of the E.I.S. from Mr. B. McCloskey. A letter of request to review the E.I.S. by your office was not received, however the following comments are forwarded for your consideration.

i) Flooding

The statement does not adequately assess or discuss the impact of dredging and filling in terms of the flooding characteristics of the Wooli Wooli River, both flood height and velocities, for various frequency floods0

The proposed extraction was examined in conjunction with the survey plan contained in the E.I.S. Ref No. 820+2.

The dredging depth limits as shown in the survey plan, indicate that the natural channel depth will not be exceeded, which is consistent with the Department's conditions issued on 15th October 1982.

Considering the depth limits of excavation and that the removal is from the inside of the river bend, the final dredge profile will alleviate bank erosion potential and reduce flood velocities.

As to the filling proposal, based on the Department's investigations for future development in the flood plain, it is considered that the filling part of the allotment as shown in the survey plan, would have insignificant effect on flood heights and velocities for the 1:20, 1:50 and 1:100 year flood frequencies.

Tidal flows

This aspect once again was not thoroughly examined in the E.I.S., however considering the tidal regime in this areafqthe Departments

I

gaugings undertaken on 22nd November 1978, the dredging proposal would have insignificant effect both in the immediate area and other locations within the estuary.

Summary

The E.I.S. does not adequately assess or discuss the impact of the

I proposed dredging and filling in terms of (i) and (ii). Based on the best

36. SW:AB -2- FM 151

Review of Environmental Impact Statement : Sand Extraction From the WooliWooli River at Wooli Opposite Lot 2 D.P. 561320

available information at the present time, the Department raises no objections to these proposals by Mr. R.J. Olen provided the Department's revised Schedule 2, General Conditions for Dredging attached, are observed. This supercedes Schedule 2, issued on 29th June 1982 in particular dredging depth limits0

H.R. COLLEY District Engineer Coffs Harbour.

Per:

I APPENDIX 2 I

' SCHEDULE 2

GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR DREDGING

JULY 1982

37

I I. No material shall be removed from the river outside the bounds defined in Survey Plan Ref. 8201+2 Date of Survey 10th December 1982, or from a strip 10 metres wide measured from the face of any bridge, retaining wall, wharf, beacon pile, or submarine crossing.

No excavation shall be carried out below a gradient line of one vertical to six horizontal drawn from the aforesaid line approx-

V imating Local High Water Mark, nor shall excavation be carried out below a gradient line of one vertical to six horizontal drawn from the intersection of the vertical plane of the face of any

I of the above structures and the bed of the river.

The maximun depth of excavation shall be limited as in (b) above and in addition in no case shall the maximum depth be deeper

I than the adjacent natural channel.

(a) The provision of the Rivers and Foreshores Improvement Act No. 20, 191+8 as amended, shall be observed, particularly in respect of

I Clause 23A. The tenant shall conduct all his operations in such a manner as not to cause erosion of foreshores, either directly or as a result of the destruction of trees or vegetation.

I (b) The tenant shall conduct all his operations in such a manner as not to cause, in the opinion of the District Engineer, Public Works Department, an increase in any risk of failure of the shore

I or river bank. Where operations are not so conducted the act makes provision for restoration or protection of the river and bank to be carried out by or at the cost of the owner or occupier of the land.

I (c) The permission to dredge may be terminated or varied at any time without compensation if it be found that operations on the area are causing or likely to cause erosion of the foreshore or damage

I to structures.

The District Engineer, Public Works Department may upon written notice the lessee, prohibit the continuance of dredging operations on any I to

defined part of the area if, in the opinion of the said Engineer, it is desirable in the interest of the Public to do so.

No piles or mooring posts shall be placed in the bed of the river, I without permission having first been obtained from the District Engineer, Public Works Department.

I 5. The tenant shall, at his own cost, remove any structure erected by him on the foreshore and shall leave the land clear of materials, rubbish, etc., and to the satisfaction of the Department at the expiration of

I the lease by effluxtion of time or upon other determination thereof.

Should any structure, or any part thereof, not be so removed as afore- said, the Department may remove and sell the same and recover from the

I tenant the cost of such removal less the net proceeds of any sale made.

6. The tenant shall make suitable arrangement with the Council regarding access to the excavation, if such is necessary.

I

38. I -2-

SCHEDULE 2 Continued

7 On completion of works a proper metes and bounds survey is required

I to be submitted to and approved by the District Engineer, Public Works Department. The survey must comply with the following :-

The origin of co-ordinates of the survey must be related to a cadastral or other official survey.

Soundings of the existing river bed are to be shown over the entire area to be dredged or as shown in the enclosed plan. The soundings

I must be of sufficient number to enable 0.5 m contours to be confidently drawn. Soundings must be based on a datum of levels of local Indian Spring Low Water, Standard Datum or other datum acceptable to the District Engineer, Public Works Department. t Levels must also be related to an official bench mark in the area.

All proposed depths of dredging and side batters are to be clearly

I shown on the survey plan. Local Mean High Water Mark Level to be indicated on plan.

The proposed method and area in which any dredge waste is proposed

I to be discarded is to be clearly indicated on the survey plan.

The tenant shall supply to the District Engineer, Public Works Department, a plan of soundings to the same standard as indicated in 7(b) taken

I within the area of the application after completion of dredging and otherwise as required by the District Engineer, Public Works Department.

The tenant shall carry out dredging operations in such a maimer as not I to cause any interference to river traffic by launch or rowing boat and all the navigational requirements of the Maritime Services Board shall be observed.

I In addition, to the above, conditions numbered 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 17, 20, 23, 214, 27, 28, 30, 31 and 33 as set out in the Lands Department Form

IA 251+(b) shall be observed.

Where applicable, the provisions of Section 26D of the Water Act, 1912 as amended respecting the topping, lopping, removing or injuring trees situated within 20 metres of the bank of a prescribed stream or lake I shall be observed.

I H.R. COLLEY

I District Engineer Coffs Harbour.

Per:

2.

I

I I

THE MARITIME SERVICES HOARD OF N.S.W.

(:IBCUL%R QLJtY WEST, SYDNEY.

The Officer-in-Charge, Land Board Office, P.O. Box 11, GR.AFTON. N.S.W. 2460.

Teleph ne No. 2-0545 IAII Hour, Telex No. AA24944 Telegraphic Address

Marboard Sydney' OFFICE HOURS: 530am 400pm Address Correspondence to:-- The Secretary. Box 32, G.P.O., SYDNEY. 2001

Quote No : 82/52248 NS:WC

I

[I I

I I

Proposed Disposal of Crown Land. 13 July 1982

Your letter of 27 May 1982 (GF81 H 2734 AG:HD).

Applicant : R.J. Olen Location : Wooli Wooli

Purpose : Quarry License, Sand Dredging. River.

This Board will not raise any objection to the granting of the abovementioned application, subject to inclusion of the following conditions in the general conditions applicable to the disposal of Crown Land :—

(1) The Tenant shall not be exempted from the pro-visions of the Management of Waters and Waterside Lands Regulations - N.S.W. and shall at all times comply with the requirements of all Acts and Regulations administered by the Maritime Services Board.

1 The Tenant shall at all times comply with any directions given by the Board or an officer of the Board in regard to painting, lighting or use or alteration of any structure as may from time to I time be required in the interests of safe navi- gation, equitable use of and conservation of water- ways and the prevention of pollution.

I All operations shall be carried out in accordance with the Board's Acts and Regulations and any special conditions which may from time to time be

I required.

Only anchors and mooring arrangements approved by the Board shall be used and plant not working is to I be hove clear of navigation or to the bank in rest- ricted areas.

I Vessels, plant and pipelines shall carry lights and signals in accordance with the Navigation (Collision) Regulations - N.S.W. Rule 27 (d) (i) and (ii) ant" any other lights, shapes or signals which may from

I time to time be required.

No outlying wires, cables or pipes shall be used ' unless with the approval of the Board.

A navigable channel shall be maintained at all times. Such channel shall be marked in accordance with the

I I.A.L.A. Maritime Buoyage, System A.

On completion of work in the area, all materials used during the operation shall be removed from the lake,

I river or waterway.

1 -2-

Any required depth to be evenly maintained nd

I the bottom left clear of debris, rubbish, pot- holes. etc. No slope to be steeper than 3 in 1.

No dredging to be permitted closer than 9 metres

I from any shore, jetty structure or navigation mark.

I (9) Any licensed structure of occupation and/or

apparatus licensed by the Board, if affected by dredging operations shall be moved, re-aligned temporarily or permanently, re-built or replaced

I with additional equipment, if required, to the Board's satisfaction and without cost to the licensee.

I (10) Dredging is to be carried out so that no loss of depth is caused in adjacent waterways.

I (11) No dredged material is to be deposited in any lake,

river or waterway.

I J.E. BRADSTR TJ'

I secretary .\('J

I

I

I

I

'1

40.

I

NEW SOUTH WALES - DEPARTMENT OF EIS ?41

Proposed sand extraction Wooli Wooli River, Wooli

NEW SOUTH WALES - DEPARTMENT OF EIS

Proposed send extraction Woolj Waojj 741

River, Woolj